ASROCK ALIVEXFIRE-ESATA2 User manual

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ALiveXFire-eSATA2
User Manual
Version 1.3
Published July 2007
Copyright©2006 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.

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Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:
No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or translated in
any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation by
the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be regis-
tered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for
identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:
Specifications and information contained in this manual are furnished for informa-
tional use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed
as a commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or
omissions that may appear in this manual.
With respect to the contents of this manual, ASRock does not provide warranty of
any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warran-
ties or conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
In no event shall ASRock, its directors, officers, employees, or agents be liable for
any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for
loss of profits, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like),
even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any
defect or error in the manual or product.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY
The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic
substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations
passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in
California, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance.
“Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate”
ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

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ContentsContents
ContentsContents
Contents
1.1.
1.1.
1. IntroductionIntroduction
IntroductionIntroduction
Introduction ........................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................
............................................................ 55
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1.1 Package Contents ..................................................................... 5
1.2 Specifications ........................................................................... 6
1.3 Minimum Hardware Requirement Table for Windows®VistaTM
Premium 2007 and Basic Logo ................................................. 9
1.4 Motherboard Layout ................................................................. 10
1.5 ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O ......................................................... 11
2.2.
2.2.
2. InstallationInstallation
InstallationInstallation
Installation ............................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................
.............................................................. 1212
1212
12
Pre-installation Precautions ............................................................... 12
2.1 CPU Installation ......................................................................... 13
2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink ....................................... 13
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM) .................................... 14
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots) .................................. 16
2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card .............................................. 18
2.6 Installing CrossFireTM Graphics Cards ...................................... 19
2.7 Surround Display Feature ......................................................... 24
2.8 Jumpers Setup .......................................................................... 24
2.9 Onboard Headers and Connectors .......................................... 25
2.10 HDMI_SPDIF Header ConnectionGuide .................................... 30
2.11 eSATAII Interface Introduction .................................................. 31
2.12 SATAII Hard Disk Setup Guide .................................................. 34
2.13 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATAII (SATAII) Hard Disks
Installation ................................................................................. 35
2.14 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATAII HDDs and
eSATAII Devices ........................................................................ 35
2.15 Driver Installation Guide ............................................................ 36
2.16 Installing Windows®2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM
64-bit With RAID Functions ...................................................... 37
2.16.1 Installing Windows®2000 / XP / XP 64-bit With RAID
Functions ......................................................................... 37
2.16.2 Installing Windows®VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit With RAID
Functions ......................................................................... 38
2.17 Installing Windows®2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM
64-bit Without RAID Functions ................................................. 39
2.17.1 Installing Windows®2000 / XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID
Functions ......................................................................... 39
2.17.2 Installing Windows®VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID
Functions ......................................................................... 41
2.18 Untied Overclocking Technology .............................................. 42

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3.3.
3.3.
3. BIOS SBIOS S
BIOS SBIOS S
BIOS SETUP UTILITYETUP UTILITY
ETUP UTILITYETUP UTILITY
ETUP UTILITY ......................................................................................................
......................................................................................................
................................................... 4343
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43
3.1 Introduction ............................................................................... 43
3.1.1 BIOS Menu Bar ............................................................... 43
3.1.2 Navigation Keys ............................................................. 44
3.2 Main Screen .............................................................................. 44
3.3 Advanced Screen .................................................................... 45
3.3.1 CPU Configuration .......................................................... 46
3.3.2 Chipset Configuration ..................................................... 48
3.3.3 ACPI Configuration ......................................................... 50
3.3.4 IDE Configuration ............................................................ 51
3.3.5 PCIPnP Configuration ...................................................... 53
3.3.6 Floppy Configuration ...................................................... 53
3.3.7 Super IO Configuration ................................................... 54
3.3.8 USB Configuration .......................................................... 55
3.4 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen ............................. 56
3.5 Boot Screen .............................................................................. 57
3.5.1 Boot Settings Configuration ........................................... 57
3.6 Security Screen ........................................................................ 58
3.7 Exit Screen ............................................................................... 59
4.4.
4.4.
4. Software SupportSoftware Support
Software SupportSoftware Support
Software Support ......................................................................................................
......................................................................................................
................................................... 6060
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4.1 Install Operating System ........................................................... 60
4.2 Support CD Information ............................................................. 60
4.2.1 Running Support CD ....................................................... 60
4.2.2 Drivers Menu .................................................................. 60
4.2.3 Utilities Menu ................................................................... 60
4.2.4 Contact Information ........................................................ 60

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1.1.
1.1.
1. IntroductionIntroduction
IntroductionIntroduction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock ALiveXFire-eSATA2 motherboard, a reliable
motherboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It de-
livers excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commit-
ment to quality and endurance.
In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contain introduction of the motherboard and step-by-
step guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration
guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.
Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might be
updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without
notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated
version will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You
may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website
as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
1.11.1
1.11.1
1.1 Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package Contents
1 x ASRock ALiveXFire-eSATA2 Motherboard
(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 8.2-in, 30.5 cm x 20.8 cm)
1 x ASRock ALiveXFire-eSATA2 Quick Installation Guide
1 x ASRock ALiveXFire-eSATA2 Support CD
1 x Ultra ATA 66/100/133 IDE Ribbon Cable (80-conductor)
1 x 3.5-in Floppy Drive Ribbon Cable
4 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
2 x Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cables (Optional)
1 x HDMI_SPDIF Cable (Optional)
1 x ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O Shield
1 x USB Bracket
1 x PCIE Switch Card
This motherboard is bundled with one PCIE Switch card installed on PCIE2/
PCIE SWITCH slot, which allows you better flexibility to choose PCIE
functions between one PCIE x16 slot and two PCIE slots for ATITM
CrossFireTM without setting up jumpers.

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1.21.2
1.21.2
1.2 SpecificationsSpecifications
SpecificationsSpecifications
Specifications
Platform - ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 8.2-in, 30.5 cm x 20.8 cm
CPU - Socket AM2 for AMD AthlonTM 64FX / 64X2 / X2 / 64 and
Sempron processors
- AMD LIVE!TM Ready
- Supports AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM Technology
- FSB 1000 MHz (2.0 GT/s)
- Supports Untied Overclocking Technology (see CAUTION 1)
- Supports Hyper-Transport Technology
Chipset - Northbridge: AMD 480X CrossFireTM
- Southbridge:ATITM SB600
Memory - Dual Channel DDRII Memory Technology (see CAUTION 2)
- 4 x DDRII DIMM slots
- Support DDRII800/667/533
- Max. capacity: 8GB (see CAUTION 3)
Hybrid Booster - CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 4)
- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 5)
- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)
- AM2 Boost: ASRock Patented Technology to boost memory
performance up to 12.5% (see CAUTION 6)
Expansion Slot - Supports ATITM CrossFireTM graphics cards
(see CAUTION 7)
- 1 x PCI Express x16 slot with PCIE Switch card or 2 x PCI
Express Graphics slots for ATITM CrossFireTM
(see CAUTION 8)
- 1 x PCI Express x1 slot
- 3 x PCI slots
Audio - 7.1 CH Windows®VistaTM Premium Level HD Audio
(ALC888 Audio Codec)
LAN - PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s
- Realtek RTL8111B
- Supports Wake-On-LAN
Rear Panel I/O ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O
- 1 x PS/2 Mouse Port
- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port
- 1 x Serial Port: COM1
- 1 x Parallel Port (ECP/EPP Support)
- 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports
- 2 x eSATAII Ports
- 1 x RJ-45 Port

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- HD Audio Jack: Side Speaker/Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/
Line in/Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 9)
Connector - 4 x SATAII 3.0Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID 1 and RAID 10), NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug” functions
(see CAUTION 10)
- 2 x eSATAII 3.0Gb/s connectors (shared with 2 SATAII ports),
support RAID (RAID 0 and RAID 1), NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug”
functions (see CAUTION 11)
- 1 x ATA133 IDE connector (supports 2 x IDE devices)
- 1 x Floppy connector
- 1 x IR header
- 1 x Game header
- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header
- CPU/Chassis FAN connector
- 20 pin ATX power connector
- 4 pin 12V power connector
- SLI/XFire power connector
- CD in header
- Front panel audio connector
- 4 x USB 2.0 headers (support 8 USB 2.0 ports)
(see CAUTION 12)
BIOS Feature - 4Mb AMI BIOS
- AMI Legal BIOS
- Supports “Plug and Play”
- ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events
- Supports jumperfree
- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support
Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version)
Hardware - CPU Internal Temperature Sensing
Monitor - CPU Ambient Temperature Sensing
- Chassis Temperature Sensing
- CPU Fan Tachometer
- Chassis Fan Tachometer
- CPU Quiet Fan
- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, Vcore
OS - Microsoft® Windows® 2000 / XP / XP Media Center / XP 64-bit
/ VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit compliant (see CAUTION 13)
Certifications - FCC, CE, Microsoft®WHQL Certificated

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CAUTION!
1. This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology. Please read “Un-
tied Overclocking Technology” on page 42 for details.
2. This motherboard supportsDual Channel Memory Technology. Before you
implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read the
installation guide of memory modules on page 14 for proper installation.
3. Due to the chipset limitation, if you adopt 4GB or more memory, the actual
memory size may be less than the installed memory size.
4. Although this motherboard offers stepless control, it is not recommended to
perform over-clocking. Frequencies other than the recommended CPU bus
frequencies may cause the instability of the system or damage the CPU.
5. While CPU overheat is detected, the system will automatically shutdown.
Before you resume the system, please check if the CPU fan on the motherboard
functions properly and unplug the power cord, then plug it back again. To
improve heat dissipation, remember to spray thermal grease between the
CPU and the heatsink when you install the PC system.
6. This motherboard supports ASRock AM2 Boost overclocking technology. If
you enable this function in the BIOS setup, the memory performance will
improve up to 12.5%, but the effect still depends on the AM2 CPU you adopt.
Enabling this function will overclock the chipset/CPU reference clock. However,
we can not guarantee the system stability for all CPU/DRAM configurations.
If your system is unstable after AM2 Boost function is enabled, it may not be
applicative to your system. You may choose to disable this function for
keeping the stability of your system.
7. Please remove PCIE Switch card from PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot before you
use ATITM CrossFireTM function. In CrossFireTM mode, the two ATITM graphics
cards you install should be from the same GPU family.
8. This motherboard is bundled with one PCIE Switch card installed on PCIE2/
PCIE SWITCH slot, which allows you better flexibility to choose PCIE func-
tions between one PCIE x16 slot and two PCIE slots for ATITM CrossFireTM
without setting up jumpers. To avail of the PCI Express x16 graphics card
installed on PCIE3 slot work at PCIE x16 bandwidth, please make sure that
PCIE Switch card is installed on PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot. Please refer to
page 18 for details of installing a single graphics card.
WARNING
Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including adjusting
the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using the third-
party overclocking tools. Overclocking may affect your system stability, or even
cause damage to the components and devices of your system. It should be done at
your own risk and expense. We are not responsible for possible damage caused by
overclocking.

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9. For microphone input, this motherboard supports both stereo and mono modes.
For audio output, this motherboard supports 2-channel, 4-channel, 6-channel,
and 8-channel modes. Please check the table on page 11 for proper connection.
10. Before installing SATAII hard disk to SATAII connector, please read the “SATAII
Hard Disk Setup Guide” on page 34 to adjust your SATAII hard disk drive to
SATAII mode. You can also connect SATA hard disk to SATAII connector
directly.
11. This motherboard supports eSATAII interface, the external SATAII
specification. Please read “eSATAII Interface Introduction” on page 31 for
details about eSATAII and eSATAII installation procedures.
12. Power Management for USB 2.0 works fine under Microsoft®Windows®
VistaTM 64-bit / VistaTM / XP 64-bit / XP SP1 or SP2 / 2000 SP4.
13. Microsoft®Windows®VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit driver keeps on updating now. As
long as we have the latest driver, we will update it to our website in the future.
Please visit our website for Microsoft®Windows®VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit driver
and related information.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
1.31.3
1.31.3
1.3 Minimum Hardware RMinimum Hardware R
Minimum Hardware RMinimum Hardware R
Minimum Hardware Requirement Tequirement T
equirement Tequirement T
equirement Table for Wable for W
able for Wable for W
able for Windowsindows
indowsindows
indows®®
®®
®
VistaVista
VistaVista
VistaTMTM
TMTM
TM Premium 2007 and Basic LogoPremium 2007 and Basic Logo
Premium 2007 and Basic LogoPremium 2007 and Basic Logo
Premium 2007 and Basic Logo
For system integrators and users who purchase this motherboard and
plan to submit Windows®VistaTM Premium 2007 and Basic logo, please
follow below table for minimum hardware requirements.
CPU Sempron 2800+
Memory 1GB system memory (Premium)
512MB Single Channel (Basic)
VGA DX9.0 with WDDM Driver
with 128bit VGA memory (Premium)
with 64bit VGA memory (Basic)
* After June 1, 2007, all Windows®VistaTM systems are required to meet above
minimum hardware requirements in order to qualify for Windows®VistaTM Premium
2007 logo.

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1.4 Motherboard Layout1.4 Motherboard Layout
1.4 Motherboard Layout1.4 Motherboard Layout
1.4 Motherboard Layout
SOCKET AM2
AMD
480X
CrossFire
Chipset
ATI
SB600
Chipset
FSB800
DDRII_1 (64/72 bit, 240-pin module)
DDRII_2 (64/72 bit, 240-pin module)
FSB800
DDRII_3 (64/72 bit, 240-pin module)
DDRII_4 (64/72 bit, 240-pin module)
DDRII800
Dual Core CPU
FSB1GHz
Dual Channel
20.8cm (8.2-in)
30.5cm (12.0-in)
ATXPWR1
CD1
ATX12V1
PS2_USB_PW1
1
CPU_FAN1
PARALLEL PORT
COM1
PS2
Mouse
PS2
Keyboard
USB 2.0
T:USB0
B: USB1
Top:
RJ-45
eSATAII_12
T:eSATAII_1
B: eSATAII_2
eSATAII_TOP
eSATAII_BOTTOM
Top:
SIDE SPK
Center:
REAR SPK
Bottom:
CTR BASS
Top:
LINE IN
Center:
FRONT
Bottom:
MIC IN
ALiveXFire-eSATA2
RoHS
RAID
4Mb
BIOS
PCI
EXPRESS
CMOS
BATTERY
eSATAII
Gigabit LAN
PCIE1
PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH
PCIE3
1
HDMI_SPDIF1
PCI1
PCI2
PCI3
1
CLRCMOS1
Super
I/O
LAN
PHY
IR1
1
AUDIO
CODEC
HD_AUDIO1
1
7.1CH HD
FLOPPY1
GAME1
1
USB2.0
ATA133
USB6_7
11
USB8_9
11
USB2_3
11
USB4_5
11
SATAII_RED
(PORT 1)
SATAII_ORANGE
(PORT 2)
SATAII_BLUE
(PORT 4)
SATAII_BLACK
(PORT 3)
SATAII
CHA_FAN1
HDLED RESET
PLED PWRBTN
1
PANEL1
SPEAKER1
1
IDE1
SLI/XFIRE_PWR1
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12 4
358
9
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12
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1 PS2_USB_PW1 Jumper 19 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Blue)
2 ATX 12V Connector (ATX12V1) 20 USB 2.0 Header (USB8_9, Blue)
3 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 21 Serial ATAII Connector
4 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1) (SATAII_BLUE (PORT 4))
5 AM2 940-Pin CPU Socket 22 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)
6 CPU Heatsink Retention Module 23 System Panel Header (PANEL1)
7 2 x 240-pin DDRII DIMM Slots 24 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER 1)
(Dual Channel A: DDRII_1, DDRII_2; Yellow) 25 Floppy Connector (FLOPPY1)
8 2 x 240-pin DDRII DIMM Slots 26 Game Port Header (GAME1)
(Dual Channel B: DDRII_3, DDRII_4; Orange) 27 Front Panel Audio Header (HD_AUDIO1)
9 IDE1 Connector (IDE1, Blue) 28 PCI Slots (PCI1- 3)
10 North Bridge Controller 29 HDMI_SPDIF Header (HDMI_SPDIF1)
11 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1) 30 BIOS LPC Chip
12 PCI Express x16 Slot (PCIE3) 31 Infrared Module Connector (IR1)
13 South Bridge Controller 32 PCIE Express Slot (PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH)
14 Serial ATAII Connector (SATAII_ORANGE(PORT 2)) 33 PCI Express x1 Slot (PCIE1)
15 Serial ATAII Connector (SATAII_RED (PORT 1)) 34 SLI / XFIRE Power Connector
16 Serial ATAII Connector (SATAII_BLACK (PORT 3)) 35 Internal Audio Connector: CD1 (Black)
17 USB 2.0 Header (USB2_3, Blue) 36 eSATAII Connector (eSATAII_TOP)
18 USB 2.0 Header (USB4_5, Blue) 37 eSATAII Connector (eSATAII_BOTTOM)

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1.51.5
1.51.5
1.5 ASRASR
ASRASR
ASRock 8CH_eSAock 8CH_eSA
ock 8CH_eSAock 8CH_eSA
ock 8CH_eSATT
TT
TAII I/OAII I/O
AII I/OAII I/O
AII I/O
1 Parallel Port 8 Microphone (Pink)
2 RJ-45 Port 9 USB 2.0 Ports (USB01)
3 Side Speaker (Gray) 10 eSATAIIPorts
4 Rear Speaker (Black) 11 COM Port
5 Central/ Bass (Orange) 12 PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)
6 Line In (Light Blue) 13 PS/2 Mouse Port (Green)
*7 Front Speaker (Lime)
* If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”. See
the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.
TABLE for Audio Output Connection
Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Side Speaker
(No. 7) (No. 4) (No. 5) (No. 3)
2 V -- -- --
4VV----
6VVV--
8VVVV
* To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front
panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will find “Mixer” tool on your system.
Please select “Mixer ToolBox” , click “Enable playback multi-streaming”, and click
“ok”. Choose “2CH”, “4CH”, “6CH”, or “8CH” and then you are allowed to select “Realtek HDA
Primary output” to use Rear Speaker, Central/Bass, and Front Speaker, or select “Realtek HDA
Audio 2nd output” to use front panel audio.

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2.2.
2.2.
2. InstallationInstallation
InstallationInstallation
Installation
This is an ATX form factor (12.0-in x 8.2-in, 30.5 cm x 20.8 cm) motherboard.
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to en-
sure that the motherboard fits into it.
Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions
Pre-installation PrecautionsPre-installation Precautions
Pre-installation Precautions
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the
power 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.
1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
2. To avoid damaging the motherboard components due to static
electricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet or
the like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a
safety grounded object before you handle components.
3. Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.
4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti-
static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.
5. When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the motherboard
to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may
damage the motherboard.

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2.12.1
2.12.1
2.1 CPU InstallationCPU Installation
CPU InstallationCPU Installation
CPU Installation
Step 1. Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90oangle.
Step 2. Position the CPU directly above the socket such that the CPU corner with
the golden triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.
Step 3. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.
The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU
into the socket to avoid bending of the pins.
Step 4. When the CPU is in place, press it firmly on the socket while you push
down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab
to indicate that it is locked.
2.22.2
2.22.2
2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
Installation of CPU Fan and HeatsinkInstallation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
After you install the CPU into this motherboard, it is necessary to install a
larger heatsink and cooling fan to dissipate heat. You also need to spray
thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat
dissipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fas-
tened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to
the CPU FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see Page 10, No. 3). For proper
installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of the CPU fan
and the heatsink.
STEP 1:
Lift Up The Socket Lever
STEP 2 / STEP 3:
Match The CPU Golden Triangle
To The Socket Corner Small
Triangle
STEP 4:
Push Down And Lock
The Socket Lever
Lever 90° Up CPU Golden Triangle
Socket Corner Small Triangle

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2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDRII (Double Data Rate II) DIMM slots,
and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration,
you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip-
type) DDRII DIMM pair in the slots of the same color. In other words, you have to
install identical DDRII DIMM pair in Dual Channel A (DDRII_1 and DDRII_2;
Yellow slots; see p.10 No.7) or identical DDRII DIMM pair in Dual Channel B
(DDRII_3 and DDRII_4; Orange slots; see p.10 No.8), so that Dual Channel Memory
Technology can be activated. This motherboard also allows you to install four
DDRII DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please install identical DDRII
DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory Configuration
Table below.
Dual Channel Memory Configurations
DDRII_1 DDRII_2 DDRII_3 DDRII_4
(Yellow Slot) (Yellow Slot) (Orange Slot) (Orange Slot)
(1) Populated Populated - -
(2) - - Populated Populated
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated
* For the configuration (3), please install identicalDDRII DIMMs in all four slots.
1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots of the
same color. In other words, install them either in the set of yellow
slots (DDRII_1 and DDRII_2), or in the set of orange slots (DDRII_3
and DDRII_4).
2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDRII DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate
the Dual Channel Memory Technology.
3. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual
Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in DDRII_1
and DDRII_3, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel Memory
Technology .
4. It is not allowed to install a DDR memory module into DDRII slot;
otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be damaged.

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notch
break
notch
break
Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Installing a DIMM
Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or the system components.
Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.
Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break
on the slot.
The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into the
slot at incorrect orientation.
Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully
snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

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2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
There are 3 PCI slots and 3 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.
PCI slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI
interface.
PCIE Slots: PCIE1 slot (PCI Express x1 slot) is used for PCI Express cards with
x1 lane width, such as Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc.
For PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot and PCIE3 slot, you may choose to use
one PCI Express x16 slot with PCIE Switch card or two PCI Express
Graphics slots for ATITM CrossFireTM.
NOTE:
If you want the PCI Express x16 graphics card on PCIE3 slot to work at PCIE
x16 bandwidth, you need to install PCIE Switch card on PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH
slot. Please refer to page 18 for details of installing a single graphics card.
If you want to enable ATITM CrossFireTM feature, please refer to page 19 for
details of installing CrossFireTM graphics cards.
Please refer to the table below for possible PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot
and PCIE3 slot configurations.
PCIE2/PCIE Switch Slot and PCIE3 Slot Configurations
PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH Slot PCIE3 Slot
Card Type Card Type
Single Graphics Card * PCIE Switch Card PCIE x16 graphics card
Dual Graphics Cards
in CrossFireTM Mode ** ATITM Standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready)
graphics card
ATITM Radeon CrossFireTM
Edition graphics card
* To avail of the PCI Express x16 graphics card installed on PCIE3 slot work at
PCIE x16 bandwidth, please make sure that PCIE Switch card is installed on
PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot. Please refer to page 18 for details of installing a
single graphics card.
** Please remove PCIE Switch card from PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot before you
use ATITM CrossFireTM function. In CrossFireTM mode, the two ATITM graphics
cards you install should be from the same GPU family.

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Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Installing an expansion card
Step 1. Before installing the expansion card, please make sure that the power
supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the
documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware
settings for the card before you start the installation.
Step 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in
a chassis).
Step 3. Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the
screws for later use.
Step 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
Step 5. Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Step 6. Replace the system cover.

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2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card
2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card
2.5 Installing a Single Graphics Card
Step 1. Install a PCI Express x16 graphics card on PCIE3 slot. Please refer to
page 17 for proper procedures of installing an expansion card.
Step 2. Make sure that the PCIE Switch card is installed on PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH
slot to avail of the PCI Express x16 graphics card full x16 bandwidth.
Step 3. Connect one end of the monitor cable to the PCI Express x16 graphics
card on PCIE3 slot.
Step 4. Connect another end of the monitor cable to the corresponding port on
your monitor.
Step 5. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the PCI
Express x16 graphics card on PCIE3 slot. (Only when your graphics
card provides such a power connector.)
PCIE Switch card
PCIE Switch card
on PCIE2/PCIE
SWITCH slot

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2.6 Installing CrossFire2.6 Installing CrossFire
2.6 Installing CrossFire2.6 Installing CrossFire
2.6 Installing CrossFireTMTM
TMTM
TM Graphics CardsGraphics Cards
Graphics CardsGraphics Cards
Graphics Cards
This motherboard supports CrossFireTM feature. CrossFireTM technology offers the
most advantageous means available of combining multiple high performance Graphics
Processing Units (GPU) in a single PC. Combining a range of different operating
modes with intelligent software design and an innovative interconnect mechanism,
CrossFireTM enables the highest possible level of performance and image quality in
any 3D application. Currently CrossFireTM feature is supported with Windows®XP
with Service Pack 2. Please check ATITM website for driver updates.
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireEnjoy the benefit of CrossFire
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireEnjoy the benefit of CrossFire
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireTMTM
TMTM
TM
What graphics cards work with CrossFireTM?
A complete CrossFireTM system requires a CrossFireTM Ready motherboard,
a CrossFireTM Edition graphics card and a compatible standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card from the same series, or two CrossFireTM
Ready cards if they are software enabled. This applies to cards from ATITM or
any of its partners.
Cards For PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH Slot Cards For PCIE3 Slot
Radeon X1950Pro Series Radeon X1950Pro Series
Radeon X1950XTX Series Radeon X1950XTX CrossFireTM Edition
Radeon X1950 Series Radeon X1950 CrossFireTM Edition
Radeon X1900 Series Radeon X1900 CrossFireTM Edition
Radeon X1800 Series Radeon X1800 CrossFireTM Edition
Radeon X1650Pro Series Radeon X1650Pro Series
Radeon X1600 Series Radeon X1600 Series
Radeon X1300 Series Radeon X1300 Series
Radeon X850 Series Radeon X850 CrossFireTM Edition
w
S
C
C
1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireTM. All three CrossFireTM components, a
CrossFireTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly to
benefit from the CrossFireTM multi-GPU platform.
2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both cards will
operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireTM mode.
Currently, ATITM has released Radeon X850XT, X1800XT, X1900XT, X1950XT, X1950Pro,
X1950XTX, X1300, X1650 and X1600 CrossFireTM cards, which require different
methods to enable CrossFireTM feature. In the below procedures, we use Radeon
X850XT as the example graphics card. For other CrossFireTM cards that ATITM has
released or will release in the future, please refer to ATITM graphics card manuals for
detailed installation guide.

2020
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20
DVI-DMS cable DMS connector DVI connector
Step 3. Install the standard Radeon (CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card to PCIE2/
PCIE SWITCH slot. For the proper installation procedures, please refer to
section “Expansion Slots”.
Standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready)
graphics card
Standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready)
graphics card
Radeon CrossFireTM
Edition graphics card
Step 4. Install the Radeon CrossFireTM Edition graphics card to PCIE3 slot. For the
proper installation procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.
Step 5. Correctly connect the DVI-DMS cable to the monitor connector and two
graphics cards that you install. (If you install two standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready) graphics cards to this motherboard, please skip this
step.)
It is recommended to use 500-Watt power supply or greater
to perform the benefit of CrossFireTM feature for Radeon
X850XT, X1900 and X1950 series.
Step 1. Remove PCIE Switch card from PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot if one is installed.
Step 2. Connect to the system power supply. Please connect a hard disk power
connector to SLI/XFIRE Power connector on this motherboard.
1. You are allowed to install two CrossFireTM Edition graphics cards to both slots, or you
may use one CrossFireTM Edition graphics cards and a compatible standard Radeon
(CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card from the same series.
2. For ATITM Radeon X1300, X1600, X1650 and X1950Pro series, there are no CrossFireTM
Edition graphics cards. You can still install two regular graphics cards from the same
series on PCIE2/PCIE SWITCH slot and PCIE3 slot to support CrossFireTM. Besides,
please connect the monitor cable to the graphics card on PCIE3 slot.