ASROCK M3A770DE User manual

11
11
1
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:Copyright Notice:
Copyright Notice:
No part of this installation guide may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or trans-
lated in any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documen-
tation by the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this guide may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identifica-
tion or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:Disclaimer:
Disclaimer:
Specifications and information contained in this guide are furnished for informational
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 guide.
With respect to the contents of this guide, ASRock does not provide warranty of any kind,
either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties 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 guide
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.
Published June 2009
Copyright©2009 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.
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

22
22
2ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout
Motherboard LayoutMotherboard Layout
Motherboard Layout
1 PS2_USB_PW1 Jumper 19 USB 2.0 Header (USB8_9, Blue)
2 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1) 20 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7, Blue)
3 AM3 CPU Socket 21 USB 2.0 Header (USB10_11, Blue)
4 CPU Heatsink Retention Module 22 System Panel Header (PANEL1, Orange)
5 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 23 SPI Flash Memory (8Mb)
6 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 24 Infrared Module Header (IR1)
(Dual Channel A: DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1; Blue) 25 Floppy Connector (FLOPPY1)
7 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 26 Serial Port Connector (COM1)
(Dual Channel B: DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2; White) 27 Front Panel Audio Header
8 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1) (HD_AUDIO1, Lime)
9 Primary IDE Connector (IDE1, Blue) 28 Internal Audio Connector: CD1 (Black)
10 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1) 29 HDMI_SPDIF Header
11 EUP LAN Jumper (EUP_LAN) (HDMI_SPDIF1,Yellow)
12 Southbridge Controller 30 PCI Slots (PCI1- 3)
13 Primary SATAII Connector (SATAII_1, Red) 31 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot
14 Third SATAII Connector (SATAII_3, Red) (PCIE3; Orange)
15 Fourth SATAII Connector (SATAII_4,Red) 32 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE2; Green)
16 Chassis Speaker Header 33 PCI Express x1 Slot (PCIE1; Green)
(SPEAKER 1, Purple) 34 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1)
17 Secondary SATAII Connector (SATAII_2, Red) 35 Northbridge Controller
18 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)

33
33
3
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
I/O PI/O P
I/O PI/O P
I/O Panelanel
anelanel
anel
** 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. 8) (No. 5) (No. 6) (No. 4)
2 V -- -- --
4VV----
6 VVV--
8 VVVV
LAN Port
ACT/LINK
LED SPEED LED
* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED
indications.
LAN Port LED Indications
Activity/Link LED SPEED LED
Status Description Status Description
Off No Link Off 10Mbps connection
Blinking Data Activity Orange 100Mbps connection
On Link Green 1Gbps connection
1 PS/2 Mouse Port (Green) 9 Microphone (Pink)
2 USB 2.0 Port (USB2) 10 USB 2.0 Ports (USB01)
* 3 LAN RJ-45 Port (LAN) 11 Powered eSATAII/USB Connector
4 Side Speaker (Gray) 12 USB 2.0 Ports (USB45)
5 Rear Speaker (Black) 13 Optical SPDIF Out Port
6 Central / Bass (Orange) 14 Coaxial SPDIF Out Port
7 Line In (Light Blue) 15 PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)
** 8 Front Speaker (Lime)

44
44
4ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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 “VIA HDAudio Deck” tool on
your system. Please follow below instructions according to the OS you install.
For Windows®XP / XP 64-bit OS:
Please click “VIA HDAudio Deck” icon , and click “Speaker”. Then you are allowed to
select “2 Channel”, “4 Channel”, “6 Channel” or “8 Channel”. Click “Power” to save your
change.
For Windows®VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:
Please click “VIA HDAudio Deck” icon , and click “Advanced Options” on the left side
on the bottom. In “Advanced Options” screen, select “Independent Headphone”, and click
“OK” to save your change.
If you enable Multi-Streaming function, Side Speaker function will be disabled. You can only
choose to enable either Multi-Streaming function or Side Speaker function.

55
55
5
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
1.1.
1.1.
1. IntroductionIntroduction
IntroductionIntroduction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock M3A770DE motherboard, a reliable motherboard
produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It delivers excellent
performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commitment 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
If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit
our website for specific information about the model you are using.
www.asrock.com/support/index.asp
1.11.1
1.11.1
1.1 Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package ContentsPackage Contents
Package Contents
1 x ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
(ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 8.2-in, 30.5 cm x 20.8 cm)
1 x ASRock M3A770DE Quick Installation Guide
2 x ASRock M3A770DE Support CD
1 x Ultra ATA 66/100/133 IDE Ribbon Cable (80-conductor)
2 x SerialATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
1 x I/O Panel Shield
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English

66
66
6ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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 - Support for Socket AM3 processors:AMD PhenomTM II X4 /
X3 / X2 (except 920 / 940) and Athlon II X4 / X3 / X2
processors
- Supports CPU up to 140W
- Supports AMD OverDriveTM with ACC feature (Advanced
Clock Calibration)
-AMD LIVE!TM Ready
- Supports AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM Technology
- FSB 2600 MHz (5.2 GT/s)
- Supports Untied Overclocking Technology (see CAUTION 1)
- Supports Hyper-Transport 3.0 (HT 3.0) Technology
Chipset - Northbridge:AMD 770
- Southbridge: AMD SB710
Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology (see CAUTION 2)
- 4 xDDR3DIMM slots
- Support DDR3 1600/1333/1066/800 non-ECC, un-buffered
memory (see CAUTION 3)
- Max. capacity of system memory: 16GB (see CAUTION 4)
Expansion Slot - 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots
(green @ x16 mode, orange @ x4 mode)
- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
- 3 x PCI slots
- Supports ATITM CrossFireXTM
Audio - 7.1 CH Windows® VistaTM Premium Level HDAudio
(VIA®VT1708S Audio Codec)
LAN - PCIE x1Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s
- Realtek RTL8111DL
- Supports Wake-On-LAN
Rear Panel I/O I/OPanel
- 1 x PS/2 Mouse Port
- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port
- 1 x Coaxial SPDIF Out Port
- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port
- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports
- 2 x Powered eSATAII/USB Connectors
-1 xRJ-45 LANPort withLED (ACT/LINKLED andSPEED LED)
- HDAudio Jack: Side Speaker/Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/
Line in/Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 5)

77
77
7
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
Connector - 4 x Serial ATAII 3.0Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0,
RAID 1, RAID10 and JBOD),NCQ,AHCI and “Hot Plug”
functions (see CAUTION 6)
- 1 x ATA133 IDE connector (supports 2 x IDE devices)
- 1 x Floppy connector
- 1 x IR header
- 1 x COM port header
- 1 x HDMI_SPDIF header
- CPU/Chassis/Power FAN connector
- 24 pin ATX power connector
- 8 pin 12V power connector
- CD in header
- Front panel audio connector
- 3 x USB 2.0 headers (support 6 USB 2.0 ports)
(see CAUTION 7)
BIOS Feature - 8Mb AMI BIOS
-AMI Legal BIOS
- Supports “Plug and Play”
-ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events
- Supports jumperfree
- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support
- CPU, VCCMVoltage Multi-adjustment
- Supports Smart BIOS
Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version), AMD
OverDriveTM Utility
Unique Feature - ASRock OC Tuner (see CAUTION 8)
- Intelligent Energy Saver (see CAUTION 9)
- Instant Boot
- ASRock Instant Flash (see CAUTION 10)
- Hybrid Booster:
- CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 11)
- ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 12)
- Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.)
Hardware - CPU Temperature Sensing
Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing
- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer
- CPU Quiet Fan
- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, Vcore
OS - Microsoft® Windows® XP / XP Media Center / XP 64-bit /
VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit compliant
Certifications - FCC, CE, Microsoft®WHQL Certificated

88
88
8ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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.
CAUTION!
1. This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology. Please read “Un-
tied Overclocking Technology” on page 26 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 12 for proper installation.
3. Whether 1600MHz memory speed is supported depends on the AM3 CPU
you adopt. If you want to adopt DDR3 1600 memory module on this
motherboard, please refer to the memory support list on our website for
the compatible memory modules.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
4. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be
less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows®XP
and Windows®VistaTM. For Windows®XP 64-bit and Windows®VistaTM 64-
bit with 64-bit CPU, there is no such limitation.
5. 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 3 for proper connection.
6. Before installing SATAII hard disk to SATAII connector, please read the “SATAII
Hard Disk Setup Guide” on page 29 of “User Manual” in the support CD to
adjust your SATAII hard disk drive to SATAII mode. You can also connect SATA
hard disk to SATAII connector directly.
7. Power Management for USB 2.0 works fine under Microsoft®Windows®
VistaTM 64-bit / VistaTM / XP 64-bit / XP SP1 or SP2.
8. It is a user-friendly ASRock overclocking tool which allows you to surveil
your system by hardware monitor function and overclock your hardware
devices to get the best system performance under Windows® environment.
Please visit our website for the operation procedures of ASRock OC
Tuner. ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com
- EuP Ready (EuP ready power supply is required)
(see CAUTION 13)
* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com

99
99
9
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
9. Featuring an advanced proprietary hardware and software design,
Intelligent Energy Saver is a revolutionary technology that delivers
unparalleled power savings. The voltage regulator can reduce the
number of output phases to improve efficiency when the CPU cores are
idle. In other words, it is able to provide exceptional power saving and
improve power efficiency without sacrificing computing performance. To
use Intelligent Energy Saver function, please enable Cool ‘n’ Quiet option
in the BIOS setup in advance. Please visit our website for the operation
procedures of Intelligent Energy Saver.
ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com
10. ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS flash utility embedded in Flash ROM.
This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update system BIOS
without entering operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows®. With
this utility, you can press <F6> key during the POST or press <F2> key to
BIOS setup menu to access ASRock Instant Flash. Just launch this tool
and save the new BIOS file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk or hard
drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few clicks without prepar-
ing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated flash utility. Please
be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file
system.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. EuP, stands for Energy Using Product, was a provision regulated by
European Union to define the power consumption for the completed system.
According to EuP, the total AC power of the completed system shall be
under 1.00W in off mode condition. To meet EuP standard, an EuP ready
motherboard and an EuP ready power supply are required. According to
Intel’s suggestion, the EuP ready power supply must meet the standard of
5v standby power efficiency is higher than 50% under 100 mA current
consumption. For EuP ready power supply selection, we recommend you
checking with the power supply manufacturer for more details.

1010
1010
10 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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.

1111
1111
11
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
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 2, No. 5). For proper
installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of the CPU fan
and the heatsink.
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
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
Socker Corner Small Triangle

1212
1212
12 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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 DDR3 (DoubleData Rate 3)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)DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots of the same color. In other words, you have to
install identical DDR3DIMM pair in Dual Channel A (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1;
Blue slots; see p.2 No.6) or identical DDR3 DIMM pair in Dual Channel B
(DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2; White slots; see p.2 No.7), so that Dual Channel
Memory Technology can be activated. This motherboard also allows you to
install four DDR3 DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please install iden-
tical DDR3 DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory
Configuration Table below.
Dual Channel Memory Configurations
DDR3_A1 DDR3_B1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B2
(Blue Slot) (Blue Slot) (White Slot) (White Slot)
(1) Populated Populated - -
(2) - - Populated Populated
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated
* For the configuration (3), please install identical DDR3 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 blue slots
(DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1), or in the set of white slots (DDR3_A2
and DDR3_B2).
2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDR3 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
DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel
Memory Technology .
4. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into
DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard andDIMM may be damaged.
5. If you adopt DDR3 1600 memory modules on this motherboard, it is
recommended to install them on DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2 slots.

1313
1313
13
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
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 aDIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.
Step 2. Align aDIMM 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 theDIMM if you force the DIMM into the
slot at incorrect orientation.
Step 3. Firmly insert theDIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully
snap back in place and theDIMM is properly seated.
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English

1414
1414
14 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
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 (PCIE x1 slot; Green) is used for PCI Express cards with x1 lane
width cards, such as Gigabit LAN card and SATA2 card.
PCIE2 (PCIE x16 slot; Green) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width
graphics cards, or used to install PCI Express graphics cards to
support CrossFireXTM function.
PCIE3 (PCIE x16 slot; Orange) is used for PCI Express x1 lane width
cards, such as Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc., or used to install
PCI Express graphics cards to support CrossFireXTM function.
1. If you plan to install only one PCI Express VGA card on this
motherboard, please install it on PCIE2 slot (Green).
2. For the information of the compatible CrossFireXTM Mode PCI
Express VGA cards and CrossFireXTM setup procedures, please refer
to “CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM Operation Guide” on page 15.
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.

1515
1515
15
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
For Windows®XP
Vendor Chipset Model Driver
ATI Radeon 4850 Gecube GC-HD485PG3-E3 Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3870 POWERCOLOR AX3870 512MD4-H Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3850 Gigabyte GV-RX385256H-B Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3650 POWERCOLOR AX3650 512MD3-XP Catalyst 8.9
Radeon HD 2600XT Gigabyte GV-RX26T256HP-B Catalyst 8.9
Radeon HD 2600PRO MSI RX2600PRO-T2D256EZ Catalyst 8.9
For Windows®Vista
Vendor Chipset Model Driver
ATI Radeon 4850 Gecube GC-HD485PG3-E3 Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3870 POWERCOLOR AX3870 512MD4-H Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3870 POWERCOLOR AX3870X2 1GBD3-H Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3850 Gigabyte GV-RX385256H-B Catalyst 8.9
Radeon 3650 POWERCOLOR AX3650 512MD3-XP Catalyst 8.9
Radeon HD 2600XT Gigabyte GV-RX26T256HP-B Catalyst 8.9
Radeon HD 2600PRO MSI RX2600PRO-T2D256EZ Catalyst 8.9
What graphics cards work with CrossFireXTM?
A complete CrossFireXTM system requires a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard, a
CrossFireXTM Edition graphics card and a compatible standard Radeon (CrossFireXTM
Ready) graphics card from the same series, or two CrossFireXTM Ready cards. This
applies to cards from ATITM or any of its partners. Please refer to below table for
CrossFireXTM VGA card support list according to the OS you install.
2.5 CrossFireX2.5 CrossFireX
2.5 CrossFireX2.5 CrossFireX
2.5 CrossFireXTMTM
TMTM
TM and Quad CrossFireXand Quad CrossFireX
and Quad CrossFireXand Quad CrossFireX
and Quad CrossFireXTMTM
TMTM
TM Operation GuideOperation Guide
Operation GuideOperation Guide
Operation Guide
This motherboard supports CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM feature.
CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM technology offer the most advantageous means
available of combining multiple high performanceGraphics Processing Units (GPU) in
a single PC. Combining a range of different operating modes with intelligent software
design and an innovative interconnect mechanism, CrossFireXTM and Quad
CrossFireXTM enable the highest possible level of performance and image quality in
any 3D application. Currently CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows®XP
with Service Pack 2 and VistaTM OS, and Quad CrossFireXTM feature is supported
with Windows®VistaTM OS. Please check AMD website for ATITM CrossFireXTM and
Quad CrossFireXTM driver updates.

1616
1616
16 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireXTM. All three CrossFireXTM components, a
CrossFireXTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireXTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly to
benefit from the CrossFireXTM multi-GPU platform.
2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireXTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both cards will
operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireXTM mode.
Step 1. Install one Radeon graphics card to PCIE2 slot. For the proper installation
procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.
Step 2. Install the other Radeon graphics card to PCIE3 slot. For the proper installa-
tion procedures, please refer to section “Expansion Slots”.
Step 3. Connect two Radeon graphics cards by installing two CrossFireTM Bridge on
CrossFireTM Bridge Interconnects on the top of Radeon graphics cards.
(CrossFireTM Bridge is provided with the graphics card you purchase, not
bundled with this motherboard. Please refer to your graphics card vendor for
details.)
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXEnjoy the benefit of CrossFireX
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXEnjoy the benefit of CrossFireX
Enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXTMTM
TMTM
TM
Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFireXTM
feature. In below procedures, we use Radeon 2600XT as the example graphics card.
For other CrossFireXTM cards thatATITM has released or will release in the future, please
refer to ATITM graphics card manuals for detailed installation guide.

1717
1717
17
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
Step 5. Power on your computer and boot into OS.
Step 6. Remove theATITM driver if you have any VGAdriver installed in your system.
The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this
utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation.
Please check AMD website for ATITM driver updates.
Step 7. Install the required drivers to your system.
For Windows®XP OS:
A.ATITM recommends Windows®XP Service Pack 2 or higher to be
installed (If you have Windows®XP Service Pack 2 or higher installed
in your system, there is no need to download it again):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx
B. You must have Microsoft .NET Framework installed prior to
downloading and installing the CATALYST Control Center. Please
check Microsoft website for details.
For Windows®VistaTM OS:
Install the CATALYST Control Center. Please checkAMD website for details.
Step 8. Restart your computer.
Step 9. Install the VGA card drivers to your system, and restart your computer.
Then you will find “ATI Catalyst Control Center” on your Windows®taskbar.
ATI Catalyst Control Center
Step 4. Connect the DVI monitor cable to theDVI connector on the Radeon graphics
card on PCIE2 slot. (You may use theDVI to D-Sub adapter to convert theDVI
connector toD-Sub interface, and then connect theD-Sub monitor cable to the
DVI toD-Sub adapter.)
CrossFireTM Bridge

1818
1818
18 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
2.6 Surround Display Feature2.6 Surround Display Feature
2.6 Surround Display Feature2.6 Surround Display Feature
2.6 Surround Display Feature
This motherboard supports SurroundDisplay upgrade. With the external add-on PCI
Express VGAcards, you can easily enjoy the benefits of SurroundDisplay feature. For
the detailed instruction, please refer to the document at the following path in the
Support CD:
..\ Surround Display Information
Step 10. Double-click “ATI Catalyst Control Center”. Click “View”, and select
“Advanced View”. Click “CrossFireTM”, and then set the option “Enable
CrossFireTM” to “Yes”.
View
CrossFireTM Enable CrossFireTM
Although you have selected the option “Enable CrossFireTM”, the CrossFireXTM
function may not work actually. Your computer will automatically reboot. After
restarting your computer, please confirm whether the option “Enable
CrossFireTM” in “ATI Catalyst Control Center” is selected or not; if not, please
select it again, and then you are able to enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXTM
feature.
Step 11. You can freely enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM
feature.
* CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of ATITM Technologies Inc., and is
used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
* For further information of ATITM CrossFireXTM technology, please check AMD website for
updates and details.

1919
1919
19
ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
OpenShort
Clear CMOSDefault
2.72.7
2.72.7
2.7 Jumpers SetupJumpers Setup
Jumpers SetupJumpers Setup
Jumpers Setup
The illustration shows how jumpers are setup.
When the jumper cap is placed on pins, the
jumper is “Short”. If no jumper cap is placed on
pins, the jumper is “Open”. The illustration
shows a 3-pin jumper whose pin1 and
pin2 are “Short” when jumper cap is placed on
these 2 pins.
Jumper Setting
PS2_USB_PW1 Short pin2, pin3 to enable
(see p.2, No. 1) +5VSB (standby) for PS/2 or
USB wake up events.
Note: To select +5VSB, it requires 2Amp and higher standby current provided by
power supply.
ClearCMOS Jumper
(CLRCMOS1)
(see p.2, No. 10)
Note: CLRCMOS1 allows you to clear the data in CMOS. The data in CMOS includes
system setup information such as system password, date, time, and system
setup parameters. To clear and reset the system parameters to default setup,
please turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power supply.
Afterwaitingfor15seconds,useajumpercaptoshortpin2andpin3onCLRCMOS1
for 5 seconds. However, please do not clear the CMOS right after you update the
BIOS. If you need to clear the CMOS when you just finish updating the BIOS, you
must boot up the system first, and then shut it down before you do the clear-
CMOS action.
EnglishEnglish EnglishEnglish
English
ble CrossFireTM
EUPLANJumper
(EUP_LAN,3-pin jumper,seep.2No.11)
Note: EUP_LANjumper design decreases the power consumption of this motherboard
to meet EuP standard.
Default (Enable EuP)

2020
2020
20 ASRock M3A770DE Motherboard
EnglishEnglish
EnglishEnglish
English
connect to
the power
supply
connect to the SATA
HDD power connector
2.8 Onboard Headers and Connectors2.8 Onboard Headers and Connectors
2.8 Onboard Headers and Connectors2.8 Onboard Headers and Connectors
2.8 Onboard Headers and Connectors
Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place
jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps
over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage of the
motherboard!
•
Floppy Connector
(33-pinFLOPPY1)
(seep.2 No. 25)
Note: Make sure the red-striped side of the cable is plugged into Pin1 side of the
connector.
Primary IDE connector (Blue)
(39-pin IDE1, see p.2 No. 9)
Note: Please refer to the instruction of your IDE device vendor for the details.
Serial ATAII Connectors These four Serial ATAII (SATAII)
(SATAII_1:seep.2,No.13) connectors support SATAII
(SATAII_2:seep.2,No.17) or SATA hard disk for internal
(SATAII_3:seep.2,No.14) storage devices. The current
(SATAII_4:seep.2,No.15) SATAII interface allows up to
3.0 Gb/s data transfer rate.
connect the black end
to the IDE devices
connect the blue end
to the motherboard
80-conductor ATA 66/100/133 cable
thered-striped side to Pin1
SATAII_1 SATAII_3
SATAII_2 SATAII_4
SerialATA (SATA) Either end of the SATAdata cable
DataCable can be connected to the SATA /
(Optional) SATAII hard disk or the SATAII
connector on this motherboard.
SerialATA(SATA) Please connect the black end of
PowerCable SATApower cable to the power
(Optional) connector on each drive. Then
connect the white end of SATA
power cable to the power
connector of the power supply.