Gigabyte GA P31 ES3G User Manual

GA-P31-ES3G  
LGA775 socket motherboard for Intel® CoreTM processor family/  
Intel® Pentium® processor family/Intel® Celeron® processor family  
User's Manual  
Rev. 1101  
12ME-P31ES3G-1101R  
Copyright  
© 2008 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.  
The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.  
Disclaimer  
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.  
Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE without prior  
notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmitted, or published in any  
form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.  
Documentation Classifications  
In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of documentations:  
„
„
For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.  
For instructions on how to use GIGABYTE's unique features, read or download the  
information on/from the Support\Motherboard\Technology Guide page on our website.  
For product-related information, check on our website at:  
Identifying Your Motherboard Revision  
The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: "REV: X.X." For example, "REV: 1.0"  
means the revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before updating  
motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical information.  
Example:  
Table of Contents  
Box Contents ................................................................................................................. 6  
OptionalItems ................................................................................................................. 6  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard Layout .............................................................................. 7  
Block Diagram................................................................................................................ 8  
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation .................................................................................... 9  
1-1 InstallationPrecautions ..................................................................................... 9  
1-2 Product Specifications .................................................................................... 10  
1-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler .............................................................. 13  
1-3-1 Installing the CPU ................................................................................................ 13  
1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler ................................................................................... 15  
1-4 Installing the Memory ..................................................................................... 16  
1-4-1 Dual Channel Memory Configuration ................................................................ 16  
1-4-2 Installing a Memory ............................................................................................. 17  
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card ......................................................................... 18  
1-6 Back Panel Connectors ................................................................................. 19  
1-7 Internal Connectors ........................................................................................ 21  
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup................................................................................................. 31  
2-1 Startup Screen................................................................................................ 32  
2-2 The Main Menu .............................................................................................. 33  
2-3 Standard CMOS Features ............................................................................. 35  
2-4 Advanced BIOS Features.............................................................................. 37  
2-5 IntegratedPeripherals ..................................................................................... 39  
2-6 Power Management Setup ............................................................................. 42  
2-7 PnP/PCI Configurations................................................................................. 44  
2-8 PC Health Status ........................................................................................... 45  
2-9 MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.) ....................................................................... 47  
2-10 Load Fail-Safe Defaults ................................................................................... 50  
2-11 Load Optimized Defaults ................................................................................. 50  
2-12 Set Supervisor/User Password ..................................................................... 51  
2-13 Save & Exit Setup......................................................................................... 52  
2-14 Exit Without Saving ....................................................................................... 52  
- 4 -  
Chapter 3 Drivers Installation ...................................................................................... 53  
3-1 Installing Chipset Drivers ............................................................................... 53  
3-2 Application Software ....................................................................................... 54  
3-3 Technical Manuals .......................................................................................... 54  
3-4 Contact........................................................................................................... 55  
3-5 System........................................................................................................... 55  
3-6 Download Center............................................................................................ 56  
Chapter 4 Unique Features ......................................................................................... 57  
4-1 Xpress Recovery2 ......................................................................................... 57  
4-2 BIOS Update Utilities..................................................................................... 62  
4-2-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility ...................................................... 62  
4-2-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility ....................................................... 65  
4-3 EasyTune 5 Pro ............................................................................................. 66  
4-4 Easy Energy Saver ...................................................................................... 67  
Chapter 5 Appendix .................................................................................................... 69  
5-1 ConfiguringAudio Input and Output ................................................................. 69  
5-1-1 Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio ............................................................ 69  
5-1-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out ....................................................................................... 72  
5-1-3 Configuring Microphone Recording ................................................................... 73  
5-1-4 Using the Sound Recorder ................................................................................. 75  
5-2 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 76  
5-2-1 Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................................. 76  
5-2-2 Troubleshooting Procedure ................................................................................ 77  
5-3 RegulatoryStatements ................................................................................... 79  
- 5 -  
Box Contents  
GA-P31-ES3G motherboard  
Motherboard driver disk  
User's Manual  
One IDE cable and one floppy disk drive cable  
Two SATA 3Gb/s cables  
I/O Shield  
•
•
The box contents above are for reference only and the actual items shall depend on product package you obtain.  
The box contents are subject to change without notice.  
The motherboard image is for reference only.  
Optional Items  
2-port USB 2.0 bracket (Part No. 12CR1-1UB030-51R)  
2-port SATA power cable (Part No. 12CF1-2SERPW-01R)  
- 6 -  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard Layout  
ATX_12V  
KB_MS  
CPU_FAN  
LGA775  
COAXIAL  
ATX  
AUDIO  
Intel® P31/  
G31  
F_AUDIO  
PCIE_1  
IDE  
RTL8111C  
SYS_FAN1  
PCIE_16  
PCIE_2  
PCIE_3  
IT8718  
CODEC  
PWR_FAN  
Intel® ICH7  
BATTERY  
SATA2_3  
SATA2_2  
CLR_CMOS  
PCI1  
F_USB1 F_USB2  
M_BIOS B_BIOS  
SATA2_1  
SATA2_0  
PCI2  
PCI3  
FDD  
SYS_FAN2  
CI  
- 7 -  
Block Diagram  
PCIe CLK  
(100 MHz)  
CPU CLK+/-  
(333/266/200 MHz)  
LGA775  
Processor  
Host  
Interface  
DDR2 1066/800/667 MHz  
Dual Channel Memory  
Intel®  
PCI Express x16  
P31/G31  
MCH CLK  
(333/266/200 MHz)  
3 PCI Express x1  
Dual BIOS  
PCIe CLK  
(100 MHz)  
x 1  
x 1  
x 1  
ATA-100/66/33 IDE Channel  
4 SATA 3Gb/s  
PCI Express Bus  
Intel®  
ICH7  
RTL8111C  
RJ45  
LAN  
8 USB Ports  
PCI Bus  
Floppy  
LPT Port  
IT8718  
COM Port  
CODEC  
PS/2 KB/Mouse  
3 PCI  
PCI CLK  
(33 MHz)  
- 8 -  
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation  
1-1 Installation Precautions  
The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become  
damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's  
manual and follow these procedures:  
•
•
•
Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or  
warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.  
Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before  
installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.  
When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard,  
make sure they are connected tightly and securely.  
•
•
When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.  
It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic  
components such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap,  
keep your hands dry and first touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.  
Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an  
electrostaticshieldingcontainer.  
•
•
•
•
•
•
Before unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply  
has been turned off.  
Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to  
the local voltage standard.  
Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware  
componentsareconnected.  
To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the  
motherboard circuit or its components.  
Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or  
within the computer casing.  
•
•
•
Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.  
Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature environment.  
Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system  
components as well as physical harm to the user.  
•
If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the  
product, please consult a certified computer technician.  
- 9 -  
Hardware Installation  
1-2 Product Specifications  
TM  
CPU  
Å 
Support for an Intel® Core 2 Extreme processor/  
TM TM  
Intel® Core 2 Quad processor/Intel® Core 2 Duo processor/  
Intel® Pentium® processor Extreme Edition/Intel® Pentium® D processor/  
Intel® Pentium® 4 processor Extreme Edition/Intel® Pentium® 4 processor/  
Intel® Celeron® processor in the LGA 775 package  
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)  
L2 cache varies with CPU  
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Front Side Bus  
Chipset  
1333/1066/800 MHz FSB  
North Bridge: Intel® P31/G31 Express Chipset  
South Bridge: Intel® ICH7  
Memory  
2 x 1.8V DDR2 DIMM sockets supporting up to 4 GB of system memory (Note 1)  
Dual channel memory architecture  
Support for DDR2 1066/800/667 MHz memory modules  
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest memory support list.)  
Realtek ALC888 codec  
Audio  
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High Definition Audio  
(Note 2)  
2/4/5.1/7.1-channel  
Support for S/PDIF Out  
Support for CD In  
RTL 8111C chip (10/100/1000 Mbit)  
1 x PCI Express x16 slot  
3 x PCI Express x1 slots  
3 x PCI slots  
LAN  
Expansion Slots  
Storage Interface  
South Bridge:  
-
-
1 x IDE connector supporting ATA-100/66/33 and up to 2 IDE devices  
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors supporting up to 4 SATA 3Gb/s devices  
Å 
iTE IT8718 chip:  
-
1 x floppy disk drive connector supporting up to 1 floppy disk drive  
USB  
Å 
Å 
Integrated in the South Bridge  
Up to 8 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 on the back panel, 4 via the USB brackets  
connected to the internal USB headers)  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 10 -  
Internal Connectors  
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1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector  
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector  
1 x floppy disk drive connector  
1 x IDE connector  
4 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors  
1 x CPU fan header  
2 x system fan headers  
1 x power fan header  
1 x front panel header  
1 x front panel audio header  
1 x CD In connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out header  
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers  
1 x chassis intrusion header  
1 x power LED header  
1 x PS/2 keyboard port  
1 x PS/2 mouse port  
Back Panel  
Connectors  
1 x parallel port  
1 x serial port  
1 x coaxial S/PDIF Out connector  
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports  
1 x RJ-45 port  
3 x audio jacks (Line In/Line Out/Microphone)  
iTE IT8718 chip  
I/O Controller  
Hardware Monitor  
System voltage detection  
CPU temperature detection  
CPU/System/Power fan speed detection  
CPU overheating warning  
CPU/System/Power fan fail warning  
CPU fan speed control(Note 3)  
2 x 4 Mbit flash  
BIOS  
Use of licensed AWARD BIOS  
TM  
Support for DualBIOS  
PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 1.0b  
- 11 -  
Hardware Installation  
Unique Features  
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Support for @BIOS  
Support for Download Center  
Support for Q-Flash  
Support for EasyTune (Note 4)  
Support for Xpress Install  
Support for Xpress Recovery2  
Support for Virtual Dual BIOS  
Support for Easy Energy Saver  
Norton Internet Security (OEM version)  
Support for Microsoft® Windows® Vista/XP  
ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 19.4cm  
(Note 5)  
Bundled Software  
Operating System  
Form Factor  
(Note 1) Based on standard PC architecture, a certain amount of memory is reserved for system  
usage and therefore the actual memory size is less than the stated amount. For example,  
4 GB of memory size will instead be shown as 3.xx GB during system startup.  
(Note 2) To enable 7.1-channel audio, you have to use an HD front panel audio module and enable the  
multi-channel audio feature through the audio driver.  
(Note 3) Whether the CPU fan speed control function is supported will depend on the CPU cooler you  
install.  
(Note 4) Available functions in EasyTune may differ by motherboard model.  
TM  
TM  
(Note 5) Due to the hardware limitation, you must install the Intel® Core 2 Extreme/ Core 2 Quad/  
TM  
Core 2 Duo/ Pentium Dual-Core/ Celeron Dual-Core/ Celeron 400 Series CPU to enable  
support for Easy Energy Saver.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 12 -  
1-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler  
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:  
•
•
•
Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.  
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)  
Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before  
installing the CPU to prevent hardware damage.  
Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you  
may locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)  
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.  
Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and  
damage of the CPU may occur.  
•
•
•
Set the CPU host frequency in accordance with the CPU specifications. It is not recom-  
mended that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specifications since it  
does not meet the standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the frequency  
beyond the standard specifications, please do so according to your hardware specifications  
including the CPU, graphics card, memory, hard drive, etc.  
1-3-1 Installing the CPU  
A. Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.  
LGA775 CPU Socket  
Alignment Key  
Alignment Key  
Pin One Corner of the CPU Socket  
LGA 775 CPU  
Notch  
Notch  
Triangle Pin One Marking on the CPU  
- 13 -  
Hardware Installation  
B. Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU into the motherboard CPU socket.  
Before installing the CPU, make sure to turn off the computer and unplug the power  
cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the CPU.  
CPU Socket Lever  
Step 1:  
Step 2:  
Completely raise the CPU socket lever.  
Lift the metal load plate from the CPU socket.  
(DO NOT touch socket contacts.)  
Step 3:  
Step 4:  
Remove the protective socket cover from the  
load plate. (To protect the CPU socket, always  
replace the protective socket cover when the  
CPU is not installed.)  
Hold the CPU with your thumb and index  
fingers. Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle)  
with the pin one corner of the CPU socket (or  
you may align the CPU notches with the socket  
alignment keys) and gently insert the CPU  
into position.  
Step 5:  
Once the CPU is properly inserted, replace  
the load plate and push the CPU socket lever  
back into its locked position.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 14 -  
1-3-2 Installing the CPU Cooler  
Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU cooler on the motherboard. (The following procedure  
uses Intel® boxed cooler as the example cooler.)  
Male  
Push Pin  
Direction of  
the Arrow Sign  
on the Male  
The Top  
Push Pin  
of Female  
Push Pin  
Female  
Push Pin  
Step 1:  
Step 2:  
Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease  
on the surface of the installed CPU.  
Before installing the cooler, note the direction  
of the arrow sign  
on the male push pin.  
(Turning the push pin along the direction of  
arrow is to remove the cooler, on the contrary,  
is to install.)  
Step 3:  
Step 4:  
Place the cooler atop the CPU, aligning the  
four push pins through the pin holes on the  
motherboard. Push down on the push pins  
diagonally.  
You should hear a "click" when pushing down each  
push pin. Check that the Male and Female push pins  
are joined closely. (Refer to your CPU cooler instal-  
lation manual for instructions on installing the cooler.)  
Step 5:  
Step 6:  
After the installation, check the back of the  
motherboard. If the push pin is inserted as the  
picture above, the installation is complete.  
Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU  
cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on  
the motherboard.  
Use extreme care when removing the CPU cooler because the thermal grease/tape between  
the CPU cooler and CPU may adhere to the CPU. Inadequately removing the CPU cooler may  
damage the CPU.  
- 15 -  
Hardware Installation  
1-4 Installing the Memory  
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:  
•
Make sure that the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended that memory of  
the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.  
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest memory support list.)  
•
•
Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before  
installing the memory to prevent hardware damage.  
Memory modules have a foolproof design. A memory module can be installed in only one  
direction. If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.  
1-4-1 Dual Channel Memory Configuration  
This motherboard provides two DDR2 memory sockets and supports Dual Channel  
Technology. After the memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the  
specifications and capacity of the memory. Enabling Dual Channel memory mode  
will double the original memory bandwidth.  
The two DDR2 memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has one memory  
socket as following:  
Channel 0: DDRII1  
Channel 1: DDRII2  
Due to chipset limitation, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.  
1. Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one DDR2 memory module is installed.  
2. When enabling Dual Channel mode with two memory modules, it is recommended that  
memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 16 -  
1-4-2 Installing a Memory  
Before installing a memory module , make sure to turn off the computer and unplug  
the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the memory module.  
DDR2 DIMMs are not compatible to DDR DIMMs. Be sure to install DDR2 DIMMs on  
this motherboard.  
Notch  
DDR2 DIMM  
A DDR2 memory module has a notch, so it can only fit in one direction. Follow the steps below to  
correctly install your memory modules in the memory sockets.  
Step 1:  
Note the orientation of the memory module. Spread the retaining  
clips at both ends of the memory socket. Place the memory  
module on the socket. As indicated in the picture on the left,  
place your fingers on the top edge of the memory, push down  
on the memory and insert it vertically into the memory socket.  
Step 2:  
The clips at both ends of the socket will snap into place when  
the memory module is securely inserted.  
- 17 -  
Hardware Installation  
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card  
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install an expansion card:  
•
•
Make sure the motherboard supports the expansion card. Carefully read the manual that  
came with your expansion card.  
Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before  
installing an expansion card to prevent hardware damage.  
PCI Express x1 Slot  
PCI Express x16 Slot  
PCI Slot  
Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.  
1. Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back panel.  
2. Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.  
3. Make sure the metal contacts on the card are completely inserted into the slot.  
4. Secure the card's metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.  
5. After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).  
6. Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for  
your expansion card(s).  
7. Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.  
Example: Installing and Removing a PCI Express x16 Graphics Card:  
•
Installing a Graphics Card:  
Gently push down on the top edge of the card  
until it is fully inserted into the PCI Express x16  
slot. Make sure the card is securely seated in  
the slot and does not rock.  
•
Removing the Card:  
Gently push back on the lever on the slot and then lift the card straight out  
from the slot.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 18 -  
1-6 Back Panel Connectors  
PS/2 Keyboard and PS/2 Mouse Port  
Use the upper port (green) to connect a PS/2 mouse and the lower port (purple) to connect a PS/2  
keyboard.  
Parallel Port  
Use the parallel port to connect devices such as a printer, scanner and etc. The parallel port is also  
called a printer port.  
Serial Port  
Use the serial port to connect devices such as a mouse, modem or other peripherals.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out Connector  
This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital coaxial  
audio. Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides a coaxial digital audio in  
connector.  
USB Port  
The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Use this port for USB devices such as an  
USB keyboard/mouse, USB printer, USB flash drive and etc.  
RJ-45 LAN Port  
The Gigabit Ethernet LAN port provides Internet connection at up to 1 Gbps data rate. The following  
describes the states of the LAN port LEDs.  
Connection/  
Speed LED  
Activity LED  
Connection/Speed LED:  
Activity LED:  
State  
State  
Orange  
Green  
Off  
Description  
Description  
1 Gbps data rate  
100 Mbps data rate  
10 Mbps data rate  
Blinking Data transmission or receiving is occurring  
Off No data transmission or receiving is occurring  
LAN Port  
•
•
When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, first remove the cable  
from your device and then remove it from the motherboard.  
When removing the cable, pull it straight out from the connector. Do not rock it side to side  
to prevent an electrical short inside the cable connector.  
- 19 -  
Hardware Installation  
Line In Jack (Blue)  
The default line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.  
Line Out Jack (Green)  
The default line out jack. Use this audio jack for a headphone or 2-channel speaker. This jack can  
be used to connect front speakers in a 4/5.1-channel audio configuration.  
Mic In Jack (Pink)  
The default Mic in jack. Microphones must be connected to this jack.  
To enable 7.1-channel audio, you have to use an HD front panel audio module and enable  
the multi-channel audio feature through the audio driver. Refer to the instructions on setting  
up a 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel audio configuration in Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel  
Audio."  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 20 -  
1-7 Internal Connectors  
1
3
7
2
10  
4
11  
9
15  
5
17  
12  
8
6
13  
14  
4
16  
1)  
2)  
3)  
4)  
5)  
6)  
7)  
8)  
9)  
ATX_12V  
10)  
11)  
12)  
13)  
14)  
15)  
16)  
17)  
F_AUDIO  
F_PANEL  
CD_IN  
ATX  
CPU_FAN  
SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2  
PWR_FAN  
FDD  
SPDIF_O  
F_USB1/F_USB2  
CLR_CMOS  
CI  
IDE  
SATA2_0/1/2/3  
PWR_LED  
BATTERY  
Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:  
•
•
First make sure your devices are compliant with the connectors you wish to connect.  
Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the  
power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.  
•
After installing the device and before turning on the computer, make sure the device cable  
has been securely attached to the connector on the motherboard.  
- 21 -  
Hardware Installation  
1/2) ATX_12V/ATX (2x2 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector)  
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the  
components on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, first make sure the  
power supply is turned off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses  
a foolproof design. Connect the power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.  
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not  
connected, the computer will not start.  
•
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand  
high power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not  
provide the required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.  
The main power connector is compatible with power supplies with 2x10 power  
connectors. When using a 2x12 power supply, remove the protective cover from the  
main power connector on the motherboard. Do not insert the power supply cable into pins  
under the protective cover when using a 2x10 power supply.  
•
ATX_12V:  
Pin No.  
Definition  
GND  
3
1
1
2
3
4
4
2
GND  
+12V  
ATX_12V  
+12V  
ATX:  
12  
Pin No.  
Definition  
3.3V  
Pin No.  
Definition  
24  
1
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
3.3V  
2
3.3V  
-12V  
3
GND  
+5V  
GND  
4
PS_ON(soft On/Off)  
5
GND  
+5V  
GND  
6
GND  
7
GND  
GND  
8
Power Good  
-5V  
9
5V SB(stand by +5V)  
+12V  
+5V  
10  
11  
12  
+5V  
+12V(Onlyfor2x12-pinATX)  
3.3V(Onlyfor2x12-pinATX)  
+5V (Only for 2x12-pinATX)  
GND (Only for 2x12-pinATX)  
1
13  
ATX  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 22 -  
3/4/5) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2/PWR_FAN (Fan Headers)  
The motherboard has a 4-pin CPU fan header (CPU_FAN), two 3-pin system fan headers (SYS_FAN1  
and SYS_FAN2), and a 3-pin power fan header (PWR_FAN). Most fan headers possess a foolproof  
insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black  
connector wire is the ground wire). The motherboard supports CPU fan speed control, which requires  
the use of a CPU fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended  
that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.  
CPU_FAN:  
Pin No.  
Definition  
1
2
3
4
GND  
+12V / Speed Control  
Sense  
1
CPU_FAN  
SpeedControl  
SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2:  
Pin No.  
Definition  
1
1
2
3
GND  
1
+12V  
Sense  
SYS_FAN2  
SYS_FAN1  
PWR_FAN  
Pin No.  
Definition  
GND  
1
2
3
1
PWR_FAN  
+12V  
Sense  
•
•
Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from  
overheating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.  
These fan headers are not configuration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the  
headers.  
6) FDD (Floppy Disk Drive Connector)  
This connector is used to connect a floppy disk drive. The types of floppy disk drives supported  
are: 360 KB, 720 KB, 1.2 MB, 1.44 MB, and 2.88 MB. Before connecting a floppy disk drive, be  
sure to locate pin 1 of the connector and the floppy disk drive cable. The pin 1 of the cable is  
typically designated by a stripe of different color.  
33  
34  
1
2
- 23 -  
Hardware Installation  
7) IDE (IDE Connector)  
The IDE connector supports up to two IDE devices such as hard drives and optical drives. Before  
attaching the IDE cable, locate the foolproof groove on the connector. If you wish to connect two IDE  
devices, remember to set the jumpers and the cabling according to the role of the IDE devices (for  
example, master or slave). (For information about configuring master/slave settings for the IDE  
devices, read the instructions from the device manufacturers.)  
40  
39  
2
1
8) SATA2_0/1/2/3 (SATA 3Gb/s Connectors, Controlled by ICH7)  
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 3Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 1.5Gb/s  
standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device.  
SATA2_3  
Pin No.  
Definition  
GND  
TXP  
7
7
1
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
SATA2_2  
TXN  
GND  
RXN  
SATA2_1  
SATA2_0  
7
7
1
1
RXP  
GND  
Please connect the L-shaped end  
of the SATA 3Gb/s cable to your  
SATA hard drive.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 24 -  
9) PWR_LED (System Power LED Header)  
This header can be used to connect a system power LED on the chassis to indicate system power  
status. The LED is on when the system is operating. The LED keeps blinking when the system is  
in S1 sleep state. The LED is off when the system is in S3/S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).  
Pin No.  
Definition  
MPD+  
1
2
3
MPD-  
1
MPD-  
System Status LED  
S0  
On  
S1  
Blinking  
Off  
S3/S4/S5  
10) F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)  
The front panel audio header supports Intel High Definition audio (HD) and AC'97 audio. You may  
connect your chassis front panel audio module to this header. Make sure the wire assignments of  
the module connector match the pin assignments of the motherboard header. Incorrect connection  
between the module connector and the motherboard header will make the device unable to work  
or even damage it.  
For HD Front Panel Audio:  
For AC'97FrontPanelAudio:  
Pin No.  
Definition  
MIC2_L  
GND  
Pin No.  
Definition  
MIC  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
10  
9
2
1
GND  
MIC2_R  
-ACZ_DET  
LINE2_R  
GND  
MIC Power  
NC  
Line Out (R)  
NC  
FAUDIO_JD  
No Pin  
NC  
No Pin  
Line Out (L)  
NC  
LINE2_L  
GND  
•
•
•
The front panel audio header supports HD audio by default. If your chassis provides an  
AC'97 front panel audio module, refer to the instructions on how to activate AC'97 functioninality  
via the audio software in Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio."  
Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections  
simultaneously. If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD  
front panel audio module), refer to Chapter 5, "Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio."  
Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each  
wire instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio  
module that has different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.  
- 25 -  
Hardware Installation  
11) F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)  
Connect the power switch, reset switch, speaker and system status indicator on the chassis front  
panel to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the positive and negative pins  
before connecting the cables.  
19  
20  
SPEAK-  
SPEAK+  
Speaker Connector  
Power Switch  
NC  
RES+  
RES-  
HD-  
HD+  
PW-  
Reset Switch  
PW+  
MSG-  
MSG+  
Message LED/  
Power/  
IDE Hard Drive  
Activity LED  
2
1
Sleep LED  
•
MSG (Message/Power/Sleep LED, Yellow):  
Connects to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The  
LED is on when the system is operating. The LED keeps blinking when  
the system is in S1 sleep state. The LED is off when the system is in  
S3/S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).  
System Status LED  
S0  
On  
S1  
Blinking  
Off  
S3/S4/S5  
•
•
PW (Power Switch, Red):  
Connects to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may configure the way to turn off  
your system using the power switch (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Power Management  
Setup," for more information).  
SPEAK (Speaker, Orange):  
Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports system startup status  
by issuing a beep code. One single short beep will be heard if no problem is detected at system  
startup. If a problem is detected, the BIOS may issue beeps in different patterns to indicate the  
problem. Refer to Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting," for information about beep codes.  
HD (IDE Hard Drive Activity LED, Blue)  
Connects to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the hard  
drive is reading or writing data.  
RES (Reset Switch, Green):  
•
•
•
Connects to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the  
computer if the computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.  
NC (Purple):  
No connection  
The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module mainly consists of  
power switch, reset switch, power LED, hard drive activity LED, speaker and etc. When  
connecting your chassis front panel module to this header, make sure the wire assign-  
ments and the pin assignments are matched correctly.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 26 -  
12) CD_IN (CD In Connector)  
You may connect the audio cable that came with your optical drive to the header.  
Pin No.  
Definition  
1
1
2
3
4
CD-L  
GND  
GND  
CD-R  
13) SPDIF_O (S/PDIF Out Header)  
This header supports digital S/PDIF out and connects a S/PDIF digital audio cable (provided by  
expansion cards) for digital audio output from your motherboard to certain expansion cards like  
graphics cards and sound cards. For example, some graphics cards may require you to use a  
S/PDIF digital audio cable for digital audio output from your motherboard to your graphics card if  
you wish to connect an HDMI display to the graphics card and have digital audio output from the  
HDMI display at the same time. For information about connecting the S/PDIF digital audio cable,  
carefully read the manual for your expansion card.  
Pin No.  
Definition  
SPDIFO  
GND  
1
2
1
- 27 -  
Hardware Installation  
14) F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB Headers)  
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports  
via an optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local  
dealer.  
Pin No.  
Definition  
Power (5V)  
Power (5V)  
USB DX-  
USBDY-  
USB DX+  
USB DY+  
GND  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
9
1
2
10  
GND  
No Pin  
NC  
•
•
Do not plug the IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into the USB header.  
Prior to installing the USB bracket, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the  
power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the USB bracket.  
15) CLR_CMOS (Clearing CMOS Jumper)  
Use this jumper to clear the CMOS values (e.g. date information and BIOS configurations) and  
reset the CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear the CMOS values, place a jumper cap on the  
two pins to temporarily short the two pins or use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the two  
pins for a few seconds.  
Open:Normal  
Short: Clear CMOS Values  
•
•
•
Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before  
clearing the CMOS values.  
After clearing the CMOS values and before turning on your computer, be sure to remove  
the jumper cap from the jumper. Failure to do so may cause damage to the motherboard.  
After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized  
Defaults) or manually configure the BIOS settings (refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," for  
BIOS configurations).  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 28 -  
16) CI (Chassis Intrusion Header)  
This motherboard provides a chassis detection feature that detects if the chassis cover has been  
removed. This function requires a chassis with chassis intrusion detection design.  
Pin No.  
Definition  
Signal  
GND  
1
2
1
17) BATTERY  
The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS configurations, date, and time  
information) in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery  
voltage drops to a low level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or may be lost.  
You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery:  
1. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.  
2. Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute.  
(Or use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative  
terminals of the battery holder, making them short for 5 seconds.)  
3. Replace the battery.  
4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.  
•
•
Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.  
Replace the battery with an equivalent one. Danger of explosion if the battery is replaced  
with an incorrect model.  
•
•
•
Contact the place of purchase or local dealer if you are not able to replace the battery by  
yourself or uncertain about the battery model.  
When installing the battery, note the orientation of the positive side (+) and the negative  
side (-) of the battery (the positive side should face up).  
Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.  
- 29 -  
Hardware Installation  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 30 -  
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup  
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) records hardware parameters of the system in the CMOS on the  
motherboard. Its major functions include conducting the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during system  
startup, saving system parameters and loading operating system, etc. BIOS includes a BIOS Setup  
program that allows the user to modify basic system configuration settings or to activate certain system  
features. When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power  
to the CMOS to keep the configuration values in the CMOS.  
To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key during the POST when the power is turned  
on. To see more advanced BIOS Setup menu options, you can press <Ctrl> + <F1> in the main menu  
of the BIOS Setup program.  
To upgrade the BIOS, use either the GIGABYTE Q-Flash or @BIOS utility.  
•
Q-Flash allows the user to quickly and easily upgrade or back up BIOS without entering the  
operating system.  
•
@BIOS is a Windows-based utility that searches and downloads the latest version of BIOS from the  
Internet and updates the BIOS.  
For instructions on using the Q-Flash and @BIOS utilities, refer to Chapter 4, "BIOS Update Utilities."  
•
Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, if you do not encounter problems using the  
current version of BIOS, it is recommended that you not flash the BIOS. To flash the BIOS,  
do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may result in system malfunction.  
BIOS will emit a beep code during the POST. Refer to Chapter 5, "Troubleshooting," for the  
beep codes description.  
It is recommended that you not alter the default settings (unless you need to) to prevent  
system instability or other unexpected results. Inadequately altering the settings may result  
in system's failure to boot. If this occurs, try to clear the CMOS values and reset the board  
to default values. (Refer to the "Load Optimized Defaults" section in this chapter or introduc-  
tions of the battery/clearing CMOS jumper in Chapter 1 for how to clear the CMOS values.)  
•
•
- 31 -  
BIOS Setup  
2-1 Startup Screen  
The following screens may appear when the computer boots.  
A. The LOGO Screen (Default)  
<TAB>:POST Screen <DEL>:BIOS Setup/Q-Flash <F9>:XpressRecovery2 <F12>:Boot Menu <END>:Qflash  
Function Keys  
B. The POST Screen  
Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG, An Energy Star Ally  
Copyright (C) 1984-2008, Award Software, Inc.  
Intel P31 BIOS for P31-ES3G E4  
.
.
.
.
MotherboardModel  
BIOS Version  
<DEL>: BIOS Setup <F9>: XpressRecovery2 <F12>: Boot Menu <End>: Qflash  
07/18/2008-P31-ICH7-6A89OG0DC-00  
Function Keys  
Function Keys:  
<TAB>: POST Screen  
Press the <Tab> key to show the BIOS POST screen. To show the BIOS POST screen at system  
startup, refer to the instructions on the Full Screen LOGO Show item on page 38.  
<DEL>: BIOS Setup/Q-Flash  
Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.  
<F9>: Xpress Recovery2  
If you have ever entered Xpress Recovery2 to back up hard drive data using the motherboard  
driver disk, the <F9> key can be used for subsequent access to XpressRecovery2 during the  
POST. For more information, refer to Chapter 4, "Xpress Recovery2."  
<F12>: Boot Menu  
Boot Menu allows you to set the first boot device without entering BIOS Setup. In Boot Menu, use  
the up arrow key < > or the down arrow key< > to select the first boot device, then press <Enter>  
to accept. To exit Boot Menu, press <Esc>. The system will directly boot from the device  
configured in Boot Menu.  
Note: The setting in Boot Menu is effective for one time only. After system restart, the device boot  
order will still be based on BIOS Setup settings. You can access Boot Menu again to change the first  
boot device setting as needed.  
<End>: Q-Flash  
Press the <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 32 -  
2-2 The Main Menu  
Once you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main Menu (as shown below) appears on the screen. Use  
arrow keys to move among the items and press <Enter> to accept or enter a sub-menu.  
(Sample BIOS Version: E4)  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Management Setup  
PnP/PCI Configurations  
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Set User Password  
Save & Exit Setup  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Time, Date, Hard Disk Type...  
BIOS Setup Program Function Keys  
<
>< >< ><  
>
Move the selection bar to select an item  
Execute command or enter the submenu  
Main Menu: Exit the BIOS Setup program  
Submenus: Exit current submenu  
<Enter>  
<Esc>  
<Page Up>  
<Page Down>  
<F1>  
Increase the numeric value or make changes  
Decrease the numeric value or make changes  
Show descriptions of the function keys  
<F2>  
<F5>  
<F6>  
<F7>  
Move cursor to the Item Help block on the right (submenus only)  
Restore the previous BIOS settings for the current submenus  
Load the Fail-Safe BIOS default settings for the current submenus  
Load the Optimized BIOS default settings for the current submenus  
Access the Q-Flash utility  
<F8>  
<F9>  
Display system information  
<F10>  
<F11>  
Save all the changes and exit the BIOS Setup program  
Save CMOS to BIOS  
<F12>  
Load CMOS from BIOS  
Main Menu Help  
The onscreen description of a highlighted setup option is displayed on the bottom line of the Main Menu.  
Submenu Help  
While in a submenu, press <F1> to display a help screen (General Help) of function keys available for  
the menu. Press <Esc> to exit the help screen. Help for each item is in the Item Help block on the right  
side of the submenu.  
•
•
•
If you do not find the settings you want in the Main Menu or a submenu, press <Ctrl>+<F1>  
to access more advanced options.  
When the system is not stable as usual, select the Load Optimized Defaults item to set  
your system to its defaults.  
The BIOS Setup menus described in this chapter are for reference only and may differ by  
BIOS version.  
- 33 -  
BIOS Setup  
„
The Functions of the <F11> and <F12> keys (For the Main Menu Only)  
` F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
This function allows you to save the current BIOS settings to a profile. You can create up to 8  
profiles (Profile 1-8) and name each profile. First enter the profile name (to erase the default profile  
name, use the SPACE key) and then press <Enter> to complete.  
` F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
If your system becomes unstable and you have loaded the BIOS default settings, you can use this  
function to load the BIOS settings from a profile created before, without the hassles of reconfiguring  
the BIOS settings. First select the profile you wish to load, then press <Enter> to complete.  
„
„
„
Standard CMOS Features  
Use this menu to configure the system time and date, hard drive types, floppy disk drive types,  
and the type of errors that stop the system boot, etc.  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Use this menu to configure the device boot order, advanced features available on the CPU, and  
the primary display adapter.  
Integrated Peripherals  
Use this menu to configure all peripheral devices, such as IDE, SATA, USB, integrated audio, and  
integrated LAN, etc.  
„
„
„
Power Management Setup  
Use this menu to configure all the power-saving functions.  
PnP/PCI Configurations  
Use this menu to configure the system's PCI & PnP resources.  
PC Health Status  
Use this menu to see information about autodetected system/CPU temperature, system voltage  
and fan speed, etc.  
„
„
„
„
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
Use this menu to configure the clock, frequency and voltages of your CPU, memory, etc.  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Fail-Safe defaults are factory settings for the most stable, minimal-performance system operations.  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Optimized defaults are factory settings for optimal-performance system operations.  
Set Supervisor Password  
Change, set, or disable password. It allows you to restrict access to the system and BIOS Setup.  
A supervisor password allows you to make changes in BIOS Setup.  
„
„
„
Set User Password  
Change, set, or disable password. It allows you to restrict access to the system and BIOS Setup.  
An user password only allows you to view the BIOS settings but not to make changes.  
Save & Exit Setup  
Save all the changes made in the BIOS Setup program to the CMOS and exit BIOS Setup.  
(Pressing <F10> can also carry out this task.)  
Exit Without Saving  
Abandon all changes and the previous settings remain in effect. Pressing <Y> to the confirmation  
message will exit BIOS Setup. (Pressing <Esc> can also carry out this task.)  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 34 -  
2-3 Standard CMOS Features  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
Standard CMOS Features  
Date (mm:dd:yy)  
Time (hh:mm:ss)  
Wed, Feb 20 2008  
22:31:24  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
`
`
`
`
`
`
IDE Channel 0 Master  
IDE Channel 0 Slave  
IDE Channel 2 Master  
IDE Channel 2 Slave  
IDE Channel 3 Master  
IDE Channel 3 Slave  
[None]  
[None]  
[None]  
[None]  
[None]  
[None]  
Drive A  
Floppy 3 Mode Support  
[1.44M, 3.5"]  
[Disabled]  
Halt On  
[All, But Keyboard]  
Base Memory  
Extended Memory  
Total Memory  
640K  
510M  
512M  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
Date  
Sets the system date. The date format is week (read-only), month, date and year. Select the  
desired field and use the up arrow or down arrow key to set the date.  
Time  
Sets the system time. For example, 1 p.m. is 13:0:0. Select the desired field and use the up arrow  
or down arrow key to set the time.  
IDE Channel 0 Master/Slave  
IDE HDD Auto-Detection  
Press <Enter> to autodetect the parameters of the IDE/SATA device on this channel.  
IDE Channel 0 Master/Slave  
Configure your IDE/SATA devices by using one of the three methods below:  
• Auto  
None  
Lets BIOS automatically detect IDE/SATA devices during the POST. (Default)  
If no IDE/SATA devices are used, set this item to None so the system will  
skip the detection of the device during the POST for faster system startup.  
Allows you to manually enter the specifications of the hard drive when the  
hard drive access mode is set to CHS.  
•
• Manual  
Access Mode  
Sets the hard drive access mode. Options are: Auto (default), CHS, LBA, Large.  
IDE Channel 2, 3 Master/Slave  
IDE Auto-Detection  
Press <Enter> to autodetect the parameters of the IDE/SATA device on this channel.  
Extended IDE Drive  
Configure your IDE/SATA devices by using one of the two methods below:  
• Auto  
None  
Lets BIOS automatically detect IDE/SATA devices during the POST. (Default)  
If no IDE/SATA devices are used, set this item to None so the system will  
skip the detection of the device during the POST for faster system startup.  
Sets the hard drive access mode. Options are: Auto (default), Large.  
•
Access Mode  
- 35 -  
BIOS Setup  
The following fields display your hard drive specifications. If you wish to enter the parameters  
manually, refer to the information on the hard drive.  
Capacity  
Cylinder  
Head  
Approximate capacity of the currently installed hard drive.  
Number of cylinders.  
Number of heads.  
Precomp  
Landing Zone  
Sector  
Write precompensation cylinder.  
Landing zone.  
Number of sectors.  
Drive A  
Allows you to selects the type of floppy disk drive installed in your system. If you do not install a  
floppy disk drive, set this item to None. Options are: None, 360K/5.25", 1.2M/5.25", 720K/3.5",  
1.44M/3.5", 2.88M/3.5".  
Floppy 3 Mode Support  
Allows you to specify whether the installed floppy disk drive is 3-mode floppy disk drive, a  
Japanese standard floppy disk drive. Options are: Disabled (default), Drive A.  
Halt On  
Allows you to determine whether the system will stop for an error during the POST.  
No Errors  
All Errors  
The system boot will not stop for any error.  
Whenever the BIOS detects a non-fatal error the system boot will stop.  
All, But Keyboard The system boot will not stop for a keyboard error but stop for all other  
errors. (Default)  
All, But Diskette  
The system boot will not stop for a floppy disk drive error but stop for all  
other errors.  
All, But Disk/Key The system boot will not stop for a keyboard or a floppy disk drive error but  
it will stop for all other errors.  
Memory  
These fields are read-only and are determined by the BIOS POST.  
Base Memory Also called conventional memory. Typically, 640 KB will be reserved for  
the MS-DOS operating system.  
Extended Memory The amount of extended memory.  
Total Memory  
The total amount of memory installed on the system.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 36 -  
2-4 Advanced BIOS Features  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
Advanced BIOS Features  
`
Hard Disk Boot Priority  
First Boot Device  
[Press Enter]  
[Floppy]  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
Second Boot Device  
Third Boot Device  
Password Check  
[Hard Disk]  
[CDROM]  
[Setup]  
HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability  
Limit CPUID Max. to 3 (Note)  
No-Execute Memory Protect (Note)  
CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) (Note)  
CPU Thermal Monitor 2(TM2) (Note)  
CPU EIST Function (Note)  
Virtualization Technology  
Full Screen LOGO Show  
Init Display First  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[PCI]  
(Note)  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
Hard Disk Boot Priority  
Specifies the sequence of loading the operating system from the installed hard drives. Use the up  
or down arrow key to select a hard drive, then press the plus key <+> (or <PageUp>) or the minus  
key <-> (or <PageDown>) to move it up or down on the list. Press <Esc> to exit this menu when  
finished.  
First/Second/Third Boot Device  
Specifies the boot order from the available devices. Use the up or down arrow key to select a  
device and press <Enter> to accept. Options are: Floppy, LS120, Hard Disk, CDROM, ZIP,  
USB-FDD, USB-ZIP, USB-CDROM, USB-HDD, LAN, Disabled.  
Password Check  
Specifies whether a password is required every time the system boots, or only when you enter  
BIOS Setup. After configuring this item, set the password(s) under the Set Supervisor/User  
Password item in the BIOS Main Menu.  
Setup  
System  
A password is only required for entering the BIOS Setup program. (Default)  
A password is required for booting the system and for entering the BIOS Setup  
program.  
HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability  
Enables or disables the S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology) capability of your  
hard drive. This feature allows your system to report read/write errors of the hard drive and to  
issue warnings when a third party hardware monitor utility is installed. (Default: Disabled)  
(Note) This item is present only if you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information  
about Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.  
- 37 -  
BIOS Setup  
Limit CPUID Max. to 3 (Note)  
Allows you to determine whether to limit CPUID maximum value. Set this item to Disabled for  
Windows XP operating system; set this item to Enabled for legacy operating system such as  
Windows NT4.0. (Default: Disabled)  
No-Execute Memory Protect(Note)  
Enables or disables Intel® Execute Disable Bit function. This function may enhance protection for  
the computer, reducing exposure to viruses and malicious buffer overflow attacks when working  
with its supporting software and system. (Default: Enabled)  
CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E)(Note)  
Enables or disables Intel® CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving function in  
system halt state. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced during  
system halt state to decrease power consumption. (Default: Enabled)  
CPU Thermal Monitor 2 (TM2) (Note)  
Enables or disables Intel® CPU Thermal Monitor (TM2) function, a CPU overheating protection  
function. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced when the CPU is  
overheated. (Default: Enabled)  
CPU EIST Function (Note)  
Enables or disables Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST). Depending on CPU loading,  
Intel® EIST technology can dynamically and effectively lower the CPU voltage and core frequency  
to decrease average power consumption and heat production. (Default: Enabled)  
Virtualization Technology (Note)  
Enables or disables Intel® Virtualization Technology. Virtualization enhanced by Intel® Virtualization  
Technology will allow a platform to run multiple operating systems and applications in independent  
partitions. With virtualization, one computer system can function as multiple virtual systems.  
(Default: Enabled)  
Full Screen LOGO Show  
Allows you to determine whether to display the GIGABYTE Logo at system startup. Disabled  
displays normal POST message. (Default: Enabled)  
Init Display First  
Specifies the first initiation of the monitor display from the installed PCI graphics card or PCI  
Express graphics card.  
PCI  
PEG  
Sets the PCI graphics card as the first display. (Default)  
Sets the PCI Express graphics card as the first display.  
(Note) This item is present only if you install a CPU that supports this feature. For more information  
about Intel CPUs' unique features, please visit Intel's website.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 38 -  
2-5 Integrated Peripherals  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
Integrated Peripherals  
On-Chip Primary PCI IDE  
On-Chip SATA Mode  
PATA IDE Set to  
SATA Port 0/2 Set to  
SATA Port 1/3 Set to  
USB Controller  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
Ch.0 Master/Slave  
Ch.2 Master/Slave  
Ch.3 Master/Slave  
[Enabled]  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
x
USB 2.0 Controller  
USB Keyboard Support  
USB Mouse Support  
Legacy USB storage detect  
Azalia Codec  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
Onboard H/W LAN  
SMART LAN  
Onboard LAN Boot ROM  
Onboard Serial Port 1  
Onboard Parallel Port  
Parallel Port Mode  
[Enabled]  
`
[Press Enter]  
[Disabled]  
[3F8/IRQ4]  
[378/IRQ7]  
[SPP]  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
On-Chip Primary PCI IDE  
Enables or disables the integrated IDE controller. (Default: Enabled)  
On-Chip SATA Mode  
Configures the integrated SATA controller.  
Disabled  
Auto  
Disables the integrated SATA controller.  
Lets BIOS set SATA devices to Combined or Enhanced mode.  
If your onboard SATA controller is automatically configured to Combined  
mode, you can manually re-configure it to Enhanced mode as needed.  
(Default)  
Combined  
Sets all SATA devices to operate in PATA mode. Combined allows a  
maximum of 4 ATA devices to be used simultaneously: two PATA devices  
plus two SATA devices.  
Enhanced  
Non-Combined  
Sets all SATA devices to operate in SATA mode.  
Sets all SATA devices to operate in PATA mode and disables the integrated  
IDE controller.  
PATA IDE Set to  
This item is configurable only if the On-Chip SATA Mode is set to Combined.  
Ch.0 Master/Slave Sets the IDE channels to Ch. 0 Master/Slave. (Default)  
Ch.1 Master/Slave Sets the IDE channels to Ch. 1 Master/Slave.  
Disabled  
Disables the integrated IDE controller when Non-Combined is selected.  
SATA Port 0/2 Set to  
This value is dependent on the On-Chip SATA Mode and PATA IDE Set to settings.  
When PATA IDE Set to is configured to Ch. 1 Master/Slave, this option will be automatically set  
to Ch. 0 Master/Slave.  
- 39 -  
BIOS Setup  
SATA Port 1/3 Set to  
This value is dependent on the On-Chip SATA Mode and PATA IDE Set to settings.  
When PATA IDE Set to is configured to Ch. 0 Master/Slave, this option will be automatically set  
to Ch. 1 Master/Slave.  
USB Controller  
Enables or disables the integrated USB controller. (Default: Enabled)  
Disabled will turn off all of the USB functionalities below.  
USB 2.0 Controller  
Enables or disables the integrated USB 2.0 controller. (Default: Enabled)  
USB Keyboard Support  
Allows USB keyboard to be used in MS-DOS. (Default: Disabled)  
USB Mouse Support  
Allows USB mouse to be used in MS-DOS. (Default: Disabled)  
Legacy USB storage detect  
Determines whether to detect USB storage devices, including USB flash drives and USB hard  
drives during the POST. (Default: Enabled)  
Azalia Codec  
Enables or disables the onboard audio function. (Default: Auto)  
If you wish to install a 3rd party add-in audio card instead of using the onboard audio, set this item  
to Disabled.  
Onboard H/W LAN  
Enables or disables the onboard LAN function. (Default: Enabled)  
If you wish to install a 3rd party add-in network card instead of using the onboard LAN, set this item  
to Disabled.  
SMART LAN (LAN Cable Diagnostic Function)  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
SMART LAN  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
Start detecting at Port.....  
Part1-2 Status  
Part3-6 Status  
Part4-5 Status  
Part7-8 Status  
=
=
=
=
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
/
/
/
/
Length  
Length  
Length  
Length  
=
=
=
=
0m  
0m  
0m  
0m  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
This motherboard incorporates cable diagnostic feature designed to detect the status of the attached LAN  
cable. This feature will detect cabling issue and report the approximate distance to the fault or short.  
Refer to the following information for diagnosing your LAN cable:  
When No LAN Cable Is Attached...  
If no LAN cable is attached to the motherboard, the Status fields of all four pairs of wires will show  
Open and the Length fields show 0m, as shown in the figure above.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 40 -  
When LAN Cable Is Functioning Normally...  
If no cable problem is detected on the LAN cable connected to a Gigabit hub or a 10/100 Mbps hub,  
the following message will appear:  
Start detecting at Port.....  
Link Detected --> 100Mbps  
Cable Length= 30m  
Link Detected  
Cable Length  
Displays transmission speed  
Displays the approximate length of the attached LAN cable.  
Note: The Gigabit hub will only operate at a speed of 10/100Mbps in MS-DOS mode; it will operate  
at a normal speed of 10/100/1000Mbps in Windows mode or when the LAN Boot ROM is activated.  
When a Cable Problem Occurs...  
If a cable problem occurs on a specified pair of wires, the Status field will show Short and  
thenlength shown will be the approximate distance to the fault or short.  
Example: Part1-2 Status = Short / Length = 2m  
Explanation: A fault or short might occur at about 2m on Part 1-2.  
Note: Part 4-5 and Part 7-8 are not used in a 10/100 Mbps environment, so their Status fields will  
show Open, and the length shown is the approximate length of the attached LAN cable.  
Onboard LAN Boot ROM  
Allows you to decide whether to activate the boot ROM integrated with the onboard LAN chip.  
(Default: Disabled)  
Onboard Serial Port 1  
Enables or disables the first serial port and specifies its base I/O address and corresponding  
interrupt. Options are: Auto, 3F8/IRQ4 (default), 2F8/IRQ3, 3E8/IRQ4, 2E8/IRQ3, Disabled.  
Onboard Parallel Port  
Enables or disables the onboard parallel port (LPT) and specifies its base I/O address and  
corresponding interrupt. Options are: 378/IRQ7 (default), 278/IRQ5, 3BC/IRQ7, Disabled.  
Parallel Port Mode  
Selects an operating mode for the onboard parallel (LPT) port. Options are: SPP (Standard Parallel  
Port)(default), EPP (Enhanced Parallel Port), ECP (Extended Capabilities Port), ECP+EPP.  
- 41 -  
BIOS Setup  
2-6 Power Management Setup  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
Power Management Setup  
ACPI Suspend Type  
Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN  
PME Event Wake Up  
Power On by Ring  
[S3(STR)]  
[Instant-Off]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Everyday  
0 : 0 : 0  
[Enabled]  
[32-bit mode]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
Enter  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
Resume by Alarm  
x
x
Date (of Month) Alarm  
Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm  
(Note)  
HPET Support  
HPET Mode  
(Note)  
Power On By Mouse  
Power On By Keyboard  
KB Power ON Password  
AC Back Function  
x
[Soft-Off]  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
ACPI Suspend Type  
Specifies the ACPI sleep state when the system enters suspend.  
S1(POS)  
Enables the system to enter the ACPI S1 (Power on Suspend) sleep state.  
In S1 sleep state, the system appears suspended and stays in a low power  
mode. The system can be resumed at any time.  
S3(STR)  
Enables the system to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend to RAM) sleep state (default).  
In S3 sleep state, the system appears to be off and consumes less power than  
in the S1 state. When signaled by a wake-up device or event, the system  
resumes to its working state exactly where it was left off.  
Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN  
Configures the way to turn off the computer in MS-DOS mode using the power button.  
Instant-Off  
Press the power button and then the system will be turned off instantly. (Default)  
Delay 4 Sec. Press and hold the power button for 4 seconds to turn off the system. If the power  
button is pressed for less than 4 seconds, the system will enter suspend mode.  
PME Event Wake Up  
Allows the system to be awakened from an ACPI sleep state by a wake-up signal from a PCI or  
PCIe device. Note: To use this function, you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on  
the +5VSB lead. (Default: Enabled)  
Power On by Ring  
Allows the system to be awakened from an ACPI sleep state by a wake-up signal from a modem  
that supports wake-up function. (Default: Enabled)  
(Note) Supported on Windows® Vista® operating system only.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 42 -  
Resume by Alarm  
Determines whether to power on the system at a desired time. (Default: Disabled)  
If enabled, set the date and time as following:  
Date (of Month) Alarm : Turn on the system at a specific time on each day or on a specific day  
in a month.  
Time (hh: mm: ss) Alarm : Set the time at which the system will be powered on automatically.  
Note: When using this function, avoid inadequate shutdown from the operating system or removal  
of the AC power, or the settings may not be effective.  
HPET Support (Note)  
Enables or disables High Precision Event Timer (HPET) for Windows® Vista® operating system.  
(Default: Enabled)  
(Note)  
HPET Mode  
Allows you to select the HPET mode for your Windows® Vista® operating system. Select 32-bit  
mode when you install 32-bit Windows® Vista®; select 64-bit mode when you install 64-bit  
Windows® Vista®. (Default: 32-bit mode)  
Power On By Mouse  
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 mouse wake-up event.  
Note: To use this function, you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.  
Disabled  
Disables this function. (Default)  
Double Click Double click on left button on the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system.  
Power On By Keyboard  
Allows the system to be turned on by a PS/2 keyboard wake-up event.  
Note: you need an ATX power supply providing at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.  
Disabled  
Disables this function. (Default)  
Password  
Set a password with 1~5 characters to turn on the system.  
Keyboard 98 Press POWER button on the Windows 98 keyboard to turn on the system.  
KB Power ON Password  
Set the password when Power On by Keyboard is set to Password. Press <Enter> on this item  
and set a password with up to 5 characters and then press <Enter> to accept. To turn on the  
system, enter the password and press <Enter>.  
Note: To cancel the password, press <Enter> on this item. When prompted for the password, press  
<Enter> again without entering the password to clear the password settings.  
AC Back Function  
Determines the state of the system after the return of power from an AC power loss.  
Soft-Off  
Full-On  
Memory  
The system stays off upon the return of the AC power. (Default)  
The system is turned on upon the return of the AC power.  
The system returns to its last known awake state upon the return of the AC  
power.  
(Note) Supported on Windows® Vista® operating system only.  
- 43 -  
BIOS Setup  
2-7 PnP/PCI Configurations  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
PnP/PCI Configurations  
PCI1 IRQ Assignment  
PCI2 IRQ Assignment  
PCI3 IRQ Assignment  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
PCI1 IRQ Assignment  
Auto  
BIOS auto-assigns IRQ to the first PCI slot. (Default)  
3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15  
Assigns IRQ 3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15 to the first PCI slot.  
PCI2 IRQ Assignment  
Auto  
BIOS auto-assigns IRQ to the second PCI slot. (Default)  
3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15  
Assigns IRQ 3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15 to the second PCI slot.  
PCI3 IRQ Assignment  
Auto  
BIOS auto-assigns IRQ to the third PCI slot. (Default)  
3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15  
Assigns IRQ 3,4,5,7,9,10,11,12,14,15 to the third PCI slot.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 44 -  
2-8 PC Health Status  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
PC Health Status  
Reset Case Open Status  
Case Opened  
[Disabled]  
No  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
Vcore  
DDR18V  
+3.3V  
+12V  
1.348V  
1.824V  
3.344V  
12.048V  
47oC  
Current CPU Temperature  
Current CPU FAN Speed  
Current POWER FAN Speed  
Current SYSTEM FAN1 Speed  
Current SYSTEM FAN2 Speed  
CPU Warning Temperature  
CPU FAN Fail Warning  
POWER FAN Fail Warning  
SYSTEM FAN1 Fail Warning  
SYSTEM FAN2 Fail Warning  
CPU Smart FAN Control  
3375 RPM  
0
0
0
RPM  
RPM  
RPM  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Enabled]  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
Reset Case Open Status  
Keeps or clears the record of previous chassis intrusion status. Enabled clears the record of  
previous chassis intrusion status and the Case Opened field will show "No" at next boot. (Default:  
Disabled)  
Case Opened  
Displays the detection status of the chassis intrusion detection device attached to the motherboard  
CI header. If the system chassis cover is removed, this field will show "Yes", otherwise it will  
show "No". To clear the chassis intrusion status record, set Reset Case Open Status to Enabled,  
save the settings to CMOS, and then restart your system.  
Current Voltage(V) Vcore/DDR18V/+3.3V/+12V  
Displays the current system voltages.  
Current CPU Temperature  
Displays current CPU temperature.  
Current CPU/POWER/SYSTEM FAN Speed (RPM)  
Displays current CPU/power/system fan speed.  
CPU Warning Temperature  
Sets the warning threshold for CPU temperature. When CPU temperature exceeds the threshold,  
BIOS will emit warning sound. Options are: Disabled (default), 60oC/140oF, 70oC/158oF, 80oC/  
176oF, 90oC/194oF.  
CPU/POWER/SYSTEM FAN Fail Warning  
Allows the system to emit warning sound if the CPU/system/power fan is not connected or fails.  
Check the fan condition or fan connection when this occurs. (Default: Disabled)  
- 45 -  
BIOS Setup  
CPU Smart FAN Control  
Enables or disables the CPU fan speed control function. Enabled allows the CPU fan to run at  
different speed according to the CPU temperature. You can adjust the fan speed with EasyTune  
based on system requirements. If disabled, CPU fan runs at full speed. (Default: Enabled)  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 46 -  
2-9 MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
Robust Graphics Booster  
CPU Clock Ratio (Note)  
[Auto]  
[14X]  
[+0.0]  
3.73GHz (266x14)  
[Auto]  
Item Help  
Menu Level`  
Fine CPU Clock Ratio (Note)  
CPU Frequency  
x
x
O.C. FSB1600 CPU  
CPU Host Clock Control  
CPU Host Frequency (Mhz)  
PCI Express Frequency (Mhz)  
Performance Enhance  
System Memory Multiplier (SPD)  
Memory Frequency (Mhz) 533  
[Disabled]  
266  
[Auto]  
[Turbo]  
[Auto]  
533  
******** System Voltage Optimized ********  
System Voltage Control  
DDR2 OverVoltage Control  
PCI-E OverVoltage Control  
FSB OverVoltage Control  
(G)MCH OverVoltage Control  
CPU Voltage Control  
[Manual]  
[Normal]  
[Normal]  
[Normal]  
[Normal]  
[Normal]  
1.40000V  
Normal CPU Vcore  
KLJI: Move  
Enter: Select  
+/-/PU/PD: Value  
F6: Fail-Safe Defaults  
F10: Save  
ESC: Exit  
F7: Optimized Defaults  
F1: General Help  
F5: Previous Values  
•
•
Whether the system will work stably with the overclock/overvoltage settings you made is  
dependent on your overall system configurations. Incorrectly doing overclock/overvoltage  
may result in damage to CPU, chipset, or memory and reduce the useful life of these  
components. This page is for advanced users only and we recommend you not to alter the  
default settings to prevent system instability or other unexpected results. (Inadequately  
altering the settings may result in system's failure to boot. If this occurs, clear the CMOS  
values and reset the board to default values.)  
When the System Voltage Optimized item blinks in red, it is recommended that you set  
the System Voltage Control item to Auto to optimize the system voltage settings.  
Robust Graphics Booster  
Robust Graphics Booster (R.G.B.) helps to enhance the performance of the graphics chip and  
memory. Auto allows the BIOS to automatically set the R.G.B. mode based on system  
configurations. Options are: Auto (default), Fast, Turbo.  
CPU Clock Ratio (Note)  
Allows you to alter the clock ratio for the installed CPU.  
The item is present only if a CPU with unlocked clock ratio is installed.  
Fine CPU Clock Ratio (Note)  
Allows you to increases clock ratio by 0.5 for the installed CPU.  
The item is present only if a CPU with unlocked clock ratio is installed.  
CPU Frequency  
Displays the current operating CPU frequency.  
(Note) This item appears only if you install a CPU that supports this feature.  
- 47 -  
BIOS Setup  
O.C. FSB1600 CPU  
Enable use of a CPU with 1600 MHz FSB through overclocking. You must install the FSB 1600  
MHz CPU with DDR2 800 (or above) memory module(s).  
Auto  
Set this item to Auto. Then save the changes and restart your computer.  
During the POST, a message will appear asking if you want to enable the use  
of a FSB 1600 processor. Press <Y> to confirm or <N> to reject. Or press any  
key to continue the POST. (Default)  
Disabled  
Enabled  
Disable this function.  
Enable this function.  
CPU Host Clock Control  
Enables or disables the control of CPU host clock. Enabled will allow the CPU Host Frequency  
item below to be configurable. Note: If your system fails to boot after overclocking, please wait for  
20 seconds to allow for automated system reboot, or clear the CMOS values to reset the board to  
default values. (Default: Disabled)  
CPU Host Frequency (Mhz)  
Allows you to manually set the CPU host frequency. This item is configurable only if the CPU  
Host Clock Control option is enabled. The adjustable range is from 100 MHz to 700 MHz.  
For an 800 MHz FSB CPU, set this item to 200 MHz.  
For a 1066 MHz FSB CPU, set this item to 266 MHz.  
For a 1333 MHz FSB CPU, set this item to 333 MHz.  
Important It is highly recommended that the CPU frequency be set in accordance with the CPU  
specifications.  
PCI Express Frequency (Mhz)  
Allows you to manually set the PCIe clock frequency. The adjustable range is from 90 MHz to  
150 MHz. Auto sets the PCIe clock frequency to standard 100 MHz. (Default: Auto)  
Performance Enhance  
Allows the system to operate at three different performance levels.  
Standard  
Turbo  
Extreme  
Lets the system operate at its basic performance level.  
Lets the system operate at its good performance level. (Default)  
Lets the system operate at its best performance level.  
System Memory Multiplier (SPD)  
Allows you to set the system memory multiplier. Options are dependent on CPU FSB. Auto sets  
memory multiplier according to memory SPD data. (Default: Auto)  
Memory Frequency (Mhz)  
The first memory frequency value is the normal operating frequency of the memory being used;  
the second is the memory frequency that is automatically adjusted according to the CPU Host  
Frequency (Mhz) and System Memory Multiplier settings.  
System Voltage Optimized  
********  
********  
System Voltage Control  
Determines whether to manually set the system voltages. Auto lets BIOS automatically set the  
system voltages as required. Manual allows all voltage control items below to be configurable.  
(Default: Manual)  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 48 -  
DDR2 OverVoltage Control  
Allows you to set memory voltage.  
Normal  
+0.1V ~ +0.7V  
Supplies the memory voltage as required. (Default)  
Increases memory voltage by 0.1V to 0.7V at 0.1V increment.  
Note: Increasing memory voltage may result in damage to the memory.  
PCI-E OverVoltage Control  
Allows you to set PCIe voltage.  
Normal  
Supplies the PCIe bus voltage as required. (Default)  
+0.1V ~ +0.3V  
Increases PCIe bus voltage by 0.1V to 0.3V at 0.1V increment.  
FSB OverVoltage Control  
Allows you to set the Front Side Bus voltage.  
Normal  
+0.1V ~ +0.3V  
Supplies the FSB voltage as required. (Default)  
Increases FSB voltage by 0.1V to 0.3V at 0.1V increment.  
(G)MCH OverVoltage Control  
Allows you to set the North Bridge voltage.  
Normal  
+0.1V ~ +0.3V  
Supplies the North Bridge voltage as required. (Default)  
Increases North Bridge voltage by 0.1V to 0.3V at 0.1V increment.  
CPU Voltage Control  
Allows you to set the CPU voltage. Normal sets the CPU voltage as required. The adjustable  
range is dependent on the CPU being installed. (Default: Normal)  
Note: Increasing CPU voltage may result in damage to your CPU or reduce the useful life of the  
CPU.  
Normal CPU Vcore  
Displays the normal operating voltage of your CPU.  
- 49 -  
BIOS Setup  
2-10 Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
`
`
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`
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Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Management Setup  
PnP/PCI C
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Set User Password  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults (Y/N)? N  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Press <Enter> on this item and then press the <Y> key to load the safest BIOS default settings.  
In case system instability occurs, you may try to load Fail-Safe defaults, which are the safest and most  
stable BIOS settings for the motherboard.  
2-11 Load Optimized Defaults  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
`
`
`
`
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Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Management Setup  
PnP/PCI C
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Set User Password  
Load Optimized Defaults (Y/N)? N  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Press <Enter> on this item and then press the <Y> key to load the optimal BIOS default settings. The  
BIOS defaults settings helps the system to operate in optimum state. Always load the Optimized defaults  
after updating the BIOS or after clearing the CMOS values.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 50 -  
2-12 Set Supervisor/User Password  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
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`
`
`
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Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Management Setup  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Set User Password  
PnP/PCI C
Enter Password:  
PC Health t
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Change/Set/Disable Password  
Press <Enter> on this item and type the password with up to 8 characters and then press <Enter>. You  
will be requested to confirm the password. Type the password again and press <Enter>.  
The BIOS Setup program allows you to specify two separate passwords:  
Supervisor Password  
When a system password is set and the Password Check item in Advanced BIOS Features is  
set to Setup, you must enter the supervisor password for entering BIOS Setup and making BIOS  
changes.  
When the Password Check item is set to System, you must enter the supervisor password (or  
user password) at system startup and when entering BIOS Setup.  
User Password  
When the Password Check item is set to System, you must enter the supervisor password (or  
user password) at system startup to continue system boot. In BIOS Setup, you must enter the  
supervisor password if you wish to make changes to BIOS settings. The user password only  
allows you to view the BIOS settings but not to make changes.  
To clear the password, press <Enter> on the password item and when requested for the password,  
press <Enter> again. The message "PASSWORD DISABLED" will appear, indicating the password has  
been cancelled.  
- 51 -  
BIOS Setup  
2-13 Save & Exit Setup  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
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`
`
Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrat
Power M
PnP/PCI Configurations  
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Save to CMOS and EXIT (Y/N)? Y  
Save & Exit Setup  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Save Data to CMOS  
Press <Enter> on this item and press the <Y> key. This saves the changes to the CMOS and exits the  
BIOS Setup program. Press <N> or <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.  
2-14 Exit Without Saving  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
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`
`
Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Ma
PnP/PCI Configurations  
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Quit Without Saving (Y/N)? N  
Save & Exit Setup  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Abandon all Data  
Press <Enter> on this item and press the <Y> key. This exits the BIOS Setup without saving the  
changes made in BIOS Setup to the CMOS. Press <N> or <Esc> to return to the BIOS Setup Main Menu.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 52 -  
Chapter 3 Drivers Installation  
3-1 Installing Chipset Drivers  
•
Before installing the drivers, first install the operating system. (The following instructions use  
Windows XP as the example operating system.)  
•
After installing the operating system, insert the motherboard driver disk into your optical drive.  
The driver Autorun screen is automatically displayed which looks like that shown in the screen  
shot below. (If the driver Autorun screen does not appear automatically, go to My Computer,  
double-click the optical drive and execute the Run.exe program.)  
After inserting the driver disk, "Xpress Install" will automatically scan your system and then list all the  
drivers that are recommended to install. You can click the Install All button and "Xpress Install" will  
install all the recommended drivers. Or click Install Single Items to manually select the drivers you  
wish to install.  
•
•
•
•
Please ignore the popup dialog box(es) (e.g. the Found New Hardware Wizard) displayed  
when "Xpress Install" is installing the drivers. Failure to do so may affect the driver installation.  
Some device drivers will restart your system automatically during the driver installation.  
After the system restart, "Xpress Install" will continue to install other drivers.  
After the drivers are installed, follow the onscreen instructions to restart your system. You  
can install other applications included in the motherboard driver disk.  
For USB 2.0 driver support under the Windows XP operating system, please install the  
Windows XP Service Pack 1 or later. After installing the SP1 (or later), if a question mark still  
exists in Universal Serial Bus Controller in Device Manager, please remove the  
question mark (by right-clicking your mouse and select Uninstall) and restart the system.  
(The system will then autodetect and install the USB 2.0 driver.)  
- 53 -  
Drivers Installation  
3-2 Application Software  
This page displays all the utilities and applications that GIGABYTE develops and some free software.  
You can click the Install button on the right of an item to install it.  
3-3 Technical Manuals  
This page provides GIGABYTE's application guides, content descriptions for this driver disk, and the  
motherboard manuals.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 54 -  
3-4 Contact  
Click the URL on this page to link to the GIGABYTE Web site. Or read the last page of this manual to check  
the contact information for GIGABYTE Taiwan headquarter or worldwide branch offices.  
3-5 System  
This page provides the basic system information.  
- 55 -  
Drivers Installation  
3-6 Download Center  
To update the BIOS, drivers, or applications, click the Download Center button to link to the GIGABYTE  
Web site. The latest version of the BIOS, drivers, or applications will be displayed.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 56 -  
Chapter 4 Unique Features  
4-1 Xpress Recovery2  
Xpress Recovery2 is a utility that allows you to quickly compress and  
back up your system data and perform restoration of it. Supporting  
NTFS, FAT32, and FAT16 file systems, Xpress Recovery2 can back  
up data on PATA and SATA hard drives and restore it.  
Before You Begin:  
•
Xpress Recovery2 will check the first physical hard drive* for the operating system. Xpress  
Recovery2 can only back up/restore the first physical hard drive that has the operating system  
installed.  
•
As Xpress Recovery2 will save the backup file at the end of the hard drive, make sure to leave  
enough unallocated space in advanced (10 GB or more is recommended; actual size require-  
ments vary, depending on the amount of data).  
•
•
•
It is recommended to back up your system soon after the operating system and drivers are  
installed.  
The amount of data and hard drive access speed may affect the speed at which the data is backed  
up/restored.  
It takes longer to back up a hard drive than to restore it.  
System Requirements:  
•
•
•
•
Intel® platform  
At least 64 MB of system memory  
VESA compatible graphics card  
Windows® XP with SP1 or later  
•
Xpress Recovery and Xpress Recovery2 are different utilities. For example, a backup file  
created with Xpress Recovery cannot be restored using Xpress Recovery2.  
USB hard drives are not supported.  
•
•
Hard drives in RAID/AHCI mode are not supported.  
"*" Xpress Recovery2 checks the first physical hard drive in the following sequence: The first PATA  
IDE connector, the second PATA IDE connector, the first SATA connector, the second SATA  
connector and so forth. For example, when hard drives are attached to the first IDE and the first  
SATA connectors, the hard drive on the first IDE connector is the first physical drive. When hard  
drives are attached to the first and second SATA connectors, the hard drive on the first SATA  
connector is the first physical drive.  
- 57 -  
Unique Features  
Installation and Configuration  
(The following procedure uses Windows XP as the example operating system.)  
A. Installing Windows XP and Partitioning the Hard Drive  
1. Set CD-ROM drive as the first boot device under "Advanced BIOS Features" in the BIOS Setup  
program. Save the changes and exit.  
2. When partitioning your hard drive (Figure 1), make sure to leave unallocated space for Xpress  
Recovery2 (10 GB or more is recommended; actual size requirements vary, depending on the  
amount of data) (Figure 2).  
Figure 1  
Figure 2  
3. Select a file system (for example, NTFS) and begin the installation of the operating system (Figure 3).  
Figure 3  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 58 -  
4. After the operating system is installed, right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop and  
select Manage (Figure 4). Go to Computer Management to check disk allocation. Xpress  
Recovery2 will save the backup file to the unallocated space (black stripe along the top)(Figure 5).  
Please note that if there is no enough unallocated space, Xpress Recovery2 cannot save the  
backup file.  
Figure 5  
Figure 4  
5. If your hard drive is not properly partitioned before you install the operating system, you may  
create new partitions using free space on your hard drive (Figure 6, 7). However, if Disk  
Management shows the hard drive only contains the System partition without any unallocated  
space, you will not be able to create new partitions or use Xpress Recovery2. If this occurs,  
reinstall the operating system and re-partition your hard drive.  
Figure 6  
In the New Partition Wizard, you MUST select Primary  
partition. This will reserve unallocated space for Xpress  
Recovery2 to use.  
Figure 7  
- 59 -  
Unique Features  
B. Accessing Xpress Recovery2  
1. Boot from the motherboard driver disk to access Xpress Recovery2 for the first time. When you  
see the following message: Press any key to startup Xpress Recovery2  
(Figure 8), press any key to enter Xpress Recovery2.  
.
.
Boot from CD/DVD:  
Press any key to startup XpressRecovery2.....  
Figure 8  
2. After you use the backup function in Xpress Recovery2 for the first time, Xpress Recovery2 will  
stay permanent in your hard drive. If you wish to enter Xpress Recovery2 later, simply press  
<F9> during the POST (Figure 9).  
Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG, An Energy Star Ally  
Copyright (C) 1984-2008, Award Software, Inc.  
Intel P31 BIOS for P31-ES3G E4  
.
.
.
.
<DEL>: BIOS Setup <F9>: XpressRecovery2 <F12>: Boot Menu <End>: Qflash  
07/18/2008-P31-ICH7-6A89OG0DC-00  
Figure 9  
C. Using the Backup Function in Xpress Recovery2  
1. Select BACKUP to start backing up your hard drive data (Figure 10).  
2. Xpress Recovery2 will then begin to search the first physical hard drive as the target drive and  
detect whether this hard drive contains the Windows operating system. When the Windows  
operating system is detected, Xpress Recovery2 will begin the backup process (Figure 11).  
Figure 10  
Figure 11  
3. When finished, go to Disk Management to check disk allocation.  
Xpress Recovery2 will automatically create a  
new partition to store the backup image file.  
Figure 12  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 60 -  
D. Using the Restore Function in Xpress Recovery2  
Select RESTORE to restore the backup to your hard drive in case the system breaks down. The  
RESTORE option will not be present if no backup is created before (Figure 13, 14).  
Figure 13  
Figure 14  
E. Removing the Backup  
1. If you wish to remove the backup file, select REMOVE (Figure 15).  
2. After the backup file is removed, no backup image file will be present in Disk Management and  
hard drive space will be freed up (Figure 16).  
Figure 15  
Figure 16  
F. Exiting Xpress Recovery2  
Select REBOOT to exit Xpress Recovery2.  
Figure 17  
- 61 -  
Unique Features  
4-2 BIOS Update Utilities  
TM  
TM  
GIGABYTE motherboards provide two unique BIOS update tools, Q-Flash and @BIOS . GIGABYTE  
Q-Flash and @BIOS are easy-to-use and allow you to update the BIOS without the need to enter MS-  
TM  
DOS mode. Additionally, this motherboard features the DualBIOS design, which enhances protection  
for the safety and stability of your computer by adding one more physical BIOS chip.  
TM  
What is DualBIOS ?  
Motherboards that support DualBIOS have two BIOS onboard, a main BIOS  
and a backup BIOS. Normally, the system works on the main BIOS.  
However, if the main BIOS is corrupted or damaged, the backup BIOS will take over on the next system  
boot and copy the BIOS file to the main BIOS to ensure normal system operation. For the sake of  
system safety, users cannot update the backup BIOS manually.  
What is Q-FlashTM?  
With Q-Flash you can update the system BIOS without having to enter  
operating systems like MS-DOS or Window first. Embedded in the BIOS, the  
Q-Flash tool frees you from the hassles of going through complicated BIOS flashing process.  
TM  
What is @BIOS ?  
@BIOS allows you to update the system BIOS while in the Windows  
environment. @BIOS will download the latest BIOS file from the nearest  
@BIOS server site and update the BIOS.  
4-2-1 Updating the BIOS with the Q-Flash Utility  
A. Before You Begin:  
1. From GIGABYTE's website, download the latest compressed BIOS update file that matches your  
motherboard model.  
2. Extract the file and save the new BIOS file (e.g. P31ES3G.F1) to your floppy disk, USB flash drive,  
or hard drive. Note: The USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file system.  
3. Restart the system. During the POST, press the <End> key to enter Q-Flash. Note: You can  
access Q-Flash by either pressing the <End> key during the POST or pressing the <F8> key in  
BIOS Setup. However, if the BIOS update file is saved to a hard drive in RAID/AHCI mode or a hard  
drive attached to an independent IDE/SATA controller, use the <End> key during the POST to  
access Q-Flash.  
Award Modular BIOS v6.00PG, An Energy Star Ally  
Copyright (C) 1984-2008, Award Software, Inc.  
Intel P31 BIOS for P31-ES3G E4  
.
.
.
.
<DEL>: BIOS Setup <F9>: XpressRecovery2 <F12>: Boot Menu <End>: Qflash  
07/18/2008-P31-ICH7-6A89OG0DC-00  
Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, please do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS  
flashing may result in system malfunction.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 62 -  
B. Updating the BIOS  
When updating the BIOS, choose the location where the BIOS file is saved. The follow procedure  
assumes that you save the BIOS file to a floppy disk.  
Step 1:  
1. Insert the floppy disk containing the BIOS file into the floppy disk drive. In the main menu of  
Q-Flash, use the up or down arrow key to select Update BIOS from Drive and press <Enter>.  
•
•
•
The Save Main BIOS to Drive option allows you to save the current BIOS file.  
Q-Flash only supports USB flash drive or hard drives using FAT32/16/12 file system.  
If the BIOS update file is saved to a hard drive in RAID/AHCI mode or a hard drive  
attached to an independent IDE/SATA controller, use the <End> key during the POST to  
access Q-Flash.  
2. Select Floppy A and press <Enter>.  
Q-Flash Utility v2.05  
Flash Type/Size.................................MXIC 25L8005  
512K  
Keep DMI Data Enable  
Update BIOS from Drive  
ve  
0 file(s) found  
EnFloppyA  
HDD 0-0  
<Drive>er Off  
<Drive>  
Total size : 0  
Free size : 0  
3. Select the BIOS update file and press <Enter>.  
Make sure the BIOS update file matches your motherboard model.  
Step 2:  
The process of the system reading the BIOS file from the floppy disk is displayed on the screen. When  
the message "Are you sure to update BIOS?" appears, press <Enter> to begin the BIOS update. The  
monitor will display the update process.  
•
•
Do not turn off or restart the system when the system is reading/updating the BIOS.  
Do not remove the floppy disk, USB flash drive, or hard drive when the system is  
updating the BIOS.  
Step 3:  
When the update process is complete, press any key to return to the main menu.  
Q-Flash Utility v2.05  
Flash Type/Size.................................MXIC 25L8005  
512K  
Keep DMI Data Enable  
!! Copy BIOS completed - Pass !!  
Please press any key to continue  
En
er Off  
- 63 -  
Unique Features  
Step 4:  
Press <Esc> and then <Enter> to exit Q-Flash and reboot the system. As the system boots, you should  
see the new BIOS version is present on the POST screen.  
Step 5:  
During the POST, press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select Load Optimized Defaults and press  
<Enter> to load BIOS defaults. System will re-detect all peripherals devices after a BIOS update, so we  
recommend that you reload BIOS defaults.  
CMOS Setup Utility-Copyright (C) 1984-2008 Award Software  
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
Standard CMOS Features  
Advanced BIOS Features  
Integrated Peripherals  
Power Management Setup  
PnP/PCI Configurations  
PC Health Status  
Load Fail-Safe Defaults  
Load Optimized Defaults  
Set Supervisor Password  
Set User Password  
Save & Exit Setup  
Exit Without Saving  
MB Intelligent Tweaker(M.I.T.)  
ESC: Quit  
KLJI: Select Item  
F11: Save CMOS to BIOS  
F12: Load CMOS from BIOS  
F8: Q-Flash  
F10: Save & Exit Setup  
Time, Date, Hard Disk Type...  
Press <Y> to load BIOS defaults  
Step 6:  
Select Save & Exit Setup and then press <Y> to save settings to CMOS and exit BIOS Setup. The  
procedure is complete after the system restarts.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 64 -  
4-2-2 Updating the BIOS with the @BIOS Utility  
A. Before You Begin:  
1. In Windows, close all applications and TSR (Terminate and Stay Resident) programs. This helps  
prevent unexpected failures when performing a BIOS update.  
2. During the BIOS update process, ensure the Internet connection is stable and do NOT interrupt the  
Internet connection (for example, avoid a power loss or switching off the Internet). Failure to do so  
may result in a corrupted BIOS or a system that is unable to start.  
3. Do not use the G.O.M. (GIGABYTE Online Management) function when using @BIOS.  
4. GIGABYTE product warranty does not cover any BIOS damage or system failure resulting from an  
inadequate BIOS flashing.  
B. Using @BIOS:  
1.  
Update the BIOS Using the Internet Update Function:  
Click Update BIOS from GIGABYTE Server, select the @BIOS server site closest to your  
location and then download the BIOS file that matches your motherboard model. Follow the on-  
screen instructions to complete.  
If the BIOS update file for your motherboard is not present on the @BIOS server site, please  
manually download the BIOS update file from GIGABYTE's website and follow the instruc-  
tions in "Update the BIOS without Using the Internet Update Function" below.  
2.  
3.  
Update the BIOS without Using the Internet Update Function:  
Click Update BIOS from File, then select the location where you save the BIOS update file  
obtained from the Internet or through other source. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete.  
Save Current BIOS to File:  
Click Save Current BIOS to save the current BIOS file.  
C. After Updating the BIOS:  
After updating the BIOS, restart your system. As the system boots, press <Delete> to enter the BIOS  
Setup program. Select Load Optimized Defaults and press <Enter> to load BIOS defaults.  
Make sure that the BIOS file to be flashed matches your motherboard model. Updating the  
BIOS with an incorrect BIOS file could cause your system not to boot.  
- 65 -  
Unique Features  
4-3 EasyTune 5 Pro  
TM  
EasyTune 5 Pro, an easy-to-use and convenient system overclocking and management tool, lets  
you do overclock and overvoltage in Windows environment, eliminating the need to enter the BIOS  
Setup program. EasyTune 5 Pro provides the following functions (Note 1): overclocking/overvoltage,  
C.I.A./M.I.B. (Note 2), smart fan control, and hardware monitoring and warning. (For instructions on using  
EasyTune5 Pro, read or download the information on/from the Support\Motherboard\Utility page on our  
website.)  
The EasyTune 5 Pro Interface  
Button Information Table  
Button/Display  
OVERCLOCKING  
C.I.A./M.I.B.  
SMART FAN  
PC HEALTH  
Description  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Enters the OVERCLOCKING setting page  
Enters the C.I.A. and M.I.B. setting page  
Enters the SMART FAN setting page  
Enters the PC HEALTH setting page  
Confirmation/execution button  
GO  
EASY MODE/ADVANCED MODE/  
GRAPHICS  
Toggles among Easy Mode, Advanced Mode, and  
Graphics Mode  
7.  
8.  
9.  
Display Area  
Function LEDs  
Live Update  
Displays the CPU frequency  
Shows the supported function(s)  
Go to GIGABYTE website to update EasyTune 5 Pro  
Opens EasyTune 5 Pro help file  
Quits or minimizes the EasyTune 5 Pro interface  
Performance Enhancement  
10. Help  
11. Exit/Minimize  
12. Turbo Boost  
Incorrectly doing overclock/overvoltage may result in damage to CPU, chipset, or memory and  
reduce the useful life of these components. Before you do the overclock/overvoltage, make sure  
that you fully know how to use each function of EasyTune 5 Pro, or system instability or other  
unexpected results may occur.  
(Note 1) Available functions in EasyTune 5 Pro may differ by motherboard model.  
(Note 2) C.I.A. and M.I.B. may provide optimizations for CPU and memory, enhancing the  
performance of these components.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 66 -  
4-4 Easy Energy Saver  
GIGABYTE Easy Energy Saver (Note 1) (Note 2) is a revolutionary technology that delivers unparalleled  
power savings with a click of the button. Featuring an advanced proprietary software design, GIGABYTE  
Easy Energy Saver is able to provide exceptional power savings and enhanced power efficiency  
without sacrificing computing performance.  
The Easy Energy Saver Interface  
A. Meter Mode  
In Meter Mode, GIGABYTE Easy Energy Saver shows how much power they have saved in a set  
period of time.  
Meter Mode - Button Information Table  
Button Description  
1
2
3
Easy Energy Saver On/Off Switch (Default: Off)  
Dynamic CPU Frequency Function On/Off Switch (Default: Off) (Note 3)  
CPU Throttling Display  
4
CPU Voltage Display  
5
6
Current CPU Power Consumption  
Meter Time  
7
8
Power Saving (Calculate power savings based on time)  
Meter/Timer Reset Switch  
9
Meter Mode Switch  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
Total Mode Switch  
Close (Application will enter Stealth Mode)  
Minimize (Application will continue to run in taskbar)  
INFO/Help  
Live Utility Update (Check for the latest utility version)  
•
•
The above data is for reference only. Actual performance may vary depending on motherboard model.  
CPU Power and Power Scores are for reference only. Actual results may vary based on testing method.  
- 67 -  
Unique Features  
B. Total Mode  
In Total Mode, users are able to see how much total power savings they have accumulated in a set  
period of time since activating Easy Energy Saver for the first time (Note 4)  
.
Total Mode - Button Information Table  
Button Description  
1
2
3
Easy Energy Saver On/Off Switch (Default: Off)  
Dynamic CPU Frequency Function On/Off Switch (Default: Off)  
CPU Throttling Display  
4
CPU Voltage Display  
5
Current CPU Power Consumption  
6
7
8
Time/Date Easy Energy Saver Enabled  
Total Power Savings (Total power saving with Easy Energy Saver enabled) (Note 5)  
Meter Mode Switch  
9
Total Mode Switch  
10  
11  
12  
13  
Close (Application will enter Stealth Mode)  
Minimize (Application will continue to run in taskbar)  
INFO/Help  
Live Utility Update (Check for the latest utility version)  
C. Stealth Mode  
In Stealth Mode, the system continues to work with the user-defined power saving settings, even after  
the system is restarted. Re-enter the application only if you want to make any changes or completely  
close the application.  
TM  
TM  
(Note 1) Due to the hardware limitation, you must install the Intel® Core 2 Extreme/ Core 2 Quad/  
TM  
Core 2 Duo/ Pentium Dual-Core/ Celeron Dual-Core/ Celeron 400 Series CPU to enable  
support for Easy Energy Saver.  
(Note 2) Before using the Easy Energy Saver function, make sure the CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) and  
CPU EIST Function items in the BIOS Setup program are set to Enabled.  
(Note 3) Maximize system power saving with Dynamic CPU Frequency Function; system  
performance may be affected.  
(Note 4) The total amount of power saved will be recorded until re-activated when only the Easy  
Energy Saver is under the enable status, and power savings meter is unable to reset to zero.  
(Note 5) Easy Energy Saver Meter will automatically reset when the total power saving reaches  
99999999 Watts.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 68 -  
Chapter 5 Appendix  
5-1 Configuring Audio Input and Output  
5-1-1 Configuring 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio  
The motherboard provides three audio jacks on the back  
panel which support 2/4/5.1/7.1(Note)-channel audio. The pic-  
ture to the right shows the default audio jack assignments.  
The integrated HD (High Definition) audio provides jack  
retasking capability that allows the user to change the func-  
tion for each jack through the audio driver.  
Line In  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
•
To install a microphone, connect your microphone to the Mic in jack on the back panel or  
the Line out/Mic in jack on the front panel. Then manually configures the jack for micro-  
phone functionality.  
•
Audio signals will be present on both of the front and back panel audio connections simultaneously.  
If you want to mute the back panel audio (only supported when using an HD front panel audio  
module), refer to instructions on page 71.  
High Definition Audio (HD Audio)  
HD Audio includes multiple high quality digital-to-analog converters (DACs) that support 44.1KHz/  
48KHz/ 96KHz/192KHz sampling rate. HD Audio features multistreaming capabilities that allow multiple  
audio streams (in and out) to be simultaneously processed. For example, users can listen to MP3  
music, have an Internet chat, make a telephone call over the Internet, and etc. all at the same time.  
A. Configuring Speakers:  
(The following instructions use Windows XP as the example operating system.)  
Step 1:  
After installing the audio driver, the Audio Manager  
icon  
will appear in your system tray. Double-  
click the icon to access the Audio Control Panel.  
Before installing the audio driver, make sure the "Microsoft UAA Bus driver for High Definition  
Audio" has been installed from the motherboard driver disk and your operating system has  
been updated with the latest Service Pack for Windows.  
(Note)  
2/4/5.1/7.1- Channel Audio Configurations:  
Refer to the following for multi-channel speaker configurations.  
•
•
•
•
2 -channel audio: Headphone or Line out.  
4- channel audio: Front speaker out and Rear speaker out.  
5.1- channel audio: Front speaker out, Rear speaker out, and Center/Subwoofer speaker out.  
7.1 -channel audio: Front speaker out, Rear speaker out, Center/Subwoofer speaker out, and Side speaker out (Please refer to  
the configurations on next page)  
- 69 -  
Appendix  
7.1-Channel Speakers:  
The pictures to the right show the 7.1-channel speaker  
configurations.  
Front Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
Center/Subwoofer  
Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Step 2:  
Click the Audio I/O tab. In the speaker list on the  
left, select 2CH Speaker, 4CH Speaker, 6CH  
Speaker, or 8CH Speaker according to the type of  
speaker configuration you wish to set up.  
Step 3:  
Everytime you connect an audio device to an audio  
jack, the Connected device box appears. Select  
the device according to the type of device you connect.  
Then click OK to complete the configuration.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
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B. Configuring Sound Effect:  
You may configure an audio environment on the Sound Effect tab.  
C. Activating an AC'97 Front Panel Audio Module:  
If your chassis provides an AC'97 front panel audio  
module, to activate the AC'97 functionality, click the  
tool icon on the Audio I/O tab. On the Connector  
Settings box, select the Disable front panel jack  
detection check box. Click OK to complete.  
D. Muting the Back Panel Audio (For HD Audio Only):  
Click the tool icon on the Audio I/O tab. On the  
Connector Settings box, select the Mute rear  
panel output when front headphone plugged  
in check box. Click OK to complete.  
- 71 -  
Appendix  
5-1-2 Configuring S/PDIF Out  
The S/PDIF out jack can transmit audio signals to an external decoder for decoding to get the best audio  
quality.  
A. Conneting a S/PDIF out Cable  
Connect a S/PDIF coaxial cable to an external decoder for  
transmitting the S/PDIF digital audio signals.  
S/PDIF Coaxial Cable  
B. Configuring S/PDIF out:  
Click the tool icon in the DIGITAL section. In the  
S/PDIF Settings dialog box, select an output sam-  
pling rate and select (or disable) the output source.  
Click OK to complete the configuration.  
(Note) The actual location of the SPDIF Out connector may differ by model.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 72 -  
5-1-3 Configuring Microphone Recording  
Step 1:  
After installing the audio driver, the Audio  
Manager icon  
will appear in your system tray.  
Double-click the icon to access the Audio Control  
Panel.  
Step 2:  
Connect your microphone to the Mic in jack (pink)  
on the back panel or the Line in jack on the front  
panel. Then configure the jack for microphone  
functionality.  
Note: The microphone functions on the front panel  
and back panel cannot be used at the same time.  
Step 3:  
Locate the Volume icon  
in your system tray  
and click it to open the volume control panel  
- 73 -  
Appendix  
Step 4:  
To hear the sound being recorded during the record-  
ing process when using the microphone function on  
the front panel, do not select the Mute check box  
under Front Pink In or Front Green In in Master  
Volume. It is recommended that you set the volume  
at a middle level.  
or  
To hear the sound being recorded during the record-  
ing process when using the microphone function on  
the back panel, do not select the Mute check box  
under Mic Volume in Master Volume. It is recom-  
mended that you set the volume at its middle level.  
(Note)  
If you cannot find the volume control options you  
need in Master Volume, go to the Options menu  
and then choose Properties. Select the volume con-  
trol options you wish to show and click OK to  
complete.  
Step 5:  
Next, while in Master Volume, go to Options and  
click Properties. In the Mixer device list, select  
Realtek HD Audio Input. Then set the recording  
sound level properly. Do NOT mute the recording  
sound, or you will not hear any sound when playing  
back the recording you just made.  
Select Realtek HD Audio Input in the Mixer device list  
(Note)  
Based on the audio specifications, to adjust the re-  
cording sound, use the Recording option to set the  
recording sound for your recording device(s)  
altogether.  
Recording Control  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 74 -  
Step 6:  
To raise the recording and playing sound for the  
microphone, go to Options in Master Volume and  
select Advanced Controls. Click the Advanced  
button under a volume control option (e.g. Front Green  
In, Front Pink In). In the Other Controls field, select  
the 1 Microphone Boost check box.  
Step 7:  
After completion, click Start, point to All Programs,  
point to Accessories, point to Entertainment, and  
then click Sound Recorder to begin the sound  
recording.  
5-1-4 Using the Sound Recorder  
Recording the Sound:  
1. Make sure you have connected the audio input  
device (e.g. microphone) to the computer.  
2. On the File menu, choose New.  
3. To record a sound file, click the Recording but-  
ton  
.
4. To stop the recording, click the Stop button  
.
Be sure to save the recording upon completion.  
Playing the Sound:  
1. On the File menu, choose Open.  
2. In the Open dialog box, select the sound (.wav)  
file you wish to play.  
3. To play a sound file, click the Play button  
4. To stop playing, click the Stop button  
5. You may use the Fast Forward button  
.
.
to  
move to the beginning of a file or the Fast Back-  
ward button to the end.  
- 75 -  
Appendix  
5-2 Troubleshooting  
5-2-1 Frequently Asked Questions  
To read more FAQs for your motherboard, please go to the Support\Motherboard\FAQ page on  
GIGABYTE's website.  
Q: In the BIOS Setup program, why are some BIOS options missing?  
A: Some advanced options are hidden in the BIOS Setup program. Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup  
during the POST. In the Main Menu, press <Ctrl>+<F1> to show the advanced options.  
Q: Why is the light of my keyboard/optical mouse still on after the computer shuts down?  
A: Some motherboard provides a small amount of standby power after the computer shuts down and  
that's why the light is still on.  
Q: How do I clear the CMOS values?  
A: If your motherboard has a clearing CMOS jumper, refer to the instructions on the CLR_CMOS jumper  
in Chapter 1 to short the jumper to clear the CMOS values. If your board doesn't have this jumper,  
refer to the instructions on the motherboard battery in Chapter 1. You can temporarily remove the  
battery from the battery holder to stop supplying power to the CMOS, which will clear the CMOS  
values after about one minute. Refer to the steps below:  
Steps:  
1. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.  
2. Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute.  
(Or use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative terminals of the battery  
holder, making them short for 5 seconds.)  
3. Replace the battery.  
4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.  
5. Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select "Load Fail-Safe Defaults" (or "Load Optimized Defaults")  
to load BIOS default settings.  
6. Saves changes and exit BIOS Setup (select "Save & Exit Setup") to restart your computer.  
Q: Why do I still get a weak sound even though I have turned my speaker to the maximum volume?  
A: Make sure your speaker is equipped with an internal amplifier. If not, try a speaker with power/  
amplifier.  
Q: What do the beeps emitted during the POST mean?  
A: The following Award BIOS beep code descriptions may help you identify possible computer problems.  
(For reference only.)  
1 short: System boots successfully  
2 short: CMOS setting error  
1 long, 1 short: Memory or motherboard error  
1 long, 2 short: Monitor or graphics card error  
1 long, 3 short: Keyboard error  
1 long, 9 short: BIOS ROM error  
Continuous long beeps: Graphics card not inserted properly  
Continuous short beeps: Power error  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 76 -  
5-2-2 Troubleshooting Procedure  
If you encounter any troubles during system startup, follow the troubleshooting procedure below to  
solve the problem.  
START  
Turn off the power. Remove all peripherals, connecting cables, and  
power cord etc.  
Make sure the motherboard does not short-circuit with the chassis  
or other metal objects.  
Yes  
Isolate the short  
circuit.  
No  
The problem is verified and solved.  
Secure the CPU  
Check if the CPU cooler is attached to the CPU securely. Is the  
power connector of the CPU cooler connected to the CPU_FAN  
header properly?  
cooler on the CPU.  
Connect the CPU  
cooler power cable  
to the motherboard.  
No  
Yes  
The problem is verified and solved.  
Correctly insert the  
memory into the  
No  
Check if the memory is installed properly on the memory slot.  
Yes  
memory socket.  
The problem is verified and solved.  
Insert the graphics card. Connect theATX main power cable and the 12V  
power cable. Turn on the power to start the computer.  
Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select "Load Fail-Safe Defaults"  
(or "Load Optimized Defaults"). Select "Save & Exit Setup" to save  
changes and exit BIOS Setup.  
A
(Continued...)  
- 77 -  
Appendix  
A
The power supply,  
CPU or CPU socket  
might fail.  
When the computer is turned on, is the CPU cooler running?  
Yes  
No  
The problem is verified and solved.  
The graphics card,  
No  
expansion slot, or  
monitor might fail.  
Check if there is display on your monitor.  
Yes  
The problem is verified and solved.  
Turn off the computer. Plugg in the keyboard and mouse and restart the  
computer.  
No  
The keyboard or  
mouse might fail.  
Check if the keyboard is working properly.  
Yes  
Press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Select "Load Fail-Safe Defaults"  
(or "Load Optimized Defaults"). Select "Save & Exit Setup" to save  
changes and exit BIOS Setup.  
The problem is verified and solved.  
T h e I D E / S A T A  
device, connector,  
or cable might fail.  
Turn off the computer and connect the IDE/SATA devices.  
Check if the system can boot successfully.  
No  
Yes  
Reinstall the operating system. Reinstall other devices one by one (install  
one device at one time and then boot the system to see if the device  
works successfully).  
The problem is verified and solved.  
END  
If the procedure above is unable to solve your problem, contact the place of purchase or local  
dealer for help. Or go to the Support\Technical Service Zone page to submit your question. Our  
customer service staff will reply you as soon as possible.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 78 -  
5-3 Regulatory Statements  
Regulatory Notices  
This document must not be copied without our written permission, and the contents there of must not be  
imparted to a third party nor be used for any unauthorized purpose. Contravention will be prosecuted.  
We believe that the information contained herein was accurate in all respects at the time of printing.  
GIGABYTE cannot, however, assume any responsibility for errors or omissions in this text. Also note  
that the information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as  
a commitment by GIGABYTE.  
Our Commitment to Preserving the Environment  
In addition to high-efficiency performance, all GIGABYTE motherboards fulfill European Union regula-  
tions for RoHS (Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment)  
and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) environmental directives, as well as most  
major worldwide safety requirements. To prevent releases of harmful substances into the environment  
and to maximize the use of our natural resources, GIGABYTE provides the following information on  
how you can responsibly recycle or reuse most of the materials in your "end of life" product.  
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive Statement  
GIGABYTE products have not intended to add and safe from hazardous substances (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr+6,  
PBDE and PBB). The parts and components have been carefully selected to meet RoHS requirement.  
Moreover, we at GIGABYTE are continuing our efforts to develop products that do not use internationally  
banned toxic chemicals.  
Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive Statement  
GIGABYTE will fulfill the national laws as interpreted from the 2002/96/EC WEEE (Waste Electrical and  
Electronic Equipment) directive. The WEEE Directive specifies the treatment, collection, recycling and  
disposal of electric and electronic devices and their components. Under the Directive, used equipment  
must be marked, collected separately, and disposed of properly.  
WEEE Symbol Statement  
The symbol shown below is on the product or on its packaging, which indicates that this  
product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, the device should be taken to  
the waste collection centers for activation of the treatment, collection, recycling and  
disposal procedure. The separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the  
time of disposal will help to conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that  
protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you can drop off your  
waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local government office, your household waste  
disposal service or where you purchased the product for details of environmentally safe recycling.  
Å  When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, "take it back" to your local  
or regional waste collection administration for recycling.  
Å  If you need further assistance in recycling, reusing in your "end of life" product, you may contact us  
at the Customer Care number listed in your product's user's manual and we will be glad to help you  
with your effort.  
- 79 -  
Appendix  
Finally, we suggest that you practice other environmentally friendly actions by understanding and  
using the energy-saving features of this product (where applicable), recycling the inner and outer  
packaging (including shipping containers) this product was delivered in, and by disposing of or  
recycling used batteries properly. With your help, we can reduce the amount of natural resources  
needed to produce electrical and electronic equipment, minimize the use of landfills for the disposal of  
"end of life" products, and generally improve our quality of life by ensuring that potentially hazardous  
substances are not released into the environment and are disposed of properly.  
China Restriction of Hazardous Substances Table  
The following table is supplied in compliance with China's Restriction of Hazardous Substances (China  
RoHS) requirements:  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 80 -  
- 81 -  
Appendix  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 82 -  
Contact Us  
y
GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.  
y
NINGBO G.B.T. TECH. TRADING CO., LTD. - China  
Address: No.6, Bau Chiang Road, Hsin-Tien,  
Taipei 231, Taiwan  
Shanghai  
TEL:+886-2-8912-4000  
TEL:+86-21-63410999  
FAX:+86-21-63410100  
Beijing  
FAX:+886-2-8912-4003  
Tech. and Non-Tech. Support (Sales/Marketing) :  
TEL:+86-10-62102838  
FAX:+86-10-62102848  
Wuhan  
y
G.B.T. INC. - U.S.A.  
TEL:+86-27-87851312  
FAX:+86-27-87851330  
GuangZhou  
TEL:+1-626-854-9338  
FAX:+1-626-854-9339  
Tech. Support:  
TEL:+86-20-87540700  
FAX:+86-20-87544306  
Chengdu  
y
G.B.T. INC (USA) - Mexico  
TEL:+86-28-85236930  
FAX:+86-28-85256822  
Xian  
Tel: +1-626-854-9338 x 215 (Soporte de habla hispano)  
FAX:+1-626-854-9339  
Tech. Support:  
TEL:+86-29-85531943  
FAX:+86-29-85510930  
Shenyang  
TEL:+86-24-83992901  
FAX:+86-24-83992909  
y
GIGA-BYTE SINGAPORE PTE. LTD. - Singapore  
Thailand  
Vietnam  
y
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY (INDIA) LIMITED - India  
Saudi Arabia  
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY PTY. LTD. - Australia  
y
y
y
y
- 83 -  
Appendix  
y
G.B.T. TECHNOLOGY TRADING GMBH - Germany  
G.B.T. TECH. CO., LTD. - U.K.  
GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY B.V. - The Netherlands  
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY FRANCE - France  
Sweden  
Italy  
Spain  
Greece  
Czech Republic  
                                                                                                     
y
                                                                                                     
Hungary  
Turkey  
Russia  
Poland  
Ukraine  
Romania  
Serbia  
Kazakhstan  
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
y
You may go to the GIGABYTE website, select your language  
in the language list on the top right corner of the website.  
y
GIGABYTE Global Service System  
To submit a technical or non-technical (Sales/  
Marketing) question, please link to :  
Then select your language to enter the system.  
GA-P31-ES3G Motherboard  
- 84 -  

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