Asus P5Q E User Manual
P5Q-E  
 
Contents  
Contents ...................................................................................................... iii  
Notices....................................................................................................... viii  
Safety information ...................................................................................... ix  
About this guide .......................................................................................... x  
P5Q-E specifications summary................................................................ xii  
Chapter 1:  
Product introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
1.3.1  
1.3.2  
1.3.3  
Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2  
ASUS unique features .................................................... 1-3  
ASUS intelligent performance and  
overclocking features...................................................... 1-7  
Chapter 2:  
Hardware information  
2.1  
2.2  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2  
2.2.1  
2.2.2  
2.2.3  
2.2.4  
Motherboard layout......................................................... 2-2  
Layout contents............................................................... 2-3  
Placement direction ........................................................ 2-4  
Screw holes .................................................................... 2-4  
2.3  
2.4  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-5  
2.3.1  
2.3.2  
2.3.3  
Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-6  
Installing the CPU heatsink and fan................................ 2-9  
Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-10  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-11  
2.4.1  
2.4.2  
2.4.3  
2.4.4  
Overview........................................................................2-11  
Memory configurations.................................................. 2-12  
Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-17  
Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-17  
2.5  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-18  
2.5.1  
2.5.2  
2.5.3  
2.5.4  
Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-18  
Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 2-18  
Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-19  
PCI slots........................................................................ 2-20  
iii  
 
Contents  
2.5.5  
2.5.6  
2.5.7  
PCI Express x1 slots..................................................... 2-20  
PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots............................................. 2-20  
Universal PCI Express x16 slot..................................... 2-20  
2.6  
2.7  
2.8  
Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-22  
Onboard switches...................................................................... 2-24  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25  
2.8.1  
2.8.2  
Rear panel connectors.................................................. 2-25  
Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-27  
2.9  
Starting up for the first time...................................................... 2-40  
Turning off the computer........................................................... 2-41  
2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function.................................. 2-41  
2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch............................ 2-41  
2.10  
Chapter 3:  
BIOS setup  
3.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1  
3.1.1  
3.1.2  
3.1.3  
ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 3-1  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility................................................... 3-4  
AFUDOS utility................................................................ 3-5  
3.2  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-7  
3.2.1  
3.2.2  
3.2.3  
3.2.4  
3.2.5  
3.2.6  
3.2.7  
3.2.8  
3.2.9  
BIOS menu screen.......................................................... 3-8  
Menu bar......................................................................... 3-8  
Navigation keys............................................................... 3-8  
Menu items ..................................................................... 3-9  
Sub-menu items.............................................................. 3-9  
Configuration fields ......................................................... 3-9  
Pop-up window ............................................................... 3-9  
Scroll bar......................................................................... 3-9  
General help ................................................................... 3-9  
3.3  
Main menu .................................................................................. 3-10  
3.3.1  
3.3.2  
3.3.3  
3.3.4  
3.3.5  
3.3.6  
3.3.7  
System Time ................................................................. 3-10  
System Date ................................................................. 3-10  
Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 3-10  
Language...................................................................... 3-10  
SATA 1-6 ........................................................................3-11  
Storage Configuration................................................... 3-12  
AHCI Configuration....................................................... 3-13  
iv  
Contents  
3.3.8  
System Information....................................................... 3-14  
3.4  
Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................ 3-15  
3.4.1  
3.4.2  
3.4.3  
3.4.4  
3.4.5  
3.4.6  
3.4.7  
3.4.8  
3.4.9  
Ai Overclock Tuner ....................................................... 3-15  
CPU Ratio Setting ........................................................ 3-16  
FSB Strap to North Bridge ........................................... 3-16  
DRAM Frequency ........................................................ 3-16  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A1/A2/B1/B2 ................ 3-17  
DRAM Timing Control .................................................. 3-17  
DRAM Static Read Control .......................................... 3-18  
DRAM Read Training ................................................... 3-19  
MEM. OC Charger ........................................................ 3-19  
3.4.10 Ai Clock Twister ............................................................ 3-19  
3.4.11 Ai Transaction Booster ................................................. 3-19  
3.4.12 CPU Voltage ............................................................... 3-20  
3.4.13 CPU GTL Voltage Reference(0/2) ................................ 3-20  
3.4.14 CPU GTL Voltage Reference(1/3) ................................ 3-20  
3.4.15 CPU PLL Voltage ......................................................... 3-20  
3.4.16 FSB Termination Voltage .............................................. 3-20  
3.4.17 DRAM Voltage ............................................................. 3-20  
3.4.18 NB Voltage ................................................................... 3-20  
3.4.19 NB GTL Voltage Reference .......................................... 3-21  
3.4.20 SB Voltage ................................................................... 3-21  
3.4.21 PCIE SATA Voltage ...................................................... 3-21  
3.4.22 Load-Line Calibration ................................................... 3-21  
3.4.23 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-21  
3.4.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-22  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-23  
3.5  
3.5.1  
3.5.2  
3.5.3  
3.5.4  
3.5.5  
3.5.6  
TPM Configuration........................................................ 3-23  
CPU Configuration........................................................ 3-24  
Chipset.......................................................................... 3-26  
Onboard Device Configuration...................................... 3-27  
USB Configuration ........................................................ 3-28  
PCIPnP ......................................................................... 3-29  
3.6  
Power menu................................................................................ 3-30  
3.6.1 Suspend Mode ............................................................. 3-30  
v
Contents  
3.6.2  
3.6.3  
3.6.4  
3.6.5  
3.6.6  
Repost Video on S3 Resume........................................ 3-30  
ACPI 2.0 Support.......................................................... 3-30  
ACPI APIC Support....................................................... 3-30  
APM Configuration........................................................ 3-31  
Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-32  
3.7  
3.8  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-34  
3.7.1  
3.7.2  
3.7.3  
Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-34  
Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 3-35  
Security......................................................................... 3-36  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-38  
3.8.1  
3.8.2  
3.8.3  
3.8.4  
3.8.5  
3.8.6  
ASUS EZ Flash 2.......................................................... 3-38  
Drive Xpert Control ...................................................... 3-39  
Drive Xpert Mode Update ............................................. 3-39  
Express Gate ................................................................ 3-40  
ASUS O.C. Profile......................................................... 3-41  
Ai Net 2 ......................................................................... 3-42  
3.9  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 3-43  
Chapter 4:  
Software support  
4.1  
4.2  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1  
Support DVD information............................................................ 4-1  
4.2.1  
4.2.2  
4.2.3  
4.2.4  
4.2.5  
4.2.6  
4.2.7  
Running the support DVD............................................... 4-1  
Drivers menu................................................................... 4-2  
Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3  
Make disk menu.............................................................. 4-5  
Manual menu .................................................................. 4-6  
ASUS Contact information.............................................. 4-6  
Other information ............................................................ 4-7  
4.3  
Software information ................................................................... 4-9  
4.3.1  
4.3.2  
4.3.3  
4.3.4  
4.3.5  
4.3.6  
4.3.7  
ASUS MyLogo3™........................................................... 4-9  
AI NET2 .........................................................................4-11  
ASUS PC Probe II......................................................... 4-12  
ASUS AI Suite............................................................... 4-18  
ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 4-20  
ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-21  
ASUS AI Booster........................................................... 4-23  
vi  
Contents  
4.3.8  
ASUS EPU—6 Engine.................................................. 4-24  
ASUS AI Direct Link...................................................... 4-28  
4.3.9  
4.3.10 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility)... 4-30  
4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert ......................................................... 4-39  
4.3.12 ASUS Express Gate ..................................................... 4-50  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 4-60  
4.4  
4.4.1  
4.4.2  
4.4.3  
RAID definitions ............................................................ 4-60  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks ..................................... 4-61  
Intel® RAID configurations............................................. 4-61  
4.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 4-69  
4.5.1  
4.5.2  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS.... 4-69  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®...................... 4-69  
Appendix:  
CPU features  
A.1  
Intel® EM64T..................................................................................A-1  
Using the Intel® EM64T feature......................................................A-1  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST)........................A-1  
A.2  
A.2.1  
System requirements......................................................A-1  
A.2.2  
Using the EIST................................................................A-2  
A.3  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3  
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology ........................................A-3  
vii  
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.  
viii  
 
Safety information  
Electrical safety  
•
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the  
electrical outlet before relocating the system.  
•
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the  
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are  
connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system  
before you add a device.  
•
•
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure  
that all power cables are unplugged.  
Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension cord.  
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.  
Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area.  
If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using,  
contact your local power company.  
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a  
qualified service technician or your retailer.  
Operation safety  
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all  
the manuals that came with the package.  
•
Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the  
power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer  
immediately.  
•
•
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from  
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.  
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in  
any area where it may become wet.  
•
•
Place the product on a stable surface.  
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified  
service technician or your retailer.  
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,  
electronic equipment and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not  
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic  
products.  
ix  
 
About this guide  
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring  
the motherboard.  
How this guide is organized  
This guide contains the following parts:  
•
Chapter 1: Product introduction  
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new  
technology it supports.  
•
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform  
when installing system components. It includes description of the switches,  
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.  
•
•
•
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup  
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.  
Chapter 4: Software support  
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package and the software.  
Appendix: CPU features  
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the  
motherboard supports.  
Where to find more information  
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and  
software updates.  
1.  
2.  
ASUS websites  
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and  
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.  
Optional documentation  
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty  
flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not  
part of the standard package.  
x
 
Conventions used in this guide  
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following  
symbols used throughout this manual.  
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself  
when trying to complete a task.  
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components  
when trying to complete a task.  
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a  
task.  
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a  
task.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign  
means that you must press the enclosed key.  
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the  
Enter or Return key.  
<Key1+Key2+Key3>  
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the  
key names are linked with a plus sign (+).  
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>  
Command  
Means that you must type the command exactly  
as shown, then supply the required item or value  
enclosed in brackets.  
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:  
afudos /i[filename]  
afudos /iP5Q-E.ROM  
xi  
P5Q-E specifications summary  
CPU  
LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme /  
Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core /  
Celeron® dual-core / Celeron® Processors  
Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors  
Intel® 45nm Multi-Core CPU support  
* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list  
Chipset  
Intel® P45 / ICH10R with Intel® Fast Memory Access  
Technology  
System Bus  
Memory  
1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz  
4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR2 1200 / 1066 / 800 /  
667 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory  
Dual channel memory architecture  
* Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the  
Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).  
** When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more,  
Windows 32-bit operation system may onlyl recognize  
less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less  
than 3GB is recommended.  
Expansion Slots  
2 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots, support ATI CrossFireX™  
technology at x8 link (PCIe x16_1 blue, PCIe x16_2  
black*)  
1 x PCI Express x16 slot at max. x4 link (black)  
2 x PCI Express x1 slots  
2 x PCI slots  
*PCIe 2.0 x16_2 slot (black, at max. x8 link)  
Multi-GPU Support  
Storage  
Supports ATI CrossFireX™ technology, up to Quad  
CrossFireX™  
Intel® ICH10R Southbridge:  
-
-
6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports  
Intel® Matrix Storage supporting SATA RAID 0,1,  
5, and 10  
Marvell 88SE6121 controller:  
-
-
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices  
1 x External SATA 3.0 Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)  
Silicon Image SIL5723 controller (Drive Xpert  
technology):  
-
-
2 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports  
Supports EZ Backup and Super Speed  
LAN  
Dual Gigabit LAN controllers  
Marvell® 88E8056 / 88E8001 Gigabit LAN controller  
featuring AI NET2, Teaming and Redundant  
IEEE 1394  
LSI® L-FW3227 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports  
(one at midboard; one at back panel)  
(continued on the next page)  
xii  
 
P5Q-E specifications summary  
Audio  
ADI® AD2000B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC  
-
Supports Jack-Detecting, Multi-streaming, and Front  
Panel Jack-Retasking  
-
-
-
Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O  
ASUS AI Audio 2  
ASUS Noise-Filtering  
USB  
12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back  
panel)  
ASUS Unique Features  
ASUS Exclusive Features:  
-
-
ASUS 8-Phase Power Design  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS Power Saving Solution:  
-
-
ASUS EPU-6 Engine  
ASUS AI Nap  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:  
-
-
-
ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution  
ASUS Fanless Design: Stack Cool 2  
ASUS Fan Xpert  
ASUS EZ DIY:  
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS Drive Xpert  
ASUS DieHard BIOS  
ASUS Q-Shield  
ASUS Q-Connector  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS AI Direct Llink  
ASUS Onboard Switch  
ASUS Stylish Features  
ASUS MyLogo3™  
ASUS Exclusive  
Overclocking Features  
ASUS AI Booster utility  
Precision Tweaker 2:  
-
vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.00625V  
increment  
-
-
-
-
vDIMM: 64-step DRAM voltage control  
vChipset (N.B.): 55-step chipset voltage control  
vCPU PLL: 64-step CPU PLL voltage control  
vFSB Termination: 40-step voltage control  
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)  
-
FSB tuning from 200MHz up to 800MHz at 1MHz  
increment  
-
PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz up to  
180MHz at 1MHz increment  
Overclocking Protection:  
ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)  
(continued on the next page)  
-
xiii  
P5Q-E specifications summary  
Back Panel I/O Ports  
1 x PS/2 Keyboard / Mouse combo port  
1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial + Optical) port  
1 x External SATA port  
1 x IEEE1394a port  
2 x RJ45 ports  
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
8-channel Audio I/O ports  
Internal I/O Connectors  
3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports  
1 x Floppy disk drive connector  
1 x COM connector  
1 x IDE connector  
6 x SATA connectors (Red)  
1 x CPU Fan connector  
3 x Chassis Fan connectors  
1 x Power Fan connector  
1 x IEEE1394a connector  
Front panel audio connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out Header  
Chassis Intrusion connector  
CD audio in  
2 x Drive Xpert SATA connectors (Orange)  
24-pin ATX Power connector  
8-pin ATX 12V Power connectors  
System Panel (Q-Connector)  
1 x TPM connector  
1 x Power on switch  
1 x Reset switch  
BIOS Features  
Manageability  
16 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.4  
WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE,  
Chassis Intrusion  
Support DVD Contents  
Drivers  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS PC Probe II  
ASUS Update  
ASUS AI Suite  
Image-Editing Suite  
Anti-virus software (OEM version)  
Form Factor  
ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xiv  
This chapter describes the motherboard  
features and the new technologies it  
supports.  
Product  
1
introduction  
 
Chapter summary  
1
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
ASUS P5Q-E  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5Q-E motherboard!  
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it  
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!  
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the  
items in your package with the list below.  
1.2  
Package contents  
Check your motherboard package for the following items.  
Motherboard  
I/O modules  
Cables  
ASUS P5Q-E  
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port 1394 (4-pin) module  
1 x 2-port Serial ATA power cables  
6 x Serial ATA signal cables  
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable  
1 x Floppy disk drive cable  
Accessories  
1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield)  
1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1394, system  
panel; Retail version only)  
Application DVD  
Documentation  
ASUS motherboard support DVD  
User guide  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
1-1  
 
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
Green ASUS  
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction  
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision  
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packagings to safeguard  
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.  
Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad /  
Core™2 Duo Processor Support  
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad /  
Core™ 2 Duo processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking,  
multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz FSB. The  
Intel® Core™ 2 series processor is one of the most powerful CPUs in the world.  
This motherboard also supports Intel® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing  
process. See page 2-5 for details.  
Intel P45 Chipset  
The Intel® P45 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support dual-  
channel DDR2 800 / 667 architecture, 1333 / 1066 / 800 FSB (Front Side Bus),  
PCIe 2.0, and multi-core CPUs. It especially includes Intel® Fast Memory Access  
technology that significantly optimizes the use of available memory bandwidth and  
reduces the latency of the memory accesses.  
PCIe 2.0  
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed  
and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward  
compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices. See page 2-20–2-21 for details.  
Serial ATA 3 Gb/s technology and SATA-On-The-Go  
This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3 Gb/s  
storage specification, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus  
bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SATA port located  
at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos,  
videos and other entertainment contents to external devices. See page 2-26 and  
2-29 for details.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
 
Dual Gigabit LAN solution  
The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network  
gateway for managing traffic between two separate networks. This capability  
ensures rapid transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or  
latency. See page 2-25 for details.  
1.3.2  
ASUS unique features  
ASUS Express Gate  
Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop  
gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS. You can utilize the  
most popular Instant Messengers (IM) like MSN, Skype, Google talk, QQ, and  
Yahoo! Messenger to keep in touch with friends, or quickly check on the weather  
and e-mails just before leaving your house. What’s more, the user-friendly picture  
manager lets you view your pictures without entering Windows at anytime! See  
page 3-40 and 4-50 for details.  
ASUS 8-Phase Power Design  
Longer life & higher efficiency!  
With power efficiency so important to operating temperature, ASUS’ 8-phase  
VRM design leads the industry with its 96% power efficiency. High quality power  
components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs for minimum switching loss & lower  
temperature, Ferrite core chokes with lower hysteresis loss, and high quality  
Japanese-made conductive polymer capacitors all add up to ensure longer  
component life and lower power loss—creating more energy efficiency.  
ASUS Power Saving Solution  
ASUS Power Saving solution intelligently and automatically provides balanced  
computing power and energy consumption.  
ASUS EPU-6 Engine  
The new ASUS EPU—the world’s first power saving engine, has been  
upgraded to a new 6 engine version, which provides total system power  
savings by detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating power  
in real-time. With auto phase switching for components (which includes the  
CPU, VGA card, memory, chipset, hard drives and CPU cooler / system  
fans), the EPU automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via  
intelligent acceleration and overclocking - helping save power and money.  
See page 4-24 for details.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
1-3  
 
AI Nap  
With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise  
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS  
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key. See page 4-20 for  
details.  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution  
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the  
overclocking capability.  
Fanless Design—Stack Cool 2  
ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers  
the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard  
uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat  
these critical components generate.  
Fanless Design—Heat-pipe solution  
The Heat Pipe design effectively directs the heat generated by the chipsets to  
the heatsink near the back IO ports, where it can be carried away by existing  
airflow from CPU fan or bundled optional fan. The purpose of the innovative  
heat pipe design on this motherboard is that the groundbreaking fanless  
design does not have lifetime problems as a chipset fan does. Furthermore, it  
provides options for users to install side-flow fan or passive cooler. The Heat  
Pipe design is the most reliable fanless thermal solution to date.  
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and  
affect the heat dissipation performance.  
For optimal cooling performance, remove the protect film attached on the  
ICH10R southbridge before use.  
Fan Xpert  
ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis  
fan speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused  
by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and system  
loading. Built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to  
achieve a quiet and cool environment. See page 4-21 for details.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
ASUS Crystal Sound  
This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game,  
video conference and recording.  
ASUS AI Audio 2  
AI Audio 2 creates a virtual center channel that expands the overall sound  
field without introducing a picket fencing effect. Preserving the dialogue or  
solo performances with downmixing from multichannels will allow you to  
experience true-to-life high quality audio. See page 4-30 for details.  
Noise Filter  
This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like  
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates  
it in the incoming audio stream while recording. See page 4-33 for details.  
ASUS EZ DIY  
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer  
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.  
ASUS Drive Xpert  
Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for  
anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive  
performances without the hassles of complicated configurations. With Drive  
Xpert’s user-friendly graphical user interface, users can easily arrange hard  
drive backups or enhance their hard drive transfer rates—making sure that  
data is looked after every moment, every day. See page 3-39, 4-39 and 4-58  
for details.  
ASUS DieHard BIOS  
The AUS DieHard BIOS consists of two BIOS chips, a main BIOS and a  
backup BIOS. The ASUS DieHard BIOS can restore corrupted main BIOS  
data from the backup BIOS automatically. The technology saves users the  
hassle of recovering the BIOS file or buying a replacement BIOS chip.  
ASUS Onboard Switch  
With an easy press during overclock, this exclusive onboard switch allows  
gamer to effortless fine-tune the performance without having to short the pins  
or moving jumpers! See page 2-24 for details.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
1-5  
ASUS AI Direct Link  
AI Direct Link can easily and efficiently transfer large amounts of data via  
the network cable - saving up to 70% of the total time taken. With AI Direct  
Link, it becomes easy to backup or share large data files like movies or other  
media content. See page 4-28 for details.  
ASUS Q-Shield  
The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “fingers”—  
making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity,  
it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it  
against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).  
ASUS Q-Connector  
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis  
front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the  
trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding  
wrong cable connections. See page 2-39 for details.  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to  
conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be  
stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and  
distribute their favorite settings. See page 3-41 for details.  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predefined  
hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS.  
Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an  
OS-based flash utility. See page 3-4 for details.  
ASUS MyLogo3™  
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for  
a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 3-35 and 4-9 for details.  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
1.3.3  
ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking  
features  
AI Booster  
The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows  
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 4-23 for details.  
Precision Tweaker 2  
Allows the user to adjust the NB Voltage, FSB termination Voltage, CPU PLL  
Voltage and the DRAM Voltage in 0.02v steps to finetune voltages to achieve the  
most precise setting for the ultimate customized overclocking configuration. See  
page 3-20–3-21 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 P5Q-E  
1-7  
 
1-8  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
This chapter lists the hardware setup  
procedures that you have to perform  
when installing system components. It  
includes description of the jumpers and  
connectors on the motherboard.  
Hardware  
2
information  
 
Chapter summary  
2
2.1  
2.2  
2.3  
2.4  
2.5  
2.6  
2.7  
2.8  
2.9  
2.10  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-5  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-11  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-18  
Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-22  
Onboard switches...................................................................... 2-24  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25  
Starting up for the first time...................................................... 2-40  
Turning off the computer........................................................... 2-41  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2.1  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components  
or change any motherboard settings.  
•
•
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any  
component.  
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or  
a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling  
components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.  
•
•
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.  
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded  
antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.  
•
Before you install or remove any component, 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.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-1  
 
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
2.2.1  
Motherboard layout  
Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and  
internal connectors.  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.2.2  
Layout contents  
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots  
Page  
2-36  
2-6  
1.  
2.  
3.  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin ATX12V)  
LGA775 CPU Socket  
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN;  
3-pin CHA_FAN1-3; 3-pin PWR_FAN)  
2-33  
4.  
DDR2 DIMM slots  
2-11  
2-23  
5.  
CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin  
OV_NB)  
6.  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
ICH10R Serial ATA connectors [red] (7-pin SATA1-6)  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
2-34  
2-27  
2-29  
2-28  
2-30  
7.  
8.  
9.  
10.  
SIL5723 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA_E1 [orange, port 0];  
SATA_E2 [white, port 1]  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
16.  
17.  
18.  
19.  
20.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
2-22  
2-38  
2-24  
2-27  
2-31  
2-34  
2-32  
2-37  
2-35  
2-37  
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
Power-on and Reset switch  
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910)  
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)  
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-3  
 
2.2.3  
Placement direction  
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the  
correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis  
as indicated in the image below.  
2.2.4  
Screw holes  
Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard  
to the chassis.  
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.  
Place this side towards  
the rear of the chassis  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.3  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel®  
Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core / Celeron® dual-core /  
Celeron® Processors.  
•
•
Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.  
If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the  
CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability.  
•
Due to the chipset limitation, we recommend you use FSB 800MHz CPU or  
above.  
•
Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on  
the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer  
immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP  
cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost  
of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related.  
•
•
Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return  
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes  
with the cap on the LGA775 socket.  
The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts  
resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/  
incorrect removal of the PnP cap.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-5  
 
2.3.1  
Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU:  
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you  
and the load lever is on your left.  
2.  
Press the load lever with your  
thumb (A), then move it to the left  
(B) until it is released from the  
retention tab.  
Retention tab  
A
B
To prevent damage to the socket  
pins, do not remove the PnP cap  
unless you are installing a CPU.  
Load lever  
3.  
4.  
Lift the load lever in the direction of  
the arrow to a 135º angle.  
PnP cap  
Load plate  
Lift the load plate with your thumb  
and forefinger to a 100º angle (4A),  
then push the PnP cap from the  
load plate window to remove (4B).  
4B  
4A  
3
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
5.  
Position the CPU over the socket,  
making sure that the gold triangle  
is on the bottom-left corner of the  
socket then fit the socket alignment  
key into the CPU notch.  
CPU notch  
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!  
Gold  
triangle  
mark  
Alignment key  
6.  
Apply several drops of thermal paste  
to the exposed area of the CPU that  
the heatsink will be in contact with,  
ensuring that it is spread in an even  
thin layer.  
Some heatsinks come with pre-  
applied thermal paste. If so, skip  
this step.  
The Thermal Interface Material is toxic and inedible. If it gets into your eyes  
or touches your skin, ensure to wash it off immediately, and seek professional  
medical help.  
To prevent contaminating the paste, DO NOT spread the paste with your finger  
directly.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-7  
7.  
Close the load plate (A), then push  
the load lever (B) until it snaps into  
the retention tab.  
A
B
The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced  
Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology  
(EIST), and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more  
information on these CPU features.  
2-8  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3.2  
Installing the CPU heatsink and fan  
The Intel® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan  
assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.  
•
When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan  
and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you  
use only Intel®-certified multi-directional heatsink and fan.  
•
Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design  
and requires no tool to install.  
Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you  
install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly.  
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that the  
Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU  
before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan  
A
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the  
installed CPU, making sure that the  
four fasteners match the holes on  
the motherboard.  
B
B
2.  
Push down two fasteners at a time  
in a diagonal sequence to secure  
the heatsink and fan assembly in  
place.  
A
A
B
1
B
A
1
Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to  
the CPU fan connector.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-9  
 
3.  
Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled  
CPU_FAN.  
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors  
can occur if you fail to plug this connector.  
2.3.3  
Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan  
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan  
A
1.  
2.  
3.  
Disconnect the CPU fan cable from  
the connector on the motherboard.  
B
Rotate each fastener  
counterclockwise.  
B
Pull up two fasteners at a time in a  
diagonal sequence to disengage the  
heatsink and fan assembly from the  
motherboard.  
A
A
B
B
A
4.  
Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.  
2-10  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.4  
System memory  
2.4.1  
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:  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-11  
 
2.4.2  
Memory configurations  
You may install 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB and 4GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR2  
DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.  
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The  
system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel  
configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then  
mapped for single-channel operation.  
•
•
It is recommended to install the memory modules from the yellow slots for  
better overclocking capability.  
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum  
compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the  
same vendor.  
•
If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may only recognize  
less than 3GB because the address space is reserved for other critical  
functions. This limitation appears on Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation  
system which does not support Physical Address Extension (PAE).  
•
•
If you install Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system, a total memory of  
less than 3GB is recommended.  
This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb  
chips.  
•
Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to 16 GB  
on the operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of 4 GB  
DIMMs on each slot.  
64-bit  
Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition  
Windows® Vista x64 Edition  
•
•
The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its SPD. Under  
the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a  
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-  
marked or at a higher frequency, see section 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu for  
manual memory frequency adjustment.  
The memory modules may require a better cooling system to work stably  
under full loading (4 DIMMs) or overclocking setting.  
2-12  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
P5Q-E Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-1066MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
CL  
Chip  
Brand  
SS/ Part No.  
DS  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
A*  
•
B*  
C*  
1GB  
APACER  
N/A  
N/A  
APACER DS  
78.0AG9S.9KF  
•
2GB (Kit of 2)  
CORSAIR  
Heat-Sink Package  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
DS  
DS  
DS  
Box P/N: TWIN2X2048-8500C5  
(CM2X1024-8500C5)(EPP)  
•
4GB (Kit of 2)  
CORSAIR  
Heat-Sink Package  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
Box P/N:TWIN2X4096-8500C5DF  
(CM2X2048-8500C5D)(EPP)  
•
•
1GB  
CORSAIR  
CRUCIAL  
CRUCIAL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
GEIL  
Heat-Sink Package  
100258  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
CM2X1024-8500C5D(EPP)  
BL12864AL1065.8FE5  
BL12864AA1065.16FD5  
F2-8500CL5D-2GBPK  
F2-8500CL5D-4GBPK  
F2-8500CL5S-1GBPK  
GB22GB8500C5DC  
GE22GB1066C5DC  
GE24GB1066C5QC  
GB24GB8500C5DC  
GB24GB8500C5QC  
GE24GB1066C5DC  
GX24GB8500C5UDC  
HYMP564U64FP8-G7 AB  
HYMP 512U64FP8-G7  
KLEE88F-B8KB5  
•
•
1GB  
CRUCIAL SS  
CRUCIAL DS  
1GB  
97533  
•
•
2GB (Kit of 2)  
4GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
GL2L128M88BA25AB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
GL2L128M88BA25AB  
GL2L128M88BA25AB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
HY5PS12821F  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 GEIL  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 GEIL  
5-5-5-15 GEIL  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1GB  
2GB (Kit of 2)  
4GB (Kit of 4)  
2GB  
GEIL  
•
•
GEIL  
GEIL  
•
•
1GB  
GEIL  
4GB (Kit of 2)  
4GB (Kit of 2)  
512MB  
GEIL  
N/A  
N/A  
•
•
•
•
GEIL  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
HYNIX  
N/A  
N/A  
HYNIX  
HYNIX  
•
•
1GB  
Hynix  
HY5PS12821FFP-G7  
2GB  
KINGMAX  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
Kingston  
MICRON  
OCZ  
KKB8FFBXF-CFP-18A N/A  
KINGMAX DS  
512MB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
E5108AJBG -1J-E  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
KHX8500D2/ 512  
1GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB  
N/A  
KHX8500D2K2/1G  
•
•
N/A  
KHX8500D2K2/1GN(EPP)  
KHX8500D2/1G  
•
N/A  
2GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB  
N/A  
KHX8500D2K2/2GN(EPP)  
KVR1066D2N7/1G  
N/A  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB  
Kingston  
N/A  
KVR1066D2N7K2/2G  
MT8HTF12864AY-1GAEZES  
HOCZ2RPR10662GK  
OCZ2N1066SR2GK(EPP)  
HYS64T64000EU-19F-C  
HYS64T128020EU-1.9-C  
HYS64T128020EU-19F-C  
TX1066QLU-2GK  
Z9JKJ  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2GB  
N/A  
N/A  
•
2GB (Kit of 2)  
512MB  
OCZ  
Heat-Sink Package  
N/A  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Transcend  
Elixir  
HYB18T 512800CF19F N/A  
HYB18T 512800CF19 N/A  
HYB18T 512800CF19F N/A  
QIMONDA SS  
QIMONDA DS  
•
•
•
1GB  
1GB  
N/A  
DS  
SS  
DS  
2GB (Kit of 2)  
1GB  
Heat-Sink Package  
N2TU 51280CE-BD  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
ELIXIR  
M2Y1G64TU8HC4B-BD  
7YDI2  
1GB  
KINGBOX  
mushikin  
PQI  
MICRON DS  
1GB  
N/A  
N/A  
PQI  
DS  
SS  
996535  
512MB  
Heat-Sink Package  
PQI28500-1024DB  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-13  
P5Q-E Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-800MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
CL  
Chip Brand SS/ Part No.  
DS  
DIMM socket  
support (Optional)  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
512MB  
1GB  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
Apacer  
Apacer  
Apacer  
CORSAIR  
Crucial  
AD29608A8A-25EG  
AD26908A8A-25EG  
AD20908A8A-25EG  
AM4B5708JQJS8E  
AM4B5808CQJS8E  
AM4B5808CQJS8E  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
N/A  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53  
M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58  
M2OAD6H3J4171Q1E52  
78.91G9I.9K5  
•
N/A  
•
•
2GB  
A-DATA  
APACER  
APACER  
APACER  
N/A  
•
•
512MB  
1GB  
•
•
•
78.01GA0.9K5  
•
•
2GB  
78.A1GA0.9K4  
•
•
1GB  
4
CM2X1024-6400C4  
BL12864AA804.16FD  
BL12864AL804.16FD3  
•
•
1GB  
4
N/A  
•
•
•
•
1GB  
Crucial  
4
N/A  
•
•
1GB  
1GB  
1GB  
1GB  
1GB  
Crucial  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
GE24GB800C5DC  
GE28GB800C5QC  
GE28GB800C4QC  
GE24GB800C4DC  
GB24GB6400C5DC  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A  
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A  
KKB8FFBXF-CFA-25A  
4
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
BL12864AA804.16FD3  
F2-6400CL4D-2GBPK  
F2-6400CL5D-2GBNQ  
F2-6400PHU2-2GBNR  
F2-6400CL4D-2GBHK  
F2-6400CL4D-4GBPK  
F2-6400CL6D-4GBMQ  
F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
GL2L128M88BA25AB  
HYMP564U64CP8-S5  
HYMP512U64CP8-S5  
KLDC28F-A8KI5  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
G.SKILL  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
4
•
4GB (Kit of 2) G.SKILL  
4GB (Kit of 2) G.SKILL  
4GB (Kit of 2) G.SKILL  
•
•
•
6
5
2GB  
GEIL  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
5-5-5-15 N/A  
4-4-4-12 N/A  
4-4-4-12 N/A  
5-5-5-15 GEIL  
2GB  
GEIL  
2GB  
GEIL  
2GB  
GEIL  
•
•
•
2GB  
GEIL  
512MB  
1GB  
Hynix  
5-5-5  
5-5-5  
N/A  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Hynix  
512MB  
1GB  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX SS  
KINGMAX DS  
KINGMAX DS  
•
•
•
•
N/A  
KLDD48F-ABKI5  
2GB  
N/A  
KLDE88F-B8KB5  
512MB  
512MB  
1GB  
KINGSTON E5108AJBG-8E-E  
KINGSTON E5108AJBG-8E-E  
KINGSTON Heat-Sink Package  
KINGSTON Heat-Sink Package  
KINGSTON V59C1512804QBF25  
KINGSTON E5108AJBG-8E-E  
KINGSTON E1108ACBG-8E-E  
N/A  
ELPIDA  
ELPIDA  
SS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
KVR800D2N5/512  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
N/A  
KVR800D2N6/512  
4-4-4-12 N/A  
KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN(EPP)  
KHX6400D2ULK2/1G  
KVR800D2N5/1G  
1GB  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
N/A  
1GB  
N/A  
•
•
•
•
1GB  
ELPIDA  
ELPIDA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
KVR800D2N6/1G  
2GB  
KVR800D2N5/2G  
512MB  
1GB  
NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
OCZ  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
NT5TU64M8CE-25D  
NT5TU128M8CE-AC  
Heat-Sink Package  
NT512T64U880BY-25C  
NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C  
NT1GT64U8HCOBY-25D  
NT2GT64U8HC0BY-AC  
OCZ2P8004GK  
5
1GB  
N/A  
5
•
•
2GB  
2GB  
5-4-4-15 N/A  
2GB (Kit of 2) OCZ  
4GB (Kit of 2) OCZ  
Heat-Sink Package  
4
N/A  
N/A  
PSC  
OCZ2P800R22GK  
Heat-Sink Package  
5-4-4  
5
OCZ2P8004GK  
•
•
2GB  
2GB  
2GB  
512MB  
1GB  
1GB  
4GB  
2GB  
512MB  
1GB  
1GB  
1GB  
PSC  
A3R1GE3CFF734MAA0E  
HYB18T1G800C2F-25F  
HYB18T1G800C2F-2.5  
AL8E8F73C-8E1  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
5
QIMONDA DS  
QIMONDA DS  
SAMSUNG SS  
SAMSUNG SS  
SAMSUNG DS  
SAMSUNG DS  
SAMSUNG DS  
HYS64T256020EU-25F-C2  
HYS64T256020EU-2.5-C2  
M378T6553GZS-CF7  
M378T2863QZS-CF7  
M378T2953GZ3-CF7  
M378T5263AZ3-CF7  
M391T5663QZ3-CF7  
T800UA12C4  
6
•
•
SAMSUNG K4T51083QG  
SAMSUNG K4T1G084QQ  
SAMSUNG K4T51083QG  
SAMSUNG K4T2G084QA-HCF7  
SAMSUNG K4T1G084QQ  
Super Talent Heat-Sink Package  
Super Talent Heat-Sink Package  
6
6
6
6
•
•
•
•
6
N/A  
N/A  
5
N/A  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
N/A  
T800UB1GC4  
Aeneon  
Aeneon  
AET03R25DC  
AET93R25DB  
Aeneon  
Aeneon  
AET760UD00-25DC08X  
AET760UD00-25DB97X  
N/A  
•
2-14  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
P5Q-E Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-800MHz capability (cont.)  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
CL  
Chip Brand SS/  
DS  
Part No.  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
2GB  
1GB  
2GB  
512MB  
1GB  
1GB  
1GB  
512MB  
1GB  
2GB  
1GB  
2GB  
Aeneon  
Asint  
AET03R25DC  
DDRII1208-GE  
DDRII1208-GE  
5
Aeneon  
Asint  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
AET860UD00-25DC08X  
SLY2128M8-JGE  
SLZ2128M8-JGE  
28V2H8  
•
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
•
•
Asint  
Asint  
•
•
•
•
CENTURY HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
CENTURY HY5PS12821BFP-S5  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Elixir  
•
•
28VOH8  
•
Elixir  
N2TU51280BE-25C  
64M8PC6400  
M2Y1G64TU8HB0B-25C  
04701G16CZ5D2A  
PSD251280081  
PSD21G8002  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Oci  
5
Jnfinity  
N/A  
•
Patriot  
Patriot  
Patriot  
UMAX  
UMAX  
PM64M8D2BU-25EC  
PM64M8D2BU-25PAC  
PM128M8D2BU-25KC  
U2S12D30TP-8E  
N/A  
5
•
Patriot  
Patriot  
UMAX  
UMAX  
•
5
PSD22GB002  
•
•
•
N/A  
N/A  
D48001GP3-63BJU  
D48002GP0-73BCU  
•
U2S12D30TP-8E  
•
P5Q-E Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-667MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
CL  
Chip Brand SS/  
DS  
Part No.  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
A*  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
B*  
•
C*  
•
512MB A-DATA  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
AM4B5708JQJS7E  
AM4B5808CQJS7E  
AM4B5808CQJS7E  
64M8CFEG  
5
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
N/A  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52  
M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52  
M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z  
78.91G92.9K5  
1GB  
2GB  
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
5
•
•
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
3
•
•
512MB Apacer  
APACER  
APACER  
APACER  
N/A  
•
•
1GB  
2GB  
Apacer  
Apacer  
78.01G9O.9K5  
•
•
78.A1G9O.9K4  
•
512MB CORSAIR  
1GB CORSAIR  
512MB crucial  
VS512MB667D2  
•
64M8CFEG  
N/A  
VS1GB667D2  
•
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
E5108AE-6E-E  
N/A  
BL6464AA663.8FD  
BL12864AA663.16FD  
BL12864AL664.16FD  
EBE51UD8AEFA-6E-E  
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5  
KLCC28F-A8KB5  
•
1GB  
1GB  
crucial  
crucial  
3
N/A  
3
N/A  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
512MB ELPIDA  
1GB Hynix  
512MB Kingmax  
1GB Kingmax  
512MB KINGSTON  
5
ELPIDA  
Hynix  
•
•
•
•
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
D6408TEBGGL3U  
E5108AGBG-6E-E  
E1108AB-6E-E  
5
5
KINGMAX SS  
KINGMAX DS  
KINGSTON SS  
KINGSTON DS  
5
KLCD48F-A8KB5  
5
KVR667D2N5/512  
KVR667D2N5/1G  
1GB  
2GB  
2GB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
5
ELPIDA  
Hynix  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
KVR667D2N5/2G  
HY5PS1G831CFP-Y5  
NT5TU64M8BE-3C  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
A3R12E3JFF719A9T02  
HYB18T1GB00C2F-3S  
K4T51083QE  
KVR667D2N5/2G  
512MB NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
PSC  
NT512T64U88B0BY-3C  
NT2GT64U8HB0JY-3C  
AL7E8E63J-6E1  
•
2GB  
1GB  
2GB  
NANYA  
PSC  
5
5
•
•
•
•
•
Qimonda  
5
QIMONDA DS  
SAMSUNG SS  
SAMSUNG DS  
SAMSUNG DS  
HYS64T256020EU-3S-C2  
M378T6553EZS-CE6  
M378T2953EZ3-CE6  
M378T5263AZ3-CE6  
T6UA512C5  
512MB SAMSUNG  
5
1GB  
4GB  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
K4T51083QE  
5
K4T2G084QA-HCE6  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
TMM6208G8M30C  
AET93R300B  
5
512MB Super Talent  
1GB Super Talent  
5
N/A  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
5
N/A  
T6UB1GC5  
•
512MB TwinMOS  
512MB Aeneon  
5
TwinMOS  
AENEON  
AENEON  
AENEON  
8D-23JK5M2ETP  
5
AET660UD00-30DB97X  
AET760UD00-30B97X  
AET860UD00-30DB08X  
1GB  
2GB  
Aeneon  
Aeneon  
AET93R30DB  
5
•
•
AET03F30DB  
5
•
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-15  
P5Q-E Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-667MHz capability (cont.)  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
CL  
Chip Brand SS/  
DS  
Part No.  
DIMM socket support  
(Optional)  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
•
512MB Asint  
1GB Asint  
512MB CENTURY  
DDRII6408-6E  
N/A  
N/A  
5
Asint  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SLX264M8-J6E  
SLY2128M8-J6E  
26V2H8  
DDRII1208-6E  
Asint  
•
•
•
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
EPD264082200E-4  
18D51280D-30648  
18D51280D-30646E  
PM64M8D2BU-3KC  
PM64M8D2BU-3PAC  
U2S12D30TP-6E  
U2S24D30TP-6E  
Hynix  
Hynix  
Kingbox  
MDT  
•
•
•
1GB  
1GB  
CENTURY  
Kingbox  
5
26VOH8  
•
•
•
N/A  
4
N/A  
•
•
•
512MB MDT  
1GB MDT  
512MB Patriot  
M512-667-8  
•
•
4
MDT  
M924-667-16  
PSD251266781  
PSD21G6672  
D46701GP3-63BJU  
D46702GP0-73BCU  
•
•
N/A  
5
N/A  
•
•
•
•
•
•
1GB  
1GB  
2GB  
Patriot  
UMAX  
UMAX  
Patriot  
UMAX  
UMAX  
•
•
N/A  
N/A  
•
•
•
•
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided  
DIMM support:  
•
•
•
A*: Supports one module inserted into either slot as Single-channel  
memory configuration.  
B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the  
black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration.  
C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow slots and the  
black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration.  
Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.  
2-16  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.4.3  
Installing a DIMM  
Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or  
other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both  
the motherboard and the components.  
2
1.  
2.  
Unlock a DDR2 DIMM socket  
by pressing the retaining clips  
outward.  
DDR2 DIMM notch  
Align a DIMM on the socket  
1
such that the notch on the DIMM  
matches the break on the socket.  
1
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.  
3.  
Firmly insert the DIMM into the  
socket until the retaining clips snap  
back in place and the DIMM is  
properly seated.  
Locked Retaining Clip  
2.4.4  
Removing a DIMM  
2
Follow these steps to remove a DIMM.  
1
1.  
Simultaneously press the  
retaining clips outward to unlock  
the DIMM.  
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 P5Q-E  
2-17  
 
2.5  
Expansion slots  
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections  
describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.  
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion  
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard  
components.  
2.5.1  
Installing an expansion card  
To install an expansion card:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with  
it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a  
chassis).  
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw  
for later use.  
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is  
completely seated on the slot.  
5.  
6.  
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.  
Replace the system cover.  
2.5.2  
Configuring an expansion card  
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings.  
1.  
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See  
Chapter 3 for information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
3.  
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.  
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.  
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share  
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will  
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card  
inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details.  
2-18  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.5.3  
Interrupt assignments  
Standard interrupt assignments  
IRQ  
0
Priority Standard function  
1
2
System Timer  
1
Keyboard Controller  
2
–
Redirect to IRQ#9  
4
12  
13  
14  
15  
3
Communications Port (COM1)*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
Floppy Disk Controller  
Reserved  
5
6
7
8
System CMOS/Real Time Clock  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
Reserved  
9
4
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
5
6
7
8
Numeric Data Processor  
Primary IDE Channel  
9
* These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices.  
IRQ assignments for this motherboard  
A
B
C
D
E
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
F
G
H
PCIE1_1  
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
PCIE1_2  
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
PCIE16_1  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIE16_2  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIE16_3  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
LAN (8056)  
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
LAN (8001)  
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
Marvell 6121  
PCI_1  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCI_2  
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
USB controller 1  
USB controller 2  
USB controller 3  
USB controller 4  
USB controller 5  
USB controller 6  
USB 2.0 controller 1  
USB 2.0 controller 2  
SATA controller 1  
SATA controller 2  
Audio Azalia  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
shared  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
–
shared  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-19  
 
2.5.4  
PCI slots  
The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other  
cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location  
of the slots.  
2.5.5  
PCI Express x1 slots  
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other  
cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for  
the location of the slots.  
2.5.6  
PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots  
This motherboard has two PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express  
2.0 x16 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the  
figure below for the location of the slots.  
2.5.7  
Universal PCI Express x16 slot  
This motherboard also supports one Universal PCI Express x16 slot with a  
maximum speed of x4 link. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slot.  
Universal PCIe x16_3 slot (black, at max. x4 link)  
PCIe 2.0 x16_2 slot (black, at max. x8 link)  
PCI2 slot  
PCIe x1_2 slot  
PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (blue)  
PCI1 slot  
PCIe x1_1 slot  
2-20  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
•
•
•
•
•
•
In single VGA card mode, use first the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (blue) for a PCI  
Express x16 graphics card to get better performance.  
In CrossFireX™ mode, use the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 (blue) and PCIe 2.0 x16_2  
(black) slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance.  
Use the two PCIe 2.0 x16 slots and the universal PCIe x16 slot for 3-Way  
CrossFireX™ mode.  
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running  
CrossFireX™ mode. See page 2-36 for details.  
If one of the PCIe x1 slots is occupied, the universal PCI Express x16 slot  
(black) will downgrade to max. x1 speed.  
Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled  
CHA_FAN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal  
environment. See page 2-33 for details.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-21  
2.6  
Jumpers  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin 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. 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.  
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
4. 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!  
•
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move  
the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS  
clearance, reinstall the battery.  
•
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.  
•
Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R.  
function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the  
power cord before rebooting the system.  
2-22  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.  
CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin OV_NB)  
These jumpers allow you to enable or disable the advanced CPU and  
Northbridge overvoltage settings in BIOS. Read the following information  
before you change the jumper settings. Set to pins 1-2 to activate the  
advanced CPU / Northbridge overvoltage feature.  
OV_CPU  
OV_NB  
Pins 2-3 (Default)  
up to 1.70V  
up to 2.10V  
up to 1.9V  
up to 2.2V  
Pins 1-2 (OV Enabled)  
•
Before you change the jumper settings for extra-high overvoltage ability,  
use the BIOS items introduced in 3.4 Ai Tweaker first to adjust the desired  
CPU and Northbridge performance. Make sure your system function well  
under the highest BIOS voltage settings before you change the setting of  
these two jumpers.  
•
•
Refer to 3.4 Ai Tweaker for more information about CPU and Northbridge  
overvoltage settings.  
DO NOT set the OV_CPU jumper to pins 1-2 when you install a new CPU  
and have not booted for the first time. Doing so may cause the system to  
halt. For system failure due to the wrong setting of the OV_CPU jumper,  
shut down the computer and move the cap back to pins 2-3.  
•
The system may need a better cooling system (for example, a water-cooling  
system) to work stably under high voltage settings.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-23  
2.7  
Onboard switches  
Onboard switches allow you to power on or reboot system quickly and conveniently  
when you want to fine-tune performance on a bare or open-case system.  
1.  
Power-on switch  
Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system.  
2.  
Reset switch  
Press the reset switch to reboot the system.  
2-24  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.8  
Connectors  
2.8.1  
Rear panel connectors  
1.  
2.  
3.  
PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port. This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or  
mouse.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via a coaxial S/PDIF cable.  
LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. Supported by Marvell® LAN controller, this port allows  
Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.  
Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.  
4.  
5.  
IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed  
connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable  
devices.  
LAN 1 (RJ-45) port*. Supported by Marvell® LAN controller, this port allows  
Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.  
Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.  
*To compliant with Energy Star 4.0, this port does not support WOL  
(Wake on LAN) function.  
LAN port LED indications  
ACT/LINK SPEED  
LED LED  
Activity Link LED  
Speed LED  
Status  
Status  
Description  
No link  
Description  
OFF  
OFF  
10 Mbps connection  
100 Mbps connection  
1 Gbps connection  
ORANGE  
BLINKING  
Linked  
ORANGE  
GREEN  
Data activity  
LAN port  
6.  
7.  
8.  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer  
speakers.  
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a  
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration..  
Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or  
other audio sources.  
9.  
Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In  
4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port  
becomes Front Speaker Out.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-25  
 
10. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.  
11. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an  
8-channel audio configuration.  
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in  
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.  
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Port  
Headset  
2-channel  
4-channel  
6-channel  
8-channel  
Line In  
Light Blue  
Lime  
Line In  
Line In  
Line In  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Line Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Pink  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Orange  
Black  
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
–
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
–
Gray  
12. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
13. External SATA port. This port connects to an external Serial ATA hard disk  
drive.  
DO NOT insert different connectors to the external SATA ports.  
14. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
15. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via an optical S/PDIF cable.  
16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.8.2  
Internal connectors  
1.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert  
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the  
signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.  
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when  
using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.  
2.  
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) [Optional]  
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can  
securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords, and data. A TPM system  
also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures  
platform integrity.  
The TPM module is purchased separately.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-27  
 
3.  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)  
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable. There  
are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100 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.  
Drive jumper setting  
Mode of  
Cable connector  
device(s)  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
Cable-Select  
-
Black  
Black  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Gray  
Master  
Slave  
Black or gray  
•
•
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the  
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you  
connect the IDE cable.  
Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100 IDE devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
2-28  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
4.  
ICH10R Serial ATA connectors [red] (7-pin SATA1-6)  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk  
drives and optical disc drives.  
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5,  
and 10 configuration with the Intel® Matrix Storage Technology through the  
onboard Intel® ICH10R RAID controller.  
•• These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard  
IDE mode, you can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these  
connectors. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these  
connectors, set the Configure SATA as item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See  
section 3.3.6 Storage Configuration for details.  
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to 4.4.3 Intel RAID configurations or the  
manual bundled in the motherboard support CD.  
•
You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA  
hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10) is  
available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version.  
•
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the Configure SATA as in the BIOS to  
[AHCI]. See section 3.3.6 Storage Configuration for details.  
right angle side  
Connect the right-angle side of SATA  
signal cable to SATA device. Or you may  
connect the right-angle side of SATA  
cable to the onboard SATA port to avoid  
mechanical conflict with huge graphics  
cards.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-29  
5.  
SIL5723 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA_E1 [orange, port 0];  
SATA_E2 [white, port 1])  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard  
disk drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a EZ  
Backup or a Super Speed configuration with the Drive Xpert Technology  
through the onboard Silicon Image® SIL5723 controller.  
SATA_E1 (orange, Port 0)  
SATA_E2 (white, Port 1)  
•
•
The SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2 (white, port 1) ports are for  
SATA hard drives only. ATAPI device is not supported.  
Make necessary backup before using the Drive Xpert function:  
All original data of the SATA_E2 (white, port1) hard drive will be erased for  
EZ Backup setup.  
All original data of the two hard drives will be erased for Super Speed  
setup.  
Before using the Drive Xpert technology, make sure that you have connected  
the SATA signal cables and installed SATA hard disk drives.  
Refer to 4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert for detailed application instructions.  
2-30  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
6.  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB 910, USB1112_WFG)  
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.  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
If your chassis supports front panel USB ports, you can attach a front panel  
USB cable to these connectors. Connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector  
(USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector  
onboard.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-31  
7.  
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)  
This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module  
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back  
of the system chassis.  
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage  
the motherboard!  
You can attach a FireWire/1394 cable to this connector if your chassis suppots  
the front panel IEEE1394 port. Connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q-Connector  
(1394, red) first, and then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector  
onboard.  
2-32  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
8.  
CPU, chassis and power fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN)  
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA ~ 2000 mA (24 W max.)  
or a total of 1 A ~ 7 A (84 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the  
fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each  
cable matches the ground pin of the connector.  
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air  
flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are  
not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!  
•
•
Only the CPU-FAN and CHA-FAN 1-3 connectors support the ASUS Q-Fan  
feature.  
If you install two or more VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the  
rear chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1,  
CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3 for better thermal environment.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-33  
9.  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.  
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this  
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to  
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal  
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.  
By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with  
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the  
chassis intrusion detection feature.  
10. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module  
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back  
of the system chassis.  
2-34  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
11. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that  
supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end  
of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.  
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio  
module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio  
capability.  
If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this  
connector, make sure that the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS is set  
to [HD Audio]. If you want to connect an AC' 97 front panel audio module  
to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. Refer to 3.5.4 Onboard Device  
Configuration for details.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-35  
12. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs  
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper  
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
•
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply  
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version)  
and provides a minimum power of 400 W.  
•
Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise, the  
system will not boot.  
•
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when  
configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system  
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.  
•
•
If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with  
500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability.  
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your  
system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator  
at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.  
aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.  
2-36  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
13. Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)  
This connector allows you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources  
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.  
14. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)  
port(s).  
The S/PDIF out cable is purchased separately.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-37  
15. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
•
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis  
power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when  
you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.  
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)  
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity  
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is  
read from or written to the HDD.  
•
•
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)  
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The  
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.  
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)  
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button  
turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending  
on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds  
while the system is ON turns the system OFF.  
•
Reset button (2-pin RESET)  
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system  
reboot without turning off the system power.  
2-38  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
16. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)  
You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front  
panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the  
ASUS Q-Connector.  
1. Connect the front panel cables to the  
ASUS Q-Connector.  
Refer to the labels on the Q-  
Connector to know the detailed pin  
definitions, then match them to the  
respective front panel cable labels.  
2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the  
system panel connector, making sure  
the orientation matches the labels on  
the motherboard.  
3. The front panel functions are now  
enabled. The figure shows the Q-  
Connector properly installed on the  
motherboard.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-39  
2.9  
Starting up for the first time  
1.  
2.  
3.  
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.  
Be sure that all switches are off.  
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system  
chassis.  
4.  
5.  
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge  
protector.  
Turn on the devices in the following order:  
a. Monitor  
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)  
c. System power  
6.  
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case  
lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up  
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”  
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up  
or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on.  
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are  
running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional  
messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30  
seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed  
a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your  
retailer for assistance.  
BIOS Beep  
Description  
One short beep  
VGA detected  
Quick boot set to disabled  
No keyboard detected  
One continuous beep followed by two  
short beeps then a pause (repeated)  
No memory detected  
One continuous beep followed by three  
short beeps  
No VGA detected  
One continuous beep followed by four  
short beeps  
Hardware component failure  
7.  
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the  
instructions in Chapter 3.  
2-40  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
 
2.10 Turning off the computer  
2.10.1  
Using the OS shut down function  
If you are using Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.  
Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
If you are using Windows® Vista:  
1.  
2.  
Click the Start button then select ShutDown.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
2.10.2  
Using the dual function power switch  
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts  
the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.  
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the  
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.6 Power Menu in  
Chapter 3 for details.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
2-41  
 
2-42  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
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  
3
 
Chapter summary  
3
3.1  
3.2  
3.3  
3.4  
3.5  
3.6  
3.7  
3.8  
3.9  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-7  
Main menu .................................................................................. 3-10  
Ai Tweaker .................................................................................. 3-15  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-23  
Power menu................................................................................ 3-30  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-34  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 3-38  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 3-43  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3.1  
Managing and updating your BIOS  
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic  
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.)  
ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk)  
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk or  
USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the  
original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.  
3.1.1  
ASUS Update utility  
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the  
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you  
to:  
•
•
•
•
•
Save the current BIOS file  
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet  
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file  
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and  
View the BIOS version information.  
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard  
package.  
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an  
Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
Installing ASUS Update  
To install ASUS Update:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX.  
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-1  
 
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
Updating the BIOS through the Internet  
To update the BIOS through the Internet:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start  
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
2.  
Select Update BIOS from the  
Internet option from the drop-down  
menu, then click Next.  
3.  
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest  
you to avoid network traffic, or  
click Auto Select. Click Next.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
4.  
5.  
From the FTP site, select the BIOS  
version that you wish to download.  
Click Next.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
The ASUS Update utility is  
capable of updating itself through  
the Internet. Always update the  
utility to avail all its features.  
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file  
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:  
1.  
2.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start  
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update  
main window appears.  
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.  
P5Q-E.ROM  
4.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
P5Q-E  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-3  
3.1.2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility  
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go  
through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based  
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing  
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard.  
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk or a USB flash disk, then restart the  
system.  
You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.  
(1) Insert the floppy disk / USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the  
floppy disk drive or the USB port.  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.25  
FLASH TYPE: WINBOND W25P/X16  
Current ROM  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: P5Q-E  
VER: 0306  
DATE: 05/13/2008  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[Esc] Exit  
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash2  
and press <Enter> to enable it.  
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct file  
is found. Then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update  
process and automatically reboots the system when done.  
•
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk or a floppy disk  
with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.  
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
3-4  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.1.3  
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.  
2.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /o[filename]  
where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename not more than eight  
alphanumeric characters for the main filename and three alphanumeric  
characters for the extension name.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
Main filename Extension name  
3.  
Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppy disk.  
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
Reading flash ..... done  
Write to file...... ok  
A:\>  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS file.  
Updating the BIOS file  
To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:  
1.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-5  
 
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS  
filename at the DOS prompt.  
2.  
3.  
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to  
the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.  
Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:  
afudos /i[filename]  
where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy  
disk.  
A:\>afudos /iP5Q-E.ROM  
4.  
The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.  
A:\>afudos /iP5Q-E.ROM  
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))  
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.  
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS  
Reading file ....... done  
Reading flash ...... done  
Advance Check ......  
Erasing flash ...... done  
Writing flash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)  
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
5.  
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is  
completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.  
A:\>afudos /iP5Q-E.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:\>  
3-6  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
3.2  
BIOS setup program  
This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update  
using the provided utility described in section 3.1 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, restart the system by pressing  
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can  
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if  
the first two failed.  
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a  
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make  
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.  
•
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions  
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after  
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system  
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the  
Exit Menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu.  
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes  
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.  
•
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
this motherboard.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-7  
 
3.2.1  
Menu items  
Main  
BIOS menu screen  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced Power Boot  
Ai Tweaker  
Tools  
Exit  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[11:55:25]  
[Wed 04/16/2008]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-]  
to configure the  
System Time.  
SATA1  
SATA2  
SATA3  
SATA4  
SATA5  
SATA6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
Select Field  
General Help  
Storage Configuration  
System Information  
+-  
Tab  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Sub-menu items  
Navigation keys  
3.2.2  
Menu bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
For changing the overclocking settings  
For changing the advanced system settings  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
For changing the advanced power management (APM)  
configuration  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
For configuring options for special functions  
For selecting the exit options and loading default  
settings  
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard  
until the desired item is highlighted.  
3.2.3  
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.  
The navigation keys may differ from one screen to another.  
3-8  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.2.4  
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.  
Use [ENTER], [TAB], or  
[SHIFT-TAB] to select  
System Time  
System Date  
Floppy Diskette  
Language  
[11:56:54]  
[Wed 04/16/2008]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
[English]  
a
field.  
A
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure system Time.  
SATA1  
SATA2  
SATA3  
SATA4  
SATA5  
SATA6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
The other items (Advanced, Power,  
Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have  
their respective menu items.  
Storage Configuration  
System Information  
Main menu items  
3.2.5  
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>.  
3.2.6  
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 3.2.7 Pop-up window.  
3.2.7  
Pop-up window  
Select a menu item then press <Enter>  
to display a pop-up window with the  
configuration options for that item.  
3.2.8  
Scroll bar  
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a  
menu screen when there are items that do  
not fit on the screen. Press the  
Pop-up window  
Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page  
Down> keys to display the other items on  
the screen.  
Scroll bar  
3.2.9  
General help  
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected  
item.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-9  
 
3.3  
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 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen  
items and how to navigate through them.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Use [ENTER], [TAB]  
or [SHIFT-TAB] to  
select a field.  
System Time  
System Date  
Legacy Diskette A  
Language  
[11:55:25]  
[Wed 04/16/2008]  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
[English]  
Use [+] or [-] to  
configure System Time.  
SATA1  
SATA2  
SATA3  
SATA4  
SATA5  
SATA6  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
[Not Detected]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
Select Field  
General Help  
Storage Configuration  
System Information  
+-  
Tab  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.3.1  
System Time [xx:xx:xx]  
Allows you to set the system time.  
3.3.2  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]  
Allows you to set the system date.  
3.3.3  
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Sets the type of floppy drive installed.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
3.3.4  
Language [English]  
Allows you to select the display language for the BIOS setup screen.  
Configuration options: [Chinese(BIG5)] [Chinese(GB)] [Japanese] [Français]  
[German] [English]  
3-10  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.3.5  
SATA 1-6  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA  
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item  
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
SATA 1  
Select the type of  
device connected to  
the system.  
Device  
: Hard Disk  
: WDC WD800JD-00LSA0  
: 80.0GB  
Vendor  
Size  
LBA Mode  
Block Mode  
PIO Mode  
Async DMA  
Ultra DMA  
: Supported  
: 16Sectors  
: 4  
: MultiWord DMA-2  
: Ultra DMA-5  
SMART Monitoring: Supported  
Type  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
LBA/Large Mode  
Block(Multi-Sector Transfer)M  
PIO Mode  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
DMA Mode  
SMART Monitoring  
32Bit Data Transfer  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,  
Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and  
SMART monitoring). These values are not user-configurable. These items show  
N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.  
Type [Auto]  
Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the  
appropriate IDE device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specifically configuring a  
CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is  
either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.  
Configuration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]  
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]  
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the  
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA  
mode disabled.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]  
Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) 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]  
Allows you to select the data transfer mode.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-11  
 
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]  
3.3.6  
Storage Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the SATA  
devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to  
configure the item.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Storage Configuration  
Options  
SATA Configuraton  
Configure SATA as  
[Enhanced]  
[IDE]  
Disabled  
Compatible  
Enhanced  
Hard Disk Write Protect  
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec)  
[Disabled]  
[35]  
SATA Configuration [Enhanced]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced]  
Configure SATA as [IDE]  
Sets the configuration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the  
Southbridge chip. Configuration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]  
•
•
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical  
storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE].  
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host  
Controller Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI]. The AHCI allows  
the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that  
increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive  
to internally optimize the order of commands.  
•
If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, or the Intel®  
Matrix Storage Technology configuration from the Serial ATA hard disk  
drives, set this item to [RAID].  
3-12  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]  
Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if the device  
is accessed through BIOS.  
Configuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]  
Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices.  
Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]  
3.3.7  
AHCI Configuration  
This menu is the section for AHCI configuration. It appears only when you set the  
item Configure SATA as from the sub-menu of SATA Configuration to [AHCI].  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
AHCI Settings  
Some SATA CD/DVD in  
AHCI mode need to  
wait ready longer.  
AHCI CD/DVD Boot Time out  
[15]  
AHCI Port1 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port2 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port3 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port4 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port5 [Not Detected]  
AHCI Port6 [Not Detected]  
AHCI CD/DVD Boot Time out [15]  
Selects the boot time out value for ACHI CD/DVD devices.  
Congifuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]  
AHCI Port1~6 [XXXX]  
Displays the status of auto-detection of SATA devices.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
AHCI Port1  
Select the type  
of devices connected  
to the system.  
Device  
:Not Detected  
SATA Port1  
SMART Monitoring  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
SATA Port1 [Auto]  
Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]  
SMART Monitoring [Enabled]  
Allows you to set the Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology.  
Configration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-13  
 
3.3.8  
System Information  
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS  
automatically detects the items in this menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Bios Information  
Version  
: 0121  
Build Date : 04/17/08  
Processor  
Type  
: Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo CPU @ 3.00GHz  
: 3000MHz  
: 2  
Speed  
Count  
System Memory  
Usable Size  
: 1024MB  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Bios Information  
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.  
Processor  
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification.  
System Memory  
Displays the auto-detected system memory.  
3-14  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.4  
Ai Tweaker menu  
The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items.  
Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
The default values of the following items vary depending on the CPU and  
memory modules you install on the motherboard.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Configure System Performance Settings  
Options  
Ai Overclock Tuner  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
CPU Ratio Setting  
Manual  
Auto  
FSB Strap to North Bridge  
DRAM Frequency  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A1  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A2  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel B1  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel B2  
DRAM Timing Control  
1st Information : 4-4-4-15-3-36-5-3  
2nd Information : 8-3-5-4-6-4-6  
3rd Information : 12-5-1-4-4  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
DRAM Static Read Control  
DRAM Read Training  
MEM. OC Charger  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
Ai Clock Twister  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
Ai Transaction Booster  
C/P : B1 B2 B3 B4  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Scroll down to display the following items:  
LVL : 11 11 11 11  
******** Please key in numbers directly! ********  
CPU Voltage  
[Auto]  
CPU GTL Voltage Reference(0/2) [Auto]  
CPU GTL Voltage Reference(1/3) [Auto]  
CPU PLL Voltage  
FSB Termination Voltage  
DRAM Voltage  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
NB Voltage  
NB GTL Reference  
SB Voltage  
PCIE SATA Voltage  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
*************************************************  
Load-Line Calibration  
CPU Spread Spectrum  
PCIE Spread Spectrum  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.4.1  
Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]  
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal  
frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:  
Manual  
Auto  
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.  
Loads the optimal settings for the system.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-15  
 
3.4.2  
CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]  
Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and FSB Frequency. Use  
the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [06.0] [07.0] [08.0] [09.0]  
The following two items appear only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item  
to [Manual].  
FSB Frequency [XXX]  
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 FSB frequency. You can also type the desired CPU frequency using the  
numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 800. Refer to the table below for  
the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings.  
FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization  
Front Side Bus  
FSB 1600  
FSB 1333  
FSB 1066  
FSB 800  
CPU External Frequency 400 MHz  
333 MHz  
266 MHz  
200 MHz  
PCIE Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust  
the PCIE frequency. The values range from 100 to 180.  
3.4.3  
FSB Strap to North Bridge [Auto]  
When set to [Auto], the FSB Strap will be adjusted automatically by FSB  
Frequency and DRAM Frequency.  
Congifuration options: [Auto] [200 MHz] [266 MHz] [333 MHz] [400 MHz]  
3.4.4  
DRAM Frequency [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DDR2 operating frequency.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2-667 MHz] [DDR2-800 MHz] [DDR2-835MHz]  
[DDR2-887 MHz] [DDR2-1002MHz] [DDR2-1066MHz] [DDR2-1111] [DDR2-  
1335MHz]  
The DRAM Frequency configuration options vary with the FSB Frequency  
item settings.  
Selecting a very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become  
unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.  
3-16  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.4.5  
DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A1/A2/B1/B2 [Auto]  
Adjusting these items may help enhancing DRAM overclocking ability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 350ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 250ps]  
[Advance 200ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 50ps] [Normal]  
[Delay 50ps] [Delay 100ps] [Delay 150ps] [Delay 200ps] [Delay 250ps] [Delay  
300ps] [Delay 350ps]  
3.4.6  
DRAM Timing Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
•
The following sub-items apprear only when you set the DRAM Timing  
Control item to [Manual].  
•
The configuration options for some of the following items vary depending  
on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard.  
1st Information: 4-4-4-15-3-36-5-3  
The values vary depending on your settings of the following sub-items:  
CAS# Latency [ 5 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks]  
[6 DRAM Clocks] [7 DRAM Clocks] [8 DRAM Clocks] [9 DRAM Clocks]  
[10 DRAM Clocks] [11 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [ 5 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] – [17 DRAM  
Clocks] [18 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# Precharge [ 5 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] – [17 DRAM  
Clocks] [18 DRAM Clocks]  
DRAM RAS# Activate to Precharge Time [15 DRAM Clocks]  
Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] – [33 DRAM  
Clocks] [34 DRAM Clocks]  
RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
Row Refresh Cycle Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [20 DRAM Clocks] [25 DRAM Clocks]  
[30 DRAM Clocks] [35 DRAM Clocks] [42 DRAM Clocks]  
Write Recovery Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
Read to Precharge Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-17  
 
2nd Information: 8-3-5-4-6-4-6  
The values vary depending on your settings of the following sub-items:  
READ to WRITE Delay(S/D) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
Write to Read Delay(S) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
WRITE to READ Delay(D) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
READ To READ Delay(S) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
READ To READ Delay(D) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
WRITE To WRITE Delay(S) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
WRITE To WRITE Delay(D) [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
3rd Information: 12-5-1-4-4  
The values vary depending on your settings of the following sub-items:  
WRITE to PRE Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [31 DRAM Clocks]  
READ to PRE Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
PRE to PRE Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [3 DRAM Clocks]  
ALL PRE to ACT Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
ALL PRE to REF Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks]  
3.4.7  
DRAM Static Read Control [Auto]  
Adjusting this item might enhance DRAM overclocking ability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3-18  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.4.8  
DRAM Read Training [Auto]  
Allows you to set DRAM read data timing optimization. Setting this item to  
[Disabled] may help enhance DRAM overclocking ability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3.4.9  
MEM. OC Charger  
Allows you to enable or disable the memory overclocking charger feature. Setting  
this item to [Enabled] may help enhance DRAM overclock ability.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3.4.10  
Ai Clock Twister [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM performance. Set this item to [Light] or [Lighter]  
to enhance DRAM compatibility, or [Strong] or [Stronger] to accelerate DRAM  
performance.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Lighter] [Light] [Moderate] [Strong] [Stronger]  
3.4.11  
Ai Transaction Booster [Auto]  
Allows you to set the system performance.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The following two sub-items appear only when you set the Ai Transaction  
Booster item to [Manual].  
Common Performance Level [05]  
Set this item to a higher level for better compatibility or a lower level for better  
performance. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values  
range from 1 to 31.  
Pull-In of CHA/B PH1/2/3/4 [Disabled]  
Set this item to [Enabled] to apply enhancement on DRAM Channel A and B,  
Phase 1 to 4. The number of phases is determined by DRAM frequency and  
FSB strap.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following ten (10) items on the next page are adjusted by typing the desired  
values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use  
the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type  
[auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-19  
 
3.4.12  
CPU Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU VCore voltage. The values range from 0.85000V to  
2.10000V* with a 0.00625V interval.  
•
Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU Vcore voltage.  
Setting a high VCore voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and  
setting a low VCore voltage may make the system unstable.  
•
The value [2.10000V] of the CPU Voltage item is supported only if the  
OV_CPU jumper is enabled, otherwise the maximum voltage supported is  
[1.70000V]. See 2. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting on page 2-19  
for details.  
3.4.13  
CPU GTL Voltage Reference(0/2) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU GTL voltage reference. The values range from 0.370x  
to 0.760x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance CPU overclocking  
ability.  
3.4.14  
CPU GTL Voltage Reference(1/3) [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU GTL voltage reference. The values range from 0.410x  
to 0.800x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance CPU overclocking  
ability.  
3.4.15  
CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the CPU PLL voltage. The values range from 1.50V to 2.78V with  
a 0.02V interval.  
3.4.16  
FSB Termination Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the front side bus termination voltage. The values range from  
1.20V* to 1.90V with a 0.02V interval.  
The minimum value of this item becomes 1.10V when a 45nm CPU is installed.  
3.4.17  
DRAM Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 3.08V with a  
0.02V interval.  
3.4.18  
NB Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the North Bridge voltage. The values range from 1.10V to 2.2V*  
with a 0.02V interval.  
3-20  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
•
•
•
•
The value [2.2V] of the NB Voltage item is supported only if the OV_NB  
jumper is enabled, otherwise the maximum voltage supported is [1.9V]. See  
2. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting on page 2-19 for details.  
Setting the CPU PLL Voltage, FSB Termination Voltage, DRAM Voltage  
and NB Voltage items to a high level may damage the chipset, memory  
module and CPU permanently. Proceed with caution.  
Some values of the CPU PLL Voltage, FSB Termination Voltage, DRAM  
Voltage and NB Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the  
risk levels of high voltage settings. Refer to the table below for details.  
The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high  
voltage settings.  
Blue  
1.50V~1.78V 1.80V~2.00V 2.02V~2.20V 2.22V~2.78V  
N/A  
Yellow  
Purple  
Red  
CPU PLL Voltage  
FSB Termination Voltage 1.20V~1.38V 1.40V~1.90V N/A  
DRAM Voltage  
NB Voltage  
1.80V~1.98V 2.00V~2.20V 2.22V~2.40V 2.42V~3.08V  
1.10V~1.26V 1.28V~1.40V 1.42V~1.58V 1.60V~2.2V  
3.4.19  
NB GTL Voltage Reference [Auto]  
Allows you to set the Northbridge GTL voltage reference. Different ratio might  
enhance CPU overclocking ability. The values range from 0.370x to 0.760x with a  
0.005x interval.  
3.4.20  
SB Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the South Bridge voltage. The values range from 1.10V to 1.40V  
with a 0.10V interval.  
3.4.21  
PCIE SATA Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the PCI Express SATA voltage. The values range from 1.50V to  
1.80V with a 0.10V interval.  
3.4.22  
Load-Line Calibration [Auto]  
Allows you to select the CPU Load-Line mode. Set to [Disabled] to follow Intel  
specifications, or to [Enabled] to improve CPU VDroop directly.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3.4.23  
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
Set to [Disabled] to enhance FSB overclocking ability or [Auto] for EMI control.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-21  
 
3.4.24  
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]  
Set to [Disabled] to enhance PCIE overclocking ability or [Auto] for EMI control.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]  
3-22  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.5  
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.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
TPM Configuration  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
Configure CPU.  
Onboard Devices Configuration  
USB Configuration  
PCIPnP  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.5.1  
TPM Configuration  
The items in this menu allow you to set the TPM (Trusted Platform Module)  
features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
The TPM Configuration item appears only when a TPM module is installed in  
this motherboard.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
TPM Configuration  
TCG/TPM SUPPORT  
Enable/Disable TPM  
TCG (TPM 1.1/1.2)  
supp in BIOS  
[NO]  
TCG/TPM SUPPORT [YES]  
Allows you to enable or disalbe TCG/TPM setting.  
Configuration options: [YES] [NO]  
The following items appear only when you set the TCG/TPM SUPPORT item to  
[YES].  
Execute TPM COMMAND [Last setting]  
Allows you to enable or disable the TPM security chip.  
Configuration options: [Last setting] [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-23  
 
TPM Enable / Disable Status [No State]  
The item is not configurable.  
TPM Owner Status [No State]  
The item is not configurable  
To enable the TPM function, set the Execute TPM Command item to [Enabled]  
and then save the change (see 3.9 Exit menu for details). After the system  
reboots, the TPM Configuration menu will change into the following one.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
TPM Configuration  
Enable (Activate)/  
Disable (Deactivate)  
Command to TPM  
Execute TPM Command  
TPM Enable/Disable Status  
Clearing the TPM  
[Last setting]  
[Enabled]  
[Press Enter]  
[UnOwned]  
TPM Owner Status  
Clearing the TPM [Press Enter]  
Allows you to clear the user information saved in the TPM security chip.  
When you press <Enter>, a warning message will appear to ask if you want  
to clear the user information in the security chip. Use the left/right arrow key  
to select between [OK] and [Cancel], and then press <Enter> to confirm your  
choice.  
After you select [OK] to execute the Clearing the TPM function, the data saved  
in the TPM security chip will be cleared and can never be restored.  
3.5.2  
CPU Configuration  
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS  
automatically detects.  
The items shown in this screen may be different due to the CPU you installed.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Configure advanced CPU settings  
Sets the ratio between  
CPU Core Clock and the  
Manufacturer:Intel  
FSB Frequency.  
Brand String:Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo CPU @ 3.00GHz  
NOTE: If an invalid  
ratio is set in CMOS  
then actual and  
setpoint values may  
differ.  
Frequency  
FSB Speed  
Cache L1  
Cache L2  
:3.01GHz  
:1340 MHz  
:64 KB  
:4096 KB  
Ratio Status: Unlocked (Min:06, Max:09)  
Ratio Actual Value:9  
CPUID  
:6F9  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
CPU Ratio Setting  
[Auto]  
C1E Support  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
Max CPUID Value Limit  
Intel(R) Virtualization Tech  
CPU TM function  
Execute Disable Bit  
Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech  
Intel(R) C-STATE Tech  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3-24  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]  
Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and FSB Frequency. Use  
the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [06.0] [07.0] [08.0] [09.0]  
C1E Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable Enhanced Halt State support.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without  
support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Intel(R) Virtualization Tech [Enabled]  
The Intel® Virtualization Technology allows a hardware platform to run multiple  
operating systems separately and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually  
function as several systems.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
CPU TM function [Enabled]  
This function enables the overheated CPU to throttle the clock speed to cool down.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.  
Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero  
(0).  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Ratio Control item to  
[Auto].  
Intel(R) SpeedStep (TM) Tech [Enabled]  
When set to [Disabled], the CPU runs at its default speed. When set to [Enabled],  
the CPU speed is controlled by the operating system.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Intel(R) C-STATE Tech [Enabled]  
Allows you enable or disable the Intel® C-STATE Technology. When enabled, the  
CPU idle is set to C2/C3/C4.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-25  
3.5.3  
Chipset  
The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an  
item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Advanced Chipset Settings  
Configure North Bridge  
features.  
WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause system to malfunction.  
North Bridge Configuration  
North Bridge Chipset Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
North Bridge Chipset Configuration  
ENABLE: Allow  
remapping of  
Memory Remap Feature  
PCI MMIO Allocation: 4GB To 3328MB  
Memory Hole [Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
overlapped PCI memory  
above the total  
physical memory.  
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]  
DISABLE: Do not allow  
remapping of memory.  
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory  
above the total physical memory. Enable this option only when you install  
64-bit operating system.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Memory Hole [Disabled]  
Allows you to set the memory hole mode.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [15MB-16MB]  
Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]  
Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot  
device.  
Configuration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]  
3-26  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.5.4  
Onboard Device Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Onboard Device Configuration  
Enable or Disable  
High Definition Audio  
Controller  
High Definition Audio  
[Enabled]  
[HD Audio]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Front Panel Type  
Marvell IDE  
PCIE IDE Boot ROM  
Marvell LAN1  
LAN Boot ROM  
Marvell LAN2  
LAN Boot ROM  
LSI Firewire 1394  
Serial Port1 Address  
[3F8/IRQ4]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
F1  
Change Option  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
High Definition Audio [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the High Definition Audio Controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Front Panel Type [HD Audio]  
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy  
AC’97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front  
panel audio module supports. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]  
Marvell IDE [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard Marvell IDE controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
PCIE IDE Boot ROM [Enabled]  
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled].  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
MarvelI LAN1/2 [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard Marvell LAN port1/2.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
This item appears only when you enable the previous item.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Agere Firewire 1394 [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
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]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-27  
 
3.5.5  
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.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
USB Configuration  
Options  
USB Devices Enabled:  
1 Mouse  
Disabled  
Enabled  
USB Functions  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[HiSpeed]  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
USB 2.0 Controller  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode  
BIOS EHCI Hand-off  
Legacy USB Support  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Option  
General Help  
+-  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB  
device is detected, the item shows None.  
USB Functions [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB Host Controllers.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled].  
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]  
Allows you to set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or  
FullSpeed (12 Mbps).  
Configuration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]  
The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB  
2.0 Controller.  
BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off  
feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3-28  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
Legacy USB Support [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to  
[Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If  
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected,  
the legacy USB support is disabled.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]  
3.5.6  
PCIPnP  
The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP  
devices.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Advanced  
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings  
NO: lets the BIOS  
configure all the  
devices in the system.  
YES: lets the  
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections  
may cause system to malfunction.  
operating system  
configure Plug and  
Play (PnP) devices not  
required for boot if  
your system has a Plug  
and Play operating  
system.  
Plug And Play O/S  
[No]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Plug And Play O/S [No]  
When set to [NO], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to  
[YES] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system  
configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.  
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-29  
 
3.6  
Power menu  
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced  
Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the  
configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Select the ACPI state  
used for System  
Suspend.  
Suspend Mode  
[Auto]  
[No]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
Repost Video on S3 Resume  
ACPI 2.0 Support  
ACPI APIC Support  
APM Configuration  
Hardware Monitor  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.6.1  
Suspend Mode [Auto]  
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state  
to be used for system suspend.  
Configuration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]  
3.6.2  
Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]  
Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume.  
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
3.6.3  
ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]  
Add additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 specifications.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3.6.4  
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface  
(ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When  
set to [Enabled], the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3-30  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.6.5  
APM Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
APM Configuration  
<Enter> to select  
whether or not to  
restart the system  
after AC power loss.  
Restore on AC Power Loss  
[Power Off]  
[Disabled]  
Power On By RTC Alarm  
Power On By External Modems [Disabled]  
Power On By PCI Devices  
Power On By PCIE Devices  
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Energy Star 4.0C Support  
[Disabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off]  
When set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.  
When set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to  
[Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state  
was before the AC power loss.  
Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]  
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item  
is set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date/ RTC Alarm Hour/ RTC Alarm  
Minute/ RTC Alarm Second will become user-configurable with set values.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By 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]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-31  
 
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]  
Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys  
on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power  
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]  
Energy Star 4.0c Support [Disabled]  
Setting this item to [Enabled] to pass Energy Star 4.0c rating. When enabled,  
S3-PS/2 & USB wake-up functions will be closed, and S4/S5-Marvell LAN, PS/2 &  
USB devices wake-up functions will be closed.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
3.6.6  
Hardware Monitor  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Power  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Temperature  
MB Temperature  
[47ºC/116.5ºF]  
[32ºC/89.5ºF]  
CPU Temperature  
CPU Fan Speed  
CPU Q-Fan Control  
[4500RPM]  
[Disabled]  
Chassis Fan 1 Speed  
Chassis Fan 2 Speed  
Chassis Fan 3 Speed  
Chassis Q-Fan Control  
[N/A]  
[N/A]  
[N/A]  
[Disabled]  
Power Fan Speed  
[N/A]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Change Field  
General Help  
CPU  
Voltage  
[ 1.304V]  
[ 3.248V]  
[ 5.112V]  
[12.096V]  
+-  
3.3V Voltage  
F1  
5V  
12V  
Voltage  
Voltage  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
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 [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU  
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows [N/A].  
CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-fan control feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control item.  
3-32  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
CPU Fan Profile [Standard]  
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the ASUS Q-Fan.  
When set to [Standard], the CPU fan automatically adjusts depending on  
the CPU temperature. Set this item to [Silent] to minimize fan speed for  
quiet CPU fan operation, or [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.  
Configuration options: [Standard] [Silent] [Turbo]  
Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis  
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows [N/A].  
Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis Q-fan control feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
The following item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control  
item.  
Chassis Fan Profile [Standard]  
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the ASUS Q-Fan.  
When set to [Standard], the chassis fan automatically adjusts depending  
on the chassis temperature. Set this item to [Silent] to minimize fan speed  
for quiet chassis fan operation, or [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan  
speed.  
Configuration options: [Standard] [Silent] [Turbo]  
Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the power  
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the  
motherboard, the field shows [N/A].  
CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through  
the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want to detect this  
item.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-33  
3.7  
Boot menu  
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item  
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Boot Settings  
Specifies the Boot  
Device Priority  
sequence.  
Boot Device Priority  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Security  
A virtual floppy disk  
drive (Floppy Drive B:  
) may appear when you  
set the CD-ROM drive  
as the first boot  
device.  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.7.1  
Boot Device Priority  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Specifies the boot  
Boot Device Priority  
sequence from the  
available devices.  
1st Boot Device  
2nd Boot Device  
3rd Boot Device  
[1st FLOPPY DRIVE]  
[Hard Drive]  
[ATAPI CD-ROM]  
A device enclosed in  
parenthesis has been  
disabled in the  
corresponding type  
menu.  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx Drive]  
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices.  
The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of  
devices installed in the system.  
Configuration options: [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM]  
[Disabled]  
3-34  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.7.2  
Boot Settings Configuration  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Allows BIOS to skip  
certain tests while  
booting. This will  
decrease the time  
needed to boot the  
system.  
Quick Boot  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Force BIOS]  
[On]  
Full Screen Logo  
AddOn ROM Display Mode  
Bootup Num-Lock  
Wait for ‘F1’ if Error  
[Enabled]  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Option  
General Help  
F1  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Quick Boot [Enabled]  
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while  
booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled],  
BIOS performs all the POST items.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]  
This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3™ feature.  
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]  
Sets the display mode for option ROM.  
Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]  
Bootup Num-Lock [On]  
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.  
Configuration options: [Off] [On]  
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]  
When set to [Enabled], the system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error  
occurs.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]  
When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message “Press DEL to run Setup”  
during POST.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-35  
 
3.7.3  
Security  
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Security Settings  
<Enter> to change  
password.  
<Enter> again to  
disabled password.  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
: Not Installed  
: Not Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
Change User Password  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Change  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Change Supervisor Password  
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor  
Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set  
a password, this item shows Installed.  
To set a Supervisor Password:  
1.  
2.  
Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.  
From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters  
and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message “Password Installed” appears after you successfully set your  
password.  
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user  
password.  
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then  
press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears.  
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real  
Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumpers for information on how to  
erase the RTC RAM.  
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to  
change other security settings.  
3-36  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Boot  
Security Settings  
<Enter> to change  
password.  
<Enter> again to  
disabled password.  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
: Installed  
: Installed  
Change Supervisor Password  
User Access Level  
Change User Password  
Clear User Password  
Password Check  
[Full Access]  
[Setup]  
User Access Level [Full Access]  
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.  
Configuration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]  
[No Access] prevents user access to the Setup utility.  
[View Only] allows access but does not allow change to any field.  
[Limited] allows changes only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.  
[Full Access] allows viewing and changing all the fields in the Setup utility.  
Change User Password  
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on  
top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this  
item shows Installed.  
To set a User Password  
1.  
2.  
Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.  
On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six  
letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Confirm the password when prompted.  
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password  
successfully.  
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.  
Clear User Password  
Select this item to clear the user password.  
Password Check [Setup]  
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup  
utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing  
Setup and booting the system.  
Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-37  
3.8  
Tools menu  
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Press ENTER to run  
the utility to select  
and update BIOS.  
This utility doesn't  
support :  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Drive Xpert Control  
Drive Xpert Mode Update  
[Auto]  
[Last Setting]  
1.NTFS format  
Express Gate  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Data  
[Enabled]  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
Ai Net 2  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
+-  
Change Field  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
3.8.1  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation  
message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No],  
then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Please see page 3-4, section 3.1.2 for  
details.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.25  
FLASH TYPE: WINBOND W25P/X16  
Current ROM  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: P5Q-E  
VER: 0306  
DATE: 05/13/2008  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
[Tab] Switch  
[B] Backup  
[V] Drive Info  
[Esc] Exit  
3-38  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.8.2  
Drive Xpert Control [Auto]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Drive Xpert feature.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]  
3.8.3  
Drive Xpert Mode Update [Last setting]  
Set this item to [Mode change] to show further settings of the Drive Xpert feature.  
Configuration options: [Last setting] [Mode change]  
Update To Super Speed [Press Enter]  
This item appears only when you set the Drive Xpert Mode Update item  
to [Mode change] and allows you to use Super Speed function. Plug two  
identical SATA hard drives in the orange SATA port labeled SATA_E1  
(port 0) and the white SATA port labeled SATA_E2 (port 1) and press the  
<Enter> key.  
Update To EZ Backup [Press Enter]  
This item appears only when you set the Drive Xpert Mode Update item to  
[Mode change] and allows you to use EZ Backup function. Plug two identical  
SATA hard drives in the orange SATA port labeled SATA_E1 (port 0) and the  
white SATA port labeled SATA_E2 (port 1) and press the <Enter> key.  
•
Make necessary backup before using the Drive Xpert function:  
All original data of the SATA_E2 (white, port1) hard drive will be erased for  
EZ Backup setup.  
All original data of the two hard drives will be erased for Super Speed  
setup.  
•
•
All changes spend 5 seconds to take effect.  
Refer to 4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert for detailed application instructions.  
Update To Normal mode [Press Enter]  
This item appears only when you set the Drive Xpert Mode Update item to  
[Mode change] and uses the orange SATA port labeled SATA_E1 (port 0)  
and the white SATA port labeled SATA_E2 (port 1) as normal SATA ports.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-39  
 
3.8.4  
Express Gate  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS  
Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick  
access to the Internet browser and Skype. Refer to section 4.3.12 ASUS Express  
GATE for details.  
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]  
Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]  
Sets countdown duration that the system waits at the Express Gate’s first  
screen before starting Windows or other installed OS. Choose [Prompt User]  
to stay at the first screen of Express Gate for user action.  
Configuration options: [Prompt User] [1 second] [3 seconds] [5 seconds]  
[10 seconds] [15 seconds] [20 seconds] [30 seconds]  
Reset User Data [No]  
Allows you to clear Express Gate’s user data.  
Configuration options: [No] [Reset]  
When setting this item to [Reset], make sure to save the setting to the BIOS  
so that the user data will be cleared the next time you enter the Express  
Gate. User data includes the Express Gate’s settings as well as any personal  
information stored by the web browser (bookmarks, cookies, browsing  
history, etc.). This is useful in the rare case where corrupt settings prevent  
the Express Gate environment from launching properly.  
The first time wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
3-40  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.8.5  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Tools  
O.C. PROFILE Configuration  
Save BIOS settings  
to Profile 1  
O.C. Profile 1 Status : Not Installed  
O.C. Profile 2 Status : Not Installed  
Save to Profile 1  
Load from Profile 1  
Save to Profile 2  
Load from Profile 2  
Start O.C. Profile  
Save to Profle 1/2  
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save  
the file.  
Load from Profile 1/2  
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press  
<Enter> to load the file.  
Start O.C. Profile  
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the  
utility.  
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility V1.25  
Current CMOS  
Restore CMOS  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: P5Q-E  
VER: 0306  
DATE: 05/13/2008  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select or Load  
[Tab] Switch  
[V] Drive Info  
[Esc] Exit  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup  
•
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk or a floppy disk  
with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.  
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
the system boot failure!  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-41  
 
3.8.6  
Ai Net 2  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Tools  
Marvell Check LAN  
cable during POST.  
AI NET 2  
Pair Status Length  
Check Marvell LAN cable  
[Disabled]  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Check Marvell LAN Cable [Disabled]  
Enables or disables checking of the Marvell LAN cable during the Power-On  
Self-Test (POST).  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]  
3-42  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
 
3.9  
Exit menu  
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the  
BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Exit Options  
Exit system setup  
after saving the  
changes.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Discard Changes  
F10 key can be used  
for this operation.  
Load Setup Defaults  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
F10 Save and Exit  
ESC Exit  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options  
from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit  
menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard  
backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned  
off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select 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.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
3-43  
 
3-44  
Chapter 3: BIOS setup  
This chapter describes the contents of  
the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package and the software.  
Software  
4
support  
 
Chapter summary  
4
4.1  
4.2  
4.3  
4.4  
4.5  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1  
Support DVD information............................................................ 4-1  
Software information ................................................................... 4-9  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 4-60  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 4-69  
ASUS P5Q-E  
4.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista™ operating systems  
(OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize  
the features of your hardware.  
•
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup  
procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS  
documentation for detailed information.  
•
Make sure that you install the Windows® XP Service Pack2 or later versions  
before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.  
4.2  
Support DVD information  
The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,  
software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard  
features.  
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without  
notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.  
4.2.1  
Running the support DVD  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the  
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.  
Click an icon to  
display support DVD/  
motherboard information  
Click an item to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the  
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
4-1  
 
4.2.2  
Drivers menu  
The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed  
devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.  
ASUS InstAll - Drivers Installation Wizard  
Installs all of the drivers through the Installation Wizard.  
Intel Chipset Inf Update Program  
Installs the Intel® chipset Inf update program.  
SoundMAX ADI Audio Driver  
Installs the SoundMAX® AD2000B audio driver and application.  
Marvell Yukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver  
Installs the Marvell® Yukon Gigabit Ethernet driver.  
Marvell 61xx SATA Driver  
Installs the Marvell® 61xx SATA driver.  
ASUS EPU-6 Engine  
Installs the ASUS EPU-6 Engine driver and utility.  
USB 2.0 Driver  
Installs the USB 2.0 driver.  
4-2  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.2.3  
Utilities menu  
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard  
supports.  
Click to display  
the next page  
Click to return  
to the previous  
page  
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities  
Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard.  
ASUS Update  
The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows®  
environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network  
or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
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 P5Q-E  
4-3  
 
ASUS AI Suite  
The ASUS AI Suite is an innovative application to do overclocking, fan control,  
power saving and quiet thermal control.  
ASUS AI Direct Link  
The ASUS AI Direct Link provides up to 70% transferring speed improvement when  
compared to traditional USB 2.0 and is the easiest and fastest way for users to  
enjoy large-sized data exchange of files such as movies, music, etc  
ASUS Express Gate Installer  
Allows you to install or update Express Gate functions.  
Drive Xpert  
Installs the ASUS Drive Xpert utility.  
Marvell Yukon VCT Application  
Installs the Marvell® Yukon Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT) application that diagnoses  
and reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry  
(TDR) technology.  
Anti-Virus Utility  
The anti-virus application detects and protects your computer from viruses that  
destroys data.  
Adobe Acrobat Reader 8  
Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print  
documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).  
Ulead Burn.Now  
Installs the Ulead Burn.Now application for Audio DVD, CD and data disc creation.  
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c  
Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a  
multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX®  
improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching  
TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the  
Microsoft website (www.microsoft.com) for updates.  
Corel MediaOne Starter  
Installs the Corel MediaOne Starter application to easily manage, edit share and  
protect your multimedia data.  
Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE  
Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software.  
4-4  
Chapter 4: Software support  
CyberLink PowerBackup  
Installs CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily.  
Winzip 11  
Installs the Winzip utility for easy file-compression and protection.  
4.2.4  
Make disk menu  
The Make disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH10R or Marvell® 61xx  
driver disk.  
Intel ICH10R 32/64 bit RAID/AHCI Driver Disk  
Allows you to create an ICH10R 32/64bit RAID/AHCI driver disk.  
Marvell 61xx 32/64bit SATA Driver  
Allows you to create a Marvell® 61xx 32/64bit SATA driver disk.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
4-5  
 
4.2.5  
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.  
4.2.6  
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.  
4-6  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.2.7  
Other information  
The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the  
motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the  
specified information.  
Motherboard Info  
Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.  
Browse this DVD  
Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
4-7  
 
Technical support Form  
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when  
requesting technical support.  
Filelist  
Displays the contents of the support DVD in text format.  
4-8  
Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3  
Software information  
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently  
guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came  
with the software application for more information.  
4.3.1  
ASUS MyLogo3™  
The ASUS MyLogo3™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the  
image that appears on screen during the Power-On-Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS  
MyLogo3™ is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from  
the support DVD. See section 4.2.3 Utilities menu for details.  
•
•
•
Before using the ASUS MyLogo3™, use the AFUDOS utility to make a copy  
of your original BIOS file, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS  
website. See section 3.1.3 AFUDOS utility.  
Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if  
you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3. See section 3.7.2 Boot Settings  
Configuration.  
You can create your own boot logo image in GIF, JPG, or BMP file formats.  
To launch the ASUS MyLogo3™:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility  
for details.  
2.  
3.  
Select Options from the drop down menu, and then click Next.  
Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before  
flashing BIOS, and then click Next.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Select Update BIOS from a file from the drop down menu, and then click  
Next.  
When prompted, locate the new BIOS file, and then click Next. The ASUS  
MyLogo3 window appears.  
From the left window pane, select  
the folder that contains the image  
you intend to use as your boot logo.  
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7.  
When the logo images appear on the  
right window pane, select an image to  
enlarge by clicking on it.  
8.  
Adjust the boot image to your desired  
size by selecting a value on the Ratio  
box.  
9.  
When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to  
load the new boot logo.  
10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo  
during POST.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3.2  
AI NET2  
The AI NET2 features the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT). VCT is a cable  
diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain  
Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The VCT detects and reports open and shorted  
cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew  
problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy.  
The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly  
manageable and controlled network system. This utility can be incorporated  
in the network systems sofware for ideal field support as well as development  
diagnostics.  
Using the Virtual Cable Tester™  
To use the the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ utility:  
1.  
2.  
Launch the VCT utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > All  
Programs > Marvell > Virtual Cable Tester.  
Click Virtual Cable Tester from the menu to display the screen below.  
3.  
Click the Run button to perform a cable test.  
•
•
The VCT utility only tests Ethernet cables connected to Gigabit LAN port(s).  
The Run button on the Virtual Cable Tester™ main window is disabled if no  
problem is detected on the LAN cable(s) connected to the LAN port(s).  
•
If you want the system to check the status of the LAN cable before entering  
the OS, enable the item Post Check LAN Cable in the BIOS Setup.  
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4.3.3  
ASUS PC Probe II  
PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects  
and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan  
rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC  
Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment  
you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a  
healthy operating condition.  
Installing PC Probe II  
To install PC Probe II on your computer:  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.  
If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
DVD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click  
the setup.exe file to start installation.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching PC Probe II  
You can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the  
Windows® desktop.  
To launch the PC Probe II from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs  
> ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window  
appears.  
After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows®  
taskbar. Click this icon to close or restore the application.  
Using PC Probe II  
Main window  
The PC Probe II main window allows you to view the current status of your  
system and change the utility  
configuration. By default, the main  
window displays the Preference  
section. You can close or restore  
the Preference section by clicking  
on the triangle on the main  
window right handle.  
Click to close the  
Preference panel  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
Button  
Function  
Opens the Configuration window  
Opens the Report window  
Opens the Desktop Management Interface window  
Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window  
Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window  
Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window  
Shows/Hides the Preference section  
Minimizes the application  
Closes the application  
Sensor alert  
When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle  
turns red, as the illustrations below show.  
When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the  
Monitor panels section for details.  
Preference  
You can customize the application using  
the Preference section in the main window.  
Click the box before each preference to  
activate or deactivate.  
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4-13  
Hardware monitor panels  
The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as  
fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages.  
The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and  
rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the  
Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.  
Small display  
Large display  
Changing the monitor panels position  
To change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop,  
click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select  
another position from the list box. Click OK when finished.  
Moving the monitor panels  
All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If  
you want to detach a monitor panel from  
the group, click the horseshoe magnet  
icon. You can now move or reposition the  
panel independently.  
Adjusting the sensor threshold value  
You can adjust the sensor threshold  
value in the monitor panel by  
clicking the or buttons. You can  
also adjust the threshold values  
Click to  
increase  
value  
using the Config window.  
Click to  
You cannot adjust the sensor  
threshold values in a small  
monitoring panel.  
decrease  
value  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Monitoring sensor alert  
The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower  
than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below.  
Small display  
Large display  
WMI browser  
Click to display the  
WMI (Windows Management  
Instrumentation) browser. This  
browser displays various Windows®  
management information. Click an  
item from the left panel to display on  
the right panel. Click the plus sign (+)  
before WMI Information to display the  
available information.  
You can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner  
of the browser.  
DMI browser  
Click to display the DMI  
(Desktop Management Interface)  
browser. This browser displays various  
desktop and system information.  
Click the plus sign (+) before DMI  
Information to display the available  
information.  
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PCI browser  
Click  
to display the PCI  
(Peripheral Component Interconnect)  
browser. This browser provides  
information on the PCI devices installed  
on your system. Click the plus sign  
(+) before the PCI Information item to  
display available information.  
Usage  
The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive  
space, and memory usage. Click  
to display the Usage browser.  
CPU usage  
The CPU tab displays real-  
time CPU usage in line graph  
representation. If the CPU has  
an enabled Hyper-Threading,  
two separate line graphs display  
the operation of the two logical  
processors.  
Hard disk drive space usage  
The Hard Disk tab displays the  
used and available hard disk  
drive space. The left panel of the  
tab lists all logical drives. Click  
a hard disk drive to display the  
information on the right panel.  
The pie chart at the bottom of the  
window represents the used (blue)  
and the available HDD space.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Memory usage  
The Memory tab shows both  
used and available physical  
memory. The pie chart at the  
bottom of the window represents  
the used (blue) and the available  
physical memory.  
Configuring PC Probe II  
Click  
to view and adjust the sensor threshold values.  
The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/  
Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold  
values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the  
temperature scale.  
Loads the default  
Loads your saved  
configuration  
threshold values for  
each sensor  
Cancels or  
ignores your  
changes  
Applies your  
changes  
Saves your  
configuration  
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4.3.4  
ASUS AI Suite  
ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch EPU—6 Engine, AI Booster, AI Nap, and Fan  
Xpert utilities easily.  
Installing AI Suite  
To install AI Suite on your computer:  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching AI Suite  
You can launch AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows®  
desktop.  
To launch AI Suite from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs >  
ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx. The AI Suite main window appears.  
After launching the application, the AI Suite icon appears in the Windows® taskbar.  
Click this icon to close or restore the application.  
Using AI Suite  
Click the EPU—6 Engine, AI Nap, AI Booster, or Fan Xpert icon to launch the  
utility, or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state.  
Press to restore to  
normal state  
Press to launch AI Nap  
Press to launch  
Press to launch  
EPU—6 Engine  
Fan Xpert  
Press to launch AI Booster  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
Other feature buttons  
Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window.  
Displays the CPU/  
system temperature,  
CPU/memory/PCIE  
voltage, and CPU/  
chassis fan speed  
Displays the FSB/CPU  
frequency  
Click  
on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from  
degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.  
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4.3.5  
ASUS AI Nap  
This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer  
whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and  
a more quiet system operation.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by  
double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap  
button on the AI Suite main window.  
Click Yes on the confirmation screen.  
To exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Yes on  
the confirmation screen.  
To switch the power button functions from AI Nap to shutting down, just right  
click the AI Suite icon on the OS taskbar, select AI Nap and click Use power  
button. Unclick the the item to switch the function back.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.3.6  
ASUS Fan Xpert  
Asus Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan  
speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate  
conditions in different geographic regions and your PC’s system loading. The  
built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a  
quiet and cool environment.  
Install AI Suite from the bundled support DVD. To launch the ASUS Fan Xpert  
utility, double-click the AI Suite icon on the Windows® notification bar and click  
the Fan Xpert button on the AI Suite main window.  
Click the dropdown list button and display the fan types. Select CPU Fan or  
Chassis Fan.  
Click to open the  
Calibration wiondow  
Dropdown list button  
Click to display  
the dropdown list  
and select a fan  
profile mode  
Click to display  
the current CPU  
temperature and the  
fan speed ratio  
Click to cancel the  
Fan Xpert utility  
Click to save the setup  
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Fan profile modes  
•
•
•
•
Disable: Select this mode to disable the Fan Xpert function.  
Standard: This mode makes the fan adjust speed in moderate pattern.  
Silent: This mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation.  
Turbo: This mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best  
cooling effect.  
•
•
Intelligent: This mode automatically adjusts the CPU fan speed with the  
ambient temperature.  
Stable: This mode keeps the CPU fan at the same speed to avoid noise  
caused by the unsteady fan rotation. However, the fan will speed up  
when the temperature exceeds 70ºC.  
•
User: This mode allows you to change the CPU fan profile under certain  
limitation.  
For Chassis Fan, only Disable/Standard/Silent/Turbo modes could be selected.  
Click to close the Calibration window  
Click to get the calibration between  
the fan rotation and fan speed ratio  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3.7  
ASUS AI Booster  
The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in  
WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility  
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI  
Booster button on the AI Suite main window.  
The options on the taskbar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/  
Memory/PCI-E frequency manually, or create and apply your personal overclocking  
configurations.  
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4.3.8  
ASUS EPU—6 Engine  
ASUS EPU—6 Engine is an energy-efficient tool that satisfies different computing  
needs. This utility provides four modes that you can select to enhance system  
performance or save power. Selecting Auto mode will have the system shift modes  
automatically according to current system status. You can also customize each  
mode by configuring settings like CPU frequency, vCore Voltage, and Fan Control.  
Installing 6 Engine  
To install 6 Engine on your computer:  
1.  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Drivers tab and then click ASUS EPU—6 Engine.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching 6 Engine  
Launch 6 Engine by double-clicking the 6 Engine icon on the Windows® notification  
area.  
The first time you launch 6 Engine, the following  
message will appear, asking you  
to run Calibration first. Running  
calibration allows the system to  
detect CPU properties to optimize  
power management.  
Click Run Calibration and wait for a few seconds. Then, the 6 Engine main menu  
appears.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
6 Engine main menu  
Displays CPU Power and  
Total CPU Energy Saving  
Lights up when power  
saving engine is activated  
Displays the following  
message if no VGA power  
saving engine is detected.  
*Shifts between  
Displays the  
amount of CO2  
reduced  
the display of Total  
and Current CO2  
reduced  
Displays  
current  
mode  
Auto Mode  
Turbo Mode  
Runs calibration  
Exits the utility  
Displays the system  
properties of each  
mode  
High Performance Mode  
Medium Power Saving Mode  
Max. Power Saving Mode  
Advanced settings for each mode (refer to the next page for further information)  
*• Click Current  
to show the CO2 that has been reduced since  
you click the Renew button  
.
*• Click Total  
to show the total CO2 that has been reduced  
since you launched 6 Engine.  
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4-25  
Advanced settings menu  
Click Advance (  
) from the 6 Engine main menu to display  
configuration options in each mode. Some options in certain modes are dimmed,  
meaning that they are not available.  
Click to select  
a mode  
Move the  
slider to adjust  
Click the arrow  
to see more  
options  
Restore default  
settings  
Click to apply  
settings  
Click to abort  
settings  
Configuration options in Advanced settings menu  
The following lists the configuration options and their definitions in Advanced  
settings menu.  
•
•
CPU Frequency: Raises or lowers CPU frequency to a certain percentage.  
vCore Voltage Downgrade: Lowers CPU vCore voltage.  
•
•
•
High: Downgrades voltage to the highest level for CPU power saving.  
Medium: Downgrades voltage to the medium level.  
Small: Downgrades voltage to the minimum level.  
•
•
Chipset Voltage Downgrade: Turns on/off chipset voltage.  
Turn Off hard disks: Turns off hard disk drives when they are not accessed  
after a certain time.  
•
CPU Loadline: Sets up the CPU loadline to manage CPU power saving.  
•
•
•
Light: Saves CPU power to the minimum level.  
Medium: Saves CPU power to the medium level.  
Heavy: Saves CPU power to the highest level.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
•
•
Fan Control: Adjusts fan speeds to reduce noise and save system power.  
•
•
Quiet: Lowers CPU fan speed and shuts off two chassis fans.  
Slow: Lowers CPU fan and two chassis fan speeds.  
AI Nap Idle Time: Enters AI Nap mode after a certain time during system idle  
process.  
Refer to the following table for the configuration options in each mode.  
Configuration  
Turbo Mode  
High  
Medium Power Maximum  
options  
Performance  
Mode  
Saving Mode  
Power Saving  
Mode  
CPU  
Frequency  
Overclocking  
+1% to +30%  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
Downclocking  
-1% to -50%  
Downclocking  
-1% to -50%  
vCore Voltage  
Downgrade  
N/A  
Small/Medium/  
High  
Small/Medium/  
High  
Chipset  
N/A  
On/Off  
On/Off  
Voltage  
Downgrade  
Turn Off  
hard disks  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
CPU Loadline  
Fan Control  
N/A  
N/A  
Light/Medium/  
Heavy  
Light/Medium/  
Heavy  
N/A  
N/A  
Keep Bios  
Keep Bios  
Setting/Slow  
Setting/Quiet  
AI Nap  
Idle Time  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
Never/After 3  
mins–After 5  
hours  
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4.3.9  
ASUS AI Direct Link  
ASUS AI Direct Link allows you to form a computer-to-computer network via a  
network cable to share files with high transfer rate. You must first connect two  
computers (at least one of them is ASUS product) using a network cable, and then  
install the utility to both computers to avail the AI Direct Link feature.  
•
Turn off your firewall software other than Windows Firewall before launching  
AI Direct Link.  
•
The transfer rate is limited if you use a 10/100 LAN card.  
Using AI Direct Link  
To enable the incoming folder:  
1.  
From the Windows® taskbar, right click on the AI Direct Link icon  
and  
select Incoming folder > Enable incoming folder.  
For Windows XP Home  
edition users, click Steps of  
enabling file sharing on this  
pop-up message and follow  
the instructions to enable the  
incoming folder.  
2.  
If you want to to verify the incoming  
user, select Use my account and  
set your username and password.  
Otherwise, select Use public  
account.  
For security’s sake, it is  
recommended that you set a  
username and password.  
3.  
Click OK and the “Ready for incoming” message  
appears.  
To disable the incoming folder, select Incoming  
folder > Disable incoming folder.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.  
Right click on the AI Direct Link  
icon and select Incoming folder  
> Open incoming folder. The  
AIDirectLinkIncoming folder  
opens. Put the files you want  
to share into this folder. The  
authorized user has full access to  
this folder.  
The default path of the AIDirectLinkIncoming folder is C:\Program Files\ASUS\AI  
Direct Link. To change its location, disable the incoming folder first. Then, select  
Incoming folder > Change incoming folder to open the system directories,  
and move the AIDirectLinkIncoming folder under another directory.  
To connect to another computer:  
This function is valid for ASUS products only.  
1.  
From the Windows® taskbar, right  
click on the AI Direct Link icon and  
select Connect. The following screen  
displays.  
2.  
Click Refresh. The software starts  
searching for the connected computer.  
3.  
The name of the computer found  
is listed. Click Open to open its  
shared folder.  
4.  
If necessary, enter the authorized  
username and password. Click  
OK to log in and have full access  
to this shared folder.  
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4.3.10  
AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility)  
The ADI AD2000B High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio  
capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to  
deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high  
quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input  
technologies.  
Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD2000B Audio Driver from the  
support DVD that comes with the motherboard package to activate the  
SoundMAX® audio utility.  
You must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.  
If the SoundMAX® audio utility is correctly installed, you  
will find the SoundMAX®/ SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon  
on the taskbar.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
A.  
SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2)  
If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click  
on the SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX® control panel.  
Enabling AI Audio 2  
Click the power button  
to activate digital signal processing. AI Audio 2,  
with the new SoundMAX® BlackHawk by Sonic Focus, brings you more multi-  
media enjoyment.  
Fidelity Compensation  
After you click the power button, the utility will compensate for the fidelity lost in the  
compression process and make the audio output quasi-original when reverting the  
compressed audio streams back to the uncompressed condition.  
Sound Field Expansion  
AI Audio 2 also expands the stereophonic sound field to a multi-channel one with  
realistic front and rear environment.  
Surround Virtualization  
Activating this function virtualizes surround sound with the vocal clarity added for  
use with stereo speakers or headphones.  
SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio2) is available only under the Windows®  
Vista™ operating system.  
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4-31  
Playback Settings  
To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control  
panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or  
mute the audio.  
Preset settings  
Click and expand the drop-down menu  
to select your preferred Digital Signal  
Processing (DSP) preset. Move the  
sliders to customize the values of Voice  
Clarity, Dynamics, Brilliance, and Deep  
Bass of each preset. Click Save to save  
the changes to the current preset. Or, click  
Reset to discard the changes and restore  
the preset to the factory defaults.  
Surround settings  
Allows you to change the settings of the  
stereo speakers. Move the sliders to  
change the listener position or adjust the  
center channel volume. Press the Test  
Speakers button to perform speaker test.  
Port settings  
Click this port settings tab to display the rear panel ports configuration for the  
speakers or rear panel digital port configuration for the SPDIF interface.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Recording Settings  
To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control  
panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving  
the slider rightward or leftward.  
Record testing  
Port settings  
Click the tab to perform test recording  
and play the test sample through the  
speakers or the SPDIF interface.  
Click the tab to display the rear  
panel ports for Microphone or Line  
In.  
ANDREA settings  
Allows you to select an enhanced  
microphone input features, including  
No Filtering, Speakerphone, Voice  
Recording, and Directional Beam.  
More Settings  
Click  
for the further configurations.  
Equalizer  
Allows you to  
configure and  
customize all  
the DSP presets  
frequencies.  
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Speakers  
Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay.  
Bass  
Allows you to do the Bass management.  
Preferences  
Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
B.  
SoundMAX  
If you are using Windows XP operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on  
the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX® Control Panel.  
Audio Setup Wizard  
By clicking the  
icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily  
configure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and  
begin enjoying High Definition Audio.  
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4-35  
Jack configuration  
Adjust speaker volume  
This screen helps you configure your  
computer’s audio ports, depending on  
the audio devices you have installed.  
This screen helps you adjust speaker  
volume. Click the Test button to hear  
the changes you have made.  
Adjust microphone volume  
This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-  
written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Audio preferences  
Click the  
icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change  
various audio settings.  
General options  
Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/  
disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output.  
Listening Environment options  
Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic environment,  
and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.  
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Microphone options  
Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings.  
Enhanced Microphone Features  
Voice recording  
Enables Noise Filter function. Detects repetitive and stationary noises like  
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates  
it in the incoming sudio stream while recording. You can enable it for a better  
recording quality.  
Directional Array  
Receives only the sound coming from the reception cone and eliminates  
interferences including neighboring speakers and reverberations. You can  
enable it to transit clearer sound during on-line games, MSN, or Skype.  
Speaker Phone  
Advanced de-reverberation techniques can help to reduce echo and minimize  
its effect on the speech engine. You can enable it when you have conference  
call to reduce echoes in the other side.  
•
•
The directional Array and Speaker Phone  
are purchased separately and function only  
when working with the ASUS Array Mic.  
If you are using Windows Vista, you have to  
manually enable the directional Array and  
Speaker Phone function. Go to Control  
panel > Sound. Click the Recording tab on  
the top and select Microphone. Click the  
Microphone Enhancement tab and check  
Array Mic.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
4.3.11  
ASUS Drive Xpert  
Drive Xpert, an ASUS exclusive technology, secures the data on your hard  
disk and enhances hard drive performance without the hassles of complicated  
configurations. With its user-friendly graphical user interface, you can easily  
arrange hard drive backups or enhance the hard drive’s transfer rate.  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks  
For using Drive Xpert in Windows® operating system, we recommend that you  
prepare three hard disks: one hard disk with operating system already installed, and  
two hard disks for Drive Xpert configuration.  
To install Serial ATA hard disks for Drive Xpert configuration:  
1.  
2.  
Install two SATA hard disks into the drive bays.  
Plug one end of the SATA signal cables to each drive, and plug the other end  
of the SATA signal cables to the SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2  
(white, port 1) connectors on the motherboard. Refer to page 2-30 for the  
exact location of the SATA connectors.  
3.  
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector of each drive.  
•
•
For optimal performance, we highly recommend that you install identical  
drives of the same model and capacity.  
The SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connectors on  
the motherboard do not support ATAPI devices and hot-plug function.  
Launching Drive Xpert in Windows® OS  
After installing Drive Xpert from the bundled support DVD,  
double-click the Drive Xpert icon on the Windows®  
notification area. The main screen as  
shown on the right hand side appears.  
There are two modes for Drive Xpert: EZ  
Backup and Super Speed.  
•
•
Before using the Drive Xpert function, ensure that you have installed the  
Marvell 61xx driver in the system.  
Ensure to install two hard disks to the SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and  
SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connectors when the Drive Xpert mode in BIOS  
setup is configured as EZ Backup or Super Speed. Otherwise, the HDD  
LED in the front panel flashes.  
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Configuring EZ Backup  
This mode allows one hard disk to backup the other hard disk automatically. This  
helps you to save your vital data even if one hard disk is damaged.  
•
•
We recommend that you use two new hard disks for this setup.  
This setup erases all original data in the hard disk connected to the  
SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connector on the motherboard. Ensure to back up  
the data in the hard disk before using this setup.  
To start EZ Backup configuration:  
1.  
2.  
Click EZ Backup from the main screen.  
Click Apply to start configuration.  
3.  
4.  
A warning message appears, reminding you that all original data in the hard  
disk connected to the SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connector on the motherboard  
will be erased. Click Ok to continue.  
The setup is completed. Click Ok to  
restart your computer at once.  
5.  
After restarting your computer, the Drive  
Xpert icon on the Windows® notification area  
turns green to indicate that EZ Backup is set  
up successfully.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Configuring Super Speed  
This mode allows two hard disks to access data simultaneously. The dual channel  
design can largely enhance hard disk transfer rate.  
•
•
We recommend that you use two new hard disks for this setup.  
This setup erases all original data in both hard disks. Ensure to back up all  
data in the hard disks before using this setup.  
To start Super Speed configuration:  
1.  
Click Super Speed from the main screen.  
If you are in EZ Backup mode,  
click Mode Change to return to  
the main screen.  
2.  
Click Apply to start configuration.  
3.  
4.  
A warning message appears, reminding you that all original data in the two  
hard disks will be erased. Click Ok to continue.  
The setup is completed. Click Ok to  
restart your computer at once.  
5.  
After restarting your computer, the Drive  
Xpert icon on the Windows® notification area  
turns green to indicate that Super Speed is  
set up successfully.  
If one hard disk is corrupt, all data in both hard disks will be lost.  
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Changing to Normal Mode  
This mode allows you to disable the Drive Xpert function and use the two SATA  
connectors as the other onboard SATA connectors.  
When using one hard disk in Normal Mode, connect the hard disk to the  
SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) connector on the motherboard.  
To change to Normal Mode:  
1.  
Click Mode Change to return to  
the main screen.  
2.  
Click Disable to start configuration.  
3.  
The setup is completed. Click Ok to  
restart your computer at once.  
4.  
After restarting your computer, the Drive Xpert  
icon on the Windows® notification area turns  
gray to indicate that the Drive Xpert function is  
disabled.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Partitioning volumes  
You have to partition volumes for the hard disk after Super Speed configuration.  
To partition volumes:  
1.  
Right-click My Computer on the Windows® desktop,  
and then select Manage from the pop-up window.  
2.  
Select Disk Management.  
Right-click the unallocated  
space of the disk, and then  
select New Partition.  
If the New Partition option  
is not available, right-click  
Disk item, and then select  
Initialize Disk to initialize  
the disk first.  
3.  
A New Partition Wizard screen appears. Follow the onscreen instructions to  
complete the volume partition.  
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Other feature buttons  
Click to open the  
Schedule Drive Verify  
window  
Click to open the  
Event Log list  
Click to open the Setup  
Password window  
Click to open the  
Firmware Update window  
Click to open the  
Help menu  
Click to hide the setup window  
Click to return to the previous page  
Schedule Drive Verify  
Allows you to set up the schedule for verifying the hard disks. Click Ok to  
apply the settings; click Cancel to close the window; and click Right Now to  
start verification at once.  
Add / Modify / Delete  
Allows you to create a new  
schedule, and modify/delete an  
existing schedule.  
Schedule Activity  
Allows you to set verification  
schedule daily, weekly, or  
monthly.  
New Schedule  
Allows you to set specific date  
and time for the schedule.  
Physical Drive  
Allows you to set schedule for the selected hard disk.  
Scheduled  
Displays the date and time for the setup schedule.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Event Log  
Displays event log list  
that might be helpful for  
troubleshooting and locating  
a system malfunction. Click  
Refresh to update the event  
log list; and click Ok to close  
the window.  
Setup Password  
Allows you to set the password  
for configuration access. Key in  
the user name and password.  
Click Ok to apply the settings.  
Firmware Update  
Allows you to update the  
firmware. Click Browse to  
locate the firmware file that  
you want to update. Then click  
Update to start the update  
process.  
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Using Drive Xpert function in Express Gate environment  
You may use Drive Xpert function in Express Gate environment by preparing only  
two hard disks.  
For Express Gate environment, you need to use another computer to install  
Express Gate on a USB flash disk drive in advance.  
Follow below instructions to complete the installation:  
1.  
Plug a USB flash disk drive in a computer with OS already installed.  
2.  
Refer to the Express Gate installation  
on page 4-50. Ensure to select USB as  
the target disk volume when the Choose  
target volume screen appears.  
3.  
Plug the USB flash disk drive to the  
motherboard. Restart the system, and  
launch the Express Gate.  
Launching Drive Xpert  
To open the ASUS Utility panel, click  
. Launch Drive Xpert from the ASUS  
Utility panel. The main screen as shown below appears. Select EZ Backup or  
Super Speed according to your need.  
Before using the Drive Xpert function, ensure that you have back up all your  
data in your hard disks.  
•
EZ Backup erases all original data in the hard disk connected to the  
SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connector on the motherboard.  
•
Super Speed erases all original data in both hard disks.  
4-46  
Chapter 4: Software support  
EZ Backup  
To start EZ Backup configuration:  
1. Click EZ Backup from the main screen.  
2. Check if the SATA cables  
and power cords are installed  
properly. Click Next to  
continue.  
3. Click Next to continue the  
configuration.  
4. Before proceeding, ensure that  
you have back up all original  
data in the hard disk connected  
to the SATA_E2 (white, port 1)  
connector on the motherboard.  
Otherwise, the system erases  
all data in the port 1 hard disk.  
Click Next to continue.  
5. The setup is completed. Click  
OK to close the configuration  
window.  
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Super Speed  
To start Super Speed configuration:  
1. Click Super Speed from the main screen.  
2. Check if the SATA cables  
and power cords are installed  
properly. Click Next to  
continue.  
3. Click Next to continue the  
configuration.  
4. Before proceeding, ensure to  
back up all original data in the  
two hard disks. Otherwise,  
the system erases all data in  
both hard disks. Click Next to  
continue.  
5. The setup is completed. Click  
OK to close the configuration  
window.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Using Drive Xpert function in BIOS setup environment  
You may use Drive Xpert function in BIOS setup environment. To enter BIOS  
setup, press DEL key after powering on. Drive Xpert configuration options are  
under Tools menu.  
Before using the Drive Xpert function, ensure that you have back up all your  
data in your hard disks.  
•
EZ Backup erases all original data in the hard disk connected to the  
SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connector on the motherboard.  
•
Super Speed erases all original data in both hard disks.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Press ENTER to run  
the utility to select  
and update BIOS.  
This utility doesn't  
support :  
Drive Xpert Control  
Drive Xpert Mode Update  
Update To Super Speed  
Update To EZ Backup  
Update To Normal Mode  
[Auto]  
[Mode Change]  
[Press Enter]  
[Press Enter]  
[Press Enter]  
1.NTFS format  
Express Gate  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Data  
[Enabled]  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
Select Screen  
Select Item  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
AI Net 2  
Enter Go to Sub Screen  
F1  
General Help  
Save and Exit  
Exit  
F10  
ESC  
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.  
Drive Xpert Control [Auto]  
This item allows you to enable or disable the Drive Xpert function.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Ennabled] [DDisabled]  
Drive Xpert Mode Update [Last Setting]  
This item appears only when you set Drive Xpert Control to [Auto] or  
[Enabled]. Set this item to [Mode Change] to show further settings of the  
Drive Xpert function. Configuration options: [Last Setting] [Mode Change]  
The following items appear only when you set Drive Xpert Mode Update to  
[Mode Change].  
Update To Super Speed [Press Enter]  
This item allows you to use Super Speed function. Plug two identical SATA hard  
drives in the SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connectors on  
the motherboard and press the <Enter> key.  
Update To EZ Backup [Press Enter]  
This item allows you to use EZ Backup function. Plug two identical SATA hard  
drives in the SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connectors on  
the motherboard and press the <Enter> key.  
Update To Normal Mode [Press Enter]  
This item allows you to use the SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) and SATA_E2 (white, port 1)  
connectors as normal SATA connectors.  
When using one hard disk in Normal Mode, connect the hard disk to the  
SATA_E1 (orange, port 0) connector on the motherboard.  
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4.3.12  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to  
the Internet. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the  
Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express  
Gate softwares.  
Installing ASUS Express Gate  
•
•
ASUS Express Gate supports installation on SATA HDDs in IDE mode only.  
ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipset-  
controlled onboard SATA ports only. All onboard extended SATA ports  
and external SATA ports are NOT supported. See chapter 2 for the exact  
location of onboard SATA ports.  
•
ASUS Express Gate supports installation on USB HDDs and Flash drives,  
but the software performance may be slower than installed on SATA HDDs.  
To install Express Gate on your computer  
1.  
2.  
Place the support CD/DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab  
appears if your computer has enabled Autorun feature.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS Express Gate Installer.  
3.  
Select the language for installation  
and click OK.  
4.  
The InstallShield Wizard for  
Express Gate appears. Click Next  
to continue.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
 
5.  
6.  
Select the target disk volume for  
you to install Express Gate. If you  
have multiple volumes and OS  
installed in your hard drive, it is  
recommended to install Express  
Gate in Volume C. Click Next to  
continue.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete installation.  
The First Screen  
Express Gate’s first screen appears  
within a few seconds after you power  
on the computer. From here, you can  
immediately start the web browser or  
Skype.  
You can also choose to continue booting  
normally (e.g. to your installed OS such  
as Windows), enter BIOS setup, or power  
off.  
If you don’t make any selection, Express  
Gate will automatically exit and boot to your normal OS after a certain amount of  
time. The timer countdown is shown on-screen inside the “boot to OS” button. As  
you move the mouse or type a key, the countdown stops and the timer disappears,  
so you can take your time to make a selection.  
The Express Gate Environment  
The very first time you enter the Express  
Gate environment (by launching either  
web or Skype from the first screen), a  
first time wizard will guide you through  
basic Express Gate configurations. Basic  
configurations include language, date  
and time and screen resolution.  
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Once inside the Express Gate environment, click on the icons on the LaunchBar,  
by default at bottom of the screen, to launch or switch between softwares. You  
can re-arrange, re-size and move windows. Bring a window to the foreground  
by clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding software icon. Re-size a  
window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar.  
Besides using the LaunchBar, you can also switch between softwares by pressing  
<Alt> +<Tab> on the keyboard. You can also right-click anywhere on the desktop to  
bring up a menu of softwares.  
The red triangle on an software icon in the LaunchBar denotes that the software is  
already running. This means that you can switch to it without any delay. In the rare  
case where an software stops responding, right-click on its icon to force close it.  
Knowing the Express Gate hot-keys  
Here is a list of common-used hot-keys for Express Gate.  
In the First Screen:  
Key  
Function  
PAUSE/BREAK  
Power-off  
ESC  
DEL  
F8  
Continue to boot OS  
Enter BIOS setup  
Enter Boot selection pop-up  
In the Express Gate Environment:  
Key  
Function  
<Alt> + <Tab>  
Switch between softwares  
Bring up Power-Off dialog box  
Save screen snapshot as picture to file  
<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del>  
<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Print Screen>  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Using the Configuration Panel  
Use the configuration panel to change various Express Gate settings.  
Click on an icon to open a particular configuration tool. The following tools are  
available:  
•
•
•
•
Date and Time: set current date and time as well as time zone.  
Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method.  
Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences.  
LaunchBar Settings: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it  
auto-hides, etc.)  
•
Network: Specify how your computer connects to the Internet. Enable all the  
network ports that you may use (LAN1, LAN2, and/or wireless [optional]). LAN1  
and LAN2 refer to the two RJ-45 network ports on your computer.  
•
•
The number of the LAN ports may differ from motherboards.  
You can connect the LAN cable to either port, and Express Gate will  
automatically use the connected port.  
Also specify whether each port uses DHCP (most common) or static IP. For  
PPPoE and wireless (optional), set the login credentials (user name, password,  
SSID, etc.) as well.  
•
Environment Settings: This function allows you to clear the Express Gate  
settings, as well as any personal information stored by the web browser  
(Bookmarks, Cookies, History, etc.). The user data will be reset to the original  
default configuration.  
After you click Restore System, a confirmation dialog box will open. If you click  
“Yes” in the confirmation dialog box, your system will immediately restart and  
then re-enter Express Gate to finish clearing the settings. This is also useful in  
the rare case where settings might become corrupted.  
The first-time Wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
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•
•
Screen Settings: Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display.  
Volume Control: Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone  
input, etc.  
Using the LaunchBar  
The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses  
and let you configure individual Express Gate settings. The LaunchBar can be  
configured to auto-hide, if you want more screen space for the softwares. It can  
also be configured to dock on any of the four sides of the screen.  
Starts the Web Browser for quick access to the World Wide Web.  
Starts the Photo Manager album / organizer tool.  
Starts the Chat instant messaging tool.  
Start the Skype software, which lets you call other people on Skype  
for free, as well as offering affordable, high quality voice communications  
to phones all over the world.  
Opens Configuration Panel, which lets you specify network settings  
and other preferences.  
In the rare case that one of the above softwares stops responding, you can right-  
click on its icon and then select Close to force it to close.  
The smaller icons on the right side of the LaunchBar are:  
Click on this icon to open the File Manager window, which lets you  
conveniently access the files on a USB drive. If a USB device is  
detected, the icon contains a green arrow.  
ASUS Express Gate supports file uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and USB  
drive and downloading to USB drives only.  
Shows network status; click to configure network.  
Shows mute status; click to change volume.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Click to choose input language and method as well as keyboard  
shortcuts (Ctrl-Space by default).  
Click to change LaunchBar options (auto-hide, docking position, etc).  
Click to show the “ASUS Utility” panel.  
Click to show “About Express Gate ”.  
Click to open Express Gate Help.  
Click to bring up power options window to boot to OS, restart or power  
down. This window is also shown when you press Ctrl-Alt-Del on the  
keyboard.  
Power off  
Enter OS  
Restart  
Check to save  
user profile  
Cancel and return to  
Express Gate  
How Do I Get on to the Internet  
If Internet doesn’t seem to be working in the Express Gate environment, check the  
following:  
1.  
Open the Configuration Panel.  
Open Configuration Panel  
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4-55  
2.  
Open Network.  
Network  
3.  
Make the proper network configurations.  
Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next  
to it.  
•
•
If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then  
connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2. Express  
Gate will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected.  
If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running  
(e.g. move the cable from LAN1 to LAN2), you may need to press the “Refresh”  
button to detect the change.  
The most common scenario is for your computer to automatically obtain  
network settings (i.e. DHCP). If this is the case, you don’t need to click Setup  
for any LAN port. If this is not the case, click Setup to configure the static IP  
settings manually.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
•
•
If you have wireless network, click Setup for the WiFi option. In the WiFi tab of  
the Advanced Network Settings box, enter the name of your wireless access  
point in the SSID field. If your wireless access point has security enabled,  
select the corresponding security algorithm from the drop-down list (e.g.  
WEPAUTO) in the Encryption Type field, and enter the password.  
Click OK to enable WiFi and establish the wireless connection.  
If you use a network cable connected directly to your DSL/cable modem (no  
router in between), click Setup for xDSL/cable dial-up. This method is also  
referred to as PPPoE. Choose whether the DSL/cable modem is connected  
to your computer’s LAN port. Then enter the username and password for your  
dial-up account.  
Click OK to enable xDSL/cable dial-up and establish the PPPoE connection.  
When PPPoE is enabled, the port it uses will automatically be unchecked and  
grayed out.  
Using the Photo Manager  
Express Gate provides a easy-to-use Photo Manager that allows you to view  
pictures stored in your hard drive or external storage devices (such as USB  
dongles, card readers, or optical disks). You can view pictures in thumbnail view;  
in an enlarged view individually; in a filename/data list view; or play them in a  
slideshow with background music and fancy transition effects. JPEG, GIF, BMP,  
and PNG formats are supported. Refer to the on-line Help for detailed software  
operation.  
Photo slideshow  
Help  
View mode  
selection  
Shows  
the image  
folder(s)  
found in your  
hard drive  
or external  
devices  
Shows user-  
created image  
album(s)  
Image  
control bar  
ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipset-  
controlled onboard SATA ports only. All onboard extended SATA ports and  
external SATA ports are NOT supported.  
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Using ASUS Drive Xpert  
Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for anyone  
who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive performances  
without the hassles of complicated configurations.  
To start ASUS Drive Xpert application  
1.  
Open the ASUS Utility panel.  
Open ASUS Utility Panel  
2.  
Launch Drive Xpert from the ASUS Utility Panel.  
3.  
Select EZ Backup or Super Speed according to your need.  
Refer to section 4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert for detailed software settings.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
Configuring Express Gate in BIOS Setup  
Enter BIOS setup by pressing DEL key after powering on or by clicking on the  
BIOS setup icon on Express Gate’s first screen. Express Gate configuration  
options are under the Tools menu. Refer to section 3.8.2 Express Gate for details.  
BIOS SETUP UTILITY  
Main  
Ai Tweaker  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Press ENTER to run  
the utility to select  
and update BIOS.  
This utility doesn't  
support :  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Express Gate  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Data  
[Enabled]  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
1.NTFS format  
Updating Express Gate  
You may update your existing Express Gate software to new versions. New  
versions of the Express Gate software will be released regularly, adding  
refinements or new applications. You can find original version of the software on  
the support DVD or download new versions from the ASUS support website.  
To update Express Gate  
1.  
Double-click the Express Gate setup  
file to start software update.  
2.  
A software update confirmation  
dialog box appears. Click Yes to  
continue.  
3.  
The InstallShield Wizard for Express Gate appears. Click Next to continue.  
4.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Repairing Express Gate  
In case Express Gate cannot start normally, you can repair Express Gate by  
reinstalling the software or using the repairing utility.  
To repair Express Gate  
•
Click Start > All Programs > Express  
Gate > Express Gate Installer >  
Repair this software.  
OR  
•
Double click the Express Gate setup  
file, choose Repair, and click Next to  
continue.  
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4.4  
RAID configurations  
The motherboard comes with the Intel® ICH10R Southbridge controller that  
supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5 for six independent Serial ATA  
channels.  
4.4.1  
RAID definitions  
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write  
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a  
single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone,  
thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives  
is required for this setup.  
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from  
one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software  
directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of  
the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and  
increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an  
existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same  
size or larger than the existing drive.  
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard  
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better  
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID  
5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database  
applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a  
minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.  
RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy  
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10* configuration you get  
all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk  
drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.  
Intel® Matrix Storage. The Intel® Matrix Storage technology supported by the  
ICH9R chip allows you to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10* function  
to improve both system performance and data safety. You can also combine two  
RAID sets to get higher performance, capacity, or fault tolerance provided by the  
difference RAID function. For example, RAID 0 and RAID 1 set can be created by  
using only two identical hard disk drives.  
If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a created RAID  
set, copy first the RAID driver from the support DVD to a floppy disk before you  
install an operating system to the selected hard disk drive. Refer to section 4.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk for details.  
4-60  
Chapter 4: Software support  
 
4.4.2  
Installing Serial ATA hard disks  
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance,  
install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.  
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.  
Connect the SATA signal cables.  
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.  
4.4.3  
Intel® RAID configurations  
This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 and Intel® Matrix  
Storage configurations for Serial ATA hard disks drives through the Intel® ICH10R  
Southbridge chip.  
Setting the RAID item in BIOS  
You must set the RAID item in the BIOS Setup before you can create a RAID  
set(s). To do this:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.  
Go to the Main menu, select Storage Configuration, then press <Enter>.  
Select the item Configure SATA as, then press <Enter> to display the  
configuration options.  
4.  
5.  
Select [RAID] from the Configure SATA as item options, then press <Enter>.  
Save your changes, then exit the BIOS Setup.  
Refer to the system or the motherboard user guide for details on entering and  
navigating through the BIOS Setup.  
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4-61  
 
Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility  
The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0,  
RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial ATA hard disk drives  
that are connected to the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge.  
To enter the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install all the Serial ATA hard disk drives.  
Turn on the system.  
During POST, press <Ctrl+I> to display the utility main menu.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ MAIN MENU ]  
1. Create RAID Volume  
2. Delete RAID Volume  
3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID  
4. Exit  
[ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ]  
RAID Volumes:  
None defined.  
Physical Disks:  
Port Drive Model  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size  
Type/Status(Vol ID)  
0
1
2
3
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXX  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk  
[↑↓]-Select  
[ESC]-Exit  
[ENTER]-Select Menu  
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through  
the menus and select the menu options.  
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and  
may not exactly match the items on your screen.  
4-62  
Chapter 4: Software support  
Creating a RAID 0 set (striped)  
To create a RAID 0 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press  
<Enter>. The following screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name: Volume0  
RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 128KB  
Capacity: XXX  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ HELP ]  
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is  
16 characters or less.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 0 set and press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 0(Stripe), and then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk  
drives to configure as RAID. The following screen appears.  
[ SELECT DISKS ]  
Port Drive Model  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size Status  
0
1
2
3
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume.  
[↑↓]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-SelectsDisk [ENTER]-Done  
5.  
Use the up/down arrow key to highlight a drive, and then press <Space>  
to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after  
completing your selection.  
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4-63  
6.  
Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array, and  
then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128  
KB. The default stripe size is 128 KB.  
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size  
for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
7.  
8.  
Enter the RAID volume capacity that you want and press <Enter>. The default  
value indicates the maximum capacity allowed.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. The following  
warning message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
9.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
4-64  
Chapter 4: Software support  
Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored)  
To create a RAID 1 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press  
<Enter>. The following screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name: Volume1  
RAID Level: RAID1(Mirror)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: N/A  
Capacity: XXX  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ HELP ]  
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is  
16 characters or less.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 1 set and press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 1(Mirror), then press <Enter>.  
4.  
5.  
When the Capacity item is highlighted, enter the RAID volume capacity that  
you want, and then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum  
capacity allowed.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. The following  
warning message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
6.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to main menu or <N> to go  
back to Create Volume menu.  
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Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0+1)  
To create a RAID 10 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press  
<Enter>. The following screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name: Volume10  
RAID Level: RAID10(RAID0+1)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 64KB  
Capacity: XXX  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ HELP ]  
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is  
16 characters or less.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 10 set and press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select the stripe size for the RAID 10 array, and then press <Enter>. The  
available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 64 KB. The default stripe size  
is 64 KB.  
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size  
for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
5.  
Enter the RAID volume capacity that you want and press <Enter>. The default  
value indicates the maximum capacity allowed.  
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Chapter 4: Software support  
6.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. The following  
warning message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
7.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
Creating a RAID 5 set (parity)  
To create a RAID 5 set:  
1.  
From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press  
<Enter>. The following screen appears.  
Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5  
Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.  
[ CREATE VOLUME MENU ]  
Name: Volume5  
RAID Level: RAID5(Parity)  
Disks: Select Disks  
Strip Size: 64KB  
Capacity: XXX  
GB  
Create Volume  
[ HELP ]  
Enter a unique volume name that has no special characters and is  
16 characters or less.  
[↑↓]-Change  
[TAB]-Next  
[ESC]-Previous Menu  
[Enter]-Select  
2.  
3.  
Enter a name for the RAID 5 set and press <Enter>.  
When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select RAID 5(Parity), and then press <Enter>.  
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4-67  
4.  
The Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to  
configure as RAID. The following screen appears.  
[ SELECT DISKS ]  
Port Drive Model  
Serial #  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXX  
Size Status  
0
1
2
3
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXX  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk  
Select 3 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume.  
[↑↓]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-SelectsDisk [ENTER]-Done  
5.  
Use the up/down arrow key to highlight the drive you want to set, and then  
press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press  
<Enter> after completing your selection.  
6.  
When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to  
select the stripe size for the RAID 5 array, and then press <Enter>. The  
available stripe size values range from 16 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe  
size is 64 KB.  
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size  
for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.  
7.  
8.  
Enter the RAID volume capacity that you want and then press <Enter>. The  
default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.  
Press <Enter> when the Create Volume item is highlighted. The following  
warning message appears.  
WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST.  
Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N):  
9.  
Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to  
go back to the Create Volume menu.  
4-68  
Chapter 4: Software support  
4.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk  
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP/Vista  
and later operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For  
Windows Vista user, you can create a RAID driver disk with a floppy disk drive or a  
USB flash disk drive.  
4.5.1  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS  
To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Boot your computer.  
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.  
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.  
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.  
Save changes and exit BIOS.  
Press any key when the system prompts “Press any key to boot from the  
optical drive.”  
7.  
8.  
9.  
When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.  
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the floppy drive then press <Enter>.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
4.5.2  
Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®  
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Start Windows®.  
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.  
Go to the Make disk menu, and then click Intel ICH10R 32/64 bit RAID  
Driver Disk to create an Intel® ICH10R RAID driver disk.  
4.  
Insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive or connect a USB flash disk if  
you are using Windows Vista OS.  
5.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.  
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4-69  
 
To install the RAID driver in Windows XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the <F6> key to  
install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.  
Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk  
drive.  
When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, make sure you select  
Intel(R) SATA RAID Controller (Desktop ICH10R).  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Insert the floppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive/USB  
port.  
During the OS installation, select Intel(R) SATA RAID Controller (Desktop  
ICH10R).  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
4-70  
Chapter 4: Software support  
The Appendix describes the CPU features  
and technologies that the motherboard  
supports.  
CPU features  
A
 
Chapter summary  
A
A.1  
A.2  
A.3  
Intel® EM64T..................................................................................A-1  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST)........................A-1  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology ...........................................A-3  
ASUS P5Q-E  
A.1  
Intel® EM64T  
•
The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running  
on 32-bit operating systems.  
•
The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can  
download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/  
support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 3 for  
details.  
•
•
Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature.  
Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.  
Using the Intel® EM64T feature  
To use the Intel® EM64T feature:  
1.  
2.  
Install an Intel® CPU that supports the Intel® EM64T.  
Install a 64-bit operating system (Windows® Vista 64-bit Edition or Windows®  
XP Professional x64 Edition).  
3.  
4.  
Install the 64-bit drivers for the motherboard components and devices from  
the support DVD.  
Install the 64-bit drivers for expansion cards or add-on devices, if any.  
Refer to the expansion card or add-on device(s) documentation, or visit the  
related website, to verify if the card/device supports a 64-bit system.  
A.2  
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep®  
Technology (EIST)  
•
The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EIST. You can  
download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/  
support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS. See Chapter 3 for  
details.  
•
Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EIST feature.  
A.2.1  
System requirements  
Before using EIST, check your system if it meets the following requirements:  
•
•
•
Intel® processor with EIST support  
BIOS file with EIST support  
Operating system with EIST support (Windows® Vista, Windows® XP SP2 /  
Linux 2.6 kernel or later versions)  
ASUS P5Q-E  
A-1  
 
A.2.2  
Using the EIST  
To use the EIST feature:  
1.  
2.  
Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup.  
Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration,  
then press <Enter>.  
3.  
Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep Technology item to [Automatic],  
then press <Enter>.  
4.  
5.  
Press <F10> to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup.  
After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then  
select Properties from the pop-up menu.  
6.  
7.  
When the Display Properties  
window appears, click the Screen  
Saver tab.  
Click the Power button on the  
Monitor power section to open  
the Power Options Properties  
window.  
8.  
9.  
On the Power schemes section,  
click , then select any option  
except Home/Office Desktop or  
Always On.  
Click Apply, and then click OK.  
10. Close the Display Properties  
window.  
After you adjust the power scheme,  
the CPU internal frequency slightly  
decreases when the CPU loading is  
low.  
The screen displays and procedures may vary depending on the operating  
system.  
A-2  
Appendix: CPU features  
 
A.3  
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology  
•
The motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® LGA775 processors with Hyper-  
Threading Technology.  
•
Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP  
and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the  
Hyper-Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other  
operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the  
BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.  
•
•
Installing Windows® XP Service Pack 1 or later version is recommended.  
Make sure to enable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in BIOS before  
installing a supported operating system.  
•
For more information on Hyper-Threading Technology, visit www.intel.  
com/info/hyperthreading.  
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology  
To use the Hyper-Threading Technology:  
1.  
2.  
Install an Intel® Pentium® CPU that supports Hyper-Threading Technology.  
Power up the system and enter the BIOS Setup. Under the Advanced menu,  
make sure that the item Hyper-Threading Technology is set to [Enabled].  
The BIOS item appears only if you installed a CPU that supports Hyper-  
Threading Technology.  
3.  
Restart the computer.  
ASUS P5Q-E  
A-3  
 
A-4  
Appendix: CPU features  

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