Ciara KRONOS 540-G2 User manual

User Guide
KRONOS 540-G2 Workstation

CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 Workstation
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9300 Trans-Canada Highway
Montreal, Quebec H4S 1K5
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Microsoft, Windows 11, Windows Server 2019 and Windows Server 2022
are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
Intel and Core are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation
Asus is a trademark of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
All other names, brands, and trademarks are trademarks of their respective companies
First printing January 2023
Printed in Canada

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Contents
ABOUT THIS GUIDE.......................................................................................................5
1.0 INSTALLING AND UPGRADING YOUR SYSTEM .........................................................6
1.1 Unpacking your workstation ........................................................................................................6
1.2 Choosing a site for the system......................................................................................................7
1.3 Peripheral installation..................................................................................................................8
1.3.1 Recovery from CIARA recovery DVD...................................................................................... 10
1.3.2 Windows 10 Recovery from Startup Settings......................................................................... 12
1.3.3 Corrupted BIOS recovery ...................................................................................................... 16
1.3.4 System maintenance............................................................................................................ 16
1.3.5 Using the CIARA KRONOS 540-G2.......................................................................................... 17
1.4 Troubleshooting your system after first install............................................................................ 18
1.4.1 Helpful hints ........................................................................................................................ 18
1.5 Solving general problems........................................................................................................... 19
1.5.1 Solving power supply problems ............................................................................................ 20
1.5.2 Solving hard drive problems ................................................................................................. 21
1.5.3 Solving display problems ...................................................................................................... 22
1.5.4 Solving audio problems ........................................................................................................ 23
1.5.5 Solving printer problems ...................................................................................................... 23
1.5.6 Solving keyboard and mouse problems ................................................................................. 24
1.5.7 Solving hardware installation problems................................................................................. 25
1.5.8 Solving memory problems .................................................................................................... 26
1.5.9 Solving processor problems .................................................................................................. 26
1.5.10 Solving optical drive problems ............................................................................................ 27
1.6 Component installation guide .................................................................................................... 28
1.6.1 Precautions against static electricity ..................................................................................... 28
1.6.2 Opening and accessing the chassis........................................................................................ 29
1.6.3 Insertion of the processor..................................................................................................... 30
1.6.4 Installation of the memory modules...................................................................................... 34
1.6.5 Installation of the optical drive module................................................................................. 37
1.6.6 Installation of the hard drive................................................................................................. 38
1.6.7 M.2 device installation ......................................................................................................... 39
1.6.8 Chassis Characteristics.......................................................................................................... 41
2.0 CERTIFICATION AND DECLARATION ......................................................................42
2.1 Radio interference precautions .................................................................................................. 42
2.2 Declaration of conformity .......................................................................................................... 43
2.3 FCC Information to User............................................................................................................. 44
2.4 ENERGY STAR®........................................................................................................................... 45
3.0 ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY ............................................................................46
3.1 Procedures to be followed for service during the warranty period :............................................ 47
3.2 Limited Warranty....................................................................................................................... 48
3.3 Documenting your workstation.................................................................................................. 49
3.3.1 Base System Details.............................................................................................................. 49

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4.0 TECHNICAL PRODUCT SPECIFICATION CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 ..............................50
4.1 Upgrading.................................................................................................................................. 52
4.2 Networking................................................................................................................................ 52
4.3 The CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 BIOS................................................................................................ 53
4.3.1 BIOS configuration and installation ....................................................................................... 53
4.3.2 BIOS set-up program menu bar............................................................................................. 53
4.3.3 BIOS menu screen................................................................................................................ 54
4.3.4 PCI auto configuration.......................................................................................................... 56
4.3.5 Legacy USB support.............................................................................................................. 56
4.3.6 BIOS updates ....................................................................................................................... 56
4.3.7 Language support................................................................................................................. 56
4.3.8 BIOS recovery ...................................................................................................................... 57
4.3.9 Boot options ........................................................................................................................ 57
4.3.10 Adjusting boot speed.......................................................................................................... 58
4.3.11 BIOS security features ........................................................................................................ 59
4.4 Motherboard configuration & layout –KRONOS 540-G2 main board .......................................... 60
4.5 The PCI Express bus.................................................................................................................... 64
4.6 Storage...................................................................................................................................... 65
4.6.1 Serial ATA interface.............................................................................................................. 65
4.6.2 M.2 slots.............................................................................................................................. 66
4.6.3 Optical drives ..................................................................................................................... 66
4.7 Keyboard ................................................................................................................................... 66
4.8 Graphics subsystem ................................................................................................................... 67
4.8.1 PCI Express 4.0 x16 256 bits graphics card................................................................................... 67
4.8.2 HDMI 2.1 port .............................................................................................................................. 67
4.8.3 DisplayPort 1.4a........................................................................................................................... 67
4.9 Audio subsystem........................................................................................................................ 68
4.10 I/O Port set-up......................................................................................................................... 68
4.11 LAN subsystem......................................................................................................................... 69
4.11.1 Intel® I226-LM 2.5 Gigabits Ethernet controllers....................................................................... 69
4.11.2 RJ-45 LAN connectors LEDs........................................................................................................ 69
4.12 Trusted Platform Module (TPM)............................................................................................... 70
4.13 Intrusion detector.................................................................................................................... 70
4.14 Replacing the system battery ................................................................................................... 70
4.15 Installing an upgrade CPU......................................................................................................... 71
4.16 Clear CMOS header.................................................................................................................. 71
4.16.1 Clear CMOS header location...................................................................................................... 71
4.16.2 Clearing or changing passwords................................................................................................. 71
4.17 Installing an upgrade flash BIOS ............................................................................................... 72
1.18 Spare parts .............................................................................................................................. 72
4.19 Media sanitization software..................................................................................................... 72
4.20 Latest version........................................................................................................................... 73
GLOSSARY...................................................................................................................74

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ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Please read this User's Guide before using your CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 workstation.
This User's Guide is divided into four chapters that provide information on Installation, trouble shooting, certification, detailed
description and a Glossary. Please remember to fill out the Equipment Log and keep a copy in a safe place.
With proper care and operating procedures your CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 will give you many years of service and high-performance
computing.

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1.0 Installing and upgrading your system
1.1 Unpacking your workstation
Your workstation is packed with ecologic moulded bottom and top fillers to keep it in place during transit.
The keyboard is on the top pad of the box as well as other accessories. Carefully unpack your workstation and be sure to save the
bottom and top fillers as well as the top pad for future shipping and transportation.
To repack the workstation, simply proceed in a reverse fashion of the packing solution below.

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1.2 Choosing a site for the system
All CIARA workstations operate reliably in a typical office or home environment. Choose a location that is readily accessible and meets
the following requirements :
•Is near a grounded, three pronged power outlet.
•The socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.
•Is clean and dust free.
•Is well-ventilated and lighted and away from sources of heat.
•Is isolated from strong electromagnetic fields produced by electrical devices.
(I.e. air conditioners, large fans, large electric motors, radio and TV transmitters)
•Has an appropriate table or desk that will allow you to work without physical discomfort and strain.
The power supply input should be 120 V, 10 A and 60 Hz.
A few general precautions should always be observed :
•Never connect any peripheral such as a monitor to the system unit if the power is turned "ON". Always shut down the system
first.
•Never remove any internal adapter cards in the system unit if the power is turned "ON" as this will ruin the Card/Workstation
and Void the Warranty.
•Never install and connect more peripherals than available power supply plugs to avoid exceeding the maximum power of the
system.
NOTE The KRONOS 540-G2 model comes either with or without a power supply On/OFF switch. For those systems that do not have a
switch, make sure to shut down the system through Windows before proceeding to any repair or replacement work inside the system.

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1.3 Peripheral installation
Rear panel connectors
1
DisplayPort
2
USB 2.0 ports 11 and 12
3
Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ports*
4
HDMI® Port
5
VGA port
6
USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports 5 and 6
7
USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports 3 and 4
8
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port 2
9
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® port C1
10
BIOS FlashBack™button
11
Audio jacks**
* and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs, and audio port definitions.
We strongly recommend that you connect your devices to ports with matching data transfer rate. For example, connecting your USB
3.2 Gen 1 devices to USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports for faster and better performance for your devices.

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1.3.1 Recovery from CIARA recovery DVD
1.3.1.1 Recovery from CIARA Window 10 Pro recovery DVD
Before you start this procedure, please back up all your important information, the recovery media will erase all data on
HDD before installation.
Insert the Windows 10 Pro Recovery DVD and restart the system.
1- When prompted, press any key to boot from the DVD.
The recovery image will then start.
2- Accept the EULA and press on Continue.
3- Select the OS version and press Start System Recovery
4- A pop up will then open warning you that all the data will be lost.
If all your files are already saved, press OK.
5- The recovery will take around 30 minutes to complete. A window
will show you the process of the recovery, once completed Eject the
DVD then press OK. The system will then reboot.
NOTE: All drivers required for your system will be already installed except
for components that were not part of your original purchase

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1.3.1.2 Recovery from CIARA Window 11 Pro recovery DVD
Before you start this procedure, please back up all your important information, the recovery media will erase all data on
HDD before installation.
Insert the Windows 11 Pro Recovery DVD and restart the system.
1- When prompted, press any key to boot from the DVD.
The recovery image will then start.
2- Accept the EULA and press on Continue.
3- Select the OS version and press Start System Recovery
4- A pop up will then open warning you that all the data will be lost.
If all your files are already saved, press OK.
5- The recovery will take around 30 minutes to complete. A window
will show you the process of the recovery, once completed Eject the
DVD then press OK. The system will then reboot.
NOTE: All drivers required for your system will be already installed except
for components that were not part of your original purchase

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1.3.2 Windows 10 Recovery from Startup Settings
1.3.2.1 Windows 10 Recovery from Startup Settings
With the Windows Startup Settings screen (formerly advanced boot options) you can start Windows in different advanced
troubleshooting modes so you can find and fix problems on your PC. In previous versions of Windows, you could get to this screen by
pressing F8 before Windows started up. Windows 10 PCs start up quickly so there's not enough time to press F8.
There are two ways to get to the Windows Startup Settings screen in Windows 10:
•If you're not signed into Windows, tap or click the power icon from the sign-in screen, hold Shift, and then tap or click Restart.
•Or, if you're already signed in:
1. Click on windows button, select Settings, and then select Update security.
2. From left select Recovery.
3. Under Advanced startup, tap or click Restart now.
4. On the Choose an option screen, tap or click Troubleshoot.
5. Select Advanced options and then Startup Settings
6. Tap or click Restart.
7. On the Startup Settings screen, choose the startup setting you want.
8. Sign into your PC with a user account that has administrator rights.
Choose Troubleshoot

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Choose Reset your PC
Choose Remove everything
Press Reset
Then follow the regular Windows 10 Installation process.

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1.3.2.2 Windows 11 Recovery from Startup Settings
With the Windows Startup Settings screen (formerly advanced boot options) you can start Windows in different advanced
troubleshooting modes so you can find and fix problems on your PC. In previous versions of Windows, you could get to this screen by
pressing F8 before Windows started up. Windows 11 PCs start up quickly so there's not enough time to press F8.
There are two ways to get to the Windows Startup Settings screen in Windows 11:
•If you're not signed into Windows, tap or click the power icon from the sign-in screen, hold Shift, and then tap or click Restart.
•Or, if you're already signed in:
1. Click on the windows logo button, select Settings, and then select System.
2. From the Right side pane select Recovery.
3. Under Recovery Options, tap or click Reset PC.
4. On the pop-up screen, tap or click Remove Everything then press Next.
5. Select Advanced Settings, and then press Change Settings, then clean data to Yes, press Confirm.
6. Tap or click Restart.
7. Windows will restart and reset your PC to its initial state.
8. Follow instructions at the Startup Settings screen and choose the startup setting you want.
9. Sign into your PC with a user account that has administrator rights.
Choose Continue

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Choose Remove everything
Press Next
Set Clean data to Yes and press Confirm
Press Reset
Then follow the regular Windows 11 Installation process.

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1.3.3 Corrupted BIOS recovery
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 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 restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the
updated BIOS file.
NOTE: Before using this utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device into X680WS1.CAP
Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website at https://www.asus.com/motherboards-
components/motherboards/workstation/pro-ws-w680-ace/helpdesk_bios/?model2Name=Pro-WS-W680-ACE .
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS :
1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file to the USB port.
3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash
3 utility automatically.
4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings. To ensure system compatibility and stability, we
recommend that you press <F5> to load default BIOS values.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure.
1.3.4 System maintenance
Read and follow carefully all the instructions and warnings in this manual and on these products!
Only use a damp cloth to clean your system unit and monitor case. Do not use detergents!
Position your system unit, monitor and cables/wires away from direct sunlight, moisture, dust, oil, and thoroughfares.
Ensure that all ventilation outlets are always free from obstruction.
In the event of mechanical/power failure or damage, do not attempt to repair the system unit, monitors, cables /wires. Refer all such
problems to experienced service personnel.
Ensure that the back of the system unit is at least 6" away from anything that might obstruct the ventilation outlets and cause
overheating.
Ensure that the power source is grounded correctly. This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug. This plug will only fit
into a grounded power outlet.

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1.3.5 Using the CIARA KRONOS 540-G2
1.3.5.1 Introduction
The CIARA KRONOS 540-G2 is a powerful workstation that has the ability to run a variety of operating systems. Unless you have
specified something different, your system comes configured with a Windows operating system pre-loaded onto the hard drive. Each
operating system comes with its own user manuals, and you should refer to these for information specific to your system.
1.3.5.2 A caution about viruses
Due to the prevalence of computer viruses, we strongly recommend that you take precautions to protect your workstation from them.
Purchase and use a reputable virus-checking program. Ensure that the program is kept up to date by registering the program, and
installing updates as they become available. Please be aware, however, that even the best virus checking programs cannot be
regarded as the perfect solution. It is possible for even the best program to fail, particularly if it is not updated. Please contact your
CIARA account representative for more information.
1.3.5.3 Windows
Windows is a Graphical User Interface (GUI) that provides a screen composed of icons. You select or “click” on the icons to run
programs. As noted above, Windows has been installed on your workstation. For further information about using Windows, please
consult the appropriate Microsoft software manual provided with your CIARA KRONOS 540-G2.
1.3.5.4 Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 and Linux
Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 and Linux are operating systems that provide sophisticated networking capabilities to
Windows based computers. The onboard Network Interface Card (NIC) in the workstation allows the user to connect the CIARA
KRONOS 540-G2 to a network server computer running Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 or Linux.
Microsoft and Linux provide workstations on the network with access to files and applications stored on the file server (a dedicated
computer running the Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 or Linux operating systems), as well as access to shared printers
on the network. Sophisticated tools are built into the Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 and Linux operating systems to
manage the network, and to restrict access to resources on the file server.
For further information about Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2022 or Linux, please consult the manuals provided with the
network operating system (NOS), or speak to your service representative.

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1.4 Troubleshooting your system after first install
1.4.1 Helpful hints
If you encounter some minor problems with the workstation, monitor, or software, see the following list of general suggestions before
taking further action:
•Check that the workstation and monitor are plugged into a working electrical outlet.
•When available check to see if power supply button is switched on.
•Check to see that the workstation is turned on and the power light is on.
•Check to see that the monitor is turned on and the monitor light is on.
•Turn up the brightness and contrast controls of the monitor if the monitor is dim.
•Press and hold any key. If the system beeps, then the keyboard should be operating correctly.
•Check all cable connections for loose connections or incorrect connections.
•Wake the workstation by pressing any key on the keyboard or pressing the power button. If the system remains in suspend
mode, shut down the workstation by pressing and holding the power button for at least four seconds then press the power
button again to restart the workstation. If the system will not shut down, unplug the power cord, wait a few seconds, and
then plug it in again. The workstation will restart if automatic start on power loss is set in the BIOS. If it does not restart, press
the power button to start the workstation.
•Be sure that all the needed device drivers have been installed. For example, if you are using a printer, you need a driver for
that model of printer.
•If you have installed an operating system other than the factory-installed operating system, check to be sure that it is
supported on the system.
•The system has multiple video sources, the monitor must be plugged into one of the five video connectors of the system, i.e.
HDMI, DisplayPort or VGA. Your system can support four independent monitors using any of the five available video
connectors. This type of configuration will require adjustments to the BIOS parameters.

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1.5 Solving general problems
You should be able to easily resolve the general problems described in this section. If a problem persists and you are unable
to resolve it, or if you feel uncomfortable about performing the operation, contact CIARA at 1-877-242-7272 and ask for the
Customer Service department.
Solving general problems
Problem
Cause
Solution
Workstation appears locked up
and will not turn off when the
power button is pressed.
Software control of the power
switch is not functional.
Press and hold the power button for at least four
seconds until the workstation turns off.
Workstation will not respond to
USB keyboard or mouse.
Workstation is in Last State
mode.
Press the power button to resume from Last State
mode.
CAUTION : When attempting to resume from Last State mode, do not hold down the power button for more than four
seconds. Otherwise, the workstation will shut down and you will lose your data.
Workstation date and time
display is incorrect.
RTC (real-time clock) battery
may need to be replaced.
►Connecting the workstation
to a live AC outlet prolongs the
life of the RTC battery.
Reset the date and time under Control Panel
(Workstation Setup can also be used to update
the RTC date and time). If the problem persists,
replace the RTC battery.
Cursor will not move using the
arrow keys on the keypad.
The Num Lock key may be on.
Press the Num Lock key. The Num Lock light
should not be on if you want to use the arrow
keys.
Poor performance is
experienced.
Processor is hot.
1. Make sure the airflow to the workstation is
not blocked.
2. Make sure the fans are connected and
working properly (some fans only operate
when needed)
3. Make sure the processor heat sink is installed
properly.
4. The system might be infected with a virus
and that it would need to be cleaned with an
antivirus software.
Hard drive is full.
Transfer data from the hard drive to create more
space on the hard drive.

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1.5.1 Solving power supply problems
Solving power supply problems
Problem
Cause
Solution
Power supply shuts down
intermittently.
Power supply will not turn
on because of internal power
supply fault.
Contact CIARA for the replacement of the power supply.
Workstation powered off
automatically and the Power LED
flashes two times, once every
second, followed by a two second
pause.
Processor thermal protection
activated : A fan may be
blocked or not turning.
OR
The heat sink/fan assembly is
not properly attached to the
processor.
Ensure that the workstation air vents are not blocked and
the processor-cooling fan is running.
Open hood, press the power button, and see if the
processor fan spins. If the processor fan is not spinning,
make sure the fan's cable is plugged onto the system
board header. Ensure the fan is fully/properly seated or
installed.
If fan is plugged in and seated properly, but is not
spinning, then replace the processor fan. (See article 1.6.3
of this Guide)
Reseat processor heat sink and verify that the fan
assembly is properly attached.
Power LED flashes, once every
two seconds.
OR
Power LED flashes four times,
once every second, followed by a
two second pause.
Power failure (power supply
is overloaded)
Check the power supply voltage. Proper voltage setting
depends on your region. (See section 1.2)
Open the hood (See article 1.6.2) and ensure the 4-wire
power supply cable is seated into the connector on the
system board.
Check if a device is causing the problem by removing ALL
attached devices (such as hard or optical drives, and
expansion cards). Power on the system. If the system
enters the POST, then power off and replace one device
at a time and repeat this procedure until failure occurs.
Replace the device that is causing the failure. Continue
adding devices one at a time to ensure all devices are
functioning properly.
If the problem persists, contact CIARA since the problem
may necessitate the replacement of the power supply or
the motherboard.
System does not power on and
LEDs are not flashing.
The system is unable to
power on.
Press and hold the power button for more than 4
seconds. If the hard drive LED turns on, check if the
voltage selector located on the rear of the power supply,
is set to the appropriate voltage. Proper voltage setting
depends on your region.
OR
Press and hold the power button for less than 4 seconds.
If the hard drive LED does not turn on then :
1. Check that the unit is plugged into a working AC
outlet.
2. Open hood and check that the power button harness
is properly connected to the system board.
3. Check that both power supply cables are properly
connected to the system board.
4. Ensure the 4-wire power supply cable is seated into
the connector on the system board.
5. If the problem persists, contact CIARA since the
problem may necessitate the replacement of the
power supply or the motherboard.