M266A

User Manual

Version 3.0
Published July 2003
Copyright2003 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.

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 registered 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:
Specifications and information contained in this manual 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 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 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 manual or product.
ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

Contents
1 Introduction .......................................................... 4
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4

Package Contents ...................................................................

Specifications .........................................................................
Motherboard Layout ...............................................................
ASRock I/OT M ...........................................................................

4
5
7
8

2 Installation ............................................................. 9
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8

Screw Holes ............................................................................

Pre-installation Precautions ....................................................
CPU Installation .......................................................................
Installation of CPU fan and Heatsink ......................................
Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM) ..................................
Expansion Slots ......................................................................
Jumpers Setup .......................................................................
Connectors .............................................................................

9
9
10
10
11
11
12
13

3 BIOS Setup ............................................................. 15

3.1 BIOS Setup Utility ....................................................................
3.2 BIOS Setup Utility Main Menu .................................................
3.3 Legend Bar .............................................................................
3.4 Standard CMOS Setup ...........................................................
3.5 Advanced CMOS Setup .........................................................
3.6 Advanced Chipset Setup .......................................................
3.7 Power Management Setup .....................................................
3.8 PCI / Plug and Play Setup .......................................................
3.9 Peripheral Setup .....................................................................
3.10 Hardware Monitor Setup ........................................................
3.11 Change Supervisor Password / Change User Password .....
3.12 Auto Configuration with Optimal Settings ..............................
3.13 Save Settings and Exit ...........................................................
3.14 Exit Without Saving .................................................................

15
15
16
16
19
20
22
23
24
26
26
26
26
26

4 Software Support .................................................. 27

4.1 Installing Operating System ....................................................
4.2 Support CD Information ..........................................................
4.2.1 Running The Support CD ...................................................
4.2.2 Drivers Menu .....................................................................
4.2.3 Utilities Menu ......................................................................
4.2.4 ASRock PC-DIY Live Demo Program ...............................
4.2.5 Contact Information ...........................................................

27
27
27
27
27
27
27

Chapter 1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock M266A motherboard, a reliable motherboard produced under ASRocks consistently stringent quality control. It delivers excellent
performance with robust design conforming to ASRocks commitment to quality and
endurance.
Chapter 1 and 2 of this manual contain introduction of the motherboard and step-bystep installation guide for new DIY system builders. Chapter 3 and 4 contain basic
BIOS setup and Support CD information.
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 memory and CPU
support lists on ASRock website as well.
ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock M266A motherboard (Micro ATX form factor: 9.6" x 7.5", 24.4 x 19.1 cm)
ASRock M266A Quick Installation Guide
ASRock Intel-VIA Support CD
1 Cable for IDE devices (1 x ATA 66/100/133)
1 Cable for floppy drive (1 x ribbon cable)
1 ASRock I/O shield
1 COM port bracket
1 ASRock MR card (optional)

1.2 Specifications
Platform:
CPU:

Micro ATX form factor (9.6" x 7.5", 24.4 x 19.1 cm)

Socket 478 for Intel Pentium 4 / Celeron processor

Chipsets:

North Bridge:
VIA P4M266A, FSB@533 / 400 MHz
with Hyper-Threading Technology ready (see CAUTION 1);
South Bridge:
VIA VT8235, supports USB 2.0, ATA 133
Memory:
2 DDR DIMM Slots:
DDR DIMM1 and DDR DIMM2
support PC1600 (DDR200) / PC2100 (DDR266), Max. 2GB
IDE:
IDE1: ATA 133 / Ultra DMA Mode 6;
IDE2: ATA 133 / Ultra DMA Mode 6;
Can connect up to 4 IDE devices
Floppy Port:
Supports 2 floppy disk drives
Audio:
2 channels AC97 Audio
LAN:
Speed: 802.3u (10/100 Ethernet), supports Wake-On-LAN
Hardware Monitor: CPU temperature sensing;
Chassis temperature sensing;
Voltage monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3V, Vcore;
CPU fan tachometer; Chassis fan tachometer
PCI slots:
2 slots with PCI Specification 2.2
AGP slot:
1 universal AGP slot, supports 3.3V/1.5V, 4X/2X/1X AGP card
AMR slot:
1 slot, supports ASRock MR card (optional)
USB 2.0:
4 default USB 2.0 ports and a set of header for two additional
USB 2.0 ports upgrade (see CAUTION 2)
ASRock I/OTM:
PS/2: 1 keyboard port / 1 mouse port;
1 RJ 45 port; 4 rear default USB 2.0 ports;
1 VGA port;1 parallel port: ECP/EPP support;
Audio Jack: Line Out / Line In / Microphone + 1 Game port
BIOS:
AMI BIOS; Supports Plug and Play;
ACPI 1.1 compliance wake up events;
Supports jumperfree; SMBIOS 2.3.1 support;
CPU frequency stepless control
(only for advanced users reference, see CAUTION 3)
OS:
Microsoft Windows 98SE / ME / 2000 / XP compliant

CAUTION!
1. About the setting of Hyper Threading Technology, please
check page 21.
2. Power Management for USB 2.0 works fine under Microsoft
Windows XP. It may not work properly under Microsoft
Windows 98/ME/2000. Please refer to Microsoft official
document at
http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hwdev/bus/USB/USB2support.mspx

3. Although M266A offers stepless control, it is not recommended

to perform over clocking. When the CPU frequency of M266A is
set to perform over clocking, other clocks, such as PCI clock,
AGP clock, and Memory clock will also be overclocked
proportionally. Frequencies other than the recommended CPU
bus frequencies may cause the instability of the system or
damage the CPU and the motherboard.

1.3 Motherboard Layout

1

19.1cm (7.5 in)

PS/2

CPU_FAN1

Mouse

PARALLEL PORT

USB 2.0
Ports

29
USB 2.0
Ports

27
26
25
24
23
22
21

Line out

LAN PHY
Line

Line
In in
CD1

Mic
Mic
in
In

VIA
P4M266A
Chipset

ATXPWR1

GAME AUDIO1
AUDIO1
GAME

28

M266A

AUX1

2MB
BIOS

JL1

IDE1

AGP1

JR1

AUDIO1

PCI 1

AUDIO
CODEC

9
PCI 2
Super
I/O

IR1

COM1
1

CMOS
Battery

PS2_USB_PWR1

20

VIA
VT8235

10
CHA_FAN1

CLRCMOS1

FLOPPY1

SPEAKER11

USB45

AMR1

1
3
5
7
9
11
13
15
17
19
21
23
25
27
29

24.4cm (9.6 in)

LAN
(optional)

DDR DIMM2 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

mPGA478B

VGA

IDE2
DDR DIMM1 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

PS/2

Keyboard

PLED PWRBTN

1
HDLED

19 18 17 16 15

CPU Heatsink Retention Module

CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1)
184-pin DDR DIMM Slots (DDR DIMM1- 2)
Primary IDE Connector (IDE1, Blue)
PCI Slots (PCI 1- 2)
Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1)
System Panel Connector (PANEL1)
Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
Infrared Module Connector (IR1)
AMR Slot (AMR1)
AUDIO CODEC
JR1 Jumper
Flash Memory
Internal Audio Connector: CD1 (Black)
ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1)

11
12

PANEL1

2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28

14

RST

13

CPU Socket
North Bridge Controller
Secondary IDE Connector (IDE2, Black)
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP1)
South Bridge Controller
Speaker Connector (SPEAKER 1)
Floppy Connector (FLOPPY1)
USB 2.0 Header (USB45, Blue)
PS2_USB_PWR1 Jumper
Serial Port Connector (COM1)
Front Panel Audio Connector (AUDIO1)
JL1 Jumper
Internal Audio Connector: AUX1 (White)
LAN PHY

1.4 ASRock I/O TM

1
3
5
7
9

Parallel Port
Game Port
Line In (Light Blue)
USB 2.0 Ports
PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)

2
4
6
8
10

RJ-45 Port
Microphone (Pink)
Line Out (Lime)
VGA Port
PS/2 Mouse Port (Green)

Chapter 2 Installation
M266A is a Micro ATX form factor (9.6" x 7.5", 24.4 x 19.1 cm) motherboard. Before
you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that
the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so may cause physical injuries to you and
damages to motherboard components.

2.1 Screw Holes

Place screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.
Do not over-tighten the screws! Doing so may damage the
motherboard.

2.2 Pre-installation Precautions

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components
or change any motherboard settings.
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 antistatic pad or
in the bag that comes with the component.
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.

2.3 CPU Installation

Step 1.
Step 2.
Step 3.

Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90 angle.

Position the CPU directly above the socket such that its marked corner
matches the base of the socket lever.
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.

Step 1

Step 2, 3

Step 4

2.4 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

Intel Pentium 4 and Celeron CPU requires larger heatsink and cooling fan.
Thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink is also needed to improve
heat transfer. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened and in good contact with each other. For proper installation, please
kindly refer to the instruction manuals of vendors of CPU fan and heatsink.

10

2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)

M266A motherboard provides two 184-pin DDR (Double Data Rate) DIMM slots.
Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or the system components.
Step 1.
Step 2.
Step 3.

Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.

Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break
on the slot.
Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clip snap back in place
and the DIMM is properly seated.

2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI, AMR, and AGP Slots)

There are 2 PCI slots, 1 AMR slot, and 1 AGP slot on M266A motherboard.
PCI slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI
interface.
AMR slot: AMR slot is used to insert an ASRock MR card (optional) with v.92
Modem functionality.
AGP slot: The AGP slot is used to install a graphics card.
The ASRock AGP slot has a special locking mechanism which can
securely fasten the graphics card inserted.

Installing an expansion card

Step 1.
Step 2.
Step 3.
Step 4.
Step 5.
Step 6.

Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation of the

expansion card and make necessary hardware settings for the card.
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed
in a chassis).
Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the
screws for later use.
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Replace the system cover.

11

2.7 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
PS2_USB_PWR1

Setting
1_2

2_3

Description
Short pin2, pin3 to enable

+5VSB (standby) for PS/2 or

USB wake up events.
Note: To select +5VSB, it requires 2 Amp and higher standby current provided by
power supply.
(see p.7 item 18)

JR1(see p.7 item 23)

JL1(see p.7 item 24)

+5V

+5VSB

JL1

JL1

JR1

JR1

fig. 1

fig. 2

Note: When you connect speakers in back panel and front panel at the same time,
1. If the jumpers JL1 and JR1 are short (see fig. 1), both front panel and
rear panel audio connectors can work.
2. If both jumper caps on JL1 and JR1 are removed (see fig. 2), only front
panel audio works.
However, it requires your front panel to support the function.

Clear CMOS
CLRCMOS1
(see p.7 item 15)

2-pin jumper

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, then use a jumper
cap to short the pins on CLRCMOS1 for 3 seconds. Please remember to
remove the jumper cap after clearing the CMOS.

12

2.7 Connectors
Connectors are NOT jumpers. DO NOT place jumper caps over
these connectors.
Connector
FDD connector

Figure

Description

(33-pin FLOPPY1)
Pin1

(see p.7 item 14)

FLOPPY1

Red marking

Note: Match the red marking on the floppy ribbon cable with Pin1
Primary IDE connector (Blue)

Secondary IDE connector (Black)

(39-pin IDE1, see p.7 item 7)

(39-pin IDE2, see p.7 item 6)

PIN1

IDE1

PIN1

IDE2

connect the black end

to the IDE devices

connect the blue end

to the motherboard
80-Pin ATA 100/133 cable

Note: To optimize compatibility and performance, please connect your hard disk
drive to the primary IDE connector (IDE1, blue) and CD-ROM to the
secondary IDE connector (IDE2, black).
USB 2.0 header
(9-pin USB45)
(see p.7 item 16)

Infrared module connector

(5-pin IR1)
(see p.7 item 17)

ASRock I/OTM provides you

4 default USB 2.0 ports on the
rear panel. If the rear USB
ports are not sufficient, this
USB 2.0 header is available
for 2 additional USB 2.0 ports.
This connector supports an
optional wireless transmitting
and receiving infrared module.

13

Internal audio connectors

(4-pin CD1, 4-pin AUX1)

CD1

These connectors allow you

to receive stereo audio input

AUX1

from sound sources such as

a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, TV
tuner card, or MPEG card.

(CD1: see p.7 item 27)

(AUX1: see p.7 item 26)

GND
+5VA
BACKOUT-R
BACKOUT-L

Front panel audio connector

(9-pin AUDIO1)
(see p.7 item 22)

1
AUD-OUT-L
GND
AUD-OUT-R
MIC-POWER
MIC

System panel connector

This connector accommodates several system front

panel functions.

(9-pin PANEL1)
(see p.7 item 13)

External speaker connector

This connector allows you

to attach to an external
speaker.

(4-pin SPEAKER 1)
(see p.7 item 12)

Chassis fan connector

(3-pin CHA_FAN1)
(see p.7 item 11)

CPU fan connector

(3-pin CPU_FAN1)
(see p.7 item 3)

ATX power connector

(20-pin ATXPWR1)

This is an interface for front

panel audio cable that allows
convenient connection and
control of audio devices.

GND
+12V
CHA_FAN_SPEED

Connect the fan cable to the

connector matching the black
wire to the ground pin.
Connect the fan cable to the
connector matching the black
wire to the ground pin.
Connect an ATX power
supply to the connector.

(see p.7 item 29)

Serial port connector

(9-pin COM1)
(see p.7 item 20)

14

This COM1 header supports

a serial port module.

Chapter 3 BIOS Setup

3.1 BIOS Setup Utility
This section explains how to configure your system using the BIOS Setup Utility.
The Flash Memory on the motherboard stores the BIOS Setup Utility. When you
start up the computer, there is a chance for you to run the BIOS Setup. Press
<F2> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) to enter the BIOS Setup Utility,
otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter the BIOS Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing
<Ctl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis.
You can also restart by turning the system off and then back on.
Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the
following BIOS setup screens and descriptions are for refer
ence purpose only, and may not exactly match what you see
on your screen.

3.2 BIOS Setup Utility Main Menu

When you enter the BIOS Setup utility, the following screen appears:
AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
M266 (A) BIOS P1.50
Standard CMOS Setup
Advanced CMOS Setup
Advanced Chipset Setup
Power Management Setup
PCI / Plug and Play Setup
Peripheral Setup
Hardware Monitor Setup
Change Supervisor Password
Change User Password
Auto Configuration with Optimal Settings
Save Savings and Exit
Exit Without Saving
F1: Help
Esc: Exit

: Select Item
: Select Menu

+/-: Change Values

Enter: Select
Sub-Menu

F9: Setup Defaults

F10: Save & Exit

Set Time, Date, Hard Disk Type . . .

The main menu of the Setup Utility displays a list of the options that are available.
The highlighted item is currently selected. Use
arrow keys to move the
highlight bar to select items, then press <Enter> to make configuration for a
specific item.

15

3.3 Legend Bar

At the bottom of all the Setup Screen is a legend bar. The following table lists the
keys in the legend bar with their corresponding functions:
Navigation Key(s)

Function Description

<F1>
<ESC>

Displays the General Help Screen

Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the upper menu
from the current menu
Moves cursor up or down between fields
Selects menu to the left or right
Increases or decreases values
Brings up a selected menu for a highlighted field
Loads all the setup items to the default value
Saves changes and exits Setup

/
/
+ / <Enter>
<F9>
<F10>

3.4 Standard CMOS Setup

This menu lists out the basic information about your system.
AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
Standard CMOS Setup
System Date
System Time

Jul 08 2003 Tue

20:07:40

Floppy Drives
IDE Devices
BIOS Version
Processor Type
Processor Speed
Cache Size
Microcode Update
Total Memory
DDR1
DDR2

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

Setup Help

Month: Jan - Dec

Day: 01 - 31
Year: 1980 - 2099

M266<A> BIOS P1.50

Pentium (R) 4 CPU
2400 MHz
512 KB
F24 / 0F
224 MB + 32 MB Share Memory
256 MB / 100 MHz <DDR 200>
None

:Select Item

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

System Date [Month/Day/Year]

Set the system date that you specify. Valid values for month, day, and year are
Month: [Jan to Dec], Day: [1 to 31], Year: [1980 to 2099). Use
keys to move
between the Month, Day and Year fields.
System Time [Hour:Minute:Second]
Set the system to the time that you specify. Use
keys to move between
the Hour, Minute and Second fields.
Floppy Drives
Use this to set the type of floppy drives installed.

16

IDE Devices
Use this to configure IDE devices.
There are two IDE channels (Primary and Secondary) available in your system,
and each channel can be installed with one or two devices (Master and Slave).
Use these items to configure each device on the IDE channel.
Highlight Primary IDE Master then press <Enter> to display the submenu:
AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a

Primary IDE Master:

Type
Cylinders
Heads
Write Precompensation
Sectors
Maximum Capacity
LBA Mode
Block Mode
Fast Programmed I/O Modes
32 Bit Transfer Mode
Ultra DMA Mode

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

[ Setup Help ]

Auto

Select how to set the

parameters of drive,
Or
Select [AUTO] to set
all HDD parameters
automatically.

On
On
Auto
On
Auto

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

TYPE
It allows user to select the type of the IDE Drive. Below are the
configuration options. After making your selections on this sub-menu,
press <ESC> key to return to the upper menu, in whcih the hard disk
drive field will display the size for the hard disk drive that you configured.
[USER]: It allows user to manually enter the number of cylinders, heads,
and sectors per track for the drive.
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure
you have the correct configuration information supplied by
the drive manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the
system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.
[Auto]: Select [Auto] to automatically detect hard disk drive. If autodetection is successful, the BIOS Setup automatically fills in
the correct values for the remaining fields on this sub-menu.
If the auto-detection fails, it may due to that the hard disk is too
old or too new. If the hard disk was already formatted on an
older system, the BIOS Setup may detect incorrect parameters.
In these cases, select [User] to manually enter the IDE hard disk
drive parameters.

17

After entering the hard disk information into BIOS, use a

disk utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new
IDE hard disk drives. This is necessary so that you can
write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to set
the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.
[CD/DVD]: This is used for IDE CD/DVD drives.
[ARMD]: This is used for IDE ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device),
such as MO.
Cylinders
This is used to configure the number of cylinders. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct value.
Heads
This is used to configure the number of read/write heads. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct values.
Write Precompensation
Enter Write Precompensation sector. Refer to the drive documentation to
determine the correct value.
Sectors
This is used to configure the number of sectors per track. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct value.
Maximum Capacity
This field shows the drives maximum capacity as calculated by the BIOS
based on the drive information you entered.
LBA Mode
This allows user to select the LBA mode for a hard disk > 512 MB under DOS
and Windows; for Netware and UNIX user, select [Off] to disable the LBA
mode.
Block Mode
Set the block mode to [On] will enhance hard disk performance by reading or
writing more data during each transfer.
Fast Programmed I/O Modes
This allows user to set the PIO mode to enhance hard disk performance by
optimizing the hard disk timing.
32 Bit Transfer Mode
It allows user to enable 32-bit access to maximize the IDE hard disk data
transfer rate.
Ultra DMA Mode
Ultra DMA capability allows improved transfer speeds and data integrity for
compatible IDE devices. Set to [Disabled] to suppress Ultra DMA capability.

18

3.5 Advanced CMOS Setup

AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
Advanced CMOS Setup
Quick Boot Mode
Boot Up Num-Lock
Boot To OS/2
Password Check
Boot From Network

Setup Help

Enabled
On
No
Setup
Disabled

<Enter> to enable or
disable the quick boot
mode.

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

Boot Device Priority

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

Quick Boot
This mode speeds up the boot-up routine by skipping memory retestings.
Boot Up Num-Lock
This automatically activates the Numeric Lock function after boot up.
Boot to OS/2
This enables boot up to OS/2 operating system.
P assword Check
Select the check point for Password Check. Configuration options: [Setup],
[Always]. If [Setup] option is selected, the Password Check is performed
before BIOS setup. If [Always] option is selected, the Password Check is
performed before both boot-up and BIOS setup.
Boot From Network
Use this to enable or disable boot from network feature.
Boot Device Priority
Use this to select the priority and order of the devices that your system searches
for an operating system at start-up time.

19

3.6 Advanced Chipset Setup

AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
Advanced Chipset Setup

Spread Spectrum
CPU Host Frequency
Actual Frequency
CPU Ratio Selection
SDRAM Frequency

Disabled
Auto
133MHz
Locked
Auto

AGP Mode
AGP Aperture Size
Onboard VGA Share Memory
SDRAM CAS# Latency
CPU Read DRAM Fast Ready
Read Around Write
CPU R/W DRAM 0WS
PCI Delay Transaction
Hyper-Threading Technology

4x
128MB
32 MB
2.5
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Auto

USB Controller
USB Device Legacy Support

En abled
Disabled

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

Setup Help

<Enter> to enable or
disable the feature of
spread spectrum.

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

Spread Spectrum
This field should always set to be Disabled for better system stability.
CPU Host Frequency
This allows you to set the front side bus frequency for the installed processor.
[Auto]
The motherboard detects the jumper setup and sets the CPU host frequency
automatically.
[Manual]
This allows user to set CPU host frequency manually. However, this is not
recommended unless user thoroughly knows the feature. Wrong setup may
cause problems during operation.
CPU Ratio Selection
CPU Ratio is the multiple that times the frontside bus frequency will equal
the core speed of the installed processor. Whether the option is open or locked
is determined by the installed processor.
SDRAM Frequency
If [Auto] is selected, the motherboard will detect the memory module(s) inserted
and assigns appropriate frequency automatically.
AGP Mode
The default is 4X. You may also choose 1X or 2X for older version of
VGA cards.
AGP Aperture Size
It refers to a section of the PCI memory address range used for graphics
memory. We recommend that you leave this field at the default value unless
your AGP card requires other sizes.

20

OnBoard VGA Share Memory

This allows you to select the size of share memory for onboard VGA. OnBoard
VGA will get better resolution if larger size of share memory is selected. Please
do not select [Disabled] if PCI graphics card is not inserted.
SDRAM CAS# Latency:
This parameter controls the latency between the read command and the
time the data available.
CPU Read DRAM Fast Ready
The default is [Disabled]. Leave on the default value for better system stability.
Read Around Write
The default is [Disabled]. Leave on the default value for better system stability.
CPU R/W DRAM 0WS
The default is [Disabled]. Leave on the default value for better system stability.
PCI Delay Transaction
Enable PCI Delay Transaction feature will free the PCI Bus when the CPU is
accessing 8-bit ISA cards. Disable this feature when using ISA cards that
are not PCI 2.1 compliant.
Hyper-Threading Technology
To enable this feature, it requires a computer system with an Intel Pentium 4
processor that supports Hyper-Threading technology and an operating system
that includes optimization for this technology, such as Microsoft Windows
XP SP1. Set to [Auto] if using Microsoft Windows XP, or Linux kernel version
2.4.18 or higher. This option will be hidden if the current CPU does not support
Hyper-Threading technology.
USB Controller
Use this to enable or disable the use of USB controller.
USB Device Legacy Support
Use this to enable or disable support to emulate legacy I/O devices such as
mouse, keyboard,... etc.

21

3.7 Power Management Setup

AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
Power Management Setup

Suspend To RAM
Repost Video on STR Resume
Restore on AC/Power Loss
Ring-In Power On
PCI Devices Power On
Keyboard Power On
RTC Alarm Power On
RTC Alarm Date
RTC Alarm Hour
RTC Alarm Minute
RTC Alarm Second

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

Disabled
Disabled
Power Off
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
15
12
30
30

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

Setup Help

<Enter> to select
auto-detect or disable
the STR feature.

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

Suspend to RAM
This field allows you to select whether to auto-detect or disable the ACPI
Suspend-to-RAM feature. Select [Auto] will enable this feature if the system
supports it.
Repost Video on STR Resume
This feature allows you to repost video on STR resume.
Restore on AC/Power Loss
This allows you to set the power state after an unexpected AC power loss.
If [Power Off] is selected, the AC power remains off when the power recovers.
If [Power On] is selected, the AC power resumes and the system starts to
boot up when the power recovers.
Ring-In Power On
Use this to enable or disable Ring-in signals to turn on the system from the
power-soft-off mode.
PCI Devices Power On
Use this to enable or disable PCI devices to turn on the system from the
power-soft-off mode.
Keyboard Power On
Use this to enable or disable keyboard to turn on the system from the
power-soft-off mode.
RTC Alarm Power On
Use this to enable or disable RTC (Real Time Clock) to power on the system.
If [Enabled] is selected, you must fill the RTC Alarm Date / Hour / Minute / Second
sub-fields with the actual wake up time you desire.

22

3.8 PCI / Plug and Play Setup

AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a
[

PCI / Plug and Play Setup

PCI Latency Timer (PCI Clocks)
Primary Graphics Adapter

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

32
PCI

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

Setup Help

<Enter> to select PCI

clocks. Leave on
default setting for the
best PCI performance.

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

PCI Latency Timer (PCI Clocks)

The default is 32. It is recommended to keep the default value unless your PCI
expansion cards specifications require other settings.
Primary Graphics Adapter
Select [PCI], [Add-On AGP], or [OnBoard AGP] as the primary graphics adapter.

23

3.9 Peripheral Setup

AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a

Peripheral Configuration

OnBoard FDC
OnBoard Serial Port
OnBoard Infrared Port
OnBoard Parallel Port
Parallel Port Mode
EPP Version
Parallel Port IRQ
Parallel Port DMA Channel
OnBoard Midi Port
Midi IRQ Select
OnBoard Game Port
OnBoard IDE
OnBoard LAN
OnBoard AC' 97 Audio
OnBoard MC' 97 Modem

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

:Select Item

[ Setup Help ]

Auto
Auto
Disabled
Auto
ECP + EPP
1.9
Auto
Auto
Disabled
5
200h
Both
Enabled
Auto
Auto

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

<Enter> to enable or
disable the floppy
drive controller.

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

OnBoard FDC
Use this to enable or disable floppy drive controller.
OnBoard Serial Port
Use this to set addresses for the onboard serial ports or disable serial ports.
Configuration options: [Auto], [Disabled], [3F8 / IRQ4 /COM1], [2F8 / IRQ3 /
COM2], [3E8 / IRQ4 / COM3], [2E8 / IRQ3 / COM4].
OnBoard Infrared Port
This allows you to enable or disable the onboard infrared port feature.
Select [Auto] will enable this feature if the infrared module is installed.
OnBoard Parallel Port
Select Parallel Port address or disable Parallel Port.
Configuration options: [Auto], [Disabled], [378], [278].
Parallel Port Mode
Set the operation mode of the parallel port. The default value is [ECP+EPP].
If this option is set to [ECP+EPP], it will show the EPP version in the following
item, EPP Version.
OnBoard Midi Port
Select address for Midi Port or disable Midi Port.
Configuration options: [Disabled], [330], [300], [290], [292].
OnBoard Game Port
Select address for Game Port or disable Game Port.
Configuration options: [Disabled], [200h], [208h].

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OnBoard IDE
You may enable either the primary IDE channel or the secondary IDE channel.
Or you may enable both the primary and the secondary IDE channels by
selecting [Both]. Set to [Disabled] will disable the both.
Configuration options: [Disabled], [Primary], [Secondary], [Both].
OnBoard LAN
This allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN feature.
OnBoard AC97 Audio
Select [Auto] or [Disabled] for the onboard AC97 audio feature.
OnBoard MC97 Modem
Select [Auto] or [Disabled] for the onboard MC97 Modem feature.

25

3.10 Hardware Monitor Setup

You can select Hardware Monitor Setup to check the status of the hardware
on your system. It allows you to monitor the parameters for CPU temperature,
Motherboard temperature, CPU fan speed, and critical voltage.
AMIBIOS SETUP UTILITY - VERSION 3.31a

Hardware Monitor Setup

CPU Temperature
M / B Temperature
CPU FAN Speed
Chassis Fan Speed
Vcore
+ 3.30V
+ 5.00V
+ 12.00V

F1:Help
Esc:Previous Menu

35 C /
27 C /
3110
0
1.72
3.31
4.97
12.16

:Select Item

[ Setup Help ]

95 F
82 F
RPM
RPM
V
V
V
V

+/-:Change Values
Enter:Select Sub-Menu

F9:Setup Defaults
F10:Save & Exit

3.11 Change Supervisor Password / Change User Password

These two options allow you to specify the supervisor / user password.
Valid password can be a 1 to 6 alphanumeric characters combination.

3.12 Auto Configuration with Optimal Settings

When you select this option, it will pop up a dialog box that lets you install
optimized defaults for all appropriate items in the BIOS Setup Utility. Press <Enter>
to install the default values. The optimized default setting place demands on the
system that may be greater than the performance level of the components, such
as the CPU and the memory. You can cause fatal errors or instability if you install
the optimized defaults when your hardware does not support them.

3.13 Save Settings and Exit

Select this item and press <Enter> to save the changes that you have made and
exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

3.14 Exit Without Saving

Select this item and press <Enter> to exit the BIOS Setup Utility without saving
any changes.

26

Chapter 4 Software Support

4.1 Install Operating System
This motherboard supports various Microsoft Windows operating systems:
98 SE/ ME/ 2000/ XP. Because motherboard settings and hardware options vary,
use the setup procedures in this chapter for general reference only. Refer to your
OS documentation for more information.

4.2 Support CD Information

The Support CD that came with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and
useful utilities that enhance the motherboard features.

4.2.1 Running The Support CD

To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD
automatically displays the Main Menu if AUTORUN is enabled in your computer.
If the Main Menu did not appear automatically, locate and double click on the file
ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder in the Support CD to display the menus.

4.2.2 Drivers Menu

The Drivers Menu shows the available devices drivers if the system detects
installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.

4.2.3 Utilities Menu

The Utilities Menu shows the applications software that the motherboard
supports. Click on a specific item then follow the installation wizard to install it.

4.2.4 ASRock PC-DIY Live Demo Program

ASRock presents you a multimedia PC-DIY live demo, which shows you how to
install your own PC system step by step. You can find the file through the
following path:
..\ MPEGAV \ AVSEQ01.DAT
To see this demo program, you can run Microsoft Media Player to play the file.

4.2.5 Contact Information

If you need to contact ASRock or want to know more about ASRock, welcome
to visit ASRocks website at http://www.asrock.com; or you may contact your
dealer for further information.

27