Motherboard K8N-DL
E1905 First Edition V1 February 2005 Copyright © 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Notices ................................................................................................ vi Safety information ............................................................................. vii About this guide ............................................................................... viii Typography ......................................................................................... ix K8N-DL specifications summary ..........................................................
Contents Chapter 3: Powering up 3.1 3.2 3.3 Starting up for the first time ................................................ 3-1 Powering off the computer .................................................. 3-2 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function ........................... 3-2 3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .................... 3-2 ASUS POST Reporter™ .......................................................... 3-3 3.3.1 Vocal POST messages ............................................ 3-3 3.3.
Contents 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 Advanced menu .................................................................. 4-20 4.4.1 CPU Configuration ................................................. 4-20 4.4.2 Memory Configuration .......................................... 4-21 4.4.3 Chipset ................................................................. 4-23 4.4.4 Onboard Device .................................................... 4-26 4.4.5 PCIPnP ..................................................................
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.
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.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This manual contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technologies it supports. • Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
Conventions used in this guide To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. D A N G E R / W A R N I N G : Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. C A U T I O N : Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. I M P O R T A N T : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. N O T E : Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
K8N-DL specifications summary CPU Dual Socket 940 for AMD Opteron™ 64 processors Supports AMD 64 architecture that enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Chipset NVIDIA® CK8-04 Professional System Bus 1600/2000 MT per second Memory Dual-channel memory architecture 6 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support registered ECC 400/333/266 MHz DDR memory modules Supports up to 24 GB system memory (tested only up to 12 GB on this motherboard due to 4 GB DDR availability) Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express x16
K8N-DL specifications summary Internal connectors 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 2 x IDE connectors 4 x Serial ATA connectors 4 x RAID Serial ATA connectors 2 x CPU fan connectors 2 x front fan connector 2 x rear fan connector 1 x Chipset fan connector 1 x 24-pin ATX power connector 1 x 8-pin ATX 12 V power connector 3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.
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This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
Chapter summary 1.1 Welcome! .............................................................................. 1-1 1.2 Package contents ................................................................. 1-1 1.3 Special features ....................................................................
1.1 Welcome! T h a n k y o u f o r b u y i n g a n A S U S® K 8 N - D L m o t h e r b o a r d ! 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.
1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Latest processor technology The motherboard comes with dual 940-pin sockets for the AMD Opteron™ 64 processors. The processors are based on AMD’s 64-bit and 32-bit architecture, which represents the landmark introduction of the industry’s first x86-64 technology, provide a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance, investment protection, and reduced total cost of ownership and development.
Dual RAID solution Onboard RAID controllers provide the motherboard with dual-RAID functionality that allows you to select the best RAID solution using IDE or Serial ATA devices. The NVIDIA® nForce4® PRO allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1 and JBOD configuration for four SATA and two PATA connectors. See page 2-23 for details. The Sil3114R controller supports four additional SATA connectors and allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, and a software patch to support RAID 5. See pages 2-24 for details.
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoring The CPU temperature is monitored by the ASIC (integrated in the Winbond Super I/O) to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations per minute (RPM) is monitored for timely failure detection. The ASIC monitors the voltage levels to ensure stable supply of current for critical components. See section “4.5.2 Hardware Monitor” on page 4-37. 1.3.
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.
Chapter summary 2.1 Before you proceed .............................................................. 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 2-3 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .............................................. 2-7 2.4 System memory ................................................................. 2-11 2.5 Expansion slots ................................................................... 2-14 2.6 Jumpers ...........................
2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See “8. ATX power connectors” on page 2-25 for details. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
2. CPU warning LED The CPU warning LED lights up to indicate that CPU1 has not been installed properly. If this LED stays off, this means that CPU has been installed properly.
2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation.
2.2.3 Motherboard layout 26.7cm (10.5in) ATX12V1 PS/2KBMS T: Mouse B: Keyboard CPU_FAN2 KBPWR1 SOCKET 940 FP_AUDIO1 CPU1 CD1 30.5cm (12in) SOCKET 940 CPU_FAN1 SEC_IDE1 Top:Line In Center:Line Out Below:Mic In ATXPWR1 Top: Center/Subwoofer Middle: Side surround L/R Bottom: Rear Surround L/R DDR DIMM_B2 (72 bit, 184-pin module) USB2.
2.2.4 Layout Contents Slots/Sockets Page 1. CPU sockets 2. DDR DIMM sockets 2-11 3. PCI/PCI Express slots 2-16 Jumpers 2-6 Page 1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1) 2-17 2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR1) 2-18 3. 1394 controller setting (3-pin 1394_EN1) 2-18 4. Gigabit LAN controller setting (3-pin LAN1_EN1) 2-19 5. RAID controller setting (3-pin RAID_EN1) 2-19 Rear panel connectors Page 1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2-20 2. Parallel port 2-20 3. IEEE 1394a port 2-20 4.
Internal connectors 2-6 Page 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY1) 2-22 2. Primary IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, SEC_IDE) 2-22 3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4) 2-23 4. Serial ATA RAID connectors (7-pin SATA_RAID1, SATA_RAID2, SATA_RAID3, SATA_RAID4) 2-24 5. CPU, front, and rear fan connectors (3-pin CPU_FAN1, CPU_FAN2, FRNT_FAN1, FRNT_FAN2, REAR-FAN1, REAR_FAN2) 2-25 6. Backplane SMBus connector (6-1 pin BPSMB1) 2-25 7.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) 2.3.1 Overview The motherboard comes with dual surface mount 940-pin Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) sockets designed for AMD Opteron™ 64 processors. The 128-bit-wide data paths of these processors can run applications faster than processors with only 32-bit or 64-bit wide data paths. Take note of the notched corner on the CPU. This corner should match a specific corner on the socket to ensure correct installation. Notched corner 2.3.
2. Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle. Socket Lever Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely. 3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the notched corner matches the socket corner with a triangle mark. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Notched corner Triangle mark The CPU fits only in one correct orientation.
2.3.3 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Opteron™ 64 processors require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. Make sure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly. Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan. 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base. • The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase.
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 4.
3. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the appropriate connector on the motherboard, CPU_FAN1 or CPU_FAN2. CPU_FAN2 Rotation +12V GND CPU_FAN2 CPU_FAN1 ® CPU_FAN1 K8N-DL Rotation +12V GND K8N-DL CPU fan connectors Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. 2.4 System memory 2.4.
2.4.2 Memory Configurations You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, or 4 GB registered ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section. 2-12 • For dual-channel configuration, the total size of memory module(s) installed per channel must be the same for better performance. Single CPU: DIMM_A1+DIMM_A2=DIMM_B1+DIMM_B2 Dual CPU: DIMM_A1+DIMM_A2=DIMM_B1+DIMM_B2=DIMM_A3+DIMM_B3 • When using one DDR DIMM module, install into DIMM_A1 slot only.
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. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. DDR DIMM notch 1 1 Unlocked retaining clip A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
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.
2.5.
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. The figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot This motherboard supports one PCI Express x16 graphics card that complies with the PCI Express specifications. The figure shows a graphics card installed on the PCI Express x16 slot. In Normal mode, only the PCI Express black slot can be used for PCI Express x16 graphics cards.
2.6 1. Jumpers Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Remove the onboard battery. 3. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR1) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) to wake up the computer when you press a key on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar). This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS. KBPWR1 1 2 2 3 +5VSB +5V (Default) ® K8N-DL K8N-DL Keyboard power setting 3.
4. Gigabit LAN controller setting (3-pin LAN1_EN1) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard Broadcom® BCM5751 Gigabit LAN1 controller. Set to pins 1-2 to activate the Gigabit LAN feature. LAN1_EN1 ® K8N-DL 2 1 Enable (Default) 3 2 Disable K8N-DL CPU LAN1_EN setting 5. RAID controller setting (3-pin RAID_EN1) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard Silicon Image® 3114R RAID controller. Set to pins 1-2 to activate the RAID feature.
2.7 Connectors 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 16 1. 2. 3. 4. 15 14 13 12 11 10 P S / 2 m o u s e p o r t ( g r e e n ) . This port is for a PS/2 mouse. P a r a l l e l p o r t . This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other devices. I E E E 1 3 9 4 a p o r t . This 6-pin IEEE 1394 port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices. L A N 1 ( R J - 4 5 ) p o r t .
9 . M i c r o p h o n e p o r t ( p i n k ) . This port connects a microphone. 1 0 . C e n t e r / S u b w o o f e r p o r t ( y e l l o w o r a n g e ) . This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.
2.7.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY1) 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. FLOPPY1 ® K8N-DL PIN 1 NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1. K8N-DL Floppy disk drive connector 2.
3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4) Supported by the NVIDIA® nForce4™ chipset, these connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives that allows up to 3Gb/s of data transfer rate. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 1+0, or S/W RAID 5 configuration.
® GND RSATA_RXP4 RSATA_RXN4 GND RSATA_TXN4 RSATA_TXP4 GND GND RSATA_RXP3 RSATA_RXN3 GND RSATA_TXN3 RSATA_TXP3 GND GND RSATA_RXP2 RSATA_RXN2 GND RSATA_TXN2 RSATA_TXP2 GND Serial ATA RAID connectors (7-pin SATA_RAID1, SATA_RAID2, SATA_RAID3, SATA_RAID4) Supported by the Silicon Image® Sil3114 RAID controller, these connectors are for Serial ATA signal cables.
5. CPU, front, and rear fan connectors (3-pin CPU_FAN1, CPU_FAN2, FRNT_FAN1, FRNT_FAN2, REAR-FAN1, REAR_FAN2) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~2000mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1A~3.48A (41.76 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. • Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors.
7. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910) USB56 USB910 1 1 USB+5V USB_P9USB_P9+ GND 1 USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND USB78 USB+5V USB_P5USB_P5+ GND K8N-DL K8N-DL USB 2.0 connectors USB+5V USB_P6USB_P6+ GND NC USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC ® USB+5V USB_P10USB_P10 + GND NC These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB cable from the USB/GAME port module to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR1, 8-pin ATX12V1) These connectors are for an 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. • Do not forget to connect the 8-pin ATX +12 V 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.
1 0 . GAME/MIDI port connector (16-1 pin GAME1) +5V J1B2 J1CY GND GND J1CX J1B1 +5V This connector is for a GAME/MIDI port. Connect the GAME cable from the USB/GAME port module to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The GAME/MIDI port connects a joystick or game pad for playing games, and MIDI devices for playing or editing audio files. ® K8N-DL MIDI_IN J2B2 J2CY MIDI_OUT J2CX J2B1 +5V GAME1 K8N-DL Game connector 1 1 .
1 2 . Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS1) 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 pins labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with a jumper cap.
1 4 . System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. MLED SPKO +5V Ground Ground Speaker PLEDMLED+ MLED- PLED+ PLED ® K8N-DL HD_LED Reset GND PWR GND HD_LED+ HD_LED- PANEL1 RESET PWRSW * Requires an ATX power supply. K8N-DL System panel connector The system panel connector is color-coded for easy connection. Refer to the connector description below for details.
This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
Chapter summary 3.1 Starting up for the first time ................................................ 3-1 3.2 Powering off the computer .................................................. 3-2 3.3 ASUS POST Reporter™ ..........................................................
3.1 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. 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.
3.2 Powering off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® 2000: 2. Click the S t a r t button then click S h u t D o w n . . . Make sure that the S h u t D o w n option button is selected, then click the O K button to shut down the computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 1. If you are using Windows® XP: 2. Click the S t a r t button then select T u r n O f f C o m p u t e r .
3.3 ASUS POST Reporter™ This motherboard includes the Winbond speech controller to support a special feature called the ASUS POST Reporter™. This feature lets you hear vocal messages during POST that alerts you of system events and boot status. In case of a boot failure, you will hear the specific cause of the problem. These POST messages are customizable using the Winbond Voice Editor software that came with your package. You can record your own messages to replace the default messages. 3.3.
POST Message Action CPU temperature too high • Check if the CPU fan is working properly. CPU fan failed • Check the CPU fan and make sure it turns on after you apply power to the system. • Make sure that your CPU fan supports the fan speed detection function. • Check your power supply and make sure it is not defective. • Call ASUS technical support for assistance. See the “ASUS contact information” on the inside front cover of this user guide.
3.3.2 Winbond Voice Editor The Winbond Voice Editor software allows you to customize the vocal POST messages. You can install this application from the support CD. To avoid conflicts, do not run the Winbond Voice Editor while running the ASUS PC Probe application. Launching the Voice Editor You can launch the program from the Windows® desktop by clicking S t a r t > A l l P r o g r a m s > W i n b o n d V o i c e E d i t o r > V o i c e E d i t o rr. The Winbond Voice Editor screen appears.
Changing the default language To change the default language: 1. Click the L o a d button from the Voice Editor main window. A window with the available languages appears. 2. Select your desired language, then click O p e n n. The event messages for the language you selected appear on the Voice Editor main window. Not all events on some languages have a corresponding message due to file size constraints. 3. Click the W r i t e button from the Voice Editor main window to update the EEPROM. 4.
Customizing your POST messages The Voice Editor application allows you to record your own POST messages if your language is not supported or if you wish to to replace the pre-installed wave files. To customize your POST messages. 1. Launch the Voice Editor application and note the list of POST events on the leftmost column of the screen. 2. Prepare your message for each event. 3. Use a recording software (e.g. Windows® Recorder) to record your messages, then save the messages as wave files (.WAV). 4.
6. Select a POST event on the Voice Editor main window, then click the E d i t button. The E v e n t S o u n d E d i t o r window appears. 7. Locate and select your wave file for the event, then click on the arrow opposite Voice1. The file you select appears on the space next to it. 8. Click O K to return to the Voice Editor main window. 9. Do steps 6 to 8 for the other events. 10. When done, click S a v e e. A window appears prompting you to save your configuration. 11. Type a file name with an .
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 4 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program ........................................................... 4-11 4.3 Main menu .......................................................................... 4-15 4.4 Advanced menu .................................................................. 4-20 4.5 Power menu ........................................................................ 4-33 4.6 Boot menu .....................
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. 2. 3. 4. A w a r d B I O S F l a s h U t i l i t y (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.) A S U S C r a s h F r e e B I O S 2 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk or the motherboard support CD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
c. Click S t a r tt, then select R u n n. d. From the Open field, type D:\bootdisk\makeboot a: assuming that D: is your optical drive. e. Press , then follow screen instructions to continue. 2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk. 4.1.2 Updating the BIOS The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility. 1.
6. Type the BIOS file name in the F i l e N a m e t o P r o g r a m field, then press . AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.01 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF-KC804-K8N-DL-00 DATE: 02/01/2005 Flash Type - SST 49LF004A/B /3.3V File Name to Program: 1001.bin Message: Do You Want To Save BIOS (Y/N) 7. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears. 8.
4.1.3 Saving the current BIOS file You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing process. Make sure that the floppy disk has enough disk space to save the file. To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility: 1. Follow steps 1 to 6 of the previous section. 2. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears.
4.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can update a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support CD or the floppy disk that contains the updated BIOS file. Prepare the motherboard support CD or the floppy disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
Recovering the BIOS from a floppy disk To recover the BIOS from the support CD: 1. Remove any CD from the optical drive, then turn on the system. 2. Insert the floppy disk with the original or updated BIOS file to the floppy disk drive. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file. Award BootBlock BIOS v1.0 Copyright (c) 2000, Award Software, Inc. BIOS ROM checksum error Detecting IDE ATAPI device...
4.1.5 ASUS EZ Flash utility The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self Tests (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. 2.
4.1.6 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file • Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and • View the BIOS version information. This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.
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 e. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select U p d a t e B I O S f r o m t h e I n t e r n e t option from the drop-down menu, then click N e x tt. ASUS K8N-DL 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click A u t o S e l e c tt. Click N e x tt.
4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. 2.
4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.” Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup”. This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future.
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Menu bar Main Advanced System System Legacy Floppy General help Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Power Boot Exit Time Date Diskette A 3 Mode Support Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave Secondary IDE Master Secondary IDE Slave Third IDE Master Fourth IDE Master IDE Channel 4 Master IDE Channel 5 Master Base Memory Extended Memory Total Memory ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu →← F1:Help ESC: Exit Configuration fields 15 : 30 : 36 Wed, Feb 2 2005 [1.44M, 3.
4.2.3 Legend bar At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.
4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item. Main Advanced System System Legacy Floppy Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Power Boot Exit Time Date Diskette A 3 Mode Support 15 : 30 : 36 Wed, Feb 2 2005 [1.44M, 3.5 in.] [Disabled] Legacy Diskette A: Primary IDE Master [None] Primary IDE Slave Disabled [None]..... Secondary IDE Master360K , 5.25 in. [None]..... Secondary IDE Slave 1.2M , 5.25 in. [None].....
4.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section “4.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them.
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press to display the IDE device information. 4.3.6 Primary IDE Master Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Primary IDE Master Select Menu PIO Mode UDMA Mode [Auto] [Auto] Item Specific Help Primary IDE Master Access Mode [Auto] [Auto] Set a PIO mode for the IDE device. Mode0 through 4 successive increase in performance.
Access Mode [Auto] Allows selection of the sector addressing mode. The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive. Select [CHS] for this item if you set the Primary IDE Master to [Manual] to manually enter the drive information. Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto] Manually detecting an IDE drive To manually enter the drive information, set the Primary IDE Master item to [Manual], and the Access Mode item to [CHS].
Head Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. Precomp Displays the precompressed volumes on the hard disk, if any. Landing Zone Displays the drive’s maximum usable capacity as calculated by the BIOS based on the drive information that you entered. Sector Shows the number of sectors per track. Transfer Mode Shows the data transfer mode if the hard disk supports this feature. Otherwise, this item is grayed out and shows the value [None]. S.M.A.R.
4.3.10 Third IDE Master When configuring a drive as Primary IDE Slave, refer to section “4.3.6 Primary IDE Master” for the menu item descriptions which are not discussed in this section. Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Primary IDE Master Extended IDE Drive Access Mode Select Menu [Auto] [Auto] Capacity 0 MB Cylinder Head Precomp Landing Zone Sector Transfer Mode S.M.A.R.
4.4 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main Advanced Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Power Boot Exit Select Menu CPU Configuration Memory Configuration Chipset Onboard Device PCIPnP USB Configuration F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.4.
CPU Frequency [200.0] Allows you to select the CPU frequency. Configuration options: [200.0] [201.0] [202.0] ... [400.0] AMD K8 Cool ‘n’ Quiet Control [Enabled] Disables or enables the AMD K8 Cool ‘n’ Quiet feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.4.2 Memory Configuration This menu shows the memory configuration settings. Select an item then press to display a pop-up menu with the configuration options.
CAS# Latency (Tcl) [2.5] Sets the latency (in clocks) between the DRAM read command and the time the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [2] [2.5] [3] Min RAS# Active Time (Tras) [ 8T] Controls the number of DRAM clocks used for DRAM parameters. Configuration options: [5T] [6T] [7T] [8T] [9T] [10T] [11T] [12T] [13T] [14T] [15T] RAS# to CAS# Delay (Trcd) [ 4T] Controls the latency between the DRAM active command and the read/ write command.
Chip-Kill Mode Enable [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], allows ECC checking to be based on a 128/16 data/ECC rather than on a 64/8 data/ECC. You may only enable this feature in 128-bit DRAM data width mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ECC Redirection [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], correctable errors are corrected as the data is passed to the requestor. The data in the DRAM is not corrected if this item is set to [Disabled].
OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled] Enables or disables the on-chip IDE channel 0. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] OnChip IDE Channel1 [Enabled] Enables or disables the on-chip IDE channel 1. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Hyper Transport Frequency [4x] Allows selection of hyper transport frequency. Configuration options: [1x] [2x] [3x] [4x] [5x] Hyper Transport Width [[↓ ↓1 6 ↑1 6 ] Allows selection of hyper transport frequency.
Init Display First [PCI Slot] Allows you to select the graphics controller to use as primary boot device. Configuration options: [PCI Slot] [PCIEx] IDE DMA Transfer Access [Enabled] Enables or disables the switch to support IDE DMA transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Serial-ATA 1 [Enabled] Enables or disables the on-chip SATA1 (ports 1 and 2). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA DMA Transfer [Enabled] Enables or disables the switch to support SATA DMA transfer.
4.4.4 Onboard Device This menu shows the onboard device configuration settings. Select an item then press to display a pop-up menu with the configuration options, or a sub-menu with additional items.
Onboard Broadcom 5751 LAN [Enabled] Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Onboard AC97 Audio [Enabled] Enables or disables the onboard AC97 audio controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] NVRAID Configuration This sub-menu contains RAID-related function items. Select the items that you wish to enable to create a RAID set.
Super I/O Device This sub-menu contains RAID-related function items. Select the items that you wish to enable to create a RAID set. NVRAID Configuration Serial Port1 Address Onboard Parallel Port Parallel Port Mode EPP Mode Select ECP Mode Use DMA Game Port Address Midi Port Address Midi Port IRQ [3F8/IRQ4] [378/IRQ7] [SPP] EPP1.7 3 [201] [330] [10] Select Menu Item Specific Help Set base I/O address for serial port 1. Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Allows you to select the serial port 1 base address.
ECP Mode Use DMA [3] Allows you to configure the parallel port DMA channel for the selected ECP mode. This item becomes configurable only if the P a r a l l e l P o r t M o d e is set to [ECP] or [ECP+EPP]. Configuration options: [1] [3] Game Port Address [201] Allows you to select the game port address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [201] [209] Midi Port Address [330] Allows you to select the MIDI port address.
4.4.5 PCIPnP This menu shows the PCIPnP configuration settings. Select an item then press to display a pop-up menu with the configuration options. Memory Configuration Resources Controlled By IRQ Resources [Auto] PCI/VGA Pallete Snoop [Disabled] ** PCI Express relative items ** Maximum Payload Size [4096] Select Menu Item Specific Help BIOS can automatically configure all the boot and Plug and Play compatible devices.
IRQ Resources Set the item R e s o u r c e s C o n t r o l l e d B y to [Manual] to enable the item I R Q R e s o u r c e s and assign the interrupts depending on the type of installed PCI devices.
4.4.6 USB Configuration This menu shows the USB configuration settings. Select an item then press to display a pop-up menu with the configuration options. USB Configuration USB Controller USB2.0 Controller USB Legacy Mode Support [Enabled] [Enabled] [Enabled] Select Menu Item Specific Help Enable/Disable USB 2.0 and legay controller. USB Controller [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the USB controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] USB2.
4.5 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the ACPI and Advanced Power Management (APM) features. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. ACPI APIC Support ACPI Suspend Type APM Configuration Hardware Monitor [Enabled] [S1&S3] Select Menu Item Specific Help Enable/Disable ACPI support for Operating System. ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ACPI feature on the operating system.
4.5.1 APM Configuration This menu shows the Advanced Powed Management (APM) configuration settings. Select an item then press to display a pop-up menu with the configuration options.
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to [Power Off], the system goes into “off state” after an AC power interruption. When set to [Power On], the system turns on automatically after a power interruption. When set to [Last State], the system goes into whatever was the system state (on or off) before the power interruption. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PME to generate a wake-up event.
Power On Function [Disabled] Allows you to define specific keys on the keyboard to turn on the system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Ctrl+ESC] [Space Bar] [Power Key] [Any Key] Power Up By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.5.
Voltage Monitor Voltage Monitor Select Menu CPU VCORE A (V) CPU VCORE B (V) +3.3 Voltage +12V Voltage +1.5V Voltage +2.5V Voltage +5VCC Voltage +5VSB Voltage VBAT Voltage 1.53 N/A 3.28 11.91 1.56 2.54 4.99 4.96 3.10 V CPU1 DDR Voltage CPU2 DDR Voltage Chipset Voltage CPU1 Voltage Control CPU2 Voltage Control Hyper Transport Voltage [2.60V] [2.60V] [1.50V] [Default VID+100mV] [Default VID+100mV] [1.20V] Item Specific Help V V V V V V V CPU VCORE A/B (V), +3.3 Voltage, +12V Voltage, +1.
Smart Q-Fan Configuration Hardware Monitor Smart Fan Control System Target Temperature CPU1 Target Temperature CPU1 Target Temperature [Disabled] 50 55 55 Select Menu Item Specific Help Press enter to select enable/disable Smart Fan. Smart Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Smart Fan feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] • The System/CPU1/CPU2 Target Temperature items become configurable only when you set Smart Fan Control to [Enabled].
4.6 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot settings. Select an item then press Enter to display a sub-menu with additional items, or show a pop-up menu with the configuration options. Select Menu Boot Device Priority Item Specific Help Hard Disk Boot Priority Removable Device Priority Select Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Configuration Security 4.6.
4.6.2 Hard Disk Boot Priority APM Configuration 1. Bootable Add-in Cards Select Menu Item Specific Help Use or arrow to select a device, the press <+> to move it up, or <-> to move it down the list. Press to exit this menu. 4.6.3 Removable Device Priority APM Configuration 1. Floppy Disks Select Menu Item Specific Help Use or arrow to select a device, the press <+> to move it up, or <-> to move it down the list. Press to exit this menu.
4.6.4 Boot Settings Configuration Boot Settings Configuration Boot Other Device Quick Power On Self Test Halt On Boot Up Floppy Seek Boot Up NumLock Status Typematic Rate Setting Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) Typematic Delay (Msec) [Enabled] [Enabled] [All, But Keyboard] [Disabled] [On] [Disabled] 6 250 Select Menu Item Specific Help Select your boot device priority. Boot Other Device [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable selection of other boot device.
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the keyboard typematic rate setting. Set to [Enabled] to configure the Type Rate and Type Delay items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The items T y p e m a t i c R a t e ( C h a r s / S e c ) and T y p e m a t i c D e l a y become configurable only when the item Typematic Setting is enabled. Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6] Allows you to select the rate at which character repeats when you hold a key.
4.6.5 Security Security Supervisor Password User Password Password Check Select Menu Clear Clear [Setup] Item Specific Help Select your boot device priority. Supervisor Password [Clear] User Password [Clear] These fields allow you to set passwords: To set a password: 1. Select an item then press . 2. Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8) alpha-numeric characters, then press . 3.
A note about passwords The Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program preventing unauthorized access. The User password is required to boot the system preventing unauthorized use. Forgot your password? If you forget your password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password information is powered by the onboard button cell battery. If you need to erase the CMOS RAM, refer to section “2.6 Jumpers” for instructions.
4.7 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the BIOS setup default settings, save or discard any changes you made, or exit the Setup utility. Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Discard Changes Select Menu Item Specific Help This option save data to CMOS and exits the setup menu. Exit & Save Changes Select this option then press , or simply press , to save your changes to CMOS before exiting the Setup utility.
Load Setup Defaults Select this option then press , or simply press , to load the optimized values for each of the Setup menu items. When a confirmation window appears (with a blinking [Y]): • press to load the default values • type [N], then press , or simply press , to cancel the command and return to the Exit menu Discard Changes Select this option to discard the changes that you made, and restore the previously saved values.
This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to when configuring the motherboard.
Appendix summary A.1 A K8N-DL block diagram ..........................................................
K8N-DL block diagram 2 channel DDR SDRAM 4 x DIMMs AMD Opteron“ CPU2 HT2000MT/S 266/333/400 MHz 266/333/400 MHz 128 bit x16 AMD Opteron“ CPU1 HT2000MT/S directions/s FSB x16 IDE PCI-Express x16 IDE PCI-Express x1 PCIExpress x1 BCM5751 Gigabit LAN 2 channel DDR SDRAM 2 x DIMMs A.1 SATA NVIDIA CRUSH K8-04 Professional 2 x PCI Slots 2 x IDE Ports (Ultra ATA 66/100/133) SATA 4 x Serial ATA SATA Ports SATA AC97 PCI BUS 33 MHz Audio Codec ALC850 USB2.
A-2 Appendix A: Reference information
