Asus E3151 User Manual

Blitz  
Formula  
Contents  
Contents ...................................................................................................... iii  
Notices........................................................................................................ vii  
Safety information .................................................................................... viii  
About this guide ......................................................................................... ix  
Blitz Formula specifications summary..................................................... xi  
Chapter 1:  
Product introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
1.3.1  
1.3.2  
1.3.2  
Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2  
ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features... 1-4  
ROG unique features...................................................... 1-6  
Chapter 2:  
Hardware information  
2.1  
2.2  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-5  
2.2.1  
2.2.2  
2.2.3  
2.2.4  
2.2.5  
Placement direction ........................................................ 2-5  
Screw holes .................................................................... 2-5  
Motherboard layout......................................................... 2-6  
Audio card layout ............................................................ 2-6  
Layout contents............................................................... 2-7  
2.3  
2.4  
2.5  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9  
2.3.1  
2.3.2  
2.3.3  
2.3.4  
Installing the CPU ......................................................... 2-10  
Installing the CPU heatsink and fan.............................. 2-12  
Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-14  
Installing the optional fans ............................................ 2-16  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-18  
2.4.1  
2.4.2  
2.4.3  
2.4.4  
Overview....................................................................... 2-18  
Memory configurations.................................................. 2-19  
Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-23  
Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-23  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-24  
2.5.1  
2.5.2  
2.5.3  
Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-24  
Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 2-24  
Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-25  
iii  
Contents  
2.5.4  
2.5.5  
2.5.6  
PCI slots........................................................................ 2-26  
PCI Express x1 slots..................................................... 2-26  
PCI Express x16 slots................................................... 2-26  
2.6  
2.7  
Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-27  
Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation ............... 2-28  
2.7.1  
2.7.2  
Audio card Installation................................................... 2-28  
I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation.......................... 2-29  
2.8  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-30  
2.8.1  
2.8.2  
2.8.3  
2.8.4  
Rear panel connectors.................................................. 2-30  
Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-32  
Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-41  
Installing the DIY Pedestal............................................ 2-42  
Chapter 3:  
Powering up  
3.1  
Starting up for the first time........................................................ 3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer............................................................. 3-2  
3.2.1  
3.2.2  
Using the OS shut down function.................................... 3-2  
Using the dual function power switch.............................. 3-2  
Chapter 4:  
4.1  
BIOS setup  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1  
4.1.1  
4.1.2  
4.1.3  
4.1.4  
4.1.5  
ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 4-1  
Creating a bootable floppy disk....................................... 4-4  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility................................................... 4-5  
AFUDOS utility................................................................ 4-6  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 4-8  
4.2  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9  
4.2.1  
4.2.2  
4.2.3  
4.2.4  
4.2.5  
4.2.6  
4.2.7  
4.2.8  
4.2.9  
BIOS menu screen........................................................ 4-10  
Menu bar....................................................................... 4-10  
Navigation keys............................................................. 4-10  
Menu items ....................................................................4-11  
Sub-menu items.............................................................4-11  
Configuration fields ........................................................4-11  
Pop-up window ..............................................................4-11  
Scroll bar........................................................................4-11  
General help ..................................................................4-11  
iv  
Contents  
4.3  
Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12  
4.3.1  
4.3.2  
4.3.3  
4.3.4  
4.3.5  
4.3.6  
4.3.7  
4.3.8  
System Time ................................................................. 4-12  
System Date ................................................................. 4-12  
Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 4-12  
Language...................................................................... 4-12  
SATA1-6..........................................................................................4-13  
SATA Configuration....................................................... 4-14  
AHCI Configuration....................................................... 4-15  
System Information....................................................... 4-16  
4.4  
4.5  
Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................. 4-17  
4.4.1 Configure System Frequency/Voltage .......................... 4-17  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22  
4.5.1  
4.5.2  
4.5.3  
4.5.4  
4.5.5  
4.5.6  
AI Net 2......................................................................... 4-23  
USB Configuration ........................................................ 4-23  
CPU Configuration........................................................ 4-25  
Chipset.......................................................................... 4-26  
OnBoard Devices Configuration ................................... 4-27  
PCI PnP ........................................................................ 4-28  
4.6  
Power menu................................................................................ 4-29  
4.6.1  
4.6.2  
4.6.3  
4.6.4  
4.6.5  
4.6.6  
Suspend Mode.............................................................. 4-29  
Repost Video on S3 Resume........................................ 4-29  
ACPI Version................................................................. 4-29  
ACPI APIC Support....................................................... 4-29  
APM Configuration........................................................ 4-30  
Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 4-31  
4.7  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35  
4.7.1  
4.7.2  
4.7.3  
Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 4-35  
Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 4-36  
Security......................................................................... 4-37  
4.8  
4.9  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-39  
4.8.1  
ASUS EZ Flash 2.......................................................... 4-39  
4.8.2  
ASUS O.C. Profile......................................................... 4-40  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 4-41  
Chapter 5:  
Software support  
5.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1  
v
Contents  
5.2  
Support DVD information............................................................ 5-1  
5.2.1  
5.2.2  
5.2.3  
5.2.4  
5.2.5  
5.2.6  
5.2.7  
Running the support DVD............................................... 5-1  
Drivers menu................................................................... 5-2  
Utilities menu .................................................................. 5-3  
Make Disk menu ............................................................. 5-5  
Manuals menu ................................................................ 5-6  
ASUS Contact information.............................................. 5-6  
Other information ............................................................ 5-7  
5.3  
Software information ................................................................... 5-9  
5.3.1  
5.3.2  
5.3.3  
5.3.4  
5.3.5  
5.3.6  
5.3.7  
5.3.8  
5.3.9  
ASUS MyLogo3............................................................ 5-9  
AI NET2 .........................................................................5-11  
SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility....................... 5-12  
ASUS PC Probe II......................................................... 5-17  
ASUS AI Suite............................................................... 5-23  
ASUS AI N.O.S. ............................................................ 5-25  
ASUS AI Gear 2............................................................ 5-26  
ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 5-27  
ASUS AI Booster........................................................... 5-28  
5.3.10 ASUS Q-Fan 2.............................................................. 5-29  
5.4  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 5-30  
5.4.1  
5.4.2  
5.4.3  
RAID definitions ............................................................ 5-30  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 5-31  
Intel® RAID configurations............................................. 5-31  
5.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 5-39  
5.5.1  
5.5.2  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS.... 5-39  
Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®............ 5-39  
Appendix:  
CPU features  
A.1  
A.2  
Intel® EM64T..................................................................................A-1  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST)........................A-1  
A.2.1  
A.2.2  
System requirements......................................................A-1  
Using the EIST................................................................A-2  
A.3  
A.4  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3  
Debug Code Table........................................................................A-4  
vi  
Notices  
Federal Communications Commission Statement  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions:  
This device may not cause harmful interference, and  
This device must accept any interference received including interference that  
may cause undesired operation.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a  
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are  
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a  
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio  
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s  
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,  
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If  
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,  
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is  
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following  
measures:  
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is  
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications  
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance  
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.  
Canadian Department of Communications Statement  
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions  
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the  
Canadian Department of Communications.  
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
vii  
Safety information  
Electrical safety  
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the  
electrical outlet before relocating the system.  
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the  
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are  
connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system  
before you add a device.  
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure  
that all power cables are unplugged.  
Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension cord.  
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.  
Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area.  
If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using,  
contact your local power company.  
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a  
qualified service technician or your retailer.  
Operation safety  
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all  
the manuals that came with the package.  
Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the  
power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer  
immediately.  
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from  
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.  
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in  
any area where it may become wet.  
Place the product on a stable surface.  
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified  
service technician or your retailer.  
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical  
and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local  
regulations for disposal of electronic products.  
viii  
About this guide  
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring  
the motherboard.  
How this guide is organized  
This guide contains the following parts:  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new  
technology it supports.  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform  
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,  
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.  
Chapter 3: Powering up  
This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down  
the system.  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup  
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.  
Chapter 5: Software support  
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package and the software.  
Appendix: CPU features  
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the  
motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster.  
Where to find more information  
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and  
software updates.  
1.  
2.  
ASUS websites  
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and  
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.  
Optional documentation  
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty  
flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not  
part of the standard package.  
ix  
Conventions used in this guide  
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following  
symbols used throughout this manual.  
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself  
when trying to complete a task.  
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components  
when trying to complete a task.  
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a  
task.  
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a  
task.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign  
means that you must press the enclosed key.  
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the  
Enter or Return key.  
<Key1+Key2+Key3>  
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the  
key names are linked with a plus sign (+).  
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>  
Command  
Means that you must type the command exactly as  
shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed  
in brackets.  
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:  
afudos /i[filename]  
afudos /iBlitz Formula.ROM  
x
Blitz Formula specifications summary  
CPU  
LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Quad /  
Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme /  
Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 / Celeron® D Processors  
Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors  
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list  
Chipset  
Intel® P35 / ICH9R with Intel® Fast Memory Access  
Technology  
System Bus  
Memory  
1333/1066/800 MHz  
Dual-channel memory architecture  
-
4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbuffered  
non-ECC DDR2 1066*/800/667MHz memory  
modules  
-
Supports up to 8 GB system memory  
* The chipset officially supports the memory frequency up  
to DDR2 800MHz. Tuned by the ASUS Super Memspeed  
Technology, this motherboard natively supports up to  
DDR2 1066MHz.  
Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the  
Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).  
Expansion Slots  
2 x PCIe x16 slots (support dual graphics solution)  
3 x PCIe x1 (PCIEx1_1 is compatible with the audio slot.)  
2 x PCI 2.2 slots  
CrossFire™ Technology  
Storage  
Supports AMD CrossFire™ graphics cards (both at x8  
mode)  
Southbridge  
-
-
6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports  
Intel® Matrix Storage Technology supports RAID 0,  
1, 5, 10, and JBOD.  
JMicron® JMB368 PATA controller  
1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices  
-
LAN  
Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, both featuring AI NET 2  
SupremeFX II Audio Card  
High Definition Audio  
-
ADI 1988B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC  
-
Noise Filter  
Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF Out ports at back I/O  
IEEE 1394  
USB  
VIA 6308P 1394a controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a  
ports (one at midboard; one at back panel)  
12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back  
panel)  
(continued on the next page)  
xi  
Blitz Formula specifications summary  
ROG Exclusive  
Overclocking features  
Crosslink technology  
Extreme Tweaker  
Loadline Calibration  
Intelligent overclocking tools:  
-
-
-
-
AI NOS™ (Non-delay Overclocking System)  
AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner)  
AI Booster Utility  
O.C. Profile  
Overclocking protection:  
-
-
-
COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX)  
Voltiminder LED  
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
ROG Special Features  
Fusion Block System  
LCD Poster  
Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS  
Q-Connector  
Q-Fan 2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
ASUS MyLogo3™  
Back Panel I/O Ports  
1 x PS/2 Keyboard (purple)  
1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial + Optical)  
1 x IEEE1394a port  
2 x LAN (RJ45) ports  
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
1 x Clr CMOS switch  
Internal I/O Connectors  
3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports  
1 x Floppy disk drive connector  
1 x IDE connector for two devices  
6 x SATA connectors  
8 x Fan connectors (1 x CPU / 1 x Power / 4 x Chassis /  
2 x Optional)  
2 x Thermal sensor connectors  
1 x IEEE1394a connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out connector  
1 x Chassis Intrusion connector  
24-pin ATX Power connector  
8-pin ATX 12V Power connector  
1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS  
1 x LCD Poster connector  
1 x System panel connector  
1 x Power-on switch  
1 x Reset switch  
BIOS Features  
Manageability  
16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,  
SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS  
WOL by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE  
(continued on the next page)  
xii  
Blitz Formula specifications summary  
Accessories  
ASUS Optional Fan  
DIY Pedestal  
3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit  
UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable  
Floppy disk drive cable  
Serial ATA cables  
Serial ATA power cables  
2-port USB2.0 + IEEE 1394a module  
I/O Shield  
Cable ties  
User's manual  
Software  
The hottest 3D game: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.  
Blitz Formula Support DVD:  
Drivers  
ASUS PC Probe II  
ASUS Update  
ASUS AI Suite  
Futuremark® 3DMark® 06 Advanced Edition  
Kaspersky® Anti-virus software  
Form Factor  
ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xiii  
xiv  
This chapter describes the motherboard  
features and the new technologies  
it supports.  
Product  
1
introduction  
Chapter summary  
1
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
ROG Blitz Formula  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® Blitz Formula motherboard!  
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it  
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!  
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the  
items in your package with the list below.  
1.2  
Package contents  
Check your motherboard package for the following items.  
Motherboard  
I/O module  
Cables  
ROG Blitz Formula  
USB 2.0 + IEEE 1394a module  
Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable  
Floppy disk drive cable  
Serial ATA cables  
Serial ATA power cables  
Accessories  
I/O shield  
ASUS Optional Fan  
Fusion Block System Accessory  
LCD Poster  
DIY Pedestal  
3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit  
Cable ties  
Application DVD/CD  
Documentation  
ROG motherboard support DVD  
The hottest game: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.  
User guide  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
1-1  
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
Republic of Gamers  
The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best  
hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we  
welcome the best gamers to join in.  
In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights  
means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions.  
If your character matches our trait, then join the elite club, make your presence felt,  
in the Republic of Gamers.  
Intel® Quad-core Processor ready  
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Quad-core processors in the LGA775  
package and Intel’s next-generation 45nm multi-core processors. It is excellent for  
multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1333/1066/800 MHz FSB.  
Intel® Quad-core processor is one of the most powerful CPU in the world. See  
page 2-9 for details.  
Intel® Core™2 Duo/ Intel® Core™2 Extreme CPU support  
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™2 processor in the LGA775  
package and Intel’s next-generation 45nm multi-core processors. With the new  
Intel® Core™ microarchitecture technology and 1333/1066/800 MHz FSB, the  
Intel® Core™2 is one of the most powerful and energy efficient CPUs in the world.  
See page 2-9 for details.  
Intel P35 Chipset  
The Intel® P35 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support the  
next generation 45nm CPU and up to 8GB of dual-channel DDR2 800/677 MHz  
memory architecture. It also supports 1333/1066/800 FSB (Front Side Bus), PCI  
Express x16 graphics and multi-core CPUs.  
Native DDR2 1066 memory support  
To attain top performance, ASUS engineers have successfully unleashed the  
true potential of DDR2 memory. While in DDR2 1066 mode, ASUS’s exclusive  
technology offers a choice of FSB 1333, providing great performance for 3D  
graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 2-19 for details.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
DDR2 memory support  
The motherboard supports DDR2 memory that features data transfer rates of  
800/667 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics,  
multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture  
doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance,  
eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s. Furthermore, this  
motherboard does not restrict the memory size across two channels. Users may  
install different memory size DIMMs into the two channels and enjoy dual-channel  
and single-channel functions at the same time. This new feature optimizes the use  
of available memory size. See page 2-19 for details.  
ASUS Super Memspeed Technology  
To attain top performance, ASUS has managed to break through current FSB  
and DRAM ratio proportions by utilizing Super Memspeed Technology–the latest  
technology that provides even more precise overclocking options to unleash the  
true potential of DDR2 memory. The DDR2 Mode maximizes system performance  
by eliminating the bottleneck when overclocking both the CPU and memory–  
providing great performance for 3D graphics and other memory demanding  
applications. See page 2-19 for details.  
Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s technology  
This motherboard supports the next-generation hard drives based on the Serial  
ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage specification, delivering enhanced scalability and  
doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. See page  
2-33 for details.  
Dual Gigabit LAN  
The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network  
gateway for managing traffic between two separate networks. This capability  
ensures rapid transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or  
latency. See page 2-30 for details.  
IEEE 1394a support  
The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video  
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals  
& other PC portable devices. See pages 2-31 and 2-35 for details.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
1-3  
Green ASUS  
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction  
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision  
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard  
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.  
1.3.2  
ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features  
Crosslinx  
Crosslinx is a unique technology utilizing a dedicated special graphics controller  
to optimize PCIe allocation with dual x8 lanes. Such architecture eliminates the x4  
bottleneck found on competing x16, x4 solutions. Hence, the Crosslinx is able to  
provide faster graphics performance.  
Fusion Block System  
Building on the ROG unique heatpipe, the Fusion Block System (FBS) provides  
dual paths to cool down the motherboard. Users will be able to connect the FBS  
with the watercooling circuit.  
Component Overheat Protection -EX (COP EX)  
When the temperature of Northbridge and Southbridge reaches the limit of  
specifications, the motherboard will automatically shut down to protect NB and SB  
from burning.  
2-Phase DDR2  
With the embedded 2-Phase DDR2, this motherboard allows users to reach higher  
memory frequencies and enjoy better performance. Compared with only one phase  
solutions, this motherboard ensures longer power component lifespans and higher  
overclockability due to cooler temperatures and better efficiency.  
Voltiminder LED  
The voltage warning LED uses green, yellow, and red light on the motherboard to  
highlight the voltage status of each respecitve component (CPU, memory, NB, SB).  
See pages 2-1 and 2-2 for details.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
CPU Level Up  
Enjoy up to 40% more performance! Overclock immediately with OC profile  
presets. Much more than simple frequency settings, this profile gives gamers  
comprehensive and detailed tuning to frequencies, voltagies, and even timings to  
create a real professional level of overclocking configuration.  
8 phase DrMOS power  
The DrMOS, the next generation of CPU power module, provides higher efficiency  
for energy saving and higher quality power supply to the processor. With thtis  
latest technology, this motherboard allows users to reach the highest overclock  
frequency and to have the most stable platform.  
Loadline Calibration  
Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking.  
The Loadline Calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy  
loading. It helps overclockers enjoy the motherboard’s ultimate OC capabilities and  
benchmark scores. See page 4-20 for details.  
Extreme Tweaker  
This feature allows you to fine tune the various voltage settings and gradually  
increase the memory Front Side Bus (FSB) and PCI Express frequency at 1MHz  
increment to achieve maximum system performance. See page 4-17 for details.  
AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System)  
The patented ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System™ (AI NOS™) technology  
auto-detects the CPU loading and dynamically overclocks the CPU speed when  
needed. Unlike other dynamic overclocking techniques, AI NOS™ reacts much  
faster to satisfy your need for speed. See page 4-17 and 5-25 for details.  
AI Booster  
The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows  
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 5-28 for details.  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently  
store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the  
CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite  
settings. See page 4-40 for details.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
1-5  
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the  
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the  
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system  
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the  
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.  
Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required before using C.P.R.  
function.  
1.3.2  
ROG unique features  
Supreme FX II features  
Supreme FX II extends all the features of the 1st generation and places a shielding  
to enhancethe sound quality. It also lights up the model name with stylish LEDs.  
Noise Filter  
This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like  
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates  
it in the incoming audio stream while recording.  
LCD Poster  
The LCD Poster displays actual boot error messages instead of codes that other  
debug cards show. This unique feature allows you to easily find out which devices  
fail during the boot process, eliminating guesswork and allowing you to solve the  
problem immediately. See page 2-29 for details.  
Onboard Switches  
A power-on button, a reset button, and a clear CMOS button are onboard to  
provide overclockers and gamers the convenience of fine-tuning performance  
when working on a bare (open-case) system. Press the power-on button to wake  
up the system, the reset button to reboot, and the clear CMOS button to clear  
setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. See page 2-41 for  
details.  
ASUS Q-Fan 2  
ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology intelligently adjusts both CPU fan and chassis fan speeds  
according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efficient operation. See pages  
4-32, 4-33, and 5-29 for details.  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
Optional Fan (for water-cooling/passive-cooling only)  
The optional fan is specifically designed to provide sufficient airflow over the CPU  
power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized,  
ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system. See pages 2-16 and 2-17  
for details.  
ASUS MyLogo3  
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add  
style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for details.  
ASUS Multi-language BIOS  
The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the  
available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster configuration.  
See page 4-12 for details.  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution  
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the  
overclocking capability.  
AI Gear 2  
AI Gear 2 allows you to choose profiles to adjust the CPU frequency and  
Vcore voltage to minimize system noise and power consumption. You can  
change the mode in real-time in the operating system to max power saving  
mode and save up to 50% power when using word processing applications.  
See page 5-26 for details.  
AI Nap  
With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise  
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS  
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key. See page 5-27 for  
details.  
8-phase cap-less Power design  
The 8-phase Capless Power Design demonstrates two hardcore  
commitments of ROG products: ultimate overclocking capability, and ultimate  
reliability. The 8-phase power design yields unparalleled superiority in the  
overclocking arena, while the cap-less design removes any worries of  
capacitor problems once and for all.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
1-7  
Fanless Design–Heat-pipe  
The ASUS fanless design allows multi-directional heat flow from major  
thermal sources in the motherboard to lower overall system temperature,  
resulting in quieter operation and longer system life. ASUS has devoted  
special efforts to address the thermal issues across the motherboard, and  
most notably in the following areas: CPU, power, VGA, Northbridge and  
Southbridge. The heat pipe, heatsink, and strategic board layout were tailor  
made to dissipate heat in the most efficient manner.  
Fanless Design–Stack Cool 2  
ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers  
the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard  
uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat  
these critical components generate.  
ASUS EZ DIY  
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer  
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.  
ASUS Q-Connector  
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front  
panel cables in one easy step. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble  
of plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and error-free.  
See pages 2-40 for details.  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the  
predefined hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without  
entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable  
diskette or using an OS-based flash utility. See pages 4-5 and 4-39 for  
details.  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data  
from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. See page 4-8 for details.  
1-8  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
This chapter lists the hardware setup  
procedures that you have to perform  
when installing system components. It  
includes description of the jumpers and  
connectors on the motherboard.  
Hardware  
2
information  
Chapter summary  
2
2.1  
2.2  
2.3  
2.4  
2.5  
2.6  
2.7  
2.8  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-5  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-18  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-24  
Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-27  
Aduio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster Installation ............... 2-28  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-30  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2.1  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components  
or change any motherboard settings.  
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any  
component.  
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal  
object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to  
avoid damaging them due to static electricity.  
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.  
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic  
pad or in the bag that came with the component.  
Before you install or remove any component, ensurethat the ATX power  
supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power  
supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,  
peripherals, and/or components.  
Onboard LEDs  
The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU,  
memory, northbridge, southbridge, and FSB frenquency. You may adjust the  
voltages in BIOS. There are also an LED for hard disk drive activity and an onboard  
switch for power status. For more information about voltage adjustment, refer to 4.4  
Extreme Tweaker menu.  
1.  
CPU LED  
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the CPU LED and the table  
below for LED definition.  
CPU_CRAZY  
CPU_HIGH  
CPU_NORMAL  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA CPU LED  
Normal (green)  
High (yellow)  
Crazy (red)  
CPU Voltage  
1.10000~1.50000  
1.51250~1.69375  
1.70000~1.90000  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-1  
2.  
Memory LED  
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the  
table below for LED definition.  
DDR_CRAZY  
DDR_HIGH  
DDR_NORMAL  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA DDR LED  
Normal (green)  
High (yellow)  
Crazy (red)  
DRAM Voltage  
1.80~2.20  
2.22~2.60  
2.62~3.40  
3.  
Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs  
The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage  
displays. The northbridge LED displays either the North Bridge Voltage or the  
FSB Termination Voltage. The southbridge LED shows either the PLL Voltage  
or the South Bridge Voltage. You can select the voltage to display in BIOS.  
Refer to the illustration below for the location of the northbridge/southbridge  
LEDs and the table below for LED definition.  
NB_CRAZY  
NB_HIGH  
NB_NORMAL  
SB_CRAZY  
SB_HIGH  
BLITZ FORMULA  
SB_NORMAL  
BLITZ FORMULA North/South Bridge LED  
Normal (green)  
1.25~1.59  
High (yellow)  
1.61~1.83  
Crazy (red)  
1.85~2.03  
1.62~1.80  
1.82~2.00  
1.200~1.225  
North Bridge Voltage  
FSB Termination Voltage  
PLL Voltage  
1.20~1.40  
1.42~1.60  
1.50~1.60  
1.62~1.80  
SB Bridge Voltage  
1.050~1.125  
1.150~1.175  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
4.  
FSB frenquency LED  
There are five LEDs that light up to indicate the level of FSB frequency. One  
lit blue LED suggests that the frequency is low (default), while five lit blue  
LEDs shows that the frequency is high (fast). Refer to the illustration below  
for the location of the FSB frenquency LEDs and the table below for LED  
definition.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
Fast  
Default  
BLITZ FORMULA Frequency LED  
200-299  
300-399  
400-499  
500-599  
600~  
(Default) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking)  
CPU FSB  
200MHz  
1
2
3
4
5
(Default)  
(Fast)  
266-299  
300-399  
400-499  
500-599  
600~  
(Default) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking)  
CPU FSB  
266MHz  
1
2
3
4
5
(Default)  
(Fast)  
333-399  
400-499  
500-549  
550-599  
600~  
(Default) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking) (Overclocking)  
CPU FSB  
333MHz  
1
2
3
4
5
(Default)  
(Fast)  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-3  
5.  
Hard Disk LED  
The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when  
data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not  
light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or  
when the hard disk drive does not function.  
HD_LED  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Hard Disk LED  
6.  
Power LED  
The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate  
that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder  
that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before  
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below  
shows the location of the onboard power-on switch.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Power on switch  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to  
ensure that the motherboard fits into it.  
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the  
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage  
motherboard components.  
2.2.1  
Placement direction  
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the  
correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis  
as indicated in the image below.  
2.2.2  
Screw holes  
Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard  
to the chassis.  
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.  
Place this side towards  
the rear of the chassis  
BLITZ FORMULA  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-5  
2.2.3  
Motherboard layout  
24.5cm (9.6in)  
LCD_CON  
EATX12V  
PWR_FAN  
CPU_FAN  
KB_USB56  
SPDIF_O12  
LGA775  
SPDIF_OUT  
CLR_CMOS  
E1394  
CPU_CRAZY  
CPU_HIGH  
CPU_NORMAL  
LAN2_USB34  
®
Intel  
P35  
88E8056  
CHA_FAN4  
LAN1_USB12  
CHA_FAN1  
NB_CRAZY  
NB_HIGH  
NB_NORMAL  
CR2032 3V  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
CHA_FAN3  
PCIEX1_1  
ADH  
JMB368  
PCI1  
DDR_CRAZY  
DDR_HIGH  
DDR_NORMAL  
Marvell  
88E8001  
PCIEX16_1  
PCIEX1_2  
PCIEX1_3  
VIA  
VT6308P  
HD_LED  
CLRTC_SW  
IDT  
PES24N3A  
®
Intel  
ICH9R  
SATA12  
SATA34  
SATA56  
SB_CRAZY  
SB_HIGH  
SB_NORMAL  
PCIEX16_2  
Super  
I/O  
OPT_TEMP2  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BIOS  
OPT_FAN2  
PCI2  
CHASSIS  
USB78  
FREQUENCY  
Fast  
CHA_FAN2  
RST_SW  
IE1394_2  
OPT_FAN1  
USB1112  
USB910  
OPT_TEMP1  
PWR_SW  
Default  
PANEL  
Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and  
internal connectors.  
2.2.4  
Audio card layout  
SUPREMEFX II  
Listen with Absolute HD  
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2.5  
Layout contents  
Slots  
Page  
2-18  
2-26  
2-26  
2-24  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
DDR2 DIMM slots  
PCI slots  
PCI Express x 1 slots  
PCI Express x 16 slots  
Jumper  
Page  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW)  
2-27  
Rear panel connectors  
Page  
2-30  
2-30  
2-30  
2-30  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
2-31  
1.  
PS/2 keyboard port (purple)  
2.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port  
LAN 2 (RJ-45) port  
3.  
4.  
LAN 1 (RJ-45) port  
5.  
Line In port (light blue)  
Line Out port (lime)  
6.  
7.  
Microphone port (pink)  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange)  
Rear Speaker Out port (black)  
Side Speaker Out port (gray)  
USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4  
IEEE 1394a port  
8.  
9.  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
Clear CMOS switch  
Optical S/PDIF Out port  
USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-7  
Internal connectors  
Page  
2- 32  
2- 32  
2- 33  
2- 34  
2- 35  
2- 35  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
7.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1~6)  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112)  
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)  
Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1/2)  
CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1~4, 3-pin PWR_FAN,  
3-pin OPT_FAN1~2)  
2- 36  
8.  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
2- 37  
2- 37  
9.  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)  
10.  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT, for ASUS HDMI  
VGA card)  
2- 38  
2-39  
11.  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
Onboard switches  
Page  
2-41  
2-41  
1.  
2.  
Power-on switch  
Reset switch  
2-8  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the  
Intel® Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 /  
Pentium® Extreme / Celeron® D processors.  
Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.  
If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the  
CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability.  
Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on  
the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer  
immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP  
cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost  
of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related.  
Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return  
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes  
with the cap on the LGA775 socket.  
The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts  
resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/  
incorrect removal of the PnP cap.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-9  
2.3.1  
Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU:  
1.  
Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA CPU Socket 775  
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you  
and the load lever is on your left.  
2.  
Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is  
released from the retention tab.  
Retention tab  
A
PnP cap  
Load lever  
B
This side of the socket box  
should face you.  
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you  
are installing a CPU.  
3.  
Lift the load lever in the direction of  
the arrow to a 135º angle.  
2-10  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
4.  
Lift the load plate with your thumb  
and forefinger to a 100º angle (A),  
then push the PnP cap from the load  
plate window to remove (B).  
B
A
Load plate  
Alignment key  
5.  
Position the CPU over the  
socket, making sure that  
the gold triangle is on the  
bottom-left corner of the  
socket then fit the socket  
alignment key into the  
CPU notch.  
CPU notch  
Gold triangle mark  
The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the  
socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!  
A
6.  
7.  
Close the load plate (A), then  
push the load lever (B) until it  
snaps into the retention tab.  
If installing a dual-core CPU,  
B
connect the chassis fan cable  
to the CHA_FAN1 connector to  
ensure system stability.  
The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced  
Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology  
(EIST), and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more  
information on these CPU features.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-11  
2.3.2  
Installing the CPU heatsink and fan  
The Intel® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan  
assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.  
When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan  
and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you  
use only Intel®-certified multi-directional heatsink and fan.  
Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design  
and requires no tool to install.  
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure  
that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU  
heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.  
Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you  
install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly.  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:  
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the  
installed CPU, making sure that the  
four fasteners match the holes on  
the motherboard.  
Orient the heatsink and fan  
assembly such that the CPU fan  
cable is closest to the CPU fan  
connector.  
Motherboard hole  
Fastener  
Narrow end  
of the groove  
Make sure to orient each fastener with the narrow end of the groove pointing  
outward. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)  
2-12  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.  
Push down two fasteners at a time in  
a diagonal sequence to secure the  
heatsink and fan assembly in place.  
B
B
A
A
A
B
B
A
3.  
Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled  
CPU_FAN.  
CPU_FAN  
CPU FAN PWM  
CPU FAN IN  
CPU FAN PWR  
GND  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA CPU fan connector  
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors  
can occur if you fail to plug this connector.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-13  
2.3.3  
Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan  
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:  
1.  
2.  
Disconnect the CPU fan cable from  
the connector on the motherboard.  
Rotate each fastener  
counterclockwise.  
3.  
Pull up two fasteners at a time in  
a diagonal sequence to disengage  
the heatsink and fan assembly from  
the motherboard.  
B
B
A
A
A
B
B
A
4.  
Carefully remove the heatsink  
and fan assembly from the  
motherboard.  
2-14  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
5.  
Rotate each fastener clockwise to  
ensure correct orientation when  
reinstalling.  
Narrow end of the groove  
The narrow end of the  
groove should point outward  
after resetting. (The photo  
shows the groove shaded for  
emphasis.)  
Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for  
detailed information on CPU fan installation.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-15  
2.3.4  
Installing the optional fans  
Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler.  
Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow  
and destabilize the system.  
Optional fan on one side fins  
2.  
Fit the fan to the grooved edge of  
the heatsink.  
1.  
Position the fan above the pipe  
and heatsink assembly.  
3.  
Carefully push down the fan until  
it snugly fits the heatsink, then  
connect the fan cable.  
4.  
The photo shows the fan installed  
on the motherboard.  
2-16  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Optional fan on the other side fins  
2.  
The photo below demostrates the  
the optional fan ready for use.  
1.  
Assemble the optional fan kit by  
fitting the grooved edge of the  
optional fan to the plastic fan seat  
and snapping it into place.  
3.  
Slide the optional fan onto the  
heatsink, then connect the fan  
cable.  
4.  
The photo shows the fans installed  
on the motherboard.  
Plug the optional fan cables to any of the CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN4, and  
PWR_FAN connectors on the motherboard.  
Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the  
fan and motherboard components.  
When you are using water-cooling modules, make sure to install TWO optional  
fans to obtain more effective heat dissipation.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-17  
2.4  
System memory  
2.4.1  
Overview  
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory  
Modules (DIMM) sockets.  
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA  
240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2  
This chipset officially supports DDR2-800 MHz. With the ASUS Super  
Memspeed Technology, this motherboard natively supports up to  
DDR2-1066 MHz. See the table below.  
FSB  
1333  
1333  
1333  
1066  
1066  
1066  
DDR2  
1066*  
800  
667  
1066*  
800  
667  
*If you install a DDR2-1066 memory module, make sure that you set the  
DRAM Frequency item in BIOS to [DDR2-1066MHz]. See section 4.4  
Extreme Tweaker menu for details.  
2-18  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.4.2  
Memory configurations  
You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2  
DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.  
Recommended Memory Configurations  
Sockets  
Mode  
DIMM_A1  
DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1  
Populated  
DIMM_B2  
Single-Channel  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
Dual-channel (1)  
Dual-channel (2)  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The  
system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel  
configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then  
mapped for single-channel operation.  
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility,  
it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.  
If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may only recognize less  
than 3GB because the address space is reserved for other critical functions.  
This limitation appears on Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system which  
does not support Physical Address Extension (PAE).  
If you install Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system, a total memory of  
less than 3GB is recommended.  
This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb  
chips.  
Notes on memory limitations  
Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to  
8 GB on the operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of  
2 GB DIMMs on each slot.  
64-bit  
Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition  
Windows® Vista x64 Edition  
Some old-version DDR2-800 DIMMs may not match Intel®’s  
On-Die-Termination (ODT) requirement and will automatically downgrade  
to run at DDR2-667. If this happens, contact your memory vendor to check  
the ODT value.  
Due to chipset limitation, DDR2-800 with CL=4 will be downgraded to run  
at DDR2-667 by default setting. If you want to operate with lower latency,  
adjust the memory timing manually.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-19  
Blitz Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-1000 MHz capability  
SS/  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DIMM support  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
Part No.  
A* B* C*  
1024MB  
512MB  
Crucial  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
BL12864AA1005.16FD  
N/A  
KINGSTON  
If you install a DDR2-1066 memory module, make sure that you set the DRAM  
Frequency item in BIOS to [DDR2-1066MHz]. See section 4.4 Extreme  
Tweaker menu for details.  
A*: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel memory  
configuration.  
B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or the  
white slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration.  
C*: Supports 4 modules inserted into both the blue and white slots as two  
pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration.  
Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2-1000/800/667MHz QVL.  
2-20  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Blitz Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-800 MHz capability  
DIMM support  
A* B* C*  
SS/  
DS  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
Part No.  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
256MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
Hynix  
K4T51083QC  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
KVR800D2N5/512  
KHX6400D2LL/1G  
KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN  
KVR800D2N5/1G  
HYS64T32000HU-25F-B  
HYS64T64000HU-25F-B  
HYS64T128020HU-25F-B  
M378T6553CZ3-CE7  
M378T3354CZ3-CE7  
M378T6553CZ3-CE7  
HYMP564U64CP8-S5  
HYMP512U64CP8-S5  
MT8HTF6464AY-80ED4  
MT16HTF12864AY-80ED4  
BL6464AA804.8FD  
BL12864AA804.16FD  
BL12864AL804.16FD3  
BL12864AA804.16FD3  
AHU512E800C5K1C  
AHU01GE800C5K1C  
M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53  
M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58  
KLDC28F-A8KI5  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
V59C1512804QBF25  
HYB18T512160BF-25F  
HYB18T512800BF25F  
HYB18T512800BF25F  
EDD339XX  
K4T51163QC-ZCE7  
ZCE7K4T51083QC  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
D9GKX  
Hynix  
MICRON  
MICRON  
Crucial  
D9GKX  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
AD29608A8A-25EG  
AD26908A8A-25EG  
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A  
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
E2508AB-GE-E  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Crucial  
Apacer  
Apacer  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Super Talent  
Super Talent  
NANYA  
KLDD48F-ABKI5  
TS64MLQ64V8J  
TS128MLQ64V8J  
T800UA12C4  
T800UB1GC4  
NT512T64U880BY-25C  
NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C  
AL6E8E63B8E1K  
AL7E8E63B-8E1K  
8G-24IK2-EBT  
NANYA  
PSC  
PSC  
TwinMOS  
CENTURY  
CENTURY  
CENTURY  
Aeneon  
Elixir  
E2508AB-GE-E  
28V2S8  
HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
AET93R25DB  
28V2H8  
28VOH8  
AET760UD00-25DB97X  
M2Y1G64TU8HB0B-25C  
N/A  
N2TU51280BE-25C  
EPD264082200-3KI0629  
EPD264082200-3KI0629  
Heat-Sink Package  
U2S12D30TP-8E  
Kingbox  
Kingbox  
OCZ  
N/A  
OCZ2T8002GK  
UMAX  
53014066-7100B  
UMAX  
U2S12D30TP-8E  
53016042-7100B  
Veritech  
Veritech  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
Patriot  
VTD264M8PC4G  
GTU512HLTXX4EG  
GTU01GHLTXX4EG  
F2-6400CL4D-2GBPK  
F2-6400PHU2-2GBNR  
F2-6400CL4D-2GBHK  
F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ  
F2-6400CL6D-4GBMQ  
PSD251280081  
VTD264M8PC4G  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
PM64M8D2BU-25EC  
PM64M8D2BU-25PAC  
DDRII6408-8E  
Patriot  
PSD21G8002  
SiS  
SLX264M8-JGE-3  
SLY264M8-JGE-3  
GB28GB6400C5QC  
SiS  
DDRII6408-8E  
GEIL  
GL2L128M088BA25CW  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-21  
Blitz Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-667MHz capability  
DIMM support  
A* B* C*  
SS/  
DS  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
Part No.  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
256MB  
2048MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
Hynix  
D6408TEBGGL3U  
D6408TEBGGL3U  
HYB18T256800AF3S  
6SBI2D9DCG  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
KVR667D2N5/512  
KVR667D2N5/1G  
KVR667D2N5/256  
KVR667D2N5/256  
KVR667D2N5/2G  
E1108AB-6E-E  
HYB18T512160BF-3S  
HYB18T512800BF3S  
HYB18T512800BF3S  
ZCE6K4T51083QC  
K4T51163QC-ZCE6  
K4T51083QC  
HYS64T32000HU-3S-B  
HYS64T64000HU-3S-B  
HYS64T128020HU-3S-B  
M378T6553CZ0-CE6  
M378T3354CZ3-CE6  
M378T6553CZ3-CE6  
M378T2953CZ3-CE6  
M378T3354EZ3-CE6  
M378T6553EZS-CE6  
M378T2953EZ3-CE6  
HYMP532U64CP6-Y5  
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5  
VS256MB667D2  
ZCE6K4T51083QC  
K4T51163QE-ZCE6  
K4T51083QE  
K4T51083QE  
HY5PS121621CFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
MIII00605  
Hynix  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
ELPIDA  
64M8CFEG  
VS512MB667D2  
64M8CFEG  
VS1GB667D2  
E2508AB-6E-E  
EBE25UC8ABFA-6E-E  
EBE51UD8AEFA-6E-E  
M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52  
M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52  
M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z  
BL6464AA663.8FD  
BL12864AA663.16FD  
BL12864AL664.16FD  
BL12864AA663.16FD2  
AU512E667C5KBGC  
AU01GE667C5KBGC  
TS64MLQ64V6J  
ELPIDA  
E5108AE-6E-E  
A-DATA  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
AM4B5708GQJS7E0628F  
AM4B5708GQJS7E  
K4T51083QE  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
crucial  
crucial  
crucial  
crucial  
Apacer  
Apacer  
Transcend  
Transcend  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Super Talent  
Super Talent  
SMART  
K4T51083QE  
TS128MLQ64V6J  
KLCB68F-36KH5  
N2TU51216AG-3C  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
G64M8XB3ITIX4TUE  
G64M8XB3ITIX4TUE  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
NT5TU64M8BE-3C  
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
VTD264M8PC5G  
AET93F30DA  
KLCC28F-A8KB5  
KLCD48F-A8KB5  
T6UA512C5  
T6UB1GC5  
TB3D2667C58S  
SMART  
TB4D2667C58D  
NANYA  
NT2GT64U8HB0JY-3C  
NT512T64U88B0BY-3C  
AL6E8E63B-6E1K  
AL7E8E63B-6E1K  
GTP512HLTM45EG  
AET660UD00-30DA98Z  
AET760UD00-30DA98Z  
AET660UD00-30DB97X  
AET760UD00-30B97X  
53014053-7100B  
NANYA  
PSC  
PSC  
Veritech  
Aeneon  
Aeneon  
AET93F30DA  
Aeneon  
AET93R300B  
Aeneon  
AET93R30DB  
UMAX  
U2S12D30TP-6E  
18D51280D-30648  
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
PM64M8D2BU-3KC  
MDT  
M512-667-8  
CENTURY  
CENTURY  
Patriot  
26V2H8  
26VOH8  
PSD251266781  
2-22  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.4.3  
Installing a DIMM  
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other  
system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the  
motherboard and the components.  
2
To install a DIMM:  
DDR2 DIMM notch  
3
1.  
2.  
Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing  
the retaining clips outward.  
Align a DIMM on the socket  
1
such that the notch on the DIMM  
matches the break on the socket.  
1
3.  
Firmly insert the DIMM into the  
socket until the retaining clips  
snap back in place and the DIMM  
is properly seated.  
Unlocked retaining clip  
A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. Do  
not force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.  
The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not install DDR  
DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.  
2.4.4  
Removing a DIMM  
To remove a DIMM:  
2
1. Simultaneously press the retaining  
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.  
Support the DIMM lightly with  
your fingers when pressing the  
retaining clips. The DIMM might  
get damaged when it flips out with  
extra force.  
1
DDR2 DIMM notch  
1
2.  
Remove the DIMM from the socket.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-23  
2.5  
Expansion slots  
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections  
describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.  
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion  
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard  
components.  
2.5.1  
Installing an expansion card  
To install an expansion card:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with  
it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a  
chassis).  
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw  
for later use.  
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is  
completely seated on the slot.  
5.  
6.  
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.  
Replace the system cover.  
2.5.2  
Configuring an expansion card  
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings.  
1.  
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See  
Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
3.  
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.  
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.  
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share  
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will  
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card  
inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details.  
2-24  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.5.3  
Interrupt assignments  
IRQ  
Priority  
Standard function  
0
1
1
2
System timer  
Keyboard controller  
2
Re-direct to IRQ#9  
3
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
3
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Communications port (COM1)*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Floppy disk controller  
4
5
6
7
Printer port (LPT1)*  
8
System CMOS/Real Time Clock  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
PS/2 compatible mouse port*  
Numeric data processor  
Primary IDE channel  
9
4
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
5
6
7
8
9
10  
Secondary IDE channel  
* These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices.  
IRQ assignments for this motherboard  
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
PCI slot 1  
shared  
PCI slot 2  
shared  
LAN (8001)  
shared  
SATA (363)  
shared  
LAN (8006)  
shared  
PCIE x16_1  
shared  
PCIE x16_2  
shared  
PCIE x1_1  
shared  
PCIE x1_2  
shared  
PCIE x1_3  
shared  
USB controller 1  
USB controller 2  
USB controller 3  
USB controller 4  
USB controller 5  
USB controller 6  
USB 2.0 controller 1  
USB 2.0 controller 2  
SATA controller 1  
SATA controller 2  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-25  
2.5.4  
PCI slots  
The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other  
cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location  
of the slots.  
2.5.5  
PCI Express x1 slots  
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other  
cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for  
the location of the slots.  
Install the audio card prior to other compatible cards to the black PCIE x1  
slot.  
Install a PCIE x1 device to a PCIE x1 slot prior to a PCIE x16 slot.  
2.5.6  
PCI Express x16 slots  
This motherboard supports two ATI CrossFire™ PCI Express x16 graphics cards  
that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the  
location of the slots.  
Audio/PCI Express x1 slot  
PCI slot  
PCI slot  
PCI Express x 16 slot  
PCI Express x 16 slot  
PCI Express x1 slot PCI Express x1 slot  
In CrossFire™ mode, install the ATI CrossFire™ Edition (Master) graphics  
card on the primary PCI Express slot.  
Install two ATI graphics cards from the same GPU family that support  
CrossFire™ mode.  
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis  
fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 for better  
thermal environment. See page 2-36 for the connector location.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.6  
Jumper  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW)  
This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch. You can clear the CMOS  
memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC  
RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the  
system setup information such as system passwords.  
To erase the RTC RAM:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.  
Press down the clr CMOS switch.  
Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to  
re-enter data.  
Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!  
CLRTC_SW  
2
3
1
2
Disable CLR_CMOS Enable CLR_CMOS  
(Default)  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Clear RTC RAM  
clr CMOS switch behavior  
System power state  
Clearing CMOS  
G3* S5* S0 (DOS mode) S0 (OS mode)  
**  
S1 S3 S4  
*G3: Power off without +5VSB power (AC power loss); S5: Power off with +5VSB power  
**The system shuts dowm immediately.  
The clr CMOS switch will not function if the jumper cap on CLRTC_SW is  
moved to the Disable position, but the shutdwon function in S0 mode (DOS  
mode) still works.  
Make sure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the  
CMOS.  
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU  
overclocking. With the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down  
and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter  
settings to default values. If the system hangs due to overclocking of  
memory timing or chipset voltage and the power button fails to function,  
pressing down the clr CMOS switch will shut down the system and clear  
CMOS simultaneously.  
ASUS Blitz Formula  
2-27  
2.7  
Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster  
installation  
2.7.1  
Audio card Installation  
1.  
Take out the Audio card from the  
package.  
2.  
Locate the audio slot on the  
motherboard.  
3.  
Align the card connector with the  
slot and press firmly until the card  
sits on the slot completely.  
4.  
The photo below shows the  
audio card installed on the  
motherboard.  
2-28  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.7.2  
I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation  
1.  
Install the I/O shield to the chassis rear panel. Orient the I/O shield so that  
the openings of the ports fit the motherboard rear ports. Snaps the I/O shield  
into place.  
2.  
Position the motherboard  
I/O side toward the chassis  
rear panel and install the  
motherboard to the chassis.  
Be cautious when installing  
the I/O shield. The I/O shield  
edge springs may damage  
the I/O ports.  
3.  
Thread the LCD Poster cable  
through the opening until its  
stopper snaps into place.  
4.  
Plug the LCD Poster cable into  
the onboard connector labeled  
LCD_CON.  
5.  
This photo shows the LCD  
Poster installed. Place the  
device wherever you can  
monitor the screen.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-29  
2.8  
Connectors  
2.8.1  
Rear panel connectors  
5
6
7
8
9
1
2
3
4
10  
clr  
CMOS  
13  
15  
14  
12  
11  
1.  
2.  
PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via a coaxial S/PDIF cable.  
3.  
4.  
LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to  
a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer  
to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.  
ACTIVITY/ SPEED  
LINK LED  
LED  
LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to  
a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer  
to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.  
LAN port  
32-bit OS LAN port LED indications  
Activity/Link  
OFF  
Speed LED  
OFF  
Description  
Soft-off Mode  
YELLOW*  
YELLOW*  
OFF  
During Power ON/OFF  
100 Mbps connection  
ORANGE  
* Blinking  
64-bit OS LAN port LED indications  
Activity/Link  
Speed LED  
DNR  
Description  
DNR  
DNR  
DNR  
DNR  
Soft-off Mode  
DNR  
DNR  
DNR  
During Power ON/OFF  
100 Mbps connection  
1 Gbps connection  
2-30  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
5.  
6.  
Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or  
other audio sources.  
Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In  
4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port  
becomes Front Speaker Out.  
7.  
8.  
Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer  
speakers.  
9.  
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers on a  
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration.  
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an  
8-channel audio configuration.  
Refer to the audio configuration table on the next page for the function of the  
audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.  
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Headset  
2-channel  
Light Blue Line In  
Port  
4-channel  
6-channel  
8-channel  
Line In  
Line In  
Line In  
Lime  
Line Out  
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Pink  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Orange  
Black  
Gray  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Ou  
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
11. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports  
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
12. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed  
connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable  
devices.  
13. Clear CMOS switch. Press the clear CMOS switch to clear setup information  
when the system hangs due to overclocking.  
14. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via an optical S/PDIF cable.  
15. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-31  
2.8.2  
Internal connectors  
1.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert  
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the  
signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.  
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when  
using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.  
FLOPPY  
NOTE: Orient the red markings on  
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
PIN 1  
BLITZ FORMULA Floppy disk drive connector  
2.  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable.  
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable:  
blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE  
connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.  
Mode of  
device(s)  
Drive jumper setting  
Cable connector  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
-
Black  
Black  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Cable-Select  
Gray  
Master  
Slave  
Black or gray  
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the  
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you  
connect the IDE cable.  
Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
2-32  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
PRI_EIDE  
NOTE: Orient the red markings  
(usually zigzag) on the IDE  
cable to PIN 1.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA IDE connector  
3.  
ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1~6)  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk  
drives.  
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID  
1, RAID 5, RAID 10 configuration with the Intel® Matrix Storage Technology  
through the onboard Intel® ICH9R RAID controller.  
These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard  
IDE mode, you can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these  
connectors. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these  
connectors, set the [Configure SATA as] item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See  
section 4.3.6 SATA Configuration for details.  
For RAID 5, use at least three hard disk drives. For RAID 10, use at least  
four hard disk drives. Use two to four Serial ATA hard disk drives for each  
RAID 0 or RAID 1 set.  
Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.3 Intel® RAID configurations or  
the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.  
SATA1  
SATA2  
SATA5  
SATA3  
SATA4  
SATA6  
GND  
RSATA_TXP1  
RSATA_TXN1  
GND  
RSATA_RXP1  
RSATA_RXN1  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP3  
RSATA_TXN3  
GND  
RSATA_RXP3  
RSATA_RXN3  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP2  
RSATA_TXN2  
GND  
RSATA_RXP2  
RSATA_RXN2  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP4  
RSATA_TXN4  
GND  
RSATA_RXP4  
RSATA_RXN4  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP5  
RSATA_TXN5  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP6  
RSATA_TXN6  
GND  
BLITZ FORMULA  
RSATA_RXP5  
RSATA_RXN5  
GND  
RSATA_RXP6  
RSATA_RXN6  
GND  
BLITZ FORMULA SATA connectors  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-33  
You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA hard  
disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is  
available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version.  
right angle side  
Connect the right-angle side  
of SATA signal cable to SATA  
device. Or you may connect the  
right-angle side of SATA cable to  
the onboard SATA port to avoid  
mechanical conflict with huge  
graphics cards.  
4.  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB 910, USB 1112)  
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable  
to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the  
back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0  
specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
USB1112  
USB910  
USB78  
BLITZ FORMULA  
USB 2.0 connectors  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and  
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.  
2-34  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
5.  
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)  
This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module  
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back  
of the system chassis.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
IE1394_2  
PIN 1  
BLITZ FORMULA IEEE 1394a connector  
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage  
the motherboard!  
You can connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q-Connector (1394, red) first, and  
then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard.  
6.  
Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1/2)  
These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal  
sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices  
which you want to monitor temperature. The optional fan1~2 can work with  
the temperature sensors for a better cooling effect.  
OPT_TEMP2  
BLITZ FORMULA  
Temperature  
Ground  
OPT_TEMP1  
BLITZ FORMULA Thermal sensor cable connectors  
Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set the  
South Bridge Sensor Select item in BIOS to [SB Overheat Protection]. Refer  
to page 4-31 for details.  
The thermal sensor cable is purchased separately.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-35  
7.  
CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1~4, 3-pin PWR_FAN,  
3-pin OPT_FAN1~2)  
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA~1000 mA (24 W max.) or  
a total of 1 A~3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the  
fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each  
cable matches the ground pin of the connector.  
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air  
flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are  
not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors!  
CPU_FAN  
CPU_FAN  
PWR_FAN  
CPU FAN PWM  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
CPU FAN IN  
CPU FAN PWR  
GND  
PWR_FAN  
CHA_FAN4  
CHA_FAN1 CHA_FAN2  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
CHA_FAN3  
CHA_FAN1  
OPT_FAN1  
CHA_FAN3 CHA_FAN4  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
OPT_FAN2  
CHA_FAN2  
BLITZ FORMULA  
OPT_FAN1  
OPT_FAN2  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
BLITZ FORMULA Fan connectors  
Only the CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1~3, and OPT_FAN1~2 connectors support  
the ASUS Q-Fan2 feature.  
If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan  
cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for  
better themal environment.  
2-36  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
8.  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.  
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this  
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to  
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal  
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.  
By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with  
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the  
chassis intrusion detection feature.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
CHASSIS  
(Default)  
BLITZ FORMULA Chassis intrusion connector  
9.  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs  
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper  
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
EATXPWR  
+3 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+5V Standby  
Power OK  
Ground  
Ground  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
-5 Volts  
Ground  
Ground  
Ground  
PSON#  
Ground  
-12 Volts  
+3 Volts  
EATX12V  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
GND  
GND  
GND  
GND  
+5 Volts  
Ground  
+5 Volts  
BLITZ FORMULA  
Ground  
+3 Volts  
BLITZ FORMULA ATX power connectors  
+3 Volts  
Make sure to remove the cap on the EATX12V connector before connecting  
an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug.  
Use only an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug for the EATX12V connector.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-37  
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply  
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version)  
and provides a minimum power of 400 W.  
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise,  
the system will not boot.  
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when  
configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system  
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.  
The ATX 12 V Specification 2.0-compliant (400W) PSU has been tested  
to support the motherboard power requirements with the following  
configuration:  
CPU: Intel® Pentium® Extreme 3.73GHz  
Memory: 512 MB DDR2 (x4)  
Graphics card: ASUS EAX1900XT  
Parallel ATA device: IDE hard disk drive  
Serial ATA device: SATA hard disk drive (x2)  
Optical drive: DVD-RW  
If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with  
500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability.  
10. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT for ASUS HDMI VGA card)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)  
port(s). If you are using an ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card, connect the  
HDMI card to this connector with a S/PDIF Out cable.  
SPDIF_OUT  
GND  
SPDIFOUT  
+5V  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Digital audio connector  
The ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card and the S/PDIF Out cable are  
purchased separately.  
2-38  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
PLED  
SPEAKER  
PANEL  
IDE_LED  
RESET  
PWRSW  
BLITZ FORMULA  
* Requires an ATX power supply.  
BLITZ FORMULA System panel connector  
System power LED (2-pin PLED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis  
power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when  
you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.  
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity  
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is  
read from or written to the HDD.  
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)  
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The  
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)  
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button  
turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending  
on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds  
while the system is ON turns the system OFF.  
Reset button (2-pin RESET)  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system  
reboot without turning off the system power.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-39  
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)  
You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel  
cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q-  
Connector.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Connect the front panel cables to the  
ASUS Q-Connector.  
Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector  
to know the detailed pin definitions, then  
match them to the respective front panel  
cable labels.  
Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the  
system panel connector, making sure  
the orientation matches the labels on the  
motherboard.  
The front panel functions are now enabled.  
The figure shows the Q-Connector properly  
installed on the motherboard.  
2-40  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.8.3  
Onboard switches  
Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare  
or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually  
change settings to enhance system performance.  
1.  
Power-on switch  
Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Power on switch  
2.  
Reset switch  
Press the reset switch to reboot the system.  
BLITZ FORMULA  
BLITZ FORMULA Reset switch  
ROG Blitz Formula  
2-41  
2.8.4  
Installing the DIY Pedestal  
2.  
Arrange and stick the rubber  
studs to wherever you wish to  
place your motherboard.  
1.  
Take out the DIY Pedestal from  
the motherboard package.  
3.  
Put the motherboard on the DIY  
Pedestal to get more efficient heat  
dissipation.  
The tape on the rubber studs is for one-time use. Replace the tape if the  
adhesive surface does not work.  
You can use the DIY Pedestal in ways that suit your needs.  
2-42  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter describes the power up  
sequence, the vocal POST messages,  
and ways of shutting down the system.  
Powering up  
3
Chapter summary  
3
3.1  
Starting up for the first time........................................................ 3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer............................................................. 3-2  
ROG Blitz Formula  
3.1  
Starting up for the first time  
1.  
2.  
3.  
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.  
Be sure that all switches are off.  
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system  
chassis.  
4.  
5.  
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge  
protector.  
Turn on the devices in the following order:  
a. Monitor  
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)  
c. System power  
6.  
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case  
lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up  
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”  
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up  
or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on.  
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are  
running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional  
messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30  
seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a  
power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer  
for assistance.  
BIOS Beep  
Description  
One short beep  
VGA detected  
Quick boot set to disabled  
No keyboard detected  
One continuous beep followed by two  
short beeps then a pause (repeated)  
No memory detected  
One continuous beep followed by three  
short beeps  
No VGA detected  
One continuous beep followed by four  
short beeps  
Hardware component failure  
7.  
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the  
instructions in Chapter 4.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer  
3.2.1  
Using the OS shut down function  
If you are using Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.  
Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
If you are using Windows® Vista™:  
1.  
2.  
Click the Start button then select ShutDown.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
3.2.2  
Using the dual function power switch  
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts  
the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.  
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the  
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 4.6 Power Menu in  
Chapter 4 for details.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: Powering up  
This chapter tells how to change  
the system settings through the BIOS  
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions  
of the BIOS parameters are also  
provided.  
BIOS setup  
4
Chapter summary  
4
4.1  
4.2  
4.3  
4.4  
4.5  
4.6  
4.7  
4.8  
4.9  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9  
Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12  
Extreme Tweaker menu ............................................................. 4-17  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22  
Power menu................................................................................ 4-29  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-39  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 4-41  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS  
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic  
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.)  
ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk.)  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk,  
USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or  
gets corrupted.)  
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk or  
USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the  
original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.  
4.1.1  
ASUS Update utility  
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the  
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you  
to:  
Save the current BIOS file  
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet  
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file  
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and  
View the BIOS version information.  
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard  
package.  
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an  
Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
Installing ASUS Update  
To install ASUS Update:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX.  
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-1  
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
Updating the BIOS through the Internet  
To update the BIOS through the Internet:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start  
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
2.  
Select Update BIOS from the  
Internet option from the drop-down  
menu, then click Next.  
3.  
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest  
you to avoid network traffic, or  
click Auto Select. Click Next.  
4-2  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.  
5.  
From the FTP site, select the BIOS  
version that you wish to download.  
Click Next.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
The ASUS Update utility is  
capable of updating itself through  
the Internet. Always update the  
utility to avail all its features.  
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file  
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start  
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
2.  
Select Update BIOS from a file  
option from the drop-down menu,  
then click Next.  
3.  
Locate the BIOS file from the Open  
window, then click Open.  
Blitz Formula.rom  
4.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
Blitz Formula  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-3  
4.1.2  
Creating a bootable floppy disk  
1.  
Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.  
DOS environment  
a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.  
b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>.  
Windows® XP environment  
a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive.  
b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.  
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.  
d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy  
Disk window appears.  
e. Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options field,  
then click Start.  
2.  
Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy  
disk.  
4-4  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.1.3  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go  
through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based  
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing  
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:  
1.  
2.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard.  
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk or a USB flash disk, then restart the  
system.  
3.  
You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.  
(1) Insert the floppy disk / USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the  
floppy disk drive or the USB port.  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05  
FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016  
Current ROM  
BOARD: Blitz Formula  
VER: 0302  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: 05/15/07  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[B] Backup  
[ESC] Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash2  
and press <Enter> to enable it.  
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct file  
is found. Then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update  
process and automatically reboots the system when done.  
This function can support devices such as USB flash disk, or floppy disk  
with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-5  
4.1.4  
AFUDOS utility  
The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using  
a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility also allows you to  
copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets  
corrupted during the updating process.  
Copying the current BIOS  
To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least  
1024KB free space to save the file.  
The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS  
screen displays may not be same as shown.  
1.  
2.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /o[filename]  
where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename not more than eight  
alphanumeric characters for the main filename and three alphanumeric  
characters for the extension name.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
Main filename Extension name  
3.  
Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppy disk.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
Reading flash ..... done  
Write to file...... ok  
A:\>  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS file.  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
1.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.  
4-6  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS  
filename at the DOS prompt.  
2.  
3.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /i[filename]  
where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy  
disk.  
A:\>afudos /iBlitz Formula.ROM  
4.  
The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.  
A:\>afudos /iBlitz Formula.ROM  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS  
Reading file ....... done  
Reading flash ...... done  
Advance Check ......  
Erasing flash ...... done  
Writing flash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)  
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
5.  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is  
completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.  
A:\>afudos /iBlitz Formula.ROM  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS  
Reading file ....... done  
Reading flash ...... done  
Advance Check ......  
Erasing flash ...... done  
Writing flash ...... done  
Verifying flash .... done  
Please restart your computer  
A:\>  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-7  
4.1.5  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore  
the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can  
update a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk,  
or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file.  
Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk or the USB flash disk  
containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.  
Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD  
To recover the BIOS from the support DVD:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Turn on the system.  
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive.  
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD  
for the BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted  
BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
Floppy found!  
Reading file “Blitz Formula.ROM”. Completed.  
Start flashing...  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
Recovering the BIOS from the USB flash disk  
To recover the BIOS from the USB flash disk:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Insert the USB flash disk that contains BIOS file to the USB port.  
Turn on the system.  
The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file When found,  
the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted BIOS file.  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
Only the USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition can  
support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than  
8GB.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so  
can cause system boot failure!  
4-8  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.2  
BIOS setup program  
This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip  
that you can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing  
and updating your BIOS.”  
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring  
your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure  
your system using this utility.  
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the  
configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the  
security password feature or change the power management settings. This  
requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the  
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the  
SPI chip.  
The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the  
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press  
<Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise,  
POST continues with its test routines.  
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing  
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can  
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if  
the first two failed.  
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a  
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make  
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.  
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions  
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after  
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system  
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the  
Exit Menu. See section 4.9 Exit Menu.  
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes  
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
this motherboard.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-9  
4.2.1  
Menu items  
Main  
BIOS menu screen  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced Power  
Extreme Tweaker  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
System Time  
[10:55:25]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or  
[SHIFT-TAB] to select  
a field.  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[Mon 05/07/2007]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system Time.  
SATA 1  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
SATA 5  
SATA 6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Field  
SATA Coniguration  
System Information  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Sub-menu items  
Navigation keys  
4.2.2  
Menu bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
Extreme Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings  
Advanced  
Power  
For changing the advanced system settings  
For changing the advanced power management (APM)  
configuration  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
For Configuring options for special functions  
For selecting the exit options and loading default  
settings  
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard  
until the desired item is highlighted.  
4.2.3  
Navigation keys  
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that  
particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change  
the settings.  
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.  
4-10  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.2.4  
Menu items  
Use [ENTER], [TAB],  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[06:22:54]  
The highlighted item on the menu bar  
displays the specific items for that  
menu. For example, selecting Main  
shows the Main menu items.  
[Fri 05/07/2007]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system.  
SATA 1  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
SATA 5  
SATA 6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
SATA Configuration  
System Information  
The other items (Advanced, Power,  
Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have  
their respective menu items.  
Main menu items  
4.2.5  
Sub-menu items  
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a  
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.  
4.2.6  
Configuration fields  
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- configurable,  
you can change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item  
that is not user-configurable.  
A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To  
change the value of a field, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options.  
Refer to 4.2.7 Pop-up window.  
4.2.7  
Pop-up window  
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the  
configuration options for that item.  
4.2.8  
Scroll bar  
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a  
menu screen when there are items that do  
not fit on the screen. Press the  
Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page  
Down> keys to display the other items on  
the screen.  
Pop-up window  
4.2.9  
General help  
At the top right corner of the menu screen  
is a brief description of the selected item.  
Scroll bar  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-11  
4.3  
Main menu  
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving  
you an overview of the basic system information.  
Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen  
items and how to navigate through them.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or  
[SHIFT-TAB] to select  
a field.  
System Time  
[10:55:25]  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[Mon 05/07/2007]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system Time.  
SATA 1  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
SATA 5  
SATA 6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
SATA Coniguration  
System Information  
+-  
Change Field  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4.3.1  
System Time [xx:xx:xx]  
Allows you to set the system time.  
4.3.2  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]  
Allows you to set the system date.  
4.3.3  
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Sets the type of floppy drive installed.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
4.3.4  
Language [English]  
Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options.  
Configuration options: [Chinese BIG5] [Chinese (GB)] [Japanese] [Français]  
[German] [English]  
4-12  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.3.5  
SATA1-6  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA  
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item  
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
SATA 1  
Device  
Select the type of  
device connected to  
the system.  
:Not Detected  
Type  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
LBA/Large Mode  
Block(Multi-Sector Transfer) [Auto]  
PIO Mode  
DMA Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
SMART Monitoring  
32Bit Data Transfer  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,  
Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and  
SMART monitoring). These values are not user-configurable. These items show  
N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.  
Type [Auto]  
Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the  
appropriate IDE device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specifically configuring a  
CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is  
either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.  
Configuration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]  
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]  
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the  
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA  
mode disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) [Auto]  
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data  
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device  
supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer  
from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
PIO Mode [Auto]  
Selects the PIO mode.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-13  
DMA Mode [Auto]  
Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1]  
[SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2]  
[UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]  
SMART Monitoring [Auto]  
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]  
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
4.3.6  
SATA Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the SATA  
devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to  
configure the item.  
SATA Configuration  
Options  
SATA Configuraton  
Configure SATA as  
[Enhanced]  
[IDE]  
Disabled  
Enhanced  
Hard Disk Write Protect  
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec)  
[Disabled]  
[35]  
SATA Configuration [Enhanced]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced]  
Configure SATA as [IDE]  
Sets the configuration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the  
Southbridge chip.  
The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial  
ATA features that increases storage performance on random workloads by  
allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands.  
If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, or the Intel®  
Matrix Storage Technology configuration from the Serial ATA hard disk drives,  
set this item to [RAID].  
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical  
storage devices, keep the defaul setting [IDE].  
4-14  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller  
Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI].  
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]  
Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if device is  
accessed through BIOS.  
Confiuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]  
Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices.  
Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]  
4.3.7  
AHCI Configuration  
This menu allows you to configure AHCI settings. It appears only when you set the  
Configure SATA as item to [AHCI] in the SATA Configuration menu.  
While entering setup,  
BIOS auto detects  
the presence of SATA  
devices. This displays  
the status of auto  
detection of SATA  
devices.  
AHCI Settings  
AHCI Port1 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port2 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port3 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port4 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port5 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port6 [Not Detected]  
ACHI Port1~6 [XXXX]  
Displays the status of auto-detection of IDE devices.  
AHCI Port1  
Select the type of  
devices connected to  
the system.  
Device  
:Not Detected  
SATA Port1  
[Auto]  
SATA Port1 [Auto]  
Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-15  
4.3.8  
System Information  
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS  
automatically detects the items in this menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
AMIBIOS  
Version  
: 0145  
Build Date : 05/04/07  
Processor  
Type  
Speed  
Count  
: Genuine Intel(R) CPU @ 2.40GHz  
: 2400MHz  
: 1  
System Memory  
Available  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
General Help  
: 512 MB  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
AMI BIOS  
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.  
Processor  
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification.  
System Memory  
Displays the auto-detected system memory.  
4-16  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.4  
Extreme Tweaker menu  
The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related  
items.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items.  
Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Select the target CPU  
frequency, and the  
relevant parameters  
will be auto-adjusted.  
Frequencies higher  
than CPU manufacturer  
recomends are not  
Configure System Frequency/Voltage  
AI Overclocking  
[Auto]  
CPU Ratio Control  
DRAM Frequency  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
DRAM Timing Control  
DRAM Static Read Control  
guaranteed to be  
Transaction Booster  
[Auto]  
stable. If the system  
becomes unstable,  
return to the default.  
CPU Spread Spectrum  
PCIE Spread Spectrum  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
+-  
Tab  
F1  
Select Field  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
F10  
ESC  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4.4.1  
Configure System Frequency/Voltage  
AI Overclocking [Auto]  
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal  
frequency. Selct either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:  
Manual  
Auto  
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.  
Loads the optimal settings for the system.  
Standard  
N.O.S.  
Loads the standard settings for the system.  
The ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently  
determines the system load and automatically boosts the  
performance for the most demanding tasks.  
Some of the following items appear when you set AI Overclocking to [Manual]  
or [N.O.S.]. The items vary depending on which option you select.  
N.O.S. Mode [Auto]  
Allows you to set the Non-delay Overclocking System mode.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Sensitive] [Heavy Load]  
The following item appears when the N.O.S. Mode item is set to [Standard],  
[Sensitive], or [Heavy Load].  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-17  
Turbo N.O.S. [Overclock 3%]  
Configuration options: [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 10%]  
[Overclock 15%] [Overclock 20%] [Overclock 30%]  
CPU Ratio Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The following item appears when the CPU Ratio Control item is set to  
[Manual].  
Ratio CMOS Setting [12]  
Use the <+> and <-> keys to select the CMOS ratio values from 6 to 12.  
FSB Frequency [XXX]  
Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI  
bus. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the FSB frequency. You can also type  
the desired FSB frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200  
to 800. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External  
Frequency settings.  
FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization  
Front Side Bus  
FSB 1333  
CPU External Frequency  
333 MHz  
FSB 1066  
266 MHz  
FSB 800  
200 MHz  
Refer to page 2-3 for FSB frequency LED definition.  
PCIE Frequency [100]  
Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency.  
Configuration options: [100] [101]~[149] [150]  
DRAM Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DDR2 operating frequency.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2-667MHz] [DDR2-800 MHz] [DDR-1066MHz]  
A very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this  
happens, revert to the default setting.  
DRAM Timing Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual  
]
4-18  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
The following items appear when you set the DRAM Timing Control item to  
[Manual].  
CAS# Latency [ 5]  
Configuration options: [3] [4] [5] [6]  
RAS# to CAS# Delay [ 5 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[9 DRAM Clocks]  
[10 DRAM Clocks]  
RAS# Precharge [ 5 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[9 DRAM Clocks]  
[10 DRAM Clocks]  
RAS# Activate to Precharge [9 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[33 DRAM Clocks]  
[34 DRAM Clocks]  
TWR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]  
TRFC [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [20 DRAM Clocks] [25 DRAM Clocks]  
[30 DRAM Clocks] [35 DRAM Clocks] [42 DRAM Clocks]  
TWTR [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]  
TRRD [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]  
TRTP [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM Static Read Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Transaction Booster [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU spread spectrum.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE spread spectrum.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-19  
CPU Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the CPU voltage. The text color in the configuration field  
corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color, both of which indicate CPU voltage  
condition. Refer to page 2-1 for CPU LED definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.10000V] [1.10625V] [1.11250V] [1.11875V]  
[1.12500V] [1.13125V] [1.13750V] [1.14375V] [1.50000V] [1.15625V] [1.16250V]  
[1.16875V] [1.17500V] [1.18125V] [1.18750V] [1.19375V] [1.20000V] [1.20625V]  
[1.21250V] [1.21875V] [1.22500V] [1.23125V] [1.23750V] [1.24375V] [1.25000V]  
[1.25625V] [1.26250V] [1.26875V] [1.27500V] [1.28125V] [1.28750V] [1.29375V]  
[1.30000V]~[1.80000V] [1.80625V] [1.81250V] [1.81875V] [1.82500V] [1.83125V]  
[1.83750V] [1.84375V] [1.85000V] [1.85625V] [1.86250V] [1.86875V] [1.87500V]  
[1.88125V] [1.88750V] [1.89375V] [1.90000V]  
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a  
high voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may  
make the system unstable.  
CPU Voltage Reference [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0.531V] [0.545V] [0.561V] [0.576V] [0.581V] [0.597V]  
[0.618V] [0.635V]  
Loadline Calibration [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
FSB Termination Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the front side bus (FSB) termination voltage. The text color  
in the configuration field indicates FSB termination voltage condition. When you  
set the NB LED Selection item to [FSBT Volt], the onboard northbridge LED  
displays FSB termination voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED  
definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V] [1.28V] [1.30V]~  
[1.70V] [1.72V] [1.74V] [1.76V] [1.78V] [1.80V]  
Setting a high FSB termination voltage may damage the chipset and CPU.  
North Bridge Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the northbridge voltage. The text color in the configuration field  
indicates northbridge voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item  
to [NB Volt], the onboard northbridge LED displays northbridge voltage condition.  
Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.25V] [1.27V] [1.29V] [1.31V]~[1.97V] [1.99V]  
[2.01V] [2.03V]  
North Bridge Voltage Refernece [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0.61x] [0.67x]  
4-20  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
DRAM Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the DRAM reference voltage. The text color in the  
configuration field corresponds to the onboard memory LED color, both of which  
indicate DRAM voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for memory LED definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.80V] [1.82V] [1.84V] [1.86V] [1.88V] [1.90V]~  
[3.32V] [3.34V] [3.36V] [3.38V] [3.40V]  
DDRII Channel A REF Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the  
safe mode.  
Configuration options: [DDRII_REF-30mv] [DDRII_REF-20mv] [DDRII_REF-10mv]  
[DDRII_REF] [DDRII_REF+10mv] [DDRII_REF+20mv] [DDRII_REF+30mv]  
DDRII Channel B REF Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the  
safe mode.  
Configuration options: [DDRII_REF-30mv] [DDRII_REF-20mv] [DDRII_REF-10mv]  
[DDRII_REF] [DDRII_REF+10mv] [DDRII_REF+20mv] [DDRII_REF+30mv]  
DDRII Controller REF Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the  
safe mode.  
Configuration options: [DDRII_REF-30mv] [DDRII_REF-20mv] [DDRII_REF-10mv]  
[DDRII_REF] [DDRII_REF+10mv] [DDRII_REF+20mv] [DDRII_REF+30mv]  
South Bridge Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the configuration  
field indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection  
item to [SB Volt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage  
condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.050V] [1.075V] [1.110V] [1.125V] [1.150V] [1.175V]  
[1.200V] [1.225V]  
PLL Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the configuration  
field indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection  
item to [SB Volt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage  
condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED definition.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~[1.92V]  
[1.94V] [1.96V] [1.98V] [2.00V]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-21  
NB LED Selection [NB Volt]  
Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display between northbridge  
voltage [NB Volt] and front side bus termination voltage [FSBT Volt].  
Configuration options: [NB Volt] [FSBT Volt]  
SB LED Selection [PLL Volt]  
Allows you to switch the onboard southbridge LED display between PLL voltage  
[PLL Volt] and southbridge voltage [SB Volt].  
Configuration options: [PLL Volt] [SB Volt]  
4.5  
Advanced menu  
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other  
system devices.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
AI Net 2  
USB Configuration  
LAN Cable Status  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
PCIPnP  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Field  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4-22  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.5.1  
AI Net 2  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
POST Check LAN cable  
AI Net 2  
[Disabled]  
Check LAN cable during  
POST.  
Pair  
Status  
Length  
1-2  
3-6  
4-5  
7-8  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
1-2  
3-6  
4-5  
7-8  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Field  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled]  
Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test  
(POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
4.5.2  
USB Configuration  
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an  
item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
USB Configuration  
Options  
USB Devices Enabled:  
None  
Enabled  
Disabled  
USB Functions  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[HiSpeed]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Auto]  
USB 2.0 Controller  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode  
BIOS EHCI Hand-off  
Port 64/60 Emulation  
Legacy USB Support  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Option  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB  
device is detected, the item shows None.  
USB Functions [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB functions. The following sub-items appear  
when this item is set to [Enabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-23  
The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled].  
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]  
Allows you to set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or  
FullSpeed (12 Mbps). Configuration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]  
The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB  
2.0 Controller.  
BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off  
feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Port 64/60 Emulation [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the I/O port 60h/64h emulation support. This item  
should be enabled for the complete USB keyboard legacy support for non-USB  
aware OSes. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Legacy USB Support [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to  
[Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If  
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected,  
the legacy USB support is disabled.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]  
4-24  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.5.3  
CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS  
automatically detects.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Configure Advanced CPU settings  
Options  
Manufacturer:Intel  
Auto  
Brand String:Genuine Intel(R) CPU @ 2.40GHz  
Manual  
Frequency  
FSB Speed  
Cache L1  
Cache L2  
CPUID  
:2.40GHz  
:800 MHz  
:32 KB  
:512 KB  
:660  
Ratio Status:Unlocked (Max:12, Min:06)  
Ratio Actual Value: 12  
CPU Ratio Control  
C1E Support  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Max CPUID Value Limit  
Vanderpool Technology  
CPU TM function:  
Execute Disable Bit  
PECI  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
Intel(R) SpeedStep(tm) Tech. [Disabled]  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
CPU Ratio Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to  
[Manual].  
Ratio CMOS Setting: [ 12]  
C1E Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without  
support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Vanderpool Technology [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
CPU TM function [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.  
Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero  
(0). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-25  
PECI [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PECI interface.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to [Auto].  
Inter(R) SpeedStep (tm) Tech. [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
4.5.4  
Chipset  
The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an  
item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Advanced Chipset Settings  
Configure North Bridge  
features.  
WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause system to malfunction.  
North Bridge Configuration  
North Bridge Chipset Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
ENABLE: Allow  
remapping of  
North Bridge Chipset Configuration  
overlapped PCI memory  
above the total  
physical memory.  
Memory Remap Feature  
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]  
PEG Port Control [Auto]  
[Enabled]  
DISABLE: Do not allow  
remapping of memory.  
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory  
above the total physical memory. Enable this option only when you install 64-  
bit operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]  
Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot  
device. Configuration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]  
PEG Port Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
4-26  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.5.5  
OnBoard Devices Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Onboard Device Configuration  
Enable or Disable  
High Definition Audio  
Controller  
High Definition Audio  
Front Panel Type  
[Enabled]  
[HD Audio]  
J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled]  
Marvell GigaBit LAN 1  
LAN Boot ROM  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Marvell GigaBit LAN 2  
LAN Boot ROM  
VIA Firewire 1394  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
High Definition Audio [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the High Definition Audio. The following item  
appears only when you enable this item.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Front Panel Support Type [HD Audio]  
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy  
AC’97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front  
panel audio module supports. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]  
J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Marvell GigaBit LAN 1 [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
MarvelI GigaBit LAN 2 [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-27  
4.5.6  
PCI PnP  
The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP  
devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect  
field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings  
NO: lets the BIOS  
configure all the  
devices in the system.  
YES: lets the  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause system to malfunction.  
operating system  
configure Plug and Play  
(PnP) devices not  
required for boot if  
your system has a Plug  
and Play operating  
system.  
Plug And Play O/S  
[No]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Plug And Play O/S [No]  
When set to [No], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to  
[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system  
configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.  
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
4-28  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.6  
Power menu  
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced  
Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the  
configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Select the ACPI state  
used for System  
Suspend.  
Suspend Mode  
[Auto]  
Repost Video on S3 Resume  
ACPI Version  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
ACPI APIC Support  
APM Configuration  
Hardware Monitor  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4.6.1  
Suspend Mode [Auto]  
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state  
to be used for system suspend.  
Configuration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]  
4.6.2  
Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled]  
Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
4.6.3  
ACPI Version [Enabled]  
Specifies the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) version  
supported. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
4.6.4  
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface  
(ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When  
set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-29  
4.6.5  
APM Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
APM Configuration  
<Enter> to select  
whether or not to  
restart the system  
after AC power loss.  
Restore on AC Power Loss  
Power On By RTC Alarm  
Power On By PCI Devices  
Power On By PCIE Devices  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard  
[Power Off]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off]  
When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.  
When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to  
Last State, the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state  
was before the AC power loss.  
Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]  
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item is  
set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date/ RTC Alarm Hour/ RTC Alarm Minute/  
RTC Alarm Second will become user-configurable with set values.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]  
Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys  
on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power  
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]  
4-30  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.6.6  
Hardware Monitor  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Temperature  
CPU Temperature  
MB Temperature  
NB Temperature  
SB Temperature  
OPT Temperature  
[38.5ºC/102ºF]  
[36ºC/96.5ºF]  
[35ºC/95ºF]  
[43ºC/109ºF]  
[N/A]  
North Bridge Overheat Protecti [Auto]  
South Bridge Sensor Select  
[SB Overheat Protec]  
south Bridge Overheat Protecti [Auto]  
OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled]  
Select Screen  
CPU Fan and Chassis Fan  
OPT Fan and Power Fan  
Select Item  
Change Field  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
VCORE Voltage  
[ 1.272 V]  
[ 1.248 V]  
[ 1.280 V]  
[ 1.904 V]  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
FSB Termination Voltage  
North Bridge Voltage  
DRAM Voltage  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Scroll down to see more items.  
Select Screen  
DRAM Reference Voltage  
South Bridge Voltage  
PLL Voltage  
[ 0.944 V]  
[ 1.088 V]  
[ 1.536 V]  
[ 2.992 V]  
[ 4.776 V]  
[11.872 V]  
Select Item  
Change Field  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
3.3V Voltage  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
5V Voltage  
12V Voltage  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
CPU Temperature; MB Temperature; NB Temperature;  
SB Temperature; OPT Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU,  
motherboard, northbridge, southbridge, and the assigned device temperatures.  
Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.  
North Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto]  
Allows you to enable/disable the northbridge overheat auto-protection function or  
set the temperature over which the system shuts down.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled]  
South Bridge Sensor Select [SB Overheat Protection]  
Allows you to switch the target the temperature sensor aims at between the  
southbridge and any device with a thermal sensor cable connected to the  
OPT_TEMP2 connector.  
Configuration options: [SB Overheat Protection] [OPT_TEMP2]  
Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set this  
item to [SB Overheat Protection].  
The next item varies depending on whether you set the South Bridge Sensor  
Select item to [SB Overheat Protection] or [OPT_TEMP2].  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-31  
South Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto]  
Allows yous to enable/disable the southbridge overheat auto-protection function or  
set the temperature over which the system shuts down.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled]  
OPT_TEMP2 Overheat Protection [Disabled]  
If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the  
OPT_TEMP2 connector, you can use this item to set the temperature over which  
the system shuts down or disable this function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C]  
OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled]  
If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the  
OPT_TEMP1 connector, you can use this item to set the temperature over which  
the system shuts down or disable this function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C]  
CPU Fan and Chassis Fan  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
CPU Fan Speed  
CPU Fan Speed  
[4411RPM]  
[Disabled]  
[N/A]  
CPU Q-Fan Control  
Chassis Fan 1 Speed  
Chassis Fan 2 Speed  
Chassis Fan 3 Speed  
Chassis Q-Fan Control  
Chassis Fan 4 Speed  
[N/A]  
[N/A]  
[N/A]  
:N/A  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU  
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows N/A.  
CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-Fan controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the  
chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected  
to the motherboard, the field shows N/A.  
4-32  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the chassis Q-Fan controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following two items appear when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control  
feature.  
Chassis Fan Ratio [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [90%] [80%] [70%] [60%]  
Chassis Target Temperature [21ºC]  
Configuration options: [12ºC] [15ºC] [18ºC] [21ºC] [24ºC] [27ºC] [30ºC]  
Chassis Fan 4 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the  
chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected  
to the motherboard, the field shows N/A.  
OPT Fan and Power Fan  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
Fan configuration  
mode setting  
OPT_Fan 1 Speed  
:N/A  
[DUTY CYCLE]  
[90%]  
:N/A  
OPT_Fan1 Q-Fan Control  
Duty Cycle Mode  
OPT_Fan 2 Speed  
OPT_Fan2 Q-Fan Control  
Duty Cycle Mode  
[DUTY CYCLE]  
[90%]  
Power Fan Speed  
:N/A  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the optional fan speed. If the  
fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A.  
OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE]  
Allows you to select the optional fan control mode. When this item is set to  
[DUTY CYCLE], you can configure the Duty Cycle Mode item. If you set this  
item to [Q-FAN], you are allowed to configure the TargetTemp Value item.  
The Q-Fan detects the temperature of the fan connected to the OPT_FAN1/2  
connector and adjusts the fan speed.  
Configuraiton options: [DUTY CYCLE] [Q-FAN]  
You need to connect the thermal sensor cables to the OPT_TEMP1/2  
connectors to enable this function.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-33  
Duty Cycle Mode [90%]  
Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. When the OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is  
set to [Q-FAN], this item does not appear.  
Configuraiton options: [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%]  
TargetTemp Value [32]  
Allows you to set the temperature at which the optional fan starts up. When the  
OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is set to [DUTY CYCLE], this item does not  
appear. Configuration options: [16] [24] [32] [40] [48] [56] [64] [72]  
Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the power  
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows N/A.  
VCORE Voltage, FSB Termination Voltage, North Bridge Voltage,  
DRAM Voltage, DRAM Reference Voltage, South Bridge Voltage, PLL  
Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through  
the onboard voltage regulators.  
4-34  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.7  
Boot menu  
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item  
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Specifies the Boot  
Device Priority  
sequence.  
Boot Device Priority  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Security  
A virtual floppy disk  
drive (Floppy Drive B:)  
may appear when you set  
the CD-ROM drive as the  
first boot device.  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
F10  
ESC  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4.7.1  
Boot Device Priority  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Boot Device Priority  
Specifies the boot  
sequence from the  
availabe devices.  
1st Boot Device  
2nd Boot Device  
3rd Boot Device  
[1st FLOPPY DRIVE]  
[Hard Drive]  
[ATAPI CD-ROM]  
A device enclosed  
in parenthesis has  
been disabled in  
the corresponding  
menu.  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Option  
+-  
F10  
ESC  
F1  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx Drive]  
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices.  
The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of  
devices installed in the system.  
Configuration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled]  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-35  
4.7.2  
Boot Settings Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Allows BIOS to skip  
certain tests while  
booting. This will  
decrease the time  
needed to boot the  
system.  
Quick Boot  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Force BIOS]  
[On]  
Full Screen Logo  
AddOn ROM Display Mode  
Bootup Num-Lock  
Wait for ‘F1’ if Error  
[Enabled]  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
Interrupt 19 Capture  
[Disabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Quick Boot [Enabled]  
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while  
booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled],  
BIOS performs all the POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]  
This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3feature.  
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]  
Sets the display mode for option ROM.  
Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]  
Bootup Num-Lock [On]  
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.  
Configuration options: [Off] [On]  
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]  
When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error  
occurs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
When set to Enabled, the system displays the message “Press DEL to run Setup”  
during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
4-36  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.7.3  
Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Security Settings  
<Enter> to change  
password.  
<Enter> again to  
disabled password.  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
:Not Installed  
:Not Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
Change User Password  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Change  
F1  
F10  
ESC  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Change Supervisor Password  
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor  
Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a  
password, this item shows Installed.  
To set a Supervisor Password:  
1.  
2.  
Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters  
and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message “Password Installed” appears after you successfully set your  
password.  
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user  
password.  
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then  
press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears.  
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real  
Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to  
erase the RTC RAM.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-37  
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to  
change other security settings.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Security Settings  
<Enter> to change  
password.  
<Enter> again to  
disabled password.  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
:Not Installed  
:Not Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
User Access Level  
Change User Password  
Clear User Password  
Password Check  
[Full Access]  
[Setup]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Change  
F1  
F10  
ESC  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
User Access Level [Full Access]  
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.  
Configuration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]  
[No Access] prevents user access to the Setup utility.  
[View Only] allows access but does not allow change to any field.  
[Limited] allows changes only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.  
[Full Access] allows viewing and changing all the fields in the Setup utility.  
Change User Password  
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on  
top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this  
item shows Installed.  
To set a User Password:  
1.  
2.  
Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.  
On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six  
letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password  
successfully.  
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.  
Clear User Password  
Select this item to clear the user password.  
4-38  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Password Check [Setup]  
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup  
utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing  
Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]  
4.8  
Tools menu  
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Press ENTER to run  
the utility to select  
and update BIOS.  
This utility doesn't  
support :  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
1.NTFS format  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
+-  
F1  
F10  
ESC  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
4.8.1  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation  
message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No],  
then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Please see page 4-5, section 4.1.3 for  
details.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05  
FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016  
Current ROM  
BOARD: Blitz Formula  
VER: 0302  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: 05/15/07  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[ESC] Exit  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-39  
4.8.2  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Tools  
O.C. PROFILE Configuration  
Save to Profile 1  
O.C. Profile 1 Status :Not Installed  
O.C. Profile 2 Status :Not Installed  
Save to Profile 1  
Load from Profile 1  
Save to Profile 2  
Load from Profile 2  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Start O.C. Profile  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
F10  
ESC  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Save to Profle 1/2  
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save  
the file.  
Load from Profile 1/2  
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press  
<Enter> to load the file.  
Start O.C. Profile  
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the  
utility.  
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility V1.05  
Current CMOS  
BOARD: Blitz Formula  
VER: 0302  
Restore CMOS  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: 05/15/07  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[ESC] Exit  
This function can support devices such as USB flash disk or floppy  
disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to  
prevent the system boot failure!  
4-40  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.9  
Exit menu  
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the  
BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Extreme Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Exit Options  
Exit system setup  
after saving the  
changes.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Discard Changes  
F10 key can be used  
for this operation.  
Load Setup Defaults  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
Tab  
F1  
F10  
ESC  
Select Field  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options  
from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit  
menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard  
backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned  
off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select YES to  
save changes and exit.  
If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the  
program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes  
before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to  
the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System  
Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.  
Discard Changes  
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the  
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select  
YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.  
Load Setup Defaults  
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the  
Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation  
window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes  
or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
4-41  
4-42  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
This chapter describes the contents of  
the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package.  
Software  
5
support  
Chapter summary  
5
5.1  
5.2  
5.3  
5.4  
5.5  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1  
Support DVD information............................................................ 5-1  
Software information ................................................................... 5-9  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 5-30  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 5-39  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/64-bit XP/Vista/64-bit Vista operating  
systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to  
maximize the features of your hardware.  
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup  
procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS  
documentation for detailed information.  
Make sure that you install Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows®  
XP Service Pack2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better  
compatibility and system stability.  
5.2  
Support DVD information  
The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,  
software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard  
features.  
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without  
notice. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for updates.  
5.2.1  
Running the support DVD  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the  
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.  
Click an icon to  
display support  
DVD/motherboard  
information  
Click an item to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the  
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-1  
5.2.2  
Drivers menu  
The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed  
devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.  
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers  
Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard.  
Intel Chipset Inf Update Program  
Installs the Intel® chipset inf update program.  
SoundMAX ADI1988 Audio Driver  
Installs the SoundMAX® ADI1988 audio driver and application.  
Marvell Yukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver  
Installs the Marvell Yukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver.  
USB 2.0 Driver  
Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver.  
5-2  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.2.3  
Utilities menu  
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard  
supports.  
Click to display  
the next screen  
Click to display  
the previous  
screen  
ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities  
Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard.  
Marvell Yukon VCT Application  
Installs the Marvell Yukon VCT applications.  
ASUS PC Probe II  
This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages,  
and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer  
in healthy operating condition.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-3  
ASUS AI Suite  
Installs the ASUS AI Suite.  
ASUS Update  
The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows®  
environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network  
or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
Adobe Acrobat Reader V7.0  
Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print  
documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).  
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c  
Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a  
multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX®  
improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching  
TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the  
Microsoft website (www.microsoft.com) for updates.  
Anti-Virus Utility  
The anti-virus application scans, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View  
the online help for detailed information.  
3DMark06 Software  
Installs the 3Dmark06 software.  
WinDVD Copy5 Trial  
Installs the WinDVD Copy5 Trial version.  
InterVideo MediaOne Gallary  
Installs the InterVideo Media One Gallary software.  
Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE  
Installs the Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE software.  
CyberLink PowerBackup  
Installs the CyberLink Powerbackup software.  
Corel Snapfire Plus SE  
Installs the Corel Snapfire Plus SE software.  
5-4  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.2.4  
Make Disk menu  
The Make Disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH8 or JMicron® JMB36X  
RAID/AHCI driver disk.  
Intel ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID driver disk.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-5  
5.2.5  
Manuals menu  
The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to  
open the folder of the user manual.  
Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the  
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual  
file.  
5.2.6  
ASUS Contact information  
Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find  
this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.  
5-6  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.2.7  
Other information  
The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the  
motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the  
specified information.  
Motherboard Info  
Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.  
Browse this DVD  
Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-7  
Technical support form  
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when  
requesting technical support.  
Filelist  
Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text  
format.  
5-8  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3  
Software information  
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently  
guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came  
with the software application for more information.  
5.3.1  
ASUS MyLogo3™  
The ASUS MyLogo3utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the  
image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS  
MyLogo3is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from  
the support DVD. See section “5.2.3 Utilities menu” for details.  
Before using the ASUS MyLogo3, use the AFUDOS utility to make a copy  
of your original BIOS file, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS  
website. See section 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility.  
Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if  
you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3™. See section 4.7.2 Boot Settings  
Configuration.  
You can create your own boot logo image in GIF, or BMP file formats.  
The file size should be smaller than 150 K.  
To launch the ASUS MyLogo3:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section “4.1.1 ASUS Update utility”  
for details.  
2.  
3.  
Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next.  
Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before  
flashing BIOS, then click Next.  
4.  
5.  
Select Update BIOS from a file from the drop down menu, then click Next.  
When prompted, locate the new  
BIOS file, then click Next. The ASUS  
MyLogo window appears.  
6.  
From the left window pane, select the  
folder that contains the image you  
intend to use as your boot logo.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-9  
7.  
When the logo images appear on the  
right window pane, select an image to  
enlarge by clicking on it.  
8.  
Adjust the boot image to your desired  
size by selecting a value on the Ratio  
box.  
9.  
When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to  
load the new boot logo.  
10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo  
during POST.  
5-10  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.2  
AI NET 2  
The AI NET 2 features the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT). VCT is a cable  
diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain  
Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The VCT detects and reports open and shorted  
cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew  
problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy.  
The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly  
manageable and controlled network system. This utility can be incorporated  
in the network systems sofware for ideal field support as well as development  
diagnostics.  
Using the Virtual Cable Tester™  
To use the the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ utility:  
1.  
2.  
Launch the VCT utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > All  
Programs > Marvell > Virtual Cable Tester.  
Click Virtual Cable Tester from the menu to display the screen below.  
3.  
Click the Run button to perform a cable test.  
The VCT only runs on systems with Windows® XP or Windows® Vista™  
operating systems.  
The VCT utility only tests Ethernet cables connected to Gigabit LAN port(s).  
The Run button on the Virtual Cable Tester™ main window is disabled if no  
problem is detected on the LAN cable(s) connected to the LAN port(s).  
If you want the system to check the status of the LAN cable before entering  
the OS, enable the item Post Check LAN Cable in the BIOS Setup.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-11  
5.3.3  
SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility  
The ADI AD1988B High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio  
capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESPsoftware to deliver  
the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality  
audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input  
technologies.  
Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD1988B Audio Driver from the  
support DVD that came with the motherboard package to activate the SoundMAX®  
audio utility.  
You must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.  
SoundMAX® requires Microsoft® Windows® 2000/XP or later version. Make  
sure that one of these operating systems is installed before installing  
SoundMAX®.  
Jack Retasking function works on High Definition front panel audio ports  
only.  
If the SoundMAX® audio utility is correctly installed, you  
will find the SoundMAX® icon on the taskbar.  
5-12  
Chapter 5: Software support  
From the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX®  
Control Panel.  
Audio Setup Wizard  
By clicking the  
icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily  
configure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and  
begin enjoying High Definition Audio.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-13  
Jack configuration  
Adjust speaker volume  
This screen helps you configure your  
computer’s audio ports, depending on  
the audio devices you have installed.  
This screen helps you adjust speaker  
volume. Click the Test button to hear  
the changes you have made.  
Adjust microphone volume  
This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-  
written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.  
5-14  
Chapter 5: Software support  
Audio preferences  
Click the  
icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change  
various audio settings.  
General options  
Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/  
disable the AudioESPfeature, and enable/disable digital output.  
Listening Environment options  
Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic  
environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-15  
Microphone options  
Click the Microphone tab to optimize your microphone input settings.  
5-16  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.4  
ASUS PC Probe II  
PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects  
and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan  
rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC  
Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment  
you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a  
healthy operating condition.  
Installing PC Probe II  
To install PC Probe II on your computer:  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.  
If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
DVD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click  
the setup.exe file to start installation.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching PC Probe II  
You can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the  
Windows® desktop.  
To launch the PC Probe II from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs  
> ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window  
appears.  
After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows®  
taskbar. Click this icon to close or restore the application.  
Using PC Probe II  
Main window  
The PC Probe II main window  
allows you to view the current  
status of your system and change  
the utility configuration. By  
default, the main window displays  
the Preference section. You can  
close or restore the Preference  
section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle.  
Click to close the  
Preference panel  
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5-17  
Button  
Function  
Opens the Configuration window  
Opens the Report window  
Opens the Desktop Management Interface window  
Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window  
Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window  
Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window  
Shows/Hides the Preference section  
Minimizes the application  
Closes the application  
Sensor alert  
When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle  
turns red, as the illustrations below show.  
When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the  
Monitor panels section for details.  
Preferences  
You can customize the application using the  
Preference section in the main window. Click  
the box before each preference to activate or  
deactivate.  
5-18  
Chapter 5: Software support  
Hardware monitor panels  
The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as  
fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages.  
The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and  
rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the  
Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.  
Small display  
Large display  
Changing the monitor panels position  
To change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop,  
click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select  
another position from the list box. Click OK when finished.  
Moving the monitor panels  
All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If  
you want to detach a monitor panel from  
the group, click the horseshoe magnet  
icon. You can now move or reposition the  
panel independently.  
Adjusting the sensor threshold value  
You can adjust the sensor threshold  
value in the monitor panel by  
clicking the or buttons. You can  
also adjust the threshold values  
Click to  
increase  
value  
using the Config window.  
Click to  
You cannot adjust the sensor  
threshold values in a small  
monitoring panel.  
decrease  
value  
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Monitoring sensor alert  
The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower  
than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below.  
Small display  
Large display  
WMI browser  
Click to display the  
WMI (Windows Management  
Instrumentation) browser. This  
browser displays various Windows®  
management information. Click an  
item from the left panel to display on  
the right panel. Click the plus sign (+)  
before WMI Information to display the  
available information.  
You can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner  
of the browser.  
DMI browser  
Click to display the DMI  
(Desktop Management Interface)  
browser. This browser displays various  
desktop and system information.  
Click the plus sign (+) before DMI  
Information to display the available  
information.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
PCI browser  
Click  
to display the PCI  
(Peripheral Component Interconnect)  
browser. This browser provides  
information on the PCI devices installed  
on your system. Click the plus sign  
(+) before the PCI Information item to  
display available information.  
Usage  
The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive  
space, and memory usage. Click  
to display the Usage browser.  
CPU usage  
The CPU tab displays real-  
time CPU usage in line graph  
representation. If the CPU has  
an enabled Hyper-Threading,  
two separate line graphs display  
the operation of the two logical  
processors.  
Hard disk drive space usage  
The Hard Disk tab displays the  
used and available hard disk  
drive space. The left panel of the  
tab lists all logical drives. Click  
a hard disk drive to display the  
information on the right panel.  
The pie chart at the bottom of  
the window represents the used  
(blue) and the available HDD  
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Memory usage  
The Memory tab shows both  
used and available physical  
memory. The pie chart at the  
bottom of the window represents  
the used (blue) and the available  
Configuring PC Probe II  
Click  
to view and adjust the sensor threshold values.  
The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/  
Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold  
values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the  
temperature scale.  
Loads the default  
Loads your saved  
configuration  
threshold values for  
each sensor  
Cancels or  
ignores your  
changes  
Applies your  
changes  
Saves your  
configuration  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.5  
ASUS AI Suite  
ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear, AI N.O.S., AI Booster, AI Nap, and  
Q-Fan utilities easily.  
Installing AI Suite  
To install AI Suite on your computer:  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching AI Suite  
You can launch the AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows®  
desktop.  
To launch the AI Suite from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs >  
ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx. The AI Suite main window appears.  
After launching the application, the AI Suite icon appears in the Windows® taskbar.  
Click this icon to close or restore the application.  
Using AI Suite  
Click the AI N.O.S., AI Gear, AI Nap, AI Booster, or Q-Fan icon to launch the utility,  
or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state.  
Press to restore to normal  
Press to launch AI Nap  
Press to launch AI Gear  
Press to launch AI N.O.S.  
Press to launch AI Booster  
Press to launch Q-Fan  
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5-23  
Other feature buttons  
Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window.  
Displays the CPU/  
system temperature,  
CPU/memory/PCIE  
voltage, and CPU/  
chassis fan speed  
Displays the FSB/CPU  
frequency  
Click  
on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from  
degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.6  
ASUS AI N.O.S.  
This ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the  
system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding  
tasks.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility  
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI  
N.O.S. button on the AI Suite main window.  
drop-down menu  
button  
Click the drop-down menu button and select Disable or Manual.  
select an N.O.S.  
mode  
Click Apply at the bottom to save the configuration.  
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5.3.7  
ASUS AI Gear 2  
ASUS AI Gear 2 provides four system performance options that allows you to  
select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use  
utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise  
and power consumption.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch AI Gear 2  
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on your Windows OS taskbar and then click the  
AI Gear 2 button on the AI Suite main window.  
Shift the gear to the performance setting that you like.  
Maximum  
Medium  
Performance  
Performance  
High  
Maximum  
Performance  
Power Saving  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.8  
ASUS AI Nap  
This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer  
whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and  
a more quiet system operation.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by  
double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap  
button on the AI Suite main window.  
Click Yes on the confirmation screen.  
To exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Yes on  
the confirmation screen.  
To switch the power button functions from AI Nap to shutting down, just right  
click the AI Suite icon on the OS taskbar, select AI Nap and click Use power  
button. Unclick the the item to switch the function back.  
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5.3.9  
ASUS AI Booster  
The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in  
WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility  
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI  
Booster button on the AI Suite main window.  
The options on the taskbar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/  
Memory/PCI-E frequency manually, or create and apply your personal overclocking  
configurations.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.10  
ASUS Q-Fan 2  
This ASUS Q-Fan 2 Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance  
level of the CPU Q-Fan 2 or the Chassis Q-Fan 2 for more efficient system  
operation. After enabling the Q-Fan 2 function, the fans can be set to automatically  
adjust depending on the temperature, to decrease fan speed, or to achieve the  
maximum fan speed.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by  
double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the Q-Fan  
2 button on the AI Suite mAIn window.  
Click the drop-down menu button and display the fan names. Select CPU Q-FAN  
or CHASSIS Q-FAN. Click the Enabled box to activate this function.  
drop-down list  
button  
Enabled  
Profile list appears after clicking the Enabled box. Click the drop-down list  
button and select a profile. Optimal mode makes the fans adjust speed with  
the temperature; Silent mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation;  
Performance mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best  
cooling effect.  
click to display the drop-  
down list and select a  
Q-Fan mode  
Click Apply at the bottom to save the setup.  
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5.4  
RAID configurations  
The motherboard comes with the Intel® ICH9R Southbridge RAID controller that  
allows you to configure IDE and Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets.  
5.4.1  
RAID definitions  
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write  
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a  
single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone,  
thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives  
is required for this setup.  
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one  
drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software  
directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of  
the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and  
increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an  
existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same  
size or larger than the existing drive.  
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy  
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get  
all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk  
drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.  
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard  
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better  
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID  
5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database  
applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a  
minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.  
JBOD (Spanning) stands for Just a Bunch of Disks and refers to hard disk drives  
that are not yet configured as a RAID set. This configuration stores the same data  
redundantly on multiple disks that appear as a single disk on the operating system.  
Spanning does not deliver any advantage over using separate disks independently  
and does not provide fault tolerance or other RAID performance benefits.  
Intel® Matrix Storage. The Intel® Matrix Storage technology supported by the  
ICH9R chip allows you to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 function  
to improve both system performance and data safety. You can also combine two  
RAID sets to get higher performance, capacity, or fault tolerance provided by the  
difference RAID function. For example, RAID 0 and RAID 1 set can be created by  
using only two identical hard disk drives.  
If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a created RAID  
set, copy first the RAID driver from the support DVD to a floppy disk/USB device  
before you install an operating system to the selected hard disk drive. Refer to  
section 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.4.2  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks  
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance,  
install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.  
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.  
Connect the SATA signal cables.  
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.  
5.4.3  
Intel® RAID configurations  
This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 (0+1) and Intel®  
Matrix Storage configurations for Serial ATA hard disks drives through the Intel®  
ICH8R Southbridge chip.  
Setting the RAID item in BIOS  
You must set the RAID item in the BIOS Setup before you can create a RAID  
set(s). To do this:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.  
Go to the Main Menu, select IDE Configuration, then press <Enter>.  
Select the item Configure SATA As, then press <Enter> to display the  
configuration options.  
4.  
Select RAID from the Configure SATA As item options, then press <Enter>.  
5.  
Select the item Onboard Serial-ATA BOOTROM, press <Enter>, then select  
Enabled from the options.  
6.  
Save your changes, then exit the BIOS Setup.  
Refer to the system or the motherboard user guide for details on entering and  
navigating through the BIOS Setup.  
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Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility  
The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0,  
RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial ATA hard disk drives  
that are connected to the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge.  
To enter the Intel® Application Accelerator RAID Option ROM utility:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install all the Serial ATA hard disk drives.  
Turn on the system.  
During POST, press <Ctrl+I> to display the utility main menu.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ MAIN MENU ]  
1. Create RAID Volume  
2. Delete RAID Volume  
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID  
4. Exit  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
RAID Volumes:  
None defined.  
Physical Disks:  
Port Drive Model  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size  
Type/Status(Vol ID)  
0
1
2
3
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
[↑↓]-Select  
[ESC]-Exit  
[ENTER]-Select Menu  
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through  
the menus and select the menu options.  
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and  
may not exactly match the items on your screen.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Creating a RAID 0 set (striped)  
To create a RAID 0 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press  
<Enter>. This screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE ARRAY MENU ]  
Name: Volume0  
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 128KB  
Capacity: 0.0  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used  
to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and  
cannot contain special characters.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 0 set, then press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 0(Stripe), then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk  
drives to configure as RAID. This pop-up screen appears.  
[ SELECT DISKS ]  
Port Drive Model  
0 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
1 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
2 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
3 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size Status  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume.  
[↑↓]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete  
5.  
Use the up/down arrow key to highlight a drive, then press <Space> to  
select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after  
completing your selection.  
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6.  
Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array, then  
press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB.  
The default stripe size is 128 KB.  
TIP: We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe  
size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
7.  
8.  
Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter>. The  
default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. This warning  
message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
9.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored)  
To create a RAID 1 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press  
<Enter>. This screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE ARRAY MENU ]  
Name: Volume1  
RAID Level: RAID1(Mirror)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: N/A  
Capacity: XX.X GB  
Create Volume  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used  
to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and  
cannot contain special characters.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 1 set, then press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 1(Mirror), then press <Enter>.  
4.  
5.  
When the Capacity item is highlighted, key in the RAID volume capacity that  
you want, then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum  
allowed capacity.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. This warning  
message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
6.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to main menu or <N> to go  
back to Create Volume menu.  
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Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0+1)  
To create a RAID 10 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press  
<Enter>. This screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE ARRAY MENU ]  
Name: Volume10  
RAID Level: RAID10(RAID0+1)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 128KB  
Capacity: XXX.X GB  
Create Volume  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used  
to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and  
cannot contain special characters.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 10 set, then press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select the stripe size for the RAID 10 array, then press <Enter>. The available  
stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 64  
KB.  
TIP: We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe  
size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
5.  
Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want then press <Enter> when  
the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum  
allowed capacity.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
6.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. This warning  
message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
7.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
Creating a RAID 5 set (parity)  
To create a RAID 5 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press  
<Enter>. This screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE ARRAY MENU ]  
Name: Volume5  
RAID Level: RAID5(Parity)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 64KB  
Capacity: 0.0 GB  
Create Volume  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used  
to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and  
cannot contain special characters.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 5 set, then press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 5(Parity), then press <Enter>.  
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4.  
The Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to  
configure as RAID. The following pop-up screen appears.  
[ SELECT DISKS ]  
Port Drive Model  
0 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
1 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
2 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
3 XXXXXXXXXXXX  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size Status  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume.  
[↑↓]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete  
5.  
Use the up/down arrow key to highlight the drive you want to set, then press  
<Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter>  
after completing your selection.  
6.  
When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key  
to select the stripe size for the RAID 5 array, then press <Enter>.  
The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe  
size is 64 KB.  
TIP: We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe  
size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
7.  
8.  
Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter> when  
the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum  
allowed capacity.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. This warning  
message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
9.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk  
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP  
operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows®  
Vista™ operating system, use either a floppy disk or a USB device with the RAID  
driver.  
5.5.1  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS  
To create a RAID/SATA driver disk without entering the OS:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Boot your computer.  
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.  
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.  
Insert the support CD into the optical drive.  
Save changes and exit BIOS.  
Press any key when the system prompts “Press any key to boot from the optical  
drive.”  
7.  
8.  
9.  
When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.  
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the floppy drive then press <Enter>.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
5.5.2  
Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®  
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Start Windows®.  
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.  
Go to the Make Disk menu, then click Intel ICH9R 32/64bit RAID Driver to  
create an Intel® ICH9R RAID driver disk.  
4.  
Insert a floppy disk/USB device into the floppy disk drive/USB port.  
5.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install  
third-party SCSI or RAID driver.  
Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk  
drive.  
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, make sure you select  
ICH9R.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
5-39  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista™:  
1.  
Insert the floppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive/USB  
port.  
2.  
3.  
During the OS installation, select Intel ICH9R.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
5-40  
Chapter 5: Software support  
The Appendix describes the CPU features  
and technologies that the motherboard  
supports as well as the debug code table  
for the LCD Poster.  
CPU features  
A
Chapter summary  
A
A.1  
A.2  
A.3  
A.4  
Intel® EM64T..................................................................................A-1  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST)........................A-1  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3  
Debug Code Table........................................................................A-4  
ROG Blitz Formula  
A.1  
Intel® EM64T  
The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running  
on 32-bit operating systems.  
The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can  
download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/  
support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 4 for  
details.  
Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature.  
Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.  
Using the Intel® EM64T feature  
To use the Intel® EM64T feature:  
1.  
2.  
Install an Intel® CPU that supports the Intel® EM64T.  
Install a 64-bit operating system (Windows® Vista 64-bit Edition or  
Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition).  
3.  
4.  
Install the 64-bit drivers for the motherboard components and devices from  
the support DVD.  
Install the 64-bit drivers for expansion cards or add-on devices, if any.  
Refer to the expansion card or add-on device(s) documentation, or visit the  
related website, to verify if the card/device supports a 64-bit system.  
A.2  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep®  
Technology (EIST)  
The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EIST. You can  
download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/  
support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS. See Chapter 4 for  
details.  
Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EIST feature.  
A.2.1  
System requirements  
Before using EIST, check your system if it meets the following requirements:  
Intel® processor with EIST support  
BIOS file with EIST support  
Operating system with EIST support (Windows® Vista, Windows® XP SP2/  
Linux 2.6 kernel or later versions).  
ROG Blitz Formula  
A-1  
A.2.2  
Using the EIST  
To use the EIST feature:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup.  
Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration, then press <Enter>.  
Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep Technology item to [Automatic], then press  
<Enter>. See page 4-26 for details.  
4.  
5.  
Press <F10> to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup.  
After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then  
select Properties from the pop-up menu.  
6.  
7.  
When the Display Properties window appears, click the Screen Saver tab.  
Click the Power button on the  
Monitor power section to open the  
Power Options Properties window.  
8.  
9.  
On the Power schemes section,  
click , then select any option  
except Home/Office Desktop or  
Always On.  
Click Apply, then click OK.  
10. Close the Display Properties  
window.  
After you adjust the power scheme,  
the CPU internal frequency slightly  
decreases when the CPU loading is  
low.  
The screen displays and procedures may vary depending on the operating  
system.  
A-2  
Appendix: CPU features  
A.3  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology  
The motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® 4 LGA775 processors with  
Hyper-Threading Technology.  
Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP and  
Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the Hyper-  
Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other  
operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the  
BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.  
Installing Windows® XP Service Pack 1 or later version is recommended.  
Make sure to enable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in BIOS before  
installing a supported operating system.  
For more information on Hyper-Threading Technology, visit www.intel.  
com/info/hyperthreading.  
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology  
To use the Hyper-Threading Technology:  
1.  
2.  
Install an Intel® Pentium® 4 CPU that supports Hyper-Threading Technology.  
Power up the system and enter the BIOS Setup. Under the Advanced Menu,  
make sure that the item Hyper-Threading Technology is set to [Enabled].  
The BIOS item appears only if you installed a CPU that supports  
Hyper-Threading Technology.  
3.  
Restart the computer.  
ROG Blitz Formula  
A-3  
A.4  
Debug Code Table  
Code  
Description  
CPU INIT  
DET CPU  
CPU Initiation  
Test CMOS R/W functionality.  
Early chipset initialization:  
-Disable shadow RAM  
-Disable L2 cache (socket 7 or below)  
-Program basic chipset registers  
CHIPINIT  
Detect memory  
DET DRAM  
-Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC.  
-Auto-detection of L2 cache (socket 7 or below)  
DC FCODE  
EFSHADOW  
DC XCODE  
INIT IO  
Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM  
Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM.  
Expand the Xgroup codes locating in physical address 1000:0  
Initial Superio_Early_Init switch.  
1. Blank out screen  
2. Clear CMOS error flag  
CLR SCRN  
INIT8042  
1. Clear 8042 interface  
2. Initialize 8042 self-test  
1. Test special keyboard controller for Winbond 977 series Super I/O chips.  
2. Enable keyboard interface.  
ENABLEKB  
1. Disable PS/2 mouse interface (optional).  
2. Auto detect ports for keyboard & mouse followed by a port & interface swap  
(optional).  
DIS MS  
3. Reset keyboard for Winbond 977 series Super I/O chips.  
Test F000h segment shadow to see whether it is R/W-able or not. If test fails, keep  
beeping the speaker.  
R/W FSEG  
DET FLASH  
TESTCMOS  
Auto detect flash type to load appropriate flash R/W codes into the run time area in  
F000 for ESCD & DMI support.  
Use walking 1’s algorithm to check out interface in CMOS circuitry. Also set real-time  
clock power status, and then check for override.  
Program chipset default values into chipset. Chipset default values are MODBINable  
by OEM customers.  
PRG CHIP  
INIT CLK  
Initial Early_Init_Onboard_Generator switch.  
Detect CPU information including brand, SMI type (Cyrix or Intel) and CPU level (586  
or 686).  
CHECKCPU  
Initial interrupts vector table. If no special specified, all H/W interrupts are directed to  
SPURIOUS_INT_HDLR & S/W interrupts to SPURIOUS_soft_HDLR.  
INTRINIT  
REC MPS  
Reserved  
Reserved  
Initial EARLY_PM_INIT switch.  
Load keyboard matrix (notebook platform)  
HPM initialization (notebook platform)  
1. Check validity of RTC value:  
e.g. a value of 5Ah is an invalid value for RTC minute.  
2. Load CMOS settings into BIOS stack. If CMOS checksum fails, use default value  
instead.  
3. Prepare BIOS resource map for PCI & PnP use. If ESCD is valid, take into  
consideration of the ESCD’s legacy information.  
4. Onboard clock generator initialization. Disable respective clock resource to empty  
PCI & DIMM slots.  
5. Early PCI initialization:  
-Enumerate PCI bus number  
SET FDD  
INITINT9  
-Assign memory & I/O resource  
-Search for a valid VGA device & VGA BIOS, and put it nto C000:0.  
Initialize INT 09 buffer  
A-4  
Appendix: CPU features  
1. Program CPU internal MTRR (P6 & PII) for 0-640K memory address.  
2. Initialize the APIC for Pentium class CPU.  
CPUSPEED  
TESTVRAM  
3. Program early chipset according to CMOS setup. Example: onboard IDE controller.  
4. Measure CPU speed.  
5. Invoke video BIOS.  
1. Initialize multi-language  
2. Put information on screen display, including Award title, CPU type, CPU speed .  
RESET KB  
8254TEST  
8259MSK1  
8259MSK2  
8259TEST  
Reserved  
Reset keyboard except Winbond 977 series Super I/O chips.  
Test 8254  
Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1.  
Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2.  
Test 8259 functionality.  
Initialize EISA slot  
1. Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page.  
2. Program write allocation for AMD K5 CPU.  
COUNTMEM  
1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU  
2. Initialize L2 cache for P6 class CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range.  
3. Initialize the APIC for P6 class CPU.  
MP INIT  
4. On MP platform, adjust the cacheable range to smaller one in case the cacheable  
ranges between each CPU are not identical.  
USB INIT  
Initialize USB  
TEST MEM  
SHOW MP  
Test all memory (clear all extended memory to 0)  
Display number of processors (multi-processor platform)  
1. Display PnP logo  
PNP LOGO  
2. Early ISA PnP initialization  
-Assign CSN to every ISA PnP device.  
Reserved  
Initialize the combined Trend Anti-Virus code.  
(Optional Feature)  
Show message for entering AWDFLASH.EXE from FDD (optional)  
SHOW EZF  
1. Initialize Init_Onboard_Super_IO switch.  
2. Initialize Init_Onbaord_AUDIO switch.  
ONBD IO  
Okay to enter Setup utility; i.e. not until this POST stage can users enter the CMOS  
setup utility.  
EN SETUP  
MSINSTAL  
CHK ACPI  
EN CACHE  
Initialize PS/2 Mouse  
Prepare memory size information for function call: INT 15h ax=E820h  
Turn on L2 cache  
Program chipset registers according to items described in Setup & Auto-configuration  
table.  
SET CHIP  
AUTO CFG  
INIT FDC  
1. Assign resources to all ISA PnP devices.  
2. Auto assign ports to onboard COM ports if the corresponding item in Setup is set to  
“AUTO”.  
1. Initialize floppy controller  
2. Set up floppy related fields in 40:hardware.  
(Optional Feature)  
Enter AWDFLASH.EXE if :  
-AWDFLASH is found in floppy drive.  
-ALT+F2 is pressed  
CUTIRQ12  
DET IDE  
COM/LPT  
DET FPU  
Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP, CDROM…..  
Detect serial ports & parallel ports.  
Detect & install co-processor  
ROG Blitz Formula  
A-5  
CPU CHG  
CPU change  
CPR error  
CPR FAIL  
FAN FAIL  
Fan error  
UCODEERR  
FLOPYERR  
KB ERROR  
HD ERR  
UCODE error  
Floppy error  
Keyboard error  
HDD error  
CMOS ERR  
MS ERROR  
80P ERR  
CMOS error  
Mouse error  
80 port error  
BOOT CHG  
SMARTERR  
HM ERROR  
AINETERR  
CASEOPEN  
Boot device change  
HDD smart function error  
Hard monitor error  
AI NET error  
Case open  
Clear EPA or customization logo.  
1. Call chipset power management hook.  
2. Recover the text fond used by EPA logo (not for full screen logo)  
3. If password is set, ask for password.  
PASSWORD  
MEM2CMOS  
Save all data in stack back to CMOS  
Initialize ISA PnP boot devices  
1. USB final Initialization  
2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure  
3. Switch screen back to text mode  
4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory.  
5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs  
6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices  
7. Initialize APM  
INIT PNP  
USB FINAL  
8. Clear noise of IRQs.  
Read HDD boot sector information for Trend Anti-Virus code  
1. Enable L2 cache  
2. Program boot up speed  
3. Chipset final initialization.  
READ HDD  
4. Power management final initialization  
5. Clear screen & display summary table  
6. Program K6 write allocation  
BOOTMENU  
7. Program P6 class write combining  
1. Program daylight saving  
2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate  
NUM LOCK  
1. Build MP table  
2. Build & update ESCD  
UPDT DMI  
INT 19H  
3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h  
4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick  
5. Build MSIRQ routing table.  
Boot attempt (INT 19h)  
A-6  
Appendix: CPU features  

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