Asus M2N MX User Manual

M2N-MX  
Contents  
Notices................................................................................................ vi  
Safety information ..............................................................................vii  
M2N-MX specifications summary........................................................viii  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome!.............................................................................. 1-2  
Package contents ................................................................. 1-2  
Special features.................................................................... 1-2  
1.3.1  
1.3.2  
Product highlights................................................... 1-2  
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  
1.6.2  
Installing the CPU.................................................... 1-9  
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 ...................................................1-15  
Removing a DIMM..................................................1-15  
1.8  
Expansion slots................................................................... 1-16  
1.8.1  
1.8.2  
1.8.3  
1.8.4  
1.8.5  
Installing an expansion card..................................1-16  
Configuring an expansion card..............................1-16  
PCI slots................................................................ 1-18  
PCI Express x1 slot ...............................................1-18  
PCI Express x16 slot .............................................1-18  
1.9  
Jumpers .............................................................................. 1-19  
1.10 Connectors ......................................................................... 1-21  
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors ..........................................1-21  
1.10.2 Internal connectors...............................................1-22  
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, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4....................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  
2.4.6  
CPU Configuration.................................................2-19  
Chipset ................................................................. 2-20  
Onboard Devices Configuration.............................2-23  
PCI PnP.................................................................. 2-24  
USB Configuration.................................................2-25  
Jumperfree Configuration .....................................2-26  
2.5  
Power menu........................................................................ 2-28  
2.5.1  
2.5.2  
2.5.3  
Suspend Mode.......................................................2-28  
Repost Video on S3 Resume.................................2-28  
ACPI Support ........................................................2-28  
iv  
Contents  
2.5.4  
2.5.5  
2.5.6  
ACPI APIC Support ................................................2-28  
APM Configuration ................................................2-29  
Hardware Monitor..................................................2-30  
2.6  
Boot menu.......................................................................... 2-31  
2.6.1  
2.6.2  
2.6.3  
Boot Device Priority..............................................2-31  
Boot Settings Configuration .................................2-32  
Security................................................................. 2-33  
2.7  
2.8  
Tools menu......................................................................... 2-35  
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2....................................................2-35  
Exit menu............................................................................ 2-35  
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) should not be placed in municipal  
waste. Please check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.  
vii  
M2N-MX specifications summary  
Support AMD socket AM2 for AMD Athlon™ 64/  
CPU  
Athlon™ FX/Athlon™ X2/Sempron processors  
AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and  
64-bit computing  
Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology  
NVIDIA® nForce 430/GeForce6100  
2000/1600 MT/s  
Chipset  
Front Side Bus  
Memory  
Dual-channel memory architecture  
4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4 GB of  
unbufferred/non-ECC 800/667/533 MHz  
DDR2 memory modules  
1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot  
1 x PCI Express™ x1 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  
processor (MCP) supports:  
Storage  
- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 interfaces for two (2) hard  
disk drives  
- 4 x Serial ATA 3 Gb/s hard disk drives Supports  
RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, JBOD  
SoundMAX® ADI AD1986A 6 channels CODEC  
Supports Jack-Sensing & Enumeration technology  
S/PDIF OUT interface  
High Definition Audio  
ATTANSIC Gigabit LAN PHY  
LAN  
USB  
Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
(continued on the next page)  
viii  
M2N-MX specifications summary  
Manageability  
Special features  
ASUS Q-Fan  
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2  
ASUS EZ Flash  
ASUS MyLogo2™  
Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS) allows FSB tuning  
from 200 MHz to 230 MHz at 1 MHz increment  
Note: ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 and ASUS EZ Flash 2 only  
support VGA/RGB output.  
BIOS features  
Rear panel  
4 Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS,Green, PnP, DMI, Wfm2.0,  
ACPI v 2.0a, SM BIOS v 2.3  
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  
6-channel audio ports  
Internal Connector  
1 x 10-pin Azalia Analog Front panel connector  
1 x CD audio in connector  
1 x CPU fan connector  
1 x Chassis fan connectors  
1 x Floppy disk drive connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out connector  
1 x PRI_IDE connectors  
4 x Serial ATA connectors  
3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.0 ports  
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector  
1 x 4-pin x ATX 12V power connector  
1 x System panel connector  
Power Requirement  
Form Factor  
ATX power supply (with 24-pin and 4-pin 12 V plugs)  
ATX 12 V 2.0 compliant  
uATX: 9.6 in. x 8.8 in.  
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.  
ix  
x
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 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  
Cables  
ASUS M2N-MX motherboard  
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  
The motherboard supports AMD socket AM2 single-core Athlon 64/  
Sempron and dual-core Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64 FX processors with  
2MB/1MB/512KB L2 cache, which is based on 64-bit architecture. It  
features 2000/1600 MT/s HyperTransport Bus, dual-channel un-buffered  
DDR2 800 memory support and AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology. See page  
1-9 for details.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology  
The 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,  
RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD) for Serial ATA 3Gb/s.  
DDR2 memory support  
The motherboard supports DDR2 memory which features data transfer  
rates of 800MHz/667 MHz/533 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth  
requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet  
applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth  
of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating  
bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s. 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.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-3  
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, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD  
configurations for four SATA connectors.  
Gigabit LAN solution  
Gb LAN controller delivers transfer speeds up to ten times faster than  
conventional 10/100 Ethernet connections. Gigabit LAN is the networking  
standard for the early future and is ideal for handling large amounts of data  
such as video, audio, and voice.  
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  
SoundMAX is the highest performing, most reliable and user-friendly PC  
audio solution for business professionals, audiophiles, musicians, and  
gamers. Hear crystal-clear quality from all your audio - MP3 playback, home  
theatre, advanced gaming, VOIP and more, and never worry - SoundMAX  
high-definition audio is there to enhance your experience!  
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 2  
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.  
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to  
the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking.  
When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need  
to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and  
reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default  
setting for each parameter.  
ASUS MyLogo2™  
This feature allows you to personalize and add style to your system with  
customizable boot logos.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
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  
ON  
Standby  
Power  
OFF  
Powered  
Off  
M2N-MX Onboard LED  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
1.5  
Motherboard overview  
1.5.1 Motherboard layout  
22.4cm (8.8in)  
PS/2KBMS  
T: Mouse  
B: Keyboard  
ATX12V  
USB12  
PS2_USB_PWR  
Super I/O  
R
LAN_USB34  
AUDIO  
4Mb BIOS  
M2N-MX  
CPU_FAN  
PCIEX16  
CR2032 3V  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
PCIEX1_1  
ATTANSIC  
F001  
CLRTC  
NVIDIA MCP61G  
PCI1  
PCI2  
USB56  
AD1986A  
SB_PWR  
PANEL  
USB910  
SPDIF_O  
FLOPPY  
AAFP  
USB78  
ASUS M2N-MX  
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  
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!  
1.6.1 Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU.  
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
R
M2N-MX  
M2N-MX CPU Socket M2  
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  
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 t
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. 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.  
6. 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.  
PWR_FAN  
Rotation  
+12V  
GND  
R
CPU_FAN  
M2N-MX  
M2N-MX Fan Connectors  
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  
require 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  
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 four 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  
M2N-MX 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2  
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  
Sockets  
Mode  
DIMM_A1  
DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1  
DIMM_B2  
Populated  
-
-
-
-
Populated  
-
-
Single Channel  
-
-
Populated  
-
-
-
-
Populated  
-
Populated  
-
-
Populated  
-
Dual-channel (1)  
Dual-channel (2)  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
Populated  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-13  
*
For dual-channel memory configuration (2), you may:  
install identical DIMMs in all four sockets OR  
install an identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow  
sockets) and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 and  
DIMM_B2 (black sockets)  
*
Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual-channel model. For  
optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory  
com) for the latest Qualified Vendors List.  
Important notice on installing Windows® XP 32-bit version  
If you install Windows® XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the  
limitation of this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of  
memory space for system devices. We recommend that you install less  
than 3 GB system memory if you would like to work under Windows® XP  
32-bit version OS. The excess memory installation will not cause any  
usage problem, but it will not give users the benefit of manipulating this  
excess memory space.  
Visit the ASUS FAQ site for further  
explanation:  
aspx?SLanguage=en-us  
Under General Search, make the  
selections as shown, then click  
Search. Click the article titled “4GB  
memory installed but less memory size detected.”  
You also may check the URLs below for third party comments on this  
issue:  
32-bit  
64-bit  
Windows® 2000 Advanced Server  
Windows® Server 2003 Standard  
x64 Edition  
Windows® Server 2003 Enterprise  
Edition  
Windows® XP Professtional x64  
Edition  
Windows® Server 2003 Enterprise  
x64 Edition  
1-14  
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. Unlock a DIMM socket by  
DDR2 DIMM notch  
3
pressing the retaining clips  
outward.  
1
2. Align a DIMM on the socket  
such that the notch on the  
DIMM matches the break on the  
socket.  
1
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the  
socket until the retaining clips  
snap back in place and the DIMM  
is properly seated.  
Unlocked retaining clip  
A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one  
direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the  
DIMM.  
The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not install  
DDR DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.  
1.7.4 Removing a DIMM  
2
To remove a DIMM:  
1
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  
1-15  
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. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that  
came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already  
installed in a chassis).  
3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep  
the screw for later use.  
4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is  
completely seated on the slot.  
5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.  
6. 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.  
1-16  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
Standard interrupt assignments  
IRQ  
Priority  
Standard Function  
0
1
1
2
System Timer  
Keyboard Controller  
2
Re-direct to IRQ#9  
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
3
4
5
6
7
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Communications Port (COM1)*  
IRQ holder for PCI steering*  
Floppy Disk Controller  
Printer Port (LPT1)*  
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  
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  
PCI slot 2  
used  
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  
1-17  
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 x1 slot  
This motherboard supports PCI  
Express x1 network cards, SCSI  
cards and other cards that comply  
with the PCI Express specifications.  
The following figure shows a network  
card installed on the PCI Express x1  
slot.  
1.8.5 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.  
1-18  
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. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.  
2. Remove the onboard battery.  
3. 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. Reinstall the battery.  
5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
6. 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!  
R
CLRTC  
M2N-MX  
1
2
2
3
Normal  
(Default)  
Clear RTC  
M2N-MX 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  
1-19  
2. USB device wake-up (3-pin PS2_USB_PWR)  
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up  
feature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) to wake up the computer  
when you press a key on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar).  
This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least  
500 mA on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS.  
PS2_USB_PWR  
2
R
3
1
2
M2N-MX  
+5VSB  
+5V  
(Default)  
M2N-MX
USB Device Wake Up  
1-20  
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. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.  
2. 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  
ACT/  
LINK  
SPEED  
LED  
ACT/LINK LEDSPEED LED  
Status  
Description  
Status  
OFF  
Description  
OFF  
No link  
Linked  
10 Mbps connection  
100 Mbps connection  
1 Gbps connection  
Orange  
ORANGE  
GREEN  
BLINKING Data activity  
LAN port  
4. Line In port (light blue). This port connects a tape, CD, DVD player, or  
other audio sources.  
5. 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  
1-21  
Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration  
Port  
Headset  
2-speaker  
4-speaker  
6-speaker  
Light Blue  
Lime  
Line In  
Line Out  
Mic In  
Surround Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic  
Surround Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Center/Bass  
Pink  
7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB)  
ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
8. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB)  
ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
9. 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.  
R
FLOPPY  
M2N-MX  
NOTE: Orient the red markings on  
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
M2N-MX Floppy Disk Drive Connector  
1-22  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
2. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)  
The onboard IDE connectors are for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal  
cable(s). There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66  
signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the  
motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following modes  
to configure your device(s).  
Drive jumper  
setting  
Mode  
of device(s)  
Cable  
connector  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
Cable-Select  
-
Black  
Black  
Gray  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Black or gray  
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole  
on the Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion  
when you connect the IDE cable.  
Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE  
devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
PRI_IDE  
R
M2N-MX  
NOTE: Orient the red markings  
(usually zigzag) on the ID  
ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
M2N-MX IDE Connector  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-23  
3. Serial ATA connectors  
(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)  
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, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD configuration through the  
onboard NVIDIA® MediaShield™ controller.  
SATA4  
SATA3  
GND  
RSATA_TXP3  
RSATA_TXN3  
GND  
RSATA_RXP3  
RSATA_RXN3  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_RXN4  
RSATA_RXP4  
GND  
RSATA_TXN4  
RSATA_TXP4  
GND  
R
M2N-MX  
SATA2  
SATA1  
GND  
RSATA_TXP1  
RSATA_TXN1  
GND  
RSATA_RXP1  
RSATA_RXN1  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_RXN2  
RSATA_RXP2  
GND  
RSATA_TXN2  
RSATA_TXP2  
GND  
M2N-MX
SATA Connectors  
Important note on Serial ATA  
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, 0+1, 5,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 RAID Enabled item in the NVRAID  
Configuration sub-menu in the BIOS. See section “2.4.3 Onboard  
Device Configuration” for details.  
1-24  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
4. CPU, Chassis, and Power Fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1)  
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  
R
M2N-MX  
M2N-MX CPU Fan Connector  
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.  
R
M2N-MX  
SPDIF_O  
M2N-MX Digital Audio Connector  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-25  
6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB 910)  
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.  
USB56  
1
R
M2N-MX  
USB78  
USB910  
1
M2N-MX 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.  
R
Right Audio Channel  
Ground  
Ground  
Left Audio Channel  
M2N-MX  
CD  
(black)  
M2N-MX
Internal Audio Connector  
1-26  
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.  
R
M2N-MX  
AAFP  
M2N-MX Azalia Analog Front Panel 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.  
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to  
this connector, make sure that the HD Audio item in the BIOS is set  
to [Enabled].  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-27  
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)  
These connectors are for an ATX power supply. 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  
+12V DC  
GND  
+12V DC  
GND  
EATXPWR  
+3 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+5V Standby  
Power OK  
Ground  
Ground  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
-5 Volts  
Ground  
Ground  
Ground  
PSON#  
Ground  
-12 Volts  
+3 Volts  
R
M2N-MX  
+5 Volts  
Ground  
+5 Volts  
Ground  
M2N-MX ATX Power Connector  
+3 Volts  
+3 Volts  
1-28  
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
10. System panel connector (20-1 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
SPEAKER  
PLED  
R
PANEL  
M2N-MX  
Reset  
IDE_LED  
PWRSW  
M2N-MX
System Panel Connector  
System power LED  
This 3-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  
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD  
Activity LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes  
when data is read from or written to the HDD.  
System warning speaker  
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning  
speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
Power/Soft-off button  
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  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for  
system reboot without turning off the system power.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
1-29  
1-30  
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. ASUS EZ Flash (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a floppy disk or  
the motherboard support CD.)  
2. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy  
disk.)  
3. 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.)  
4. 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:/Sthen 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  
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:  
file for the motherboard and rename the same to M2N-MX.ROM.  
2. Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk, then restart the system.  
3. 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 “M2N-MX.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 “M2N-MX.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 M2N-MX.ROM.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-ꢀ  
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-ꢁ  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
file for 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]  
A:\>afudos /iM2N-MX.ROM  
4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.  
A:\>afudos /iM2N-MX.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 /iM2N-MX.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  
2-ꢂ  
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 M2N-MX.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 “M2N-MX.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. Remove any floppy disk from the floppy disk drive, then turn on the  
system.  
2. Insert the support CD to the optical 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 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 “M2N-MX.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  
latest BIOS file.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-ꢃ  
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 5-3 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-ꢄ  
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  
2-ꢅ  
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. Locate the BIOS file from the  
Open window, then click Open.  
4. 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 “2.8 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.  
file for this motherboard.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-11  
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen  
Menu items  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
[00: 38 : 56]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
[Tue01/01/2002]  
[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]  
: [Not Detected]  
: [Not Detected]  
SATA2  
SATA3  
SATA4  
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  
Tools  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
For setting EZ Flash 2 and O.C. Profile.  
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,  
Tool, 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 “4.2.7 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  
Advanced Chipset settings  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in the sections below  
A scroll bar appears on the right side of  
may cause system to malfunction.  
Configure DRAM Timing by SPD  
Memory Acceleration Mode  
DRAM Idle Timer  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
a menu screen when there are items that  
do not fit on the screen. Press the  
Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up>  
/<Page Down> keys to display the other  
items on the screen.  
[Auto]  
DRAm Refresh Rate  
Graphic Adapter Priority  
Graphics Aperture Size  
Spread Spectrum  
[
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  
Scroll bar  
At the top right corner of the menu  
screen is a brief description of the  
selected item.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-1ꢀ  
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.  
System Time  
[03:59:16]  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Date  
[Tue 01/08/2002]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in]  
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]  
SATA 2  
SATA 3  
SATA 4  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
:[Not Detected]  
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.]  
2-1ꢁ  
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.  
IDE Configuration  
Onboard IDE Controller  
Serial-ATA Devices  
[Enabled]  
[Device 0/1]  
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 [Device 0/1]  
Allows you to disable or set the Serial-ATA devices.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Device 0] [Device 0/1]  
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.  
Third 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  
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2-1ꢂ  
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, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4  
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.  
Third IDE Master  
Device  
: Not Detected  
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  
2-1ꢃ  
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 : 07/04/06  
Processor  
Type  
Speed  
Count  
: AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+  
: 1800MHz  
: 1  
System Memory  
Usable Size: 256MB  
AMI BIOS  
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information  
Processor  
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification  
System Memory  
Displays the auto-detected system memory  
2-1ꢄ  
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.  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
PCIPnP  
USB Configuration  
Jumperfree Configuration  
2.4.1 CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS  
automatically detects.  
CPU Configuration  
Unlock locked CPU  
and let it run at  
lower multiplier  
setting.  
Module Version: 13.01  
AGESA Version: 02.06.07  
Physical Count: 1  
Logical Count: 1  
AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3000+  
Revision: F2  
Cache L1: 64KB  
Cache L2: 128KB  
Speed  
: 1800MHz  
Current FSB Multiplier: 9x  
Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x  
Able to Change Freq. : Yes  
uCode Patch Level  
GART Error Reporting  
MTRR Mapping  
Runtime Legacy PSB  
ACPI 2.0 Objects  
: None Required  
[Disabled]  
[Continuous]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
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]  
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2-1ꢅ  
MTRR Mapping [Continuous]  
This option determines the method used for programming CPU MTRRs when  
4GB or more of memory is present. Discrete leaves the PCI hole below the  
4GB boundary undescribed. Continuous explicitly describes the PCI hole as  
non-caheable. Configuration options: [Continuous] [Discrete]  
Runtime Legacy PSB [Disabled]  
Enables or disables the generation of Power State Block for use of  
PowerNow(tm) driver in a single core system.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ACPI 2.0 Objects [Enabled]  
Enables or disables the generation of ACPI_PPC, _PSS, and _PCT objects.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
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.  
Advanced Chipset Settings  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause the system to malfunction.  
NorthBridge Configuration  
Southbridge  
Hyper Transport Configuration  
NorthBridge Configuration  
North Bridge chipset Configuration  
Memory Configuration  
Memclock Mode  
MCT Timing Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Enable Clock to ALL DIMMs  
MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID  
Memory Hole Remapping  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Power Down Control  
[Auto]  
2-20  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]  
When this item is enabled, the DRAM timing parameters are set according  
to the DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect). When disabled, you can  
manually set the DRAM timing parameters through the DRAM sub-items.  
The following sub-items appear when this item is Disabled. Configuration  
options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
DRAM CAS# Latency [5]  
Controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the time  
the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [3] [4] [5]  
[6]  
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [6 DRAM Clocks]  
Controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command and  
the read/write command. Configuration options: [2 DRAM Clocks] [3  
DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks] [6 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# Precharge [6 DRAM Clocks]  
Controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the DDR  
SDRAM. Configuration options: [2 DRAM Clocks] [3 DRAM Clocks] [4  
DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks] [6 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# Activate to Precha [15 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [4 DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks]...[18 DRAM  
Clocks]  
DRAM Write Recovery Time [4 Clocks]  
Set the write recovery timing.  
DRAM TRFC [30 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [20 DRAM Clocks] [25 DRAM Clocks] [30 DRAM  
Clocks] [35 DRAM Clocks] [42 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM TRRD [10]  
Configuration options: [10]  
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]  
Allows you to select the graphics controller as the primary boot device.  
Configuration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]  
Initiate Graphic Mode Select [Enabled, 8MB]  
Allows you to select the amount of system memory used by the Internal  
graphics device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled,1MB] [Enabled,  
8MB]  
PEG Force x1 [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
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2-21  
SouthBridge Configuration  
SouthBridge MCP61 chipset Configuration  
Primary Graphics Adapter  
AZALIA Audio  
[PCIE-> PCI -> IGP]  
[Auto]  
OnBoard LAN  
[Auto]  
[Disabled]  
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM  
Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE-> PCI -> IGP]  
Display Device Priority, from high to low.  
Configuration options: [PCIE-> PCI-> IGP] [IGP ->PCI -> PCIE]  
AZALIA AUDIO [Auto]  
Allows you to set or disable the AZALIA AUDIO.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
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]  
Hyper Transport Configuration  
SouthBridge MCP61 chipset Configuration  
MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Freq Auto [Disabled]  
MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Frequency [1000 MHz]  
MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Linkwidth [16 16]  
2-22  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.4.3 Onboard Devices Configuration  
Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset  
Serial Port1 Address  
Parallel Port Address  
Parallel Port Mode  
Parallel Port IRQ  
[3F8/IRQ4]  
[378]  
[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 Mode DMA Channel [DMA3]  
Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to [ECP]. This item  
allows you to set the Parallel Port ECP DMA.  
Configuration options: [DMA0] [DMA1] [DMA3]  
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]  
Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-2ꢀ  
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.  
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause system to malfunction.  
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 pallete 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]  
2-2ꢁ  
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  
Module Version - 2.24.0-11.4  
USB Devices Enabled:  
None  
USB 1.1 Controller  
USB 2.0 Controller  
Legacy USB Support  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[HiSpeed]  
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  
2-2ꢂ  
2.4.6 Jumperfree Configuration  
Configure System Frequency/Voltage  
AI Overclocking  
[Auto]  
Chipset Voltage  
Memory Voltage  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
AI Overclocking [Auto]  
Allows selection of CPU frequency and auto adjustment of relevant  
parameters. Frequencies higher than CPU manufacturer recommends are  
not guaranteed to be stable. If the system becomes unstable, return to the  
default. Configuration options: [Manual] [Standard]  
Chipset Voltage [Auto]  
Allows selection of the chipset voltage. The configuration options vary  
depending on the CPU installed.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.2V] [1.3V]  
Memory Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to select the memory voltage or set it to auto for safe mode.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.850V] [1.900V] [1.950V] [2.000V]  
The following items appear only when the AI Tuning item is set to  
[Manual].  
CPU Frequency [200]  
Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and  
PCI bus. The value of this item is auto-detected by the BIOS. Use the <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the CPU frequency. You can also type the desired  
CPU frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to  
230. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU  
FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization  
Front Side Bus  
CPU External Frequency  
FSB 1066  
FSB ꢄ00  
FSB ꢂꢀꢀ  
266 MHz  
200 MHz  
1ꢀꢀ MHz  
2-26  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
CPU Frequency [200]  
Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and  
PCI bus. The value of this item is auto-detected by the BIOS. Use the <+>  
and <-> keys to adjust the CPU frequency. You can also type the desired  
CPU frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200  
to 230. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU  
External Frequency settings.  
PCI Express Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to select PCI Express frequency.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [90] [91] [92] [93]... [150]  
Spread Spectrum [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the clock generator spread spectrum.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-2ꢃ  
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.  
Suspend Mode  
[Auto]  
Repost Video on S3 Resume  
ACPI Support  
[No]  
[ACPI v1.0]  
[Enabled]  
ACPI APIC Support  
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 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]  
Allows you to determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR  
resume. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
2.5.3 ACPI Support [ACPI v1.0]  
Allows you to add more tables for Advanced Configuration and Power  
Interface (ACPI) 2.0 specifications.  
Configuration options: [ACPI v1.0] [ACPI v2.0] [ACPI v3.0]  
2.5.4 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]  
2-2ꢄ  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
2.5.5 APM Configuration  
APM Configuration  
Restore on AC Power Loss  
Power On By RTC Alarm  
Power On By External Modems  
Power On By PCI Device  
Power On By PCIE Device  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard  
Power On By PS/2 Mouse  
[Power Off]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]  
When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power  
loss. When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss.  
When set to Last State, the system goes into either off or on state,  
whatever the system state was before the AC power loss.  
Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]  
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this  
item is set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC  
Alarm Minute, and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By External Modems [Disabled]  
This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the  
computer when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in  
Soft-off mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and  
applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the  
first try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the  
computer is off causes an initialization string that turns the system  
power on.  
Power On By PCI Devices [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 PCIE Devices [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system  
through a PCIE LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power  
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options:  
[Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-2ꢅ  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]  
Allows you to use specific keys on the keyboard to turn on the system.  
This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on  
the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc]  
[Power Key]  
2.5.6 Hardware Monitor  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Temperature  
MB Temperature  
[44ºC/111ºF]  
[37ºC/98.5ºF]  
CPU Fan Speed (RPM)  
Chassis Fan1 Speed  
CPU Q-Fan Control  
[3308RPM]  
[N/A]  
[Enabled]  
VCORE Voltage  
3.3V Voltage  
5V Voltage  
[ 1.392V]  
[ 3.296V]  
[ 4.892V]  
[11.126V]  
12V Voltage  
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.  
CPU Q-Fan Control [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]  
2-ꢀ0  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
The CPU Fan Profile Mode item appears when you enable the CPU Q-Fan  
Control feature.  
CPU Fan Profile Mode [Optimal]  
Allows you to set the appropriate CPU fan performance level. When set to  
[Optimal], the CPU fan speed automatically adjusts depending on the CPU  
temperature. Set this item to [Silent Mode] for silent CPU fan operation or  
[Performance Mode] to achieve the maximum CPU fan speed. Configuration  
options: [Optimal] [Silent Mode] [Performance Mode]  
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output  
through the onboard voltage regulators.  
Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Fan control. Configuration options:  
[Disabled] [Enabled]  
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.  
Boot settings  
Boot Device Priority  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Security  
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority  
Boot Device Priority  
1st Boot Device  
2nd Boot Device  
3rd Boot Device  
[1st FLOPPY DRIVE]  
[Hard Drive]  
[ATAPI CD-ROM]  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-ꢀ1  
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:  
2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Allows BIOS to skip  
certain tests while  
Quick Boot  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Force BIOS]  
[On]  
booting. This will  
decrease the time  
needed to boot the  
system.  
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  
[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 MyLogo2™ 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]  
2-ꢀ2  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
When set to Enabled, the system displays the message “Press DEL to run  
Setup” during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]  
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap  
Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
2.6.3 Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.  
Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
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 “2.6 Jumpers” for  
information on how to erase the RTC RAM.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-ꢀꢀ  
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow  
you to change other security settings.  
Security Settings  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
: Not Installed  
: Not Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
User Access Level  
Change User Password  
Clear User Password  
Password Check  
[Full Access]  
[Setup]  
Select Screen  
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.  
2-ꢀꢁ  
Chapter 2: BIOS setup  
Password Check [Setup]  
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the  
Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both  
when accessing Setup and booting the system.  
Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]  
2.7  
Tools menu  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS O.C.Profile  
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a  
confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select  
between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Please  
see page 4-2, section 4.1.2 for details.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.00  
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005  
Current ROM  
BOARD: M2N-MX  
VER: 0144 [0000]  
DATE: 05/20/06  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[B] Backup  
[ESC] Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
ASUS M2N-MX  
2-ꢀꢂ  
2.8  
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 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-ꢀ6  
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/XP 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  
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.  
NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program  
Installs the NVIDIA® nForce™ Chipset Driver program.  
SoundMAX® ADI1986A Audio Driver  
Executes the wizard to install the SoundMAX™ AD1986A 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  
3-3  
3.2.3 Utilities menu  
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the  
motherboard supports.  
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 requires an Internet connection either  
through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0  
The Adobe® Acrobat® Reader V7.0 is for opening, viewing, and printing  
documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).  
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c  
The Microsoft® DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances  
computer graphics and sounds. DirectX® improves the multimedia features  
of your computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing  
videos, or playing games on your computer.  
Microsoft® Windows® XP Service Pack 2 already includes Microsoft®  
DirectX® 9.0c. If your system is Microsoft® Windows® XP Service  
Pack 2-embedded, skip Microsoft® DirectX® 9.0c installation.  
3-4  
Chapter 3: Software support  
Anti-Virus utility  
The anti-virus utility scans, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View  
the online help for detailed information.  
The screen display and utilities option may not be the same for different  
operating system versions.  
ASUS Screen Saver  
Installs the ASUS screen saver.  
ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility  
This item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.  
3.2.4 Make Disk menu  
The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.  
NVIDIA® 32bit SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a  
32-bit system.  
ASUS M2N-MX  
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.  
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  
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 operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID  
set.  
To create a RAID driver disk:  
1. Place the motherboard support CD into the CD-ROM drive.  
2. Select Make Disk tab.  
3. 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. Insert floppy disk to floppy disk drive.  
5. Follow succeeding screen information to complete process.  
6. Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.  
To install the RAID driver:  
1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6  
key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.  
2. Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy  
disk drive.  
3. 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  
3-9  
3-10  
Chapter 3: Software support  

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