Asus M2N MX SE PLUS User Manual

M2N-MX SE PLUS  
Contents  
Notices......................................................................................................... vi  
Safety information ..................................................................................... vii  
About this guide ....................................................................................... viii  
M2N-MX SE PLUS specifications summary .............................................. x  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-2  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-2  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
1.3.1  
Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2  
1.3.2  
Innovative ASUS features .............................................. 1-5  
1.4  
1.5  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-6  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 1-7  
1.5.1  
1.5.2  
1.5.3  
Motherboard layout......................................................... 1-7  
Placement direction ........................................................ 1-8  
Screw holes .................................................................... 1-8  
1.6  
1.7  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-9  
1.6.1 Installing the CPU ............................................................. 1-9  
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan..........................................1-11  
System memory ......................................................................... 1-13  
1.7.1  
1.7.2  
1.7.3  
1.7.4  
Overview....................................................................... 1-13  
Memory configurations.................................................. 1-13  
Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-17  
Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-17  
1.8  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 1-18  
1.8.1  
1.8.2  
1.8.3  
1.8.4  
Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-18  
Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 1-18  
PCI slots........................................................................ 1-20  
PCI Express x16 slot..................................................... 1-20  
1.9  
Jumpers ...................................................................................... 1-21  
Connectors ................................................................................. 1-23  
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors.................................................. 1-23  
1.10.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-24  
1.10  
iii  
Contents  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-2  
2.1.1  
2.1.2  
2.1.3  
2.1.4  
2.1.5  
Creating a bootable floppy disk....................................... 2-2  
ASUS EZ Flash utility...................................................... 2-3  
AFUDOS utility................................................................ 2-4  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ...................................... 2-6  
ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-8  
2.2  
BIOS setup program .................................................................. 2-11  
2.2.1  
2.2.2  
2.2.3  
2.2.4  
2.2.5  
2.2.6  
2.2.7  
2.2.8  
2.2.9  
BIOS menu screen........................................................ 2-12  
Menu bar....................................................................... 2-12  
Navigation keys............................................................. 2-12  
Menu items ................................................................... 2-13  
Sub-menu items............................................................ 2-13  
Configuration fields ....................................................... 2-13  
Pop-up window ............................................................. 2-13  
Scroll bar....................................................................... 2-13  
General help ................................................................. 2-13  
2.3  
Main menu .................................................................................. 2-14  
2.3.1  
2.3.2  
2.3.3  
2.3.4  
2.3.5  
2.3.6  
2.3.7  
System Time ................................................................. 2-14  
System Date ................................................................. 2-14  
Legacy Diskette A ........................................................ 2-14  
IDE Configuration.......................................................... 2-15  
Primary IDE Master/Slave............................................. 2-15  
SATA1 and SATA2 ........................................................ 2-17  
System Information....................................................... 2-18  
2.4  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-19  
2.4.1  
2.4.2  
2.4.3  
2.4.4  
2.4.5  
CPU Configuration........................................................ 2-20  
Chipset.......................................................................... 2-22  
Onboard Devices Configuration.................................... 2-25  
PCI PnP ........................................................................ 2-26  
USB Configuration ........................................................ 2-27  
2.5  
Power menu................................................................................ 2-29  
2.5.1  
2.5.2  
Suspend Mode.............................................................. 2-29  
ACPI Version Features ................................................ 2-29  
iv  
Contents  
2.5.3  
2.5.4  
2.5.5  
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]....................................... 2-29  
APM Configuration........................................................ 2-30  
Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 2-31  
2.6  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-32  
2.6.1  
2.6.2  
2.6.3  
2.6.4  
Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-32  
Hard Disk Drives........................................................... 2-32  
Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 2-33  
Security......................................................................... 2-34  
2.7  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 2-36  
Chapter 3: Software support  
3.1  
3.2  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 3-2  
Support CD information .............................................................. 3-2  
3.2.1  
3.2.2  
3.2.3  
3.2.4  
3.2.5  
3.2.6  
3.2.7  
Running the support CD ................................................. 3-2  
Drivers menu................................................................... 3-3  
Utilities menu .................................................................. 3-4  
Make Disk menu ............................................................. 3-5  
Manual menu .................................................................. 3-6  
ASUS Contact information.............................................. 3-7  
Other information ............................................................ 3-7  
3.3  
Creating a RAID driver disk......................................................... 3-9  
v
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.  
vi  
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 adapter 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.  
The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical  
and electronic equipment, Mercury-containing button cell battery) should not  
be placed in municipal waste. Please check local regulations for disposal of  
electronic products.  
vii  
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: 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 3: Software support  
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the  
motherboard package.  
Where to find more information  
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and  
software updates.  
1. ASUS websites  
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and  
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.  
2. 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.  
viii  
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 /iM2PLUSSE.ROM  
ix  
M2N-MX SE PLUS specifications summary  
Supports AMD® socket AM2+ / AM2 for AMD Athlon™ 64 /  
CPU  
Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / Sempron processors  
AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and  
64-bit  
Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology  
AMD Live!™ Ready  
*
This motherboard supports both AM2+ and AM2 processors, but AM2  
processors work at AM2 platform, and AM2+ processors work at  
AM2+ platform.  
NVIDIA® nForce 430 / GeForce6100  
Chipset  
2000 / 1600 MT/s  
Front Side Bus  
Memory  
Dual-channel memory architecture  
2 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4 GB of  
unbufferred non-ECC 1066 / 800 / 667 / 533 MHz DDR2  
memory modules  
1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot  
2 x PCI slots  
Expansion slots  
Graphics  
Integrated in the NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 Graphics  
Processing Unit (GPU)  
High definition video processing with maximum  
resolution of 1920 x 1440 x 32bpp pixels (@75Hz)  
NVIDIA® nForce™430 media and communications  
Storage  
processor (MCP) supports:  
-
-
-
1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 / 66 / 33  
2 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s with RAID 0, RAID 1  
NVIDIA MediaShield™ RAID 0 and 1span cross Serial  
ATA drives  
ALC662 High Definition Audio 6-channel CODEC  
Supports Jack-detect, Multi-Streaming and S/PDIF OUT  
interface  
High Definition Audio  
PHY 10 / 100 Mbps LAN  
LAN  
Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports  
USB  
ASUS Q-Fan  
Special features  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2  
ASUS EZ Flash  
ASUS MyLogo  
8Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM  
BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0  
BIOS features  
(continued on the next page)  
x
M2N-MX SE PLUS specifications summary  
Rear panel  
1 x Parallel port  
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port  
4 x USB 2.0 ports  
1 x VGA port  
1 x COM1 port  
1 x PS / 2 keyboard port  
1 x PS / 2 mouse port  
5.1-channel Audio I/O ports  
Internal Connector  
2 x USB 2.0 connector supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports  
1 x S / PDIF output connector  
1 x High Definition Front panel audio connector  
1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector  
1 x 3-pin Chassis Fan connector  
1 x 10-pin System Panel connector  
1 x CD audio-in connector  
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector  
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector  
Accessories  
1 x Serial ATA cable  
1 x SATA power cable  
1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 / 66 cable  
1 x Floppy disk drive cable  
1 x I / O Shield  
User manual  
Manageability  
Wfm 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR, PXE  
Form Factor  
MicroATX Form Factor, 9.6 in x 7.6 in (24.5 cm x 19.4 cm)  
Support CD contents  
Device drivers  
ASUS PC Probe II  
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ utility  
ASUS Live Update utility  
Anti-virus software (OEM version)  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xi  
xii  
This chapter describes the motherboard  
features and the new technologies  
it supports.  
Product  
1
introduction  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M2N-MX SE PLUS  
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  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS motherboard  
Cables  
1 x Serial ATA signal cables  
1 x Serial ATA power cable  
1 x Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 cable  
1 x Floppy disk drive cable  
Accessories  
I/O shield  
Application CD  
Documentation  
ASUS motherboard support CD  
User guide  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
Latest processor technology  
This motherboard supports the latest AM2+ CPUs with better overclocking  
capabilities and less power consumption. It provides extremely high performances  
and shortened data access time by supporting 2000 / 1600 MT/s HyperTransport  
Bus, dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 1066 memory and AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet  
Technology. See page 1-9 for details.  
AM2+ CPU socket is backward compatible with AM2 CPU socket, but the AM2  
processors work at AM2 platform, and AM2+ processors work at AM2+ platform.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology  
This motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology, which monitors  
system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool  
and quiet operating environment.  
NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 GPU  
and NVIDIA® nForce™ 430 MCP chipsets  
The NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Northbridge  
supports Microsoft® DirectX 9.0 Shader Model 3.0, and PCI Express interface.  
The NVIDIA® nForce™ 430 Media and Communications Processor (MCP)  
Southbridge delivers NVIDIA® Gigabit and NVIDIA® MediaShield storage  
management technology allowing easy RAID configuration (RAID 0, RAID 1, and  
JBOD) for Serial ATA 3Gb/s.  
DDR2 memory support  
This motherboard supports DDR2 1066 memory which provides great performance  
for 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications on the next generation  
memory technology. See pages 1-13 to 1-16 for details.  
PCI Express™ interface  
The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technology  
that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point-to-point serial  
interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying data  
in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCI  
specifications. See page 1-20 for details.  
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology  
The motherboard supports next-generation SATA hard drives based on the  
new SATA 3Gb/s storage specification. The onboard NVIDIA® nForce 430 MCP  
southbridge allows RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configurations for four SATA  
connectors.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-3  
10 / 100 Mbps LAN  
Easy connectivity to your network or broadband connection with the onboard LAN  
port. Allows you to play online games without buying expensive additional LAN  
cards. See page 1-23 for details.  
USB 2.0 technology  
The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specification,  
dramatically increasing the connection speed from the 12 Mbps bandwidth on USB  
1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.  
See pages 1-28 for details.  
High Definition Audio  
Enjoy high-quality sound system on your PC! The onboard 6-channel HD audio  
(High Definition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality  
192KHz / 24-bit audio output, giving you crystal sound effect.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.3.2  
Innovative ASUS features  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2  
This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD in case  
when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the need to  
buy a replacement BIOS chip. See page 2-6 for details.  
ASUS EZ Flash  
With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before  
loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a  
floppy disk. See page 2-3 for details.  
ASUS Q-Fan technology  
The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to the  
system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation.  
See page 2-31 for details.  
ASUS MyLogo™  
This feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add style to  
your system with customizable boot logos.  
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.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-5  
1.4  
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, ensure that 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 LED  
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED 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 LED.  
R
SB_PWR  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
ON  
OFF  
Standby  
Powered  
Off  
Power  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Onboard LED  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.5  
Motherboard overview  
1.5.1  
Motherboard layout  
19.3cm (7.6in)  
PS/2KBMS  
T: Mouse  
B: Keyboard  
ATX12V  
USB34  
PS2_USBPW1-4  
Attansic  
F2  
LAN_USB12  
AUDIO  
R
CPU_FAN  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
PCIEX16  
CLRTC  
CR2032 3V  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
Super I/O  
Nvidia MCP61P  
SB_PWR  
8Mb  
BIOS  
PCI1  
PCI2  
USBPW5-8  
SPEAKER  
ALC662  
AAFP  
SPDIF_OUT  
USB56  
USB78  
FLOPPY  
F_PANEL  
AM2+ socket is backward compatible with AM2 socket.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-7  
1.5.2  
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.  
1.5.3  
Screw holes  
Place six (6) 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  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-8  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.6  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2+ socket designed for the AMD  
Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 / Athlon™ FX / Sempron™ processor.  
The AM2+ socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for  
the AMD Opteron™ processor. Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the  
AM2+ socket. 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!  
AM2+ socket is backward compatible with AM2 socket.  
1.6.1  
Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU.  
1.  
Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
M2N-MX SE PLUS CPU Socket AM2+  
2.  
Unlock the socket by pressing the  
lever sideways, then lift it up to a  
90°-100° angle.  
Socket lever  
Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the  
CPU does not fit in completely.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-9  
3.  
Position the CPU above the socket  
such that the CPU corner with the  
gold triangle matches the socket  
corner with a small triangle.  
4.  
Carefully insert the CPU into the  
socket until it fits in place.  
Small triangle  
Gold triangle  
The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the  
socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!  
5.  
6.  
When the CPU is in place, push  
down the socket lever to secure the  
CPU. The lever clicks on the side  
tab to indicate that it is locked.  
Install a CPU heatsink and fan  
following the instructions that came  
with the heatsink package.  
7.  
Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on the motherboard.  
CPU_FAN  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
CPU FAN PWM  
CPU FAN IN  
CPU FAN PWR  
GND  
M2N-MX SE PLUS CPU Fan Connector  
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors  
can occur if you fail to plug this connector.  
1-10  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.6.2  
Installing the heatsink and fan  
The AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 / Athlon™ FX / Sempron™ processor  
requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum  
thermal condition and performance.  
Make sure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly.  
Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.  
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink  
fits properly on the retention module base.  
The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard  
upon purchase.  
You do not have to remove the retention module base when  
installing the CPU or installing other motherboard components.  
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make  
sure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU  
heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.  
CPU Fan  
CPU Heatsink  
Retention Module Base  
Retention bracket  
Retention bracket lock  
Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation  
instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the  
instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the  
latter.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-11  
2.  
Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.  
3.  
Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock)  
to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention  
bracket is in place.  
Make sure that the fan and  
heatsink assembly perfectly fits  
the retention mechanism module  
base; otherwise, you cannot snap  
the retention bracket in place.  
4.  
Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure  
the heatsink and fan to the module base.  
1-12  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.7  
System memory  
1.7.1  
Overview  
The motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory  
Modules (DIMM) sockets.  
A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a  
240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched  
differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.  
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
M2N-MX SE PLUS 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1  
DIMM_B1  
1.7.2  
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  
Socket  
Mode  
DIMM_A1  
DIMM_B1  
Single Channel  
Dual-channel  
Populated  
-
-
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
For dual-channel memory configuration, you may install identical DIMMs in  
all two sockets.  
Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual-channel model. For  
optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules  
latest Qualified Vendors List.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-13  
Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-1066  
Size  
Vendor  
Model  
CL  
Brand  
SS/DS  
Component  
DIMM support  
A
B
512MB  
512MB  
1G  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Apacer  
Corsair  
Corsair  
ADATA  
AENEON  
AENEON  
OCZ  
KHX8500D2/512  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Apacer  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
6QD22D9GCT  
KHX8500D2K2/1GN  
KHX8500D2K2/2GN  
78.0AG9S.BN4  
1G  
1G  
CM2X1024-8500C5  
CM2X1024-8500C5D  
M2OMIDG3H3160INC5Z  
AXT660UD00-19DC97X  
AXT760UD00-19DC97X  
OCZ2N1066SR2DK  
OCZ2N10662GK  
N/A  
5
Corsair  
Corsair  
ADATA  
1G  
512MB  
512MB  
1G  
5
5
AENEON SS  
5
AENEON DS  
1G  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
OCZ  
DS  
DS  
SS  
1G  
OCZ  
OCZ  
512MB  
Kingbox  
EP512D21066PS  
Micron  
DDR2-800  
Size  
Vendor  
Model  
CL  
Brand  
SS/DS  
Component  
DIMM support  
A
B
1G  
1G  
Kingston KVR800D2N5/1G  
Kingston KHX6400D2LL/1G  
N/A Samsung  
N/A Kingston  
N/A Kingston  
N/A Kingston  
DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
512MB Kingston KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN  
1G Kingston KHX6400D2K2/2G  
SS Heat-Sink Package  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung  
1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung  
512MB Samsung KR M391T6553CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung  
1G Samsung KR M391T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung  
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-2.5-B2  
SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7  
DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7  
SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC)  
DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC)  
SS HYB18T512800B2F25FSS28380  
DS HYB18T512800B2F25FSS28380  
SS 6ED22D9GKX(ECC)  
DS 6TD22D9GKX(ECC)  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
6
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Micron  
1G  
Qimonda HYS64T128020EU-2.5-B2 6  
512MB Micron  
MT9HTF6472AY-80ED4  
5
1G  
1G  
1G  
1G  
Micron  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
MT18HTF12872AY-80ED4 5  
Micron  
CM2X1024-6400  
XMS2-6400  
5
4
5
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
XMS2-6400  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
512MB HY  
512MB HY  
512MB HY  
HYMP564U64AP8-S6 AA N/A Hynix  
HYMP564U64BP8-S5 AB N/A Hynix  
SS HY5PS12821AFP-S6  
SS HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
SS HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
DS HY5PS12821AFP-S6  
DS HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
DS HY5PS12821CFPS5  
DS Heat-Sink Package  
HYMP564U64CP8-S5 AB  
5
Hynix  
1G  
1G  
1G  
2G  
HY  
HYMP512U64AP8-S6 AA N/A Hynix  
HY  
HYMP512U64BP8-S5 AB  
HYMP512U64CP8-S5 AB  
AHU02GE800C5N1C  
5
5
5
Hynix  
Hynix  
Apacer  
HY  
Apacer  
512MB ADATA  
512MB VDATA  
M20AD6G3H3160I1E58 N/A ADATA  
M2GVD6G3H3160I1E53 N/A VDATA  
M2GVD6G3I4170I1E53 N/A VDATA  
SS AD29608A8A-25EG80720  
SS VD29608A8A-25EG30648  
DS VD29608A8A-25EG30647  
SS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
DS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
1G  
512MB PSC  
1G PSC  
VDATA  
AL6E8E63B-8E1K  
AL7E8E63B-8E1K  
5
5
PSC  
PSC  
1-14  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
DDR2-667  
Size  
Vendor  
Model  
CL  
Brand SS/DS  
Component  
DIMM support  
B
A
256MB Kingston  
256MB Kingston  
512MB Kingston  
KVR667D2N5/256  
KVR667D2N5/256  
KVR667D2N5/512  
KVR667D2N5/1G  
KVR667D2N5/1G  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
Kingston SS  
Infineon SS  
D3216TLSAKL3U  
HYB18T256800AF3SW65 33154 •  
Elpida  
Kingston DS  
Elpida DS  
SS  
E5108AGBG-6E-E  
D6408TEBGGL3U  
E5108AGBG-6E-E  
K4T51083QC  
1G  
1G  
Kingston  
Kingston  
512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ0-CE6  
512MB Samsung KR M378T6453FZ0-CE6  
512MB Samsung M378T6553CZ3-CE6  
Samsung SS  
Samsung DS  
Samsung SS  
Samsung DS  
Samsung DS  
Qimonda SS  
Qimonda DS  
Qimonda DS  
K4T56083QF-ZCE6  
K4T51083QC-ZCE6  
K4T51083QC-ZCE6  
K4T51083QC-ZCE6  
1G  
1G  
Samsung M378T2953CZ3-CE6  
Samsung KR M378T2953CZ0-CE6  
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-3S-B2  
HYB18T512B00B2F3SFSS28171 •  
HYB18T512B00B2F3SFSS28171 •  
1G  
2G  
Qimonda HYS64T128020EU-3S-B2  
Qimonda HYS64T256020EU-3S-B  
5
5
HTB18T1G800BF-3S3VV10907  
64M8CFEGPS0900647  
MIII0052532M8CEC  
512MB Corsair  
512MB Corsair  
VS512MB667D2  
VS512MB667D2  
VS1GB667D2  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
4
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Corsair  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Elpida  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
1G  
1G  
Corsair  
Corsair  
MID095D62864M8CEC  
Heat-Sink Package  
XMS2-5400  
256MB HY  
512MB HY  
512MB HY  
512MB HY  
512MB HY  
HYMP532U64CP6-Y5 AB  
5
HY5PS121621CFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y4  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y4(ECC)  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC)  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC)  
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5  
HY5PS12521CFP-Y5  
E5108AE-6E-E  
HYMP564U64AP8-Y4 AA N/A  
HYMP564U64AP8-Y5 AA N/A  
HYMP564U72AP8-Y4  
HYMP564U72AP8-Y5  
HYMP512U72AP8-Y5  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
1G  
1G  
1G  
HY  
HY  
HY  
HYMP512U64AP8-Y5 AB N/A  
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5 AB  
KLCC28F-A8EB5  
5
512MB Kingmax  
512MB Kingmax  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
KLCC28F-A8KB5  
Kingmax SS  
Kingmax DS  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
E5108AE-6E-E  
1G  
Kingmax  
KLCD48F-A8KB5  
512MB Apacer  
512MB Apacer  
512MB Apacer  
78.91092.420  
Elpida  
Apacer  
Apacer  
Apacer  
Elpida  
Apacer  
Elpida  
ADATA  
ADATA  
ADATA  
ADATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
PSC  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
AU512E667C5KBGC  
AU512E667C5KBGC  
AU01GE667C5KBGC  
78.01092.420  
AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B  
AM4B5708GQJS7E06332F  
AM4B5708GQJS7E0636B  
E5108AE-6E-E  
5
1G  
1G  
1G  
Apacer  
Apacer  
Apacer  
N/A  
5
AU01GE667C5KBGC  
M20EL5G3H3160B1C0Z  
M20AD5G3H3166I1C52  
M20AD5G3H3166I1C52  
M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52  
M2OAD5H3J4170I1C53  
M2GVD5G3H31A4I1C52  
M2YVD5G3H31P4I1C52  
M2GVD5G3H166I1C52  
M2GVD5G3I41P6I1C52  
M2GVD5G3I41C4I1C52  
M2GVD5G3I4176I1C52  
AL6E8E63B-6E1K  
5
AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B  
E5108AE-6E-E  
512MB ADATA  
512MB ADATA  
512MB ADATA  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
AD29608A8A-3EG20648  
AD29608A8A-3EG20718  
AD29608A8A-3EG20645  
AD20908A8A-3EG 30724  
VD29608A8A-3EC20615  
VD29608A8A-3EG20627  
VD29608A8A-3EG20637  
VD29608A8A-3EG20627  
VD29608A8A-3EC20620  
VD29608A8A-3EG20641  
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
A3R12E3JFF717B9A00  
1G  
2G  
ADATA  
ADATA  
512MB VDATA  
512MB VDATA  
512MB VDATA  
1G  
1G  
1G  
VDATA  
VDATA  
VDATA  
512MB PSC  
512MB PSC  
AL6E8E63J-6E1  
5
PSC  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-15  
DDR2-667  
Size  
Vendor  
Model  
CL  
Brand SS/DS  
Component  
DIMM support  
B
A
1G  
1G  
PSC  
PSC  
AL7E8E63B-6E1K  
5
PSC  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
A3R12E3JFF717B9A01  
NT5TU32M16AG-3C  
NT5TU64M8AE-3C  
AL7E8E63J-6E1  
5
PSC  
256MB Nanya  
512MB Nanya  
NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C  
NT512T64U88A1BY-3C  
N/A  
N/A  
Nanya  
Nanya  
DDR2-533  
Size  
Vendor  
Model  
CL  
Brand SS/DS  
Component  
DIMM support  
A
B
256MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/256  
512MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/512  
N/A Elpida  
SS  
SS  
E5116AF-5C-E  
N/A Infineon  
HYB18T512800AF3733336550  
D6408TLRAGL37U  
K4T56083QF-GCD5  
K4T51083QB-GCD5  
HY5PS121621CFP-C4  
HY5PS12821CFP-C4  
D9BOM  
1G  
Kingston KVR533D2N4/1G  
N/A Kingston DS  
N/A Samsung SS  
256MB Samsung M378T3253FG0-CD5  
512MB Samsung M378T6553BG0-CD5  
4
4
4
4
4
4
Samsung SS  
256MB HY  
1G HY  
HYMP532U64CP6-C4 AB  
HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB  
MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2  
MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2  
MT 16HTF12864AY-53EA1  
VS512MB533D2  
Hynix  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
Hynix  
512MB Micron  
512MB Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Micron  
Z9BQT  
1G  
Micron  
D9CRZ  
512MB Corsair  
512MB Corsair  
N/A Corsair  
N/A Corsair  
N/A Corsair  
N/A Elpida  
N/A Micron  
MIII0052532M8CEC  
MI110052532M8CEC  
64M8CFEGQIB0900718  
E5108AB-5C-E  
VS512MB533D2  
1G  
Corsair  
VS1GB533D2  
512MB Elpida  
EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E  
512MB Transcend 512MB DDR2 533 ECC  
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8KB4  
6ND22D9GCT(ECC)  
KKEA88B4IAK-37  
E5116AB-5C-E  
N/A Kingmax SS  
256MB Kingmax KLBB68F-36EP4  
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8EB4  
N/A Elpida  
N/A Elpida  
N/A ADATA  
N/A ADATA  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
E5108AE-5C-E  
512MB ADATA  
2G ADATA  
M2OAD2G3H3166I1B52  
M20AD2H3J4170I1B53  
AD29608A8A-37DG20719  
AD20908A8A-37DG30721  
Side(s): SS - Single-sided  
DS - Double-sided  
DIMM Support:  
A - Supports one module inserted in any slot for a single-channel memory  
configuration.  
B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into the yellow slots.  
List (QVL).  
1-16  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.7.3  
Installing a DIMM  
Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or  
other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both  
the motherboard and the components.  
2
1.  
2.  
3.  
Unlock a DIMM socket by  
pressing the retaining clips  
outward.  
DDR2 DIMM notch  
3
Align a DIMM on the socket  
such that the notch on the DIMM  
matches the break on the socket.  
1
1
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.  
1.7.4  
Removing a DIMM  
2
To remove a DIMM:  
1.  
Simultaneously press the retaining  
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.  
1
1
DDR2 DIMM notch  
Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining clips.  
The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.  
2.  
Remove the DIMM from the socket.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-17  
1.8  
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.  
1.8.1  
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.  
1.8.2  
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 2 for information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.  
3.  
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.  
1-18  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
Standard interrupt assignments  
IRQ  
Priority  
Standard Function  
0
1
2
System Timer  
1
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 ISA or PCI devices.  
IRQ assignments for this motherboard  
A
B
C
D
PCI slot 1  
used  
PCI slot 2  
used  
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.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-19  
1.8.3  
PCI slots  
The PCI slots support cards such as  
a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card,  
and other cards that comply with PCI  
specifications. The figure shows a LAN  
card installed on a PCI slot.  
1.8.4  
PCI Express x16 slot  
This motherboard has supports PCI  
Express x16 graphic cards that comply  
with PCI Express specifications. The  
figure shows a graphics card installed on  
the PCI Express x16 slot.  
1-20  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.9  
Jumpers  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)  
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in  
CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup  
parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button  
cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup  
information such as system passwords.  
To erase the RTC RAM:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.  
Remove the onboard battery.  
Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins  
2-3 for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Reinstall the battery.  
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.  
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper  
default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!  
CLRTC  
R
1
2
2
3
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
Normal  
Clear RTC  
(Default)  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Clear RTC RAM  
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking.  
For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset  
parameter settings to default values.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-21  
2.  
USB device wake-up (3-pin PS2_USBPW1-4, USBPW5-8)  
Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode  
(CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using  
the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep  
modes (no power to CPU, DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced  
power mode).  
PS2_USBPW1-4  
2
3
1
2
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
R
USBPW5-8  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2
3
1
2
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
M2N-MX SE PLUS USB Device Wake Up  
The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can  
provide 500mA on the +5VSB lead for each USB port. Otherwise,  
the system would not power up.  
The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply  
capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.  
1-22  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.10 Connectors  
1.10.1  
Rear panel connectors  
1
2
3
4
5
6
9
11  
8
7
10  
1.  
2.  
PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.  
Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other  
devices.  
3.  
LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area  
Network (LAN) through a network hub.  
LAN port LED indications  
GREEN  
ORANGE  
ORANGE LED  
GREEN LED  
Description  
Status  
Description  
Status  
OFF  
No link  
OFF  
No Link  
Orange  
100 Mbps connection  
Green  
10 Mbps connection  
LAN port  
4.  
5.  
Line In port (light blue). This port connects a 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 configuration, the function of this port becomes Front  
Speaker Out.  
6.  
Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.  
Refer to the audio configuration table for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4,  
or 6-channel configuration.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-23  
Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration  
Port  
Headset  
4-speaker  
6-speaker  
2-speaker  
Light Blue  
Lime green  
Pink  
Line In  
Surround Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Surround Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Center/Bass  
Line Out  
Mic In  
7.  
8.  
9.  
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports  
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports  
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor  
or other VGA-compatible devices.  
10. COM port. This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.  
11. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.  
1.10.2  
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 an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.  
FLOPPY  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
NOTE: Orient the red markings on  
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Floppy Disk Drive Connector  
1-24  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
2.  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)  
The onboard IDE connector is for Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 signal cable.  
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 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(s).  
Drive jumper setting  
Mode of  
Cable connector  
device(s)  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
Cable-Select  
-
Black  
Black  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
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 133/100/66/33 IDE devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
M2N-MX SE PLUS IDE Connector  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-25  
3.  
Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2)  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3.0  
Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3 Gb/s is backward  
compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specification.  
The current Serial ATA I interface allows up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate  
while Serial ATA II allows up to 300 MB/s data transfer rate, faster than the  
standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).  
If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, and  
JBOD configuration through the onboard NVIDIA® MediaShield™ controller.  
SATA2  
GND  
RSATA_TXP2  
RSATA_TXN2  
GND  
RSATA_RXP2  
RSATA_RXN2  
GND  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
SATA1  
GND  
RSATA_TXP1  
RSATA_TXN1  
GND  
RSATA_RXP1  
RSATA_RXN1  
GND  
M2N-MX SE PLUS SATA Connectors  
Install the Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows® XP Service Pack1  
before using Serial ATA.  
For detailed instructions on how to configure RAID 0, 1, and JBOD, refer to  
the RAID manual in the support CD.  
The RAID function of these connectors is set to [Disabled] by default. If  
you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, enable  
the nVidia RAID Function item in the IDE Configuration sub-menu in the  
BIOS. See section “2.3.4 IDE Configuration” for details.  
1-26  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
4.  
CPU and Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)  
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or  
a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W 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.  
Only CPU Fan connector supports Q-Fan function.  
CPU_FAN  
CPU FAN PWM  
CPU FAN IN  
CPU FAN PWR  
GND  
CHA_FAN  
R
Rotation  
+12V  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
GND  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Fan Connectors  
5.  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)  
port(s). Connect the S/PDIF module cable to this connector, then install the  
module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.  
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
SPDIF_OUT  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Digital Audio Connector  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-27  
6.  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)  
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.  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
USB78  
USB561  
1
M2N-MX SE PLUS USB 2.0 Connectors  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.  
7.  
Optical drive audio in connector (4-pin CD)  
These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources  
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.  
Right Audio Channel  
Ground  
R
CD  
Ground  
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
(black)  
Left Audio Channel  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Internal Audio Connector  
1-28  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
8.  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that  
supports either High Definition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one  
end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.  
Azalia-compliant  
pin definition  
Legacy AC’97-compliant  
pin definition  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
AAFP  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Front Panel Audio Connector  
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module  
to this connector to avail of the motherboard high-definition audio capability.  
By default, this connector is set to HD Audio. If you want to connect a High  
Definition front panel audio module to this connector, set the Front Panel  
Select item in the BIOS to [HD Audio]. See section “2.4.3 Chipset” for  
details.  
9.  
Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)  
This connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The  
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
SPEAKER  
R
1
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
M2N-MX SE PLUS Speaker Out Connector  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-29  
10. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The plugs from the power  
supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the  
proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
We recommend that you use an ATX 12 V Specification 2.0-compliant  
power supply unit (PSU) with a minimum of 300 W power rating. This PSU  
type has 24-pin and 4-pin power plugs.  
If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, make sure  
that the 20-pin power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 V and that  
the PSU has a minimum power rating of 300 W. The system may become  
unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.  
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, the  
system will not boot up.  
We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when  
configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system  
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.  
You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend to install  
additional devices.  
EATX12V  
EATXPWR  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
GND  
+3 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+5V Standby  
Power OK  
Ground  
Ground  
GND  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
-5 Volts  
Ground  
Ground  
Ground  
PSON#  
Ground  
-12 Volts  
+3 Volts  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
+5 Volts  
Ground  
+5 Volts  
Ground  
+3 Volts  
+3 Volts  
M2N-MX SE PLUS ATX Power Connector  
1-30  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
11. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
PWR LED PWR BTN  
F_PANEL  
R
M2N-MX SE PLUS  
HD LED RESET  
M2N-MX SE PLUS System Panel Connector  
System power LED (2-pin PWRLED)  
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 +HDLED)  
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.  
AXT Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)  
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.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
1-31  
1-32  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
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  
2
2.1  
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 EZ Flash: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a floppy disk or the  
motherboard support CD.  
ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy  
disk.  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2: Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk, or  
the motherboard support CD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.  
ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.  
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  
a 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.  
2.1.1  
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.  
Windows® 2000 environment  
To create a set of boot disks for Windows® 2000:  
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk into the drive.  
b. Insert the Windows® 2000 CD to the optical drive.  
c. Click Start, then select Run.  
d. From the Open field, type  
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:  
assuming that D: is your optical drive.  
e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue.  
2-2  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Windows® Vista environment  
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk  
drive.  
b. Click  
from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.  
c. Right-click Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the  
Format 3 1/2 Floppy dialog box.  
d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box.  
e. Click Start.  
2.  
Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk.  
2.1.2  
ASUS EZ Flash utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 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 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:  
1.  
the motherboard and rename the same to M2PLUSSE.ROM.  
2.  
3.  
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk, then restart the system.  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.  
EZFlash starting BIOS update  
Checking for floppy...  
4.  
Insert the floppy disk that contains the BIOS file to the floppy disk drive.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash performs the BIOS update  
process and automatically reboots the system when done.  
EZFlash starting BIOS update  
Checking for floppy...  
Floppy found!  
Reading file “M2PLUSSE.rom”. Completed.  
Start erasing.......|  
Start programming...|  
Flashed successfully. Rebooting.  
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
A “Floppy not found!” error message appears if there is no floppy disk in the  
drive. A “M2PLUSSE.ROM not found!” error message appears if the correct  
BIOS file is not found in the floppy disk. Make sure that you rename the  
BIOS file to M2PLUSSE.ROM.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-3  
2.1.3  
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.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
2.  
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.  
2-4  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
1.  
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.  
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS  
filename at the DOS prompt.  
2.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
3.  
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 /iM2PLUSSE.ROM  
4.  
The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.  
A:\>afudos /iM2PLUSSE.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  
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 /iM2PLUSSE.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:\>  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-5  
2.1.4  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility  
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 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 CD or the floppy disk  
that contains the updated BIOS file.  
Prepare the motherboard support CD, or the floppy disk containing the  
updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.  
Make sure that you rename the original or updated BIOS file in the floppy  
disk or the USB flash disk to M2PLUSSE.ROM.  
Recovering the BIOS from a floppy disk  
To recover the BIOS from a floppy disk:  
1.  
Turn on the system.  
2.  
Insert the floppy disk with the original or updated BIOS file to the floppy disk  
drive.  
3.  
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the  
floppy disk for the original or updated 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 “M2PLUSSE.ROM”. Completed.  
Start flashing...  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can  
cause system boot failure!  
2-6  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
Recovering the BIOS from the support CD  
To recover the BIOS from the support CD:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Remove any floppy disk from the floppy disk drive, then turn on the system.  
Insert the support CD to the optical drive.  
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the  
floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
When no floppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drive  
for the original or updated BIOS file. The utility then updates the corrupted  
BIOS file.  
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...  
Checking for floppy...  
Floppy not found!  
Checking for CD-ROM...  
CD-ROM found!  
Reading file “M2PLUSSE.ROM”. Completed.  
Start flashing...  
4.  
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.  
The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-7  
2.1.5  
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 CD 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.  
Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.  
2.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update. See page 3-4 for the  
Utilities screen menu.  
3.  
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.  
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
2-8  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
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.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-9  
4.  
From the FTP site, select the BIOS  
version that you wish to download.  
Click Next.  
5.  
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.  
4.  
Locate the BIOS file from the Open  
window, then click Open.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
2-10  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.2  
BIOS setup program  
This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update  
using the provided utility described in section “2.1 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 firmware 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, reboot the system by doing any of the  
following procedures:  
• Restart using the OS standard shut-down procedure.  
• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.  
• Press the reset button on the system chassis.  
• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on.  
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to  
force reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data  
or system. We recommend to always shut-down the system properly from the  
operating system.  
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 “2.7 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.  
for this motherboard.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-11  
2.2.1  
BIOS menu screen  
Menu items  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
Exit  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
[17: 44 : 20]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
[Tue01/15/2002]  
[1.44M, 3.5in.]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system time.  
IDE Configuration  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
SATA1  
: [Not Detected]  
: [Not Detected]  
: [Not Detected]  
: [Not Detected]  
SATA2  
System Information  
Sub-menu items  
Navigation keys  
2.2.2  
Menu bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
Advanced  
Power  
For changing the advanced system settings  
For changing the advanced power management (APM)  
configuration  
Boot  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
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.  
2.2.3  
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.  
2-12  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.2.4  
Menu items  
The highlighted item on the menu bar  
displays the specific items for that menu.  
For example, selecting Main shows the Main  
menu items.  
System Time  
[11:10:19]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
System Date  
[Thu 03/27/2003]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
[Disabled]  
Legacy Diskette  
Legacy Diskette  
A
B
select  
a
field.  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system time.  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
Secondary IDE Master  
Secondary IDE Slave  
Third IDE Master  
Fourth IDE Master  
IDE Configuration  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
+-  
System Information  
Tab Select Field  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and  
Exit) on the menu bar have their respective  
menu items.  
Main menu items  
2.2.5  
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>.  
2.2.6  
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 “2.2.7 Pop-up window.”  
2.2.7  
Pop-up window  
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the  
configuration options for that item.  
2.2.8  
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  
Advanced Chipset settings  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in the sections below  
may cause system to malfunction.  
Configure DRAM Timing by SPD  
Memory Acceleration Mode  
DRAM Idle Timer  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
DRAm Refresh Rate  
Graphic Adapter Priority  
Graphics Aperture Size  
Spread Spectrum  
Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page  
Down> keys to display the other items on the  
screen.  
[
64 MB]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[1.4]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
ICH Delayed Transaction  
MPS Revision  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
Pop-up window  
2.2.9  
General help  
At the top right corner of the menu screen is  
a brief description of the selected item.  
Scroll bar  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-13  
2.3  
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 “2.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen  
items and how to navigate through them.  
Exit  
System Time  
[17:47:26]  
[Tue 01/15/2002]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
IDE Configuration  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system time.  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
SATA 1  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
SATA 2  
System Information  
2.3.1  
System Time [xx:xx:xx]  
Allows you to set the system time.  
2.3.2  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]  
Allows you to set the system date.  
2.3.3  
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Sets the type of floppy drive installed. Configuration options: [Disabled] [360K, 5.25  
in.] [1.2M , 5.25 in.] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] [2.88M, 3.5 in.]  
2-14  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.3.4  
IDE Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the IDE  
devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish to  
configure the item.  
Disabled: disables  
the integrated IDE  
Controller.  
Enabled: enables  
the integrated IDE  
Controller.  
IDE Configuration  
Onboard IDE Controller  
Serial-ATA Devices  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
nVidia RAID Function  
[Disabled]  
Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard IDE controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Serial-ATA Devices [Enabled]  
Allows you to disable or set the Serial-ATA devices.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
nVidia RAID Function [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the NVIDIA RAID function.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
2.3.5  
Primary IDE Master/Slave  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices.  
There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then  
press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.  
Exit  
Select the type  
of device connected to  
the system.  
Primary IDE Master  
Device  
: Not Detected  
Type  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
LBA/Large Mode  
Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M  
PIO Mode  
DMA Mode  
SMART Monitoring  
32Bit Data Transfer  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-15  
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) M [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]  
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]  
2-16  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.3.6  
SATA1 and SATA2  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA  
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item  
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.  
Exit  
SATA1  
Disabled: Disables LBA  
Mode.  
Device  
: Not Detected  
Auto: Enables LBA  
Mode if the device  
supports it and the  
device is not already  
formatted with LBA  
Mode disabled.  
LBA/Large Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M  
PIO Mode  
DMA Mode  
SMART Monitoring  
32Bit Data Transfer  
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) M [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]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-17  
PIO Mode [Auto]  
Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]  
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]  
2.3.7  
System Information  
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS  
automatically detects the items in this menu.  
AMIBIOS  
Version  
: 0103  
Build Date : 07/24/07  
Processor  
Type  
Speed  
Count  
: AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+  
: 1800MHz  
: 1  
System Memory  
Usable Size: 384MB  
AMI BIOS  
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information  
Processor  
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification  
System Memory  
Displays the auto-detected system memory  
2-18  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.4  
Advanced menu  
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other  
system devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect  
field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
Exit  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
PCIPnP  
USB Configuration  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-19  
2.4.1  
CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS  
automatically detects.  
Exit  
CPU Configuration  
This option should  
Module Version: 13.11  
AGESA Version: 03.00.09  
Physical Count: 1  
Logical Count: 2  
remain disabled for  
the normal operation.  
The driver developer  
may enable it for  
testing purpose.  
AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+  
Revision: F2  
Cache L1: 128KB  
Cache L2: 128KB  
Cache L3: N/A  
Speed  
: 1800MHz  
Current FSB Multiplier: 9x  
Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x  
Able to Change Freq. : Yes  
uCode Patch Level  
GART Error Reporting  
Microcode Updation  
Secure Virtual Machine  
Cool’n’Quiet  
: 0x62  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
ACPI SRAT Table  
[Enabled]  
AMD Overclocking Configuration  
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]  
This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer  
may enable it for testing purpose. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Microcode Updation [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the microcode updation.  
Configuration options: [Continuous] [Discrete]  
Secure Virtual Machine [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the AMD Secure Virtual Machine.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Cool‘n’Quiet [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the generation of ACPI_PPC, _PSS, and _PCT  
objects. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ACPI SRAT Table [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the building of ACPI SRAT table.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2-20  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
AMD Overclocking Configuration  
Configure CPU  
Frequence.  
AMD Overclocking Configuration  
Processor Frequency Multiplier  
Processor Voltage  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]  
Sets the processor frenquency multiplier. Configuration options: [Auto] [x5.0  
1000 MHz] [x6.0 1200 MHz] [x7.0 1400 MHz] [x8.0 1600 MHz] [x9.0 1800  
MHz]  
Processor Voltage [Auto]  
Sets the processor voltage. Configuration options: [1.400 V] [1.375 V]  
[1.350 V] [Auto]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-21  
2.4.2  
Chipset  
The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an  
item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
Memory Options &  
Information  
Advanced Chipset Settings  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause the system to malfunction.  
NorthBridge Configuration  
Southbridge Configuration  
NorthBridge Configuration  
Memory Controller  
Memory Configuration  
Power Down Control  
[Auto]  
Memory Configuration  
Memory Configuration  
Enable Bank Memory  
Interleaving  
Bank Interleaving  
[Disabled]  
[Auto]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Channel Interleaving  
Enable Clock to ALL DIMMs  
MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID  
Memory Hole Remapping  
Unganged Mode support  
Bank Interleaving [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Bank Memory Interleaving.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
2-22  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Channel Interleaving [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable channel memory interleaving.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Unused Clocks to DIMMs Even Memory  
Slots are not populated. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the MemCLK Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Memory Remapping Around Memory  
Hole.Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Unganged Mode support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Force Unganged mode.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power Down Control [Auto]  
Allows DIMMs to enter power down mode by deasserting the clock enable signal  
when DIMMs are not in use. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-23  
SouthBridge Configuration  
Display Device  
Priority, from  
high to low  
SouthBridge MCP61 chipset Configuration  
Primary Graphics Adapter  
OnChip VGA Frame Buffer Size  
AZALIA Audio  
[PCIE-> PCI -> IGP]  
[128M]  
[Auto]  
[HD Audio]  
Front Panel Select  
OnBoard LAN  
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM  
MCP61 ACPI HPET TABLE  
[Auto]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE-> PCI -> IGP]  
Display Device Priority, from high to low. Configuration options: [PCIE-> PCI-> IGP]  
[IGP ->PCI -> PCIE]  
OnChip VGA Frame Buffer Size [128M]  
Allows you to set the OnChip VGA Frame Buffer Size. Configuration options: [16M]  
[32M] [64M] [128M] [256M]  
AZALIA AUDIO [Auto]  
Allows you to set or disable the AZALIA AUDIO. Configuration options: [Auto]  
[Disabled]  
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]  
Allows you to set HD Audio mode. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]  
OnBoard LAN [Auto]  
Allows you to set or disable the OnBoard LAN. Configuration options: [Auto]  
[Disabled]  
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN Boot ROM. Configuration  
options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
MCP61 ACPI HPET TABLE [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable MCP61 ACPI HPET TABLE.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2-24  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.4.3  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
Allows BIOS to Select  
Serial Port1 Base  
Addresses.  
Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset  
Serial Port1 Address  
[3F8/IRQ4]  
[378]  
Parallel Port Address  
Parallel Port Mode  
Parallel Port IRQ  
[Normal]  
[IRQ7]  
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]  
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options:  
[Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]  
Parallel Port Address [378]  
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]  
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]  
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.  
Configuration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]  
ECP Version[1.9]  
Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to [EPP] or [EPP+ECP].  
This item allows you to set the Parallel Port EPP version.  
Configuration options: [1.9] [1.7]  
ECP Mode DMA Channel [DMA3]  
Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to [ECP] or [EPP+ECP].  
This item allows you to set the Parallel Port ECP DMA.  
Configuration options: [DMA0] [DMA1] [DMA3]  
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]  
Allows you to select parallel port IRQ. Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-25  
2.4.4  
PCI PnP  
The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP  
devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either  
PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA  
devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect  
field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
NO: lets the BIOS  
configure all the  
devices in the system.  
YES: lets the  
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings  
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  
PCI Latency Timer  
Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA  
Palette Snooping  
[No]  
[64]  
[Yes]  
[Disabled]  
IRQ-3 assigned to  
IRQ-4 assigned to  
IRQ-5 assigned to  
IRQ-7 assigned to  
IRQ-9 assigned to  
IRQ-10 assigned to  
IRQ-11 assigned to  
IRQ-14 assigned to  
IRQ-15 assigned to  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
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]  
PCI Latency Timer [64]  
Allows you to select the value in units of PCI clocks for the PCI device latency  
timer register. Configuration options: [32] [64] [96] [128] [160] [192] [224] [248]  
Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]  
When set to [Yes], BIOS assigns an IRQ to PCI VGA card if the card requests for  
an IRQ. When set to [No], BIOS does not assign an IRQ to the PCI VGA card even  
if requested. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
Palette Snooping [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], the palete snooping feature informs the PCI devices that  
an ISA graphics device is installed in the system so that the latter can function  
correctly. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2-26  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device]  
When set to [PCI Device], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices.  
When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices.  
Configuration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved]  
2.4.5  
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.  
USB Configuration  
Options  
Module Version - 2.24.0-11.4  
Enabled  
Disabled  
USB Devices Enabled:  
None  
USB 1.1 Controller  
USB 2.0 Controller  
Legacy USB Support  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[HiSpeed]  
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration  
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the  
auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.  
USB 1.1 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 1.1 Controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 Controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operating  
systems (OS). 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]  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]  
Allows you to configure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full  
Speed (12 Mbps). Configuration options: [HiSpeed] [Full Speed]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-27  
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration  
Number of seconds  
POST waits for the  
USB mass storage  
device after start  
unit command.  
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration  
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay  
[20 Sec]  
Netac  
Device #1  
Emulation Type  
[Auto]  
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]  
Allows you to set the numbers of seconds POST waits for the USB mass storage  
device after start unit command. Configuration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec]  
[40 Sec]  
Emulation Type [Auto]  
Allows selection of the emulation type. If Auto, USB devices less than 530MB will  
be emulated as Floppy and remaining as hard drive. Forced FDD option can be  
used to force a HDD formated drive to boot as FDD. Configuration options: [Auto]  
[Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]  
2-28  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.5  
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.  
Exit  
Select the ACPI state  
used for System  
Suspend.  
Suspend Mode  
ACPI Version Features  
ACPI APIC Support  
[Auto]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
APM Configuration  
Hardware Monitor  
2.5.1  
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]  
2.5.2  
ACPI Version Features [Disabled]  
Allows you to add more tables for Advanced Configuration and Power Interface  
(ACPI) 2.0 specifications. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.5.3  
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface  
(ACPI) support in the Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When set  
to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-29  
2.5.4  
APM Configuration  
APM Configuration  
Go into On/Off  
or Suspend when  
Power button  
Power Button Mode  
Restore on AC Power Loss  
[On/Off]  
[Power Off]  
is pressed.  
Power On By PCI(-E) Device  
Power On By Ring  
Power On By PS/2 KB/MS  
Power On By RTC Alarm  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Power Button Mode [On/Off]  
Allows the system to go into On/Off mode or suspend mode when the power  
button is pressed. Configuration options: [On/Off] [Suspend]  
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.  
Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On]  
Power On By PCI(-E) Device [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system through a  
PCI LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides  
at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By Ring [Disabled]  
Enable or disable RI to generate a wake event. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Power On By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]  
Enable or disable PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse to generate a wake event.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
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,  
and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
2-30  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.5.5  
Hardware Monitor  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Temperature  
CPU Temperature  
MB Temperature  
[51ºC/123.5ºF]  
[36ºC/96.5ºF]  
CPU Fan Speed (RPM)  
Chassis Fan1 Speed  
[3325RPM]  
[N/A]  
VCORE Voltage  
3.3V Voltage  
5V Voltage  
[ 1.376V]  
[ 3.312V]  
[ 5.068V]  
[11.977V]  
12V Voltage  
Smart Q-Fan Function  
[Disabled]  
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard  
and CPU temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected  
temperatures.  
CPU Fan Speed (RPM) [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]  
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. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the  
detected speed.  
Chassis Fan1 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]  
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 chassis, the specific field  
shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.  
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through  
the onboard voltage regulators.  
Smart Q-Fan Function [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the  
fan speeds for more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-31  
2.6  
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.  
Exit  
Specifies the Boot  
Device Priority  
sequence.  
Boot settings  
Boot Device Priority  
Hard Disk Drives  
A virtual floppy disk  
drive (Floppy Drive B:  
) may appear when you  
set the CD-ROM drive  
as the first boot  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Security  
device.  
2.6.1  
Boot Device Priority  
Exit  
Specifies the boot  
sequence form the  
available devices.  
Boot Device Priority  
1st Boot Device  
2nd Boot Device  
3rd Boot Device  
[1st FLOPPY DRIVE]  
[Hard Drive]  
[ATAPI CD-ROM]  
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy 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: [xxxxx Drive] [Disabled]  
2.6.2  
Hard Disk Drives  
Exit  
Hard Disk Drives  
Specifies the boot  
sequence form the  
available devices.  
1st Drive  
2nd Drive  
[1st FLOPPY DRIVE]  
[USB:Netac]  
1st and 2nd Drive [1st Floppy Drive]  
These items specify the boot sequence from the available removable devices.  
Configuration options: [1st Floppy Drive] [USB:Netac] [Disabled]  
2-32  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.6.3  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Allows BIOS to skip  
certain tests while  
booting. This will  
decrease the time  
needed to boot the  
system.  
Quick Boot  
Full Screen Logo  
AddOn ROM Display Mode  
Bootup Num-Lock  
PS/2 Mouse Support  
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display  
Interrupt 19 Capture  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Force BIOS]  
[On]  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
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 MyLogo™ feature.  
Add On 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]  
PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]  
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]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-33  
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.6.4  
Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
Security Settings  
<Enter> to change  
password.  
<Enter> again to  
disabled password.  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
: Not Installed  
: Not Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
Change User Passward  
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.  
Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.  
2.  
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 clear it by erasing the CMOS  
Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section “1.9 Jumpers” for information on how  
to erase the RTC RAM.  
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to  
change other security settings.  
2-34  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
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]  
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.  
Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.  
2.  
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.  
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]  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
2-35  
2.7  
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.  
Exit  
Exit Options  
Exit & Save Changes  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Discard Changes  
Load Setup Defaults  
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 OK 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  
OK 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 OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes  
or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.  
2-36  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
This chapter describes the contents  
of the support CD that comes with the  
motherboard package.  
Software  
3
support  
3.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® 2000/32-bit XP/64-bit XP/32-bit 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 Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better  
compatibility and system stability.  
3.2  
Support CD information  
The support CD 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 CD are subject to change at any time without  
3.2.1  
Running the support CD  
Place the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays the  
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.  
Click an icon to display  
support CD/motherboard  
information  
Click an item to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
CD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the  
ASSETUP.EXE to run the CD.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: Software support  
3.2.2  
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 Installl-Drivers Installation Wizard  
Installs the ASUS Install-Drivers Installation Wizard.  
NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program  
Installs the NVIDIA® nForce™ Chipset Driver program.  
Realtek Audio Driver  
Executes the wizard to install the Realtek audio driver and application.  
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver  
Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver.  
The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for different  
operating system versions.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
3-3  
3.2.3  
Utilities menu  
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard  
supports.  
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities  
Installs all of the utilities through the installation Wizard.  
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.  
ASUS Update  
The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a  
Windows® environment. This utility require an Internet connection either through a  
network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility  
Installs ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.  
3-4  
Chapter 3: Software support  
3.2.4  
Make Disk menu  
The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.  
NVIDIA® 32bit 2000 SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 32-bit  
2000system  
NVIDIA® 32bit XP SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 32-bit XP  
system.  
NVIDIA® 64bit SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 64-bit XP  
system.  
NVIDIA® Vista 32bit SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 32-bit  
Vista system.  
NVIDIA® Vista 64bit SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 64-bit  
Vista system.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
3-5  
3.2.5  
Manual menu  
The Manual 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.  
NVIDIA® SATA RAID User’s Manual  
Allows you to open the NVIDIA® SATA RAID user’s manual.  
HD Audio User’s Manual  
Allows you to open the HD Audio user’s manual.  
3-6  
Chapter 3: Software support  
3.2.6  
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.  
3.2.7  
Other information  
The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the  
motherboard and the contents of the support CD. Click an icon to display the  
specified information.  
Motherboard Info  
Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
3-7  
Browse this CD  
Displays the support CD contents in graphical format.  
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 CD and a brief description of each in text  
format.  
3-8  
Chapter 3: Software support  
3.3  
Creating a RAID driver disk  
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® 2000/XP/  
Vista operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.  
To create a RAID driver disk:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Place the motherboard support CD into the CD-ROM drive.  
Select Make Disk tab.  
From the Make Disk menu, select the RAID driver disk you want to create or  
browse the contents of the support CD to locate the driver disk utility.  
For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA® RAID configuration, refer to the  
“NVIDIA® MediaShield RAID User’s Manual” found in your motherboard support  
CD .  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Insert floppy disk to floppy disk drive.  
Follow succeeding screen information to complete process.  
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.  
To install the RAID driver:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
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.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset  
doesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.  
ASUS M2N-MX SE PLUS  
3-9  
3-10  
Chapter 3: Software support  

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