MSI
845 Ultra-C
MS-6566 (v1.X) ATX Mainboard
Version 1.0
G52-MA00498
i
Edition
Dec. 2001
CopyrightNotice
The material in this document is the intellectual property of MICRO-STAR
INTERNATIONAL. We take every care in the preparation of this document,
but no guarantee is given as to the correctness of its contents. Our products
are under continual improvement and we reserve the right to make changes
withoutnotice.
Trademarks
All trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
Intel® and Pentium® are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
PS/2 and OS®/2 areregistered trademarks of International Business Machines
Corporation.
Windows® 95/98/2000/NT/XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
Netware® is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc.
Award® is a registered trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
AMI® is a registered trademark of American Megatrends Inc.
RevisionHistory
Revision
Revision History
Date
V1.0
First release
Dec. 2001
iii
Safety Instructions
1. Read the safety instructions carefully.
2. Save this User’s Guide for possible use later.
3. Keep this equipmentaway from humidity.
4. Lay this equipment on a stable and flat surface before setting it up.
5. The openings on the enclosure are used for air convection and to prevent
the equipment from overheating. Note: Do not cover the openings.
6. Make sure that the power voltage is within its safety range and has been
adjusted properly to the value of 110/220V before connecting the equip-
ment to thepower inlet.
7. Place the powercord ina waythat peopleare unlikelyto step on it. Donot
place anything on the power cord.
8. Always unplug the power cord beforeinserting any add-on card or module.
9. All cautions and warnings on the equipment should be noted.
10. Never pour any liquid into the opening that could damage the equipment
or cause an electrical shock.
11. If any of the following situations arises, get the equipment checked by a
service personnel:
l the power cord or plug is damaged
l liquid has penetrated into the equipment
l the equipment has been exposed to moisture
l the equipment has not work well or you can not get it work according
to User’s Guide
l the equipment was dropped and damaged
l the equipment has obvious signs of breakage
12. Do not leave the equipment in an unconditionedenvironment with a stor-
age temperature of 600 C (1400F) or above, which may damage the
equipment.
CAUTION: To prevent explosion caused by improper battery
replacement, use the same or equivalent type of battery recommended
by the manufacturer only.
iv
CONTENTS
Chapter1. GettingStarted ................................................................................ 1-1
MainboardSpecification .............................................................................. 1-2
Mainboard Layout ........................................................................................ 1-4
Quick Components Guide ............................................................................ 1-5
MSI Special Features .................................................................................... 1-6
Fuzzy Logic™ III .................................................................................... 1-6
PC Alert™ III .......................................................................................... 1-7
D-Bracket™ ............................................................................................ 1-8
Live BIOS™/Live Driver™ ................................................................. 1-10
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup ............................................................................... 2-1
CentralProcessing Unit: CPU ...................................................................... 2-2
CPU Installation Procedures ................................................................ 2-2
Installingthe CPU Fan .......................................................................... 2-3
CPU Core Speed Derivation Procedure .............................................. 2-4
Memory ........................................................................................................... 2-5
Introduction to DDR SDRAM ............................................................. 2-5
DDRModuleCombination ................................................................... 2-6
InstallingDDR Modules ....................................................................... 2-6
Power Supply ................................................................................................. 2-7
ATX 20-Pin Power Connector: JW1 .................................................... 2-7
ATX 12V Power Connector: JPW1 ...................................................... 2-7
BackPanel ...................................................................................................... 2-8
Mouse Connector: JKBMS1 ................................................................ 2-8
Keyboard Connector:JKBMS1 ........................................................... 2-9
USB Connectors .................................................................................... 2-9
Serial Port Connector: COM A &COM B ........................................ 2-10
Joystick/Midi Connectors .................................................................. 2-10
v
Audio Port Connectors ...................................................................... 2-10
Parallel Port Connector:LPT1 ............................................................ 2-11
Connectors ................................................................................................... 2-12
FloppyDisk Drive Connector: FDD1 ............................................... 2-12
IrDA Infrared Module Header: JIR1 ................................................. 2-12
Hard Disk Connectors: IDE1 & IDE2 ................................................ 2-13
CD-In Connector:JCD1 ...................................................................... 2-14
Aux Line-In Connector:JAUX1 ........................................................ 2-14
Modem-In Connector: JMD1 ............................................................. 2-14
Fan Power Connectors: CFAN1/SFAN1 .......................................... 2-15
Wake OnRing Connector: JWR1 ...................................................... 2-16
PowerSaving Switch Connector: JGS1 ............................................ 2-16
Front Panel Connector: JFP1 & JFP2 ................................................ 2-17
Front Panel AudioConnector: JAUD1 ............................................ 2-18
Front USB Connectors: JUSB1 .......................................................... 2-19
D-Bracket™ Connector: JDB1 ........................................................... 2-20
Jumpers ......................................................................................................... 2-21
Clear CMOS Jumper: JBAT1 .............................................................. 2-21
Slots .............................................................................................................. 2-22
AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) Slot ............................................. 2-22
PCI Slots ............................................................................................... 2-23
CNR(CommunicationNetwork Riser) .............................................. 2-23
PCI Interrupt Request Routing .......................................................... 2-24
Chapter 3. AMI BIOS Setup ............................................................................. 3-1
Entering Setup ............................................................................................... 3-2
Selecting the First Boot Device ........................................................... 3-2
Control Keys .......................................................................................... 3-3
GettingHelp ........................................................................................... 3-3
vi
The Main Menu ............................................................................................. 3-4
Standard CMOS Features ............................................................................ 3-6
Advanced BIOS Features ............................................................................ 3-8
Advanced Chipset Features ...................................................................... 3-12
Power Management Setup ......................................................................... 3-14
PNP/PCI Configurations ............................................................................. 3-17
Integrated Peripherals ................................................................................. 3-19
Hardware Monitor Setup ............................................................................ 3-22
Load High Performance/BIOS Setup Defaults ........................................ 3-24
Supervisor/User Password ........................................................................ 3-25
IDE HDD AUTO Detection ........................................................................ 3-27
AppendixA: MSISmartKey .............................................................................A-1
Installing MSI Smart Key ............................................................................A-2
Using MSI Smart Key ..................................................................................A-3
Glossary ................................................................................................................G-1
vii
Getting Started
Chapter 1. Getting Started 1
Getting Started
Thank you for purchasing the MS-6566 v1.X ATX mainboard. The MS-
6566 v1.X is based on Intel® 845D & ICH2 chipsets for optimal system efficiency.
Designed to fit the advanced Intel® Pentium® 4 processors in the 478 pin package,
the MS-6566 delivers a high performance and professional desktop platform
solution.
TOPICS
Mainboard Specification
Mainboard Layout
1-2
1-4
1-5
1-6
Quick Components Guide
MSI Special Features
1-1
Chapter 1
Mainboard Specification
CPU
Support Intel® Pentium® 4 processor in 478 pin package
Support1.3GHz,1.4GHz,1.5GHz,1.6GHz,1.7GHz,1.8GHz,1.9GHz,2GHz,2.
2GHz and up* (* not tested yet)
Chipset
Intel® 845 chipset (593 FC-BGA)
- AGP 4x slot (1.5V only)
- Support 100MHz FSB
- Support 400MHz Intel NetBurst micro-architecture bus
Intel® ICH2 chipset (360 EBGA)
- AC’97 Controller Integrated
- 2 full IDE channels, up to ATA 100
- Low pin count interface for SIO
MainMemory
Support two 184-pin DDR DIMM slots
Support up to 2 GB memory size
Slots
One AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) 4x slot (1.5V only)
Six PCI 2.2v 32-bit Master PCI bus slots
One CNR (Communication Network Riser) slot
On-Board IDE
An IDE controller on the ICH2 chipset provides IDE HDD/CD-ROM with
PIO, Bus Master and Ultra DMA66/100 operation modes
Can connect up to four IDE devices.
Note: The AGP slot DOES NOT support 3.3V AGP card. Use of
3.3V AGP card may cause damage to the mainboard.
1-2
Getting Started
On-Board Peripherals
On-board Peripherals include:
- 1 floppy port supports 2 FDD with 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88Mbytes
- 2 serial ports (COM 1 + COM 2)
- 1 parallel port supports SPP/EPP/ECP mode
- 4 USB ports (Rear x 2/ Front x 2)
- 1 Line-In/Line-Out/Mic-In/Game port
Audio
ICH2 chip integrated
AC’97 codec supports 2 channel Audio
BIOS
The mainboard BIOS provides “Plug & Play” function which detects the
peripherals devices and expansion cards of the board automatically
The mainboard provides a Desktop Management Interface (DMI) function
which records your mainboard specifications
Dimension
ATX Form Factor 30.5cm x 20cm
Mounting
6 mounting holes
Others
Vcore/Vio adjustable
LAN/Modem Wake-up function
ACPI support, including STR/STD
PC 2001 compliant
1-3
Chapter 1
Mainboard Layout
CFAN1
Top : mouse
Bottom: keyboard
USB
ports
ATX Power
Supply
Top :
Game port
Bottom:
Line-Out
Line-In
Mic
JPW1
AGP Slot
PCI Slot 1
PCI Slot 2
Codec
SFAN1
JMD1
ICH 2
JBAT1
PCI Slot 3
PCI Slot 4
BATT
JGS1
+
IDE 1
IDE 2
PCI Slot 5
PCI Slot 6
FWH
JFP2
JFP1
FDD1
JDB1
CNR
JUSB1
JIR1
JWR1
845 Ultra-C (MS-6566 v1.X) ATX Mainboard
1-4
Getting Started
Quick Components Guide
Component
JW1
Function
Reference
See p. 2-7
ATX 20-pin power connector
ATX 12V power connector
Mouse connector
JPW1
See p. 2-7
JKBMS1
JKBMS1
USB Connectors
COM A & COM B
LPT1
See p. 2-8
Keyboard connector
See p. 2-9
Connecting to USB devices
Serial port connector
See p. 2-9
See p. 2-10
See p. 2-11
See p. 2-12
See p. 2-12
See p. 2-13
See p. 2-14
See p. 2-14
See p. 2-14
See p. 2-15
See p. 2-16
See p. 2-16
See p. 2-17
See p. 2-18
See p. 2-19
See p. 2-20
See p. 2-21
See p. 2-22
See p. 2-23
See p. 2-23
Parallel port connector
Floppy disk drive connector
IrDA infrared module connector
Hard disk connectors
FDD1
JIR1
IDE1~ IDE2
JCD1
CD-in connector
JAUX1
Aux line-in connector
Modem-in connector
JMD1
CFAN1/SFAN1
JWR1
Fan power connectors
Wake on ring connector
Power Saving Switch
JGS1
JFP1/JFP2
JAUD1
Front panel connectors
Front panel audio connector
Front USB connector
JUSB1
JDB1
D-Bracket connector
JBAT1
Clear CMOS jumper
AGP Slot
PCI Slots
CNR Slot
Connecting to AGP card
Connecting to expansion cards
Connecting to expansion card
1-5
Chapter 1
MSI Special Features
Fuzzy Logic™III
The Fuzzy Logic™ III utility allows users to overclock the CPU FSB
(Front Side Bus) frequency in the Windows environment. Select the CPU fre-
quency you prefer and click Go to apply the frequency or click Save allowing
the system to run at the specified frequency each time when the system is
powered on.
Features:
l Display Current System Status
- CPU Fan
- CPU Temp.
- Vcore
-Vio
- Memory Clock
- CPU Clock
-AGPClock
- PCI Clock
l Adjust CPU FSB Frequency
1-6
Getting Started
PC Alert™ III
The PC AlertTM III is a utility you can find in the CD-ROM disk. The utility
is just like your PC doctor that can detect the following PC hardware status
during real time operation:
* monitor CPU & system temperatures
* monitor fan speed(s)
* monitor system voltage
* monitor chassis intrusion
If one of the items above is abnormal, the program
main screen will be immediately shown on the screen,
with the abnormal item highlighted in red. This will con-
tinue to be shown until users disable the warning.
Note: Items shown on PC Alert III vary depending on your system’s
status.
1-7
Chapter 1
D-Bracket™ (optional)
D-Bracket™ is an external USB bracket integrating four Diagnostic LEDs,
which use graphic signal display to help users understand their system. The
LEDs provide up to 16 combinations of signals to debug the system. The 4
LEDs can debug all problems that fail the system, such as VGA, RAM or other
failures. This special feature is very useful for the overclocking users. These
users can use the feature to detect if there are any problems or failures.
D-Bracket™
Green
Red
D-Bracket
Description
System Power ON
1
3
2
4
- The D-LED will hang here if the processor is damaged or
not installed properly.
Early Chipset Initialization
Memory Detection Test
- Testing onboard memory size. The D-LED will hang if
the memory module is damaged or not installed properly.
Decompressing BIOS image to RAM for fast booting.
Initializing Keyboard Controller.
Testing VGA BIOS
- This will start writing VGA sign-on message to the screen.
1-8
Getting Started
D-Bracket
Description
Processor Initialization
1
3
2
4
- This will show information regarding the processor (like
brand name, system bus, etcꢀ)
Testing RTC (Real Time Clock)
Initializing Video Interface
- This will start detecting CPU clock, checking type of video
onboard. Then, detect and initialize the video adapter.
BIOS Sign On
- This will start showing information about logo, processor
brand name, etcꢀ.
Testing Base and Extended Memory
- Testing base memory from 240K to 640K and extended
memory above 1MB using various patterns.
Assign Resources to all ISA.
Initializing Hard Drive Controller
- This will initialize IDE drive and controller.
Initializing Floppy Drive Controller
- This will initializing Floppy Drive and controller.
Boot Attempt
- This will set low stack and boot via INT 19h.
Operating System Booting
1-9
Chapter 1
Live BIOS™/Live Driver™
The Live BIOS™ & Live Driver™ is a tool used to detect
and update your BIOS and drivers online so that you don’t need
to search for the correct BIOS or drivers version through the
whole web site. To use the function, you need to install the
“MSI Live Update Series” application. After installation, the
“MSI Live Update Series” icon (as the right view) will appear on the screen.
Double click the “MSI Live Update Series” icon, and the following screen
will appear.
Four buttons are placed on the left column of the screen. Click the desired
button to start the update process.
l
l
l
l
Live BIOS – Updates the BIOS online. If your motherboard does not support
the function, the “sorry” message is displayed.
Live Driver – Updates the drivers online. If your motherboard does not support
the function, the “sorry” message is displayed.
Live VGA BIOS – Updates the VGA BIOS online. If your VGA device does not
support the function, the “sorry” message appears.
Live VGA Driver – Updates the VGA driver online. If your VGA device does not
support the function, the “sorry” message is displayed.
For more information on the update instructions, insert the companion CD and
refer to the “Live Update Series Guide” under the “Manual” tab.
1-10
Hardware Setup
Chapter 2. Hardware Setup
Hardware Setup
2
This chapter provides you with the information about hardware setup
procedures. While doing the installation, be careful in holding the components
and follow the installation procedures. For some components, if you install in
the wrong orientation, the components will not work properly.
Use a grounded wrist strap before handling computer components. Static
electricity may damage the components.
TOPICS
Central Processing Unit: CPU
Memory
2-2
2-5
Power Supply
Back Panel
2-7
2-8
Connectors
Jumpers
2-12
2-21
2-22
Slots
2-1
Chapter 2
Central Processing Unit: CPU
The mainboard supports Intel® Pentium® 4 processor in the 478 pin
package. The mainboard uses a CPU socket called PGA478 for easy CPU
installation. When you are installing the CPU, make sure the CPU has a heat
sink and a cooling fan attached on the top to prevent overheating. If you do not
find the heat sink and cooling fan, contact your dealer to purchase and install
them before turning on the computer.
CPU Installation Procedures
Open Lever
1. Pull the lever sideways away
from the socket. Then, raise
the lever up to a 90-degree
Sliding
Plate
angle.
2. Look for the gold arrow. The
Gold Arrow
gold arrow should point to-
wards the lever pivot. The
Dot
CPU will only fit in the correct
orientation.
Close
Lever
3. Hold the CPU down firmly,
and then close the lever to
complete the installation.
Overheating will seriously damage the CPU and system,
always make sure the cooling fan can work properly to
WARNING!
protect the CPU from overheating.
2-2
Hardware Setup
Installing the CPU Fan
As processor technology pushes to faster speeds and higher performance,
thermal management becomes increasingly important. To dissipate heat, you
need to attach the CPU cooling fan and heatsink on top of the CPU. Follow the
instructions below to install the Heatsink/Fan:
1. Locate the CPU and its retention 2. Position the heatsink onto the re-
mechanism on the motherboard.
tention mechanism.
retention mechanism
3. Mount the fan on top of the
heatsink. Press down the fan until
its four clips get wedged in the
holes of the retention mechanism.
4. Press the two levers down to
fasten the fan. Each lever can be
pressed down in only ONE
direction.
levers
2-3
Chapter 2
5. Connect the fan power cable from the mounted fan to the 3-pin fan power
connector on the board.
fan power cable
CPU Core Speed Derivation Procedure
If
CPUClock
Core/Bus ratio
=
=
=
=
=
100MHz
14
Host Clock x Core/Bus ratio
100MHzx14
1.4GHz
then CPU core speed
Overclocking
This motherboard is designed to support overclocking.
However, please make sure your components are able to
tolerate such abnormal setting, while doing overclocking.
Any attempt to operate beyond product specifications is not
recommended. We do not guarantee the damages or risks
caused by inadequate operation or beyond product
specifications.
WARNING!
2-4
Hardware Setup
Memory
The mainboard provides 2 slots for 184-pin, 2.5V unbuffered DDR DIMM
with 4 memory banks. You can install PC1600/PC2100 DDR SDRAM modules
on the DDR DIMM slots (DDR 1~2). To operate properly, at least one DIMM
module must be installed.
DDR DIMM Slots
(DDR 1~2)
Introduction to DDR SDRAM
DDR (Double Data Rate) SDRAM is similar to conventional SDRAM, but
doubles the rate by transferring data twice per cycle. It uses 2.5 volts as op-
posed to 3.3 volts used in SDR SDRAM, and requires 184-pin DIMM modules
rather than 168-pin DIMM modules used by SDR SDRAM. High memory band-
width makes DDR an ideal solution for high performance PC, workstations and
servers.
2-5
Chapter 2
DDR Module Combination
You can install either single-sided or double-sided 184-pin DDR DIMM
modules into DDR DIMM slots to meet your needs. Different from the SDR
DIMM, the DDR DIMM has only one notch on the center of module. The
number of pins on either side of the breaks are different. The module will only
fit in the right orientation.
You can install memory modules in any combination as follows:
Slot
Momory Module
Total Memory
Slot 1
64MB, 128MB, 256MB,
64MB~1GB
(Bank 0 & 1) 512MB, 1GB
Slot 2
64MB, 128MB, 256MB,
64MB~1GB
64MB~2GB
(Bank 2 & 3) 512MB, 1GB
Maximum System Memory Supported
Installing DDR Modules
1. The DDR DIMM has only one notch on the center of module. The module
will only fit in the right orientation.
2. Insert the DIMM memory module vertically into the DIMM slot. Then
push it in.
n o t c h
Vo lt
3. The plastic clip at each side of the DIMM slot will automatically close.
2-6
Hardware Setup
Power Supply
The mainboard supports ATX power supply for the power system. Be-
fore inserting the power supply connector, always make sure that all compo-
nents are installed properly to ensure that no damage will be caused.
ATX 20-Pin Power Connector: JW1
This connector allows you to connect to an ATX power supply. To con-
nect to the ATX power supply, make sure the plugs of the power supply is
inserted in the proper orientation and the pins are aligned. Then push down the
power supply firmly into the connector. The power connector supports instant
power on function which means that system will boot up immediately when the
power supply connector is inserted on the board.
ATX 12V Power Connector: JPW1
This 12V power connector is used to provide power to the CPU.
1
11
JPW1
20
10
4
2
3
1
JW1
JW1 Pin Definition
PIN
SIGNAL
PIN
SIGNAL
JPW1 Pin Definition
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
3.3V
3.3V
GND
5V
11
3.3V
-12V
GND
PS_ON
GND
GND
GND
-5V
PIN
SIGNAL
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
1
2
3
4
GND
GND
12V
GND
5V
12V
GND
PW_OK
5V_SB
12V
5V
5V
2-7
Chapter 2
Back Panel
The Back Panel provides the following connectors:
Parallel
Midi/Joystick
Mouse
Keyboard USB
COM A
COM B
L-out L-in MIC
Mouse Connector: JKBMS1
The mainboard provides a standard PS/2® mouse mini DIN connector for
attaching a PS/2® mouse. You can plug a PS/2® mouse directly into this
connector. The connector location and pin assignments are as follows:
Pin Definition
6
5
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
MouseDATA
NC
MouseDATA
Noconnection
Ground
3
4
GND
1
2
VCC
+5V
Mouse Clock
NC
Mouseclock
Noconnection
PS/2 Mouse (6-pin Female)
2-8
Hardware Setup
Keyboard Connector: JKBMS1
The mainboard provides a standard PS/2® keyboard mini DIN connector
for attaching a PS/2® keyboard. You can plug a PS/2® keyboard directly into
this connector.
Pin Definition
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
6
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
Keyboard DATA
Keyboard DATA
Noconnection
Ground
3
4
NC
GND
1
VCC
+5V
2
KeyboardClock
NC
Keyboardclock
Noconnection
PS/2 Keyboard (6-pin Female)
USB Connectors
The mainboard provides a UHCI (Universal Host Controller Interface)
Universal Serial Bus root for attaching USB devices such as keyboard, mouse
or other USB-compatible devices. You can plug the USB device directly into
ths connector.
USB Port Description
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
VCC
+5V
1
5
2
6
3
7
4
8
-Data 0
+Data0
GND
Negative Data Channel 0
Positive Data Channel 0
Ground
VCC
+5V
-Data 1
+Data 1
GND
Negative Data Channel 1
Positive Data Channel 1
Ground
USB Ports
2-9
Chapter 2
Serial Port Connector: COM A & COM B
The mainboard offers two 9-pin male DIN connectors as serial ports
COM A and COM B. The ports are 16550A high speed communication ports
that send/receive 16 bytes FIFOs. You can attach a serial mouse or other serial
devices directly to them.
Pin Definition
1
2
3
4
5
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
DCD
SIN
Data Carry Detect
Serial In or Receive Data
Serial Out or Transmit Data
Data Terminal Ready)
Ground
DataSetReady
Request To Send
Clear To Send
SOUT
DTR
GND
DSR
RTS
CTS
RI
6 7 8 9
9-Pin Male DIN Connectors
Ring Indicate
Joystick/Midi Connectors
You can connect a joystick or game pad to this connector.
Audio Port Connectors
Line Out is a connector for Speakers or Headphones. Line In is used for
external CD player, Tape player, or other audio devices. Mic is a connector for
microphones.
1/8” Stereo Audio Connectors
Line Out Line In
MIC
2-10
Hardware Setup
Parallel Port Connector: LPT1
The mainboard provides a 25-pin female centronic connector for LPT. A
parallel port is a standard printer port that supports Enhanced Parallel Port
(EPP) and Extended Capabilities Parallel Port (ECP) mode.
13
1
14
25
Pin Definition
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
STROBE
DATA0
DATA1
DATA2
DATA3
DATA4
DATA5
DATA6
DATA7
ACK#
Strobe
2
Data0
3
Data1
4
Data2
5
Data3
6
Data4
7
Data5
8
Data6
9
Data7
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
Acknowledge
Busy
BUSY
PE
PaperEnd
Select
SELECT
AUTO FEED#
ERR#
INIT#
AutomaticFeed
Error
Initialize Printer
Select In
Ground
Ground
Ground
Ground
Ground
Ground
Ground
Ground
SLIN#
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
2-11
Chapter 2
Connectors
The mainboard provides connectors to connect to FDD, IDE HDD, case,
modem, LAN, USB Ports, IR module and CPU/System FAN.
Floppy Disk Drive Connector: FDD1
The mainboard provides a standard floppy disk drive connector that
supports 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88M floppy disk types.
FDD1
IrDA Infrared Module Header: JIR1
This connector allows you to connect to IrDA Infrared modules. You
must configure the setting through the BIOS setup to use the IR function. The
JIR1 is compliant to Intel Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide.
1
5
JIR1
2
6
JIR1 Pin Definition
Pin Signal
1
2
3
4
5
6
NC
NC
VCC5
GND
IRTX
IRRX
2-12
Hardware Setup
Hard Disk Connectors: IDE1 & IDE2
The mainboard has a 32-bit Enhanced PCI IDE and Ultra DMA 33/66/100
controller that provides PIO mode 0~4, Bus Master, and Ultra DMA/33/66/100
function. You can connect up to four hard disk drives, CD-ROM, 120MB Floppy
(reserved for future BIOS) and other devices. These connectors support the
provided IDE hard disk cable.
IDE 1
IDE 2
IDE1 (Primary IDE Connector)
The first hard drive should always be connected to IDE1. IDE1 can
connect a Master and a Slave drive. You must configure second hard
drive to Slave mode by setting the jumper accordingly.
IDE2 (Secondary IDE Connector)
IDE2 can also connect a Master and a Slave drive.
TIP:
If you install two hard disks on cable, you must configure the
second drive to Slave mode by setting its jumper. Refer to the
hard disk documentation supplied by hard disk vendors for jumper
setting instructions.
2-13
Chapter 2
CD-In Connector: JCD1
The connector is for CD-ROM audio connector.
Aux Line-In Connector: JAUX1
The connector is for DVD add-on card with Line-in connector.
Modem-In Connector: JMD1
The connector is for modem with internal audio connector.
JMD1
GND
Mono_Out Phone_In
JCD1
R
GND
JAUX1
L
R
GND
L
2-14
Hardware Setup
Fan Power Connectors: CFAN1/SFAN1
The CFAN1 (processor fan) and SFAN1 (system fan) support system
cooling fan with +12V. It supports three-pin head connector. When connect-
ing the wire to the connectors, always take note that the red wire is the positive
and should be connected to the +12V, the black wire is Ground and should be
connected to GND. If the mainboard has a System Hardware Monitor chipset
on-board, you must use a specially designed fan with speed sensor to take
advantage of the CPU fan control.
G ND
+12V
SENSO R
C FAN1
G ND
+12V
SENSO R
SFAN1
Note:
1. Always consult the vendor for proper CPU cooling fan.
2. CPU Fan supports the fan control. You can install the PC Alert
utility that will automatically control the CPU Fan speed accord-
ing to the actual CPU temperature.
2-15
Chapter 2
Wake On Ring Connector: JWR1
This connector allows you to connect to a modem card with Wake On
Ring function. The connector will power up the system when a signal is re-
ceived through the modem card.
Pin
1
Signal
NC
2
GND
3
MDM_WAKEUP
4
NC
5
5VSB
1
5
JWR1
Power Saving Switch Connector: JGS1
Attach a power saving switch to this connector. Pressing the switch
once will have the system enter the sleep/suspend state. Press any key to wake
up the system.
JGS1
2-16
Hardware Setup
Front Panel Connector: JFP1 & JFP2
The mainboard provides two front panel connectors for establishing
electrical connection to the front panel switches and LEDs. Users can choose
either JFP1 or JFP2. Both JFP1 and JFP2 are compliant with Intel® Front Panel
I/O Connectivity Design Guide.
7
8
+
-
P
S
BUZ
LED
SPK
+
-
GND
2
1
JFP2
(BUZ is optional)
10
9
-
-
+
PWSW
RST
+
-
S
P
HDD
LED
+
2
1
JFP2 Pin Definition
JFP1
Pin
1
Signal
GND
Pin
5
Signal
PLED
BUZ-
NC
2
SPK-
6
3
SLED
BUZ+
7
4
8
SPK+
JFP1 Switch/LED Front Panel Electrical Connection
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
HD_LED_P
FP PWR/SLP
HD_LED_N
FP PWR/SLP
RST_SW_N
PWR_SW_P
RST_SW_P
PWR_SW_N
RSVD_DNU
Hard disk LED pull-up to +5V
MSG LED pull-up to +5V
Hard disk active LED
MSG LED pull-up to +5V
Reset Switch low reference pull-down to GND
Power Switch high reference pull-up to +5V
Reset Switch high reference pull-up to +5V
Power Switch low reference pull-down to GND
Reserved. Do not use.
2-17
Chapter 2
Front Panel Audio Connector: JAUD1
You can connect an optional audio connector to the JAUD1 front panel
audio connector. The JAUD1 is compliant to Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectiv-
ity Design Guide.
1
2
10
9
JAUD1
Pin Definition
PIN
SIGNAL
DESCRIPTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
AUD_MIC
Front panel microphone input signal
Ground used by analog audio circuits
Microphonepower
AUD_GND
AUD_MIC_BIAS
AUD_VCC
AUD_FPOUT_R
AUD_RET_R
HP_ON
Filtered +5V used by analog audio circuits
Right channel audio signal to front panel
Right channel audio signal return from front panel
Reserved for future use to control headphone amplifier
No pin
KEY
AUD_FPOUT_L
AUD_RET_L
Left channel audio signal to front panel
Left channel audio signal return from front panel
CAUTION!!!
10
6
If you don’t want to connect to the front audio
header, pins 5 and 6, 9 and 10 have to be shorted
by jumper caps in order to have signal output
directed to the rear audio ports.
9
5
2-18
Hardware Setup
Front USB Connector: JUSB1
The mainboard provides a front Universal Serial Bus connector for you
to connect to USB devices. The JUSB1 connector is compliant with Intel®
Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide.
2
1
10
9
JUSB1
JUSB1 Pin Definition
Pin
1
Description
USBPWR
USBP0-
USBP0+
GND
Pin
2
Description
USBPWR
USBP1-
USBP1+
GND
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
NC
10
USBOC
2-19
Chapter 2
D-Bracket™ Connector: JDB1
The mainboard comes with a JDB1 connector for you to connect to D-
Bracket™. D-Bracket™ is a USB Bracket integrating four LEDs and allows
users to identify system problem through 16 various combinations of LED
signals. For definitions of 16 signal combinations, please refer to Chapter 1. D-
Bracket™.
2
1
10
9
JDB1
Connected to JDB1
Connected to JUSB1
D-Bracket™
2-20
Hardware Setup
Jumpers
The motherboard provides one jumper for you to set the computer’s
function. This section will explain how to change your motherboard’s function
through the use of the jumper.
Clear CMOS Jumper: JBAT1
There is a CMOS RAM on board that has a power supply from external
battery to keep the data of system configuration. With the CMOS RAM, the
system can automatically boot OS every time it is turned on. That battery has
long life time for at least 5 years. If you want to clear the system configuration,
use the JBAT1 (Clear CMOS Jumper ) to clear data. Follow the instructions
below to clear the data:
1
JBAT1
1
1
3
3
Clear CMOS
Keep CMOS
You can clear CMOS by shorting 2-3 pin while the
system is off. Then return to 1-2 pin position. Avoid
clearing the CMOS while the system is on; it will
damage the mainboard.
WARNING!
2-21
Chapter 2
Slots
The motherboard provides six 32-bit Master PCI bus slots, one AGP slot
and one CNR slot.
AGP Slot
PCI Slots
CNR Slot
AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) Slot
The AGP slot allows you to insert the AGP graphics card. AGP is an
interface specification designed for the throughput demands of 3D graphics. It
introduces a 66MHz, 32-bit channel for the graphics controller to directly ac-
cess main memory and provides three levels of throughputs: 1x (266Mbps), 2x
(533Mbps) and 4x (1.07Gbps).
Please note that the AGP slot does not support 3.3V AGP card. Use of 3.
3V AGP card may cause damages to the mainboard. To avoid the risk of
causing permanent damages to the mainboard, the AGP slot is protected with
MSI electrical routing device. If users have inserted a 3.3V AGP card into the
slot, the MSI routing device will disable the computer’s boot-up system. Re-
move the 3.3V AGP card and the boot-up system will return to normal.
2-22
Hardware Setup
Attention!
DO NOT use the following AGP cards which would cause dam-
ages to the mainboard. The following list is subject to change
without prior notice.
Model
AGP Chip
ATI Xpert2000
3D RAGE 128VR
3D RAGE 128 Pro
3DFX VooDoo Banshee
ATI Rage Furry Maxx
Diamond Monster Fusion
Hercules KYRO II 4500
Leadtek Winfast VR300
Matrox Millennium G400
STB 3Dfx VooDoo3 3500TV
SiS300
G4+MDHA32G
3Dfx VooDoo 3500TV
PCI Slots
Six PCI slots allow you to insert the expansion cards to meet your needs.
When adding or removing expansion cards, make sure that you unplug the
power supply first. Meanwhile, read the documentation for the expansion card
to make any necessary hardware or software settings for the expansion card,
such as jumpers, switches or BIOS configuration.
CNR (Communication Network Riser)
The CNR slot allows you to insert the CNR expansion cards. CNR is a
specially designed network, audio, or modem riser card for ATX family
motherboards. Its main processing is done through software and controlled by
the motherboard’s chipset.
2-23
Chapter 2
PCI Interrupt Request Routing
The IRQ, abbreviation of interrupt request line and pronounced I-R-Q,
are hardware lines over which devices can send interrupt signals to the
microprocessor. The PCI IRQ pins are typically connected to the PCI bus INT
A# ~ INT D# pins as follows:
Order 1
INTA#
INTB#
INTC#
INTD#
INTB#
INT A#
Order 2
INTB#
INTC#
INTD#
INTA#
INTC#
INTB#
Order 3
INTC#
INTD#
INTA#
INTB#
INTD#
INTC#
Order 4
INTD#
INTA#
INTB#
INTC#
INT A#
INTD#
PCI Slot 1
PCI Slot 2
PCI Slot 3
PCI Slot 4
PCI Slot 5
PCI Slot 6
2-24
AMI BIOS Setup
Chapter 3. BIOS Setup
AMI BIOS Setup
3
This chapter provides information on the BIOS Setup program and allows
you to configure the system for optimum use.
You may need to run the Setup program when:
An error message appears on the screen during the system booting up,
and requests you to run SETUP.
You want to change the default settings for customized features.
TOPICS
Entering Setup
3-2
3-4
The Main Menu
Standard CMOS Features
Advanced BIOS Features
Advanced Chipset Features
Power Management Setup
PNP/PCI Configurations
Integrated Peripherals
Hardware Monitor Setup
3-6
3-8
3-12
3-14
3-17
3-19
3-22
Load High Performance/BIOS Setup Defaults 3-24
Supervisor/User Password
IDE HDD AUTO Detection
3-25
3-27
3-1
Chapter 3
Entering Setup
Power on the computer and the system will start POST (Power On Self
Test) process. When the message below appears on the screen, press <DEL>
key to enter Setup.
DEL:Setup
F11:Boot Menu
F12:Network boot
TAB:Logo
If the message disappears before you respond and you still wishto enter
Setup, restart the system by turning it OFF and On or pressing the RESET
button. You may also restart the system by simultaneously pressing <Ctrl>,
<Alt>, and <Delete> keys.
Selecting the First Boot Device
You are allowed to select the 1st boot device without enteringthe BIOS
setup utility by pressing <F11>. When the same message as listed above
appears on the screen, press <F11> to trigger the boot menu.
The POST messages might pass by too quickly for you to respond in
time. If so, restart the system and press <F11> after around 2 or 3 seconds to
activate the boot menu similar tothe following.
Select First Boot Device
Floppy
IDE-0
CDROM
: 1st Floppy
: IBM-DTLA-307038
: ATAPI CD-ROM DRIVE 40X M
[Up/Dn] Select
[RETURN] Boot
[ESC] cancel
The boot menu will list allthe bootable devices. Select the one you want
to boot from by using arrow keys and then pressing <Enter>. The system will
boot from the selected device. The selection will not make changes to the
settings in the BIOS setup utility, so next time when you power on the system,
it will still use the original first boot device to boot up.
3-2
AMI BIOS Setup
Control Keys
•
Move to the previous item
Move to the next item
< >
¯
< >
<¬ >
Move to the item in the left hand
Move to the item in the right hand
Select the item
®
>
<
<Enter>
<Esc>
<+/PU>
<-/PD>
<F5>
Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main menu from a submenu
Increase the numeric value or make changes
Decrease the numeric value or make changes
Restore the previous CMOS value from CMOS, only for Option Page
Setup Menu
<F6>
<F7>
<F10>
Load High Performance Defaults
Load BIOS Setup Defaults
Save all the CMOS changes and exit
Getting Help
After entering the Setup utility, the first screen you see is the Main Menu.
MainMenu
The main menu displays the setup categories the BIOS supplies. You can use
the arrow keys ( • ¯ ) to select the item.The on-line description forthe selected
setup category is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
Default Settings
The BIOS setup program contains two kinds of default settings: the BIOS
Setup and High Performance defaults. Bios Setup defaultsprovide stable but
minimal performance settings for all devices and the system, while High Perfor-
mance defaults provide the best system performance but may affect the sys-
temstability.
3-3
Chapter 3
The Main Menu
Once you enter AMIBIOS SIMPLE SETUP UTILITY, the Main Menu will ap-
pear on the screen. The Main Menu displays twelve configurable functions
and two exit choices. Use arrow keys to move among the items and press
<Enter> to enter the sub-menu.
Standard CMOS Features
Use this menu for basic system configurations, such as time, date etc.
AdvancedBIOS Features
Use this menu to setup the items of AMI® special enhanced features.
AdvancedChipset Features
Use this menu to change the values in the chipset registers and optimize your
system’s performance.
PowerManagement Setup
Use this menu to specify your settings for power management.
PNP/PCI Configurations
This entry appears if your system supports PnP/PCI.
3-4
AMI BIOS Setup
IntegratedPeripherals
Use this menu to specify your settings for integrated peripherals.
HardwareMonitor Setup
This entry shows your PC’s current status, and allows you to adjust CPU
clock,core voltage,ratio and DDR voltage.
Load HighPerformanceDefaults
Use this menu to load the BIOS values for the best system performance, but
the system stability may be affected.
BIOS Setup Defaults
Use this menuto load factory default settings into the BIOS for stable system
performance operations.
SupervisorPassword
Use this menu to set Supervisor Password.
User Password
Use this menu to set User Password.
IDE HDDAUTODection
Use this menu to automatically detecthard drives.
Save& ExitSetup
Save changes to CMOS and exit setup.
ExitWithout Saving
Abandon all changes and exit setup.
3-5
Chapter 3
Standard CMOS Features
The items inside STANDARD CMOS SETUP menu are divided into 9 catego-
ries. Each category includes none, one or more setup items. Use the arrow keys
to highlight the item you want to modify and use the <PgUp> or <PgDn> keys
to switch to the value you prefer.
Date
This allows you to set the system to thedate that you want (usually the current
date). The format is <day><month> <date> <year>.
day
Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by
BIOS. Read-only.
month
date
The month from Jan. through Dec.
The datefrom 1 to 31 can be keyed by numeric
function keys.
year
The year can be adjusted by users.
Time
This allowsyou to set the system time thatyou want(usually the current time).
The time format is <hour> <minute> <second>.
3-6
AMI BIOS Setup
Pri Master/Pri Slave/Sec Master/Sec Slave
Press PgUp/<+> or PgDn/<-> to select the hard disk drive type. The specifica-
tion of hard disk drive will showup on the righthand accordingto yourselection.
TYPE
Type of the device.
SIZE
CYLS
Capacity of the device.
Number of cylinders.
Number of heads.
Write precompensation.
Cylinder locationof Landing zone.
Number of sectors.
HEAD
PRECOMP
LANDZ
SECTOR
MODE
Access mode.
FloppyDrive A:/B:
This item allowsyou to set the type offloppy drivesinstalled. Available options:
Not Installed, 360 KB 5¼, 1.2 MB 5¼, 720 KB 3½, 1.44 MB 3½ and 2.88 MB
3½ .
Boot Sector Virus Protection
The item is to set the Virus Warning feature for IDE Hard Disk boot sector
protection. When Enabled, BIOS will issue a viruswarning message and beep
if a write to the boot sector or the partition table of the HDD is attempted.
Setting options: Disabled and Enabled.
Note: This feature only protects the boot sector, not the whole hard
disk.
3-7
Chapter 3
Advanced BIOS Features
Quick Boot
Setting the item to Enabled allows the system to boot within 5seconds since
it willskip some check items. Available options: Enabled and Disabled.
FullScreen Logo Show
This item enables you to show the company logo on the bootup screen. Set-
tings are:
Disabled
Enabled
Shows the POST messages at boot.
Shows a still image (logo) on the full screen at boot.
1st/2nd/3rdBoot Device
The items allow you to set the sequence of boot devices where AMIBIOS
attempts to load the operating system. The settings are:
IDE-0
IDE-1
IDE-2
IDE-3
Floppy
ARMD-FDD
The system will boot from the first HDD.
The system will boot from the second HDD.
The systemwill boot from thethird HDD.
The system will boot from the fourth HDD.
The system will boot from floppy drive.
The system will boot from any ARMD device, such
3-8
AMI BIOS Setup
as LS-120 or ZIP drive, that functions as a floppy
drive.
ARMD-HDD
The system will boot from ARMD device, such as
MO or ZIP drive, that functions as hard disk drive.
The system will boot from the CD-ROM.
The system will boot fromthe SCSI.
CDROM
SCSI
NETWORK
BBS-0
The systemwill boot from the Network drive.
The system will boot from the first BBS (BIOS Boot
Specification)compliant device.
BBS-1
The system will boot from the second BBS (BIOS
BootSpecification) compliant device.
The system will boot from the third BBS (BIOS Boot
Specification)compliant device.
BBS-2
BBS-3
Thesystem will bootfrom the fourthBBS (BIOS Boot
Specification)compliant device.
Disabled
Disable this sequence.
Note: Available settings for “1st/2nd/3rd Boot Device” vary depend-
ing on the bootable devices you have installed. For example, if you
did not install a floppy drive, the setting “Floppy” does not show up.
TryOther Boot Devices
Setting theoption to Yes allows the system to try to boot from other devices if
the system fails to boot from the 1st/2nd/3rd boot device.
S.M.A.R.T. for Hard Disks
This allows you to activate the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring Analysis & Re-
porting Technology) capability for the hard disks. S.M.A.R.T is a utility that
monitors yourdisk status to predict hard disk failure. This gives you an oppor-
tunity to move data from a hard disk that is going to fail to a safe place before
the hard disk becomes offline. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
BootUp Num-Lock
This item is to set the Num Lock status when the system is powered on.
Setting to On will turnon the Num Lock key when the system is powered on.
Setting to Off will allow end usersto use the arrowkeys on the numeric keypad.
Setting options: On and Off.
3-9
Chapter 3
SwapFloppy
Setting to Enabled will swap floppy drives A: and B:.
Seek Floppy
This setting causes the BIOS to search for floppy disk drives at boot time.
When enabled, the BIOS will activate the floppy disk drives during the boot
process: thedrive activity light willcome on and the head will move back and
forth once.First A: will be done and thenB: if itexists. Settingoptions: Disabled,
Enabled.
Password Check
This specifies the typeof AMIBIOS password protection that is implemented.
Setting options are described below.
Option
Description
Setup
The password prompt appears only when end users try to
run Setup.
Always
A password prompt appears every time when the com-
puter is powered on or when end users try to run Setup.
Boot OS/2 for DRAM> 64MB
This allows you to run the OS/2® operating system with DRAM larger than
64MB. When you choose No, you cannot run the OS/2® operating system
with DRAM larger than 64MB. Butit is possible if you choose Yes.
APIC Function
This field is used to enable or disable the APIC (Advanced Programmable
InterruptController). Dueto compliance with PC2001 design guide, the system
is able to run in APIC mode. Enabling APIC mode will expand available IRQ
resources for the system. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
MPS Table Version
This field allows you to select which MPS (Multi-Processor Specification)
version to be used for the operating system. You need to select the MPS
version supportedby your operating system. To find out which version to use,
consult the vendor of your operating system. Settings: 1.4 and 1.1.
3-10
AMI BIOS Setup
L1 Cache
Cache memory is additional memory that is much faster than conventional
DRAM (system memory). When the CPU requests data, the system transfers
the requested data from the main DRAM into cache memory, for even faster
access by the CPU.The setting enables/disables the internalcache (also known
asL1 or level 1cache).Setting to Enabled will speedup thesystem performance.
FlashProtection
This function protects the BIOS from accidental corruption by unauthorized
users or computer viruses. When enabled, the BIOS' data cannot be changed
when attempting to update the BIOS with a Flash utility. To successfully up-
date the BIOS, you'll need to disable this Flash Protection function. Setting
options: Disabled, Enabled.
System BIOS Cacheable
Selecting Enabled allowscaching ofthe system BIOS ROMat F0000h-FFFFFh,
resulting in better system performance.However, if any program writesto this
memory area, a system error may result. Setting options: Enabled,Disabled.
3-11
Chapter 3
Advanced Chipset Features
Note: Change these settings only if you are familiar with the chipset.
Configure DRAM Timing by
Thissetting determineswhether DRAM timing is controlled by the SPD (Serial
Presence Detect) EEPROM on the DRAM module. Setting to SPD enables
CAS# Latency, RAS# Precharge, RAS# to CAS# Delay, and Precharge Delay
automatically to be determined by BIOS based on the configurations on the
SPD. Selecting Manual allowsusers to configure these fields manually.
CAS# Latency
The field controls the CAS latency, which determines the timing delay before
SDRAM starts a read command after receiving it. Setting options: 2.5 Clocks,
2 Clocks. 2 Clocks increases system performance while 2.5 Clocks provides
more stable system performance.
RAS# Precharge
This setting controls the number of cycles for Row Address Strobe (RAS) to
be allowed to precharge.If insufficient time is allowed for the RAS to accumu-
late its charge before DRAM refresh, refresh may be incomplete and DRAM
may fail to retain data. This item applies only when synchronous DRAM is
3-12
AMI BIOS Setup
installed in the system. Setting options: 2 Clocks, 3 Clocks.
RAS# to CAS# Delay
When DRAM is refreshed, both rows and columns are addressed separately.
This setup item allows you to determine the timing of the transition from RAS
(rowaddress strobe) to CAS (column address strobe). Theless theclock cycles,
the faster the DRAM performance. Setting options: 3 Clocks, 2 Clocks.
PrechargeDelay
This setting controls the precharge delay, which determines the timing delay
for DRAM precharge. Setting options: 5 Clocks, 6 Clocks, 7 Clocks.
DRAMIntegrityMode
Select ECC (Error-Checking & Correcting Code) or Non-ECC according tothe
type of DRAM installed.
AGP Aperture Size
The field selects the size of the Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) aperture.
Aperture is a portion of the PCI memory address range dedicated for graphics
memory address space. Host cycles that hit the aperture range are forwarded
to the AGP without any translation. Settings: 4MB, 8MB, 16MB, 32MB, 64MB,
128MB, 256MB.
DelayedTransaction
The chipset has an embedded 32-bit posted write buffer to support delayed
transactions cycles.Select Enabled to support compliance with PCI specifica-
tion version 2.1. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
3-13
Chapter 3
Power Management Setup
IPCA Function
This item is to activate the ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Man-
agement Interface) function. If your operating system is ACPI-aware, such as
Windows 98SE/2000/ME,select Yes. Available options: Yes and No.
ACPI Standby State
This item specifiesthe power saving modes for ACPI function. Options are:
S1/POS
The S1 sleep mode is a low power state. In this state, no
system context is lost (CPU or chipset) and hardware
maintains all system context.
S3/STR
The S3 sleep modeis a lower power state wherethe infor-
mation of system cofiguration and open applications/
files is savedto main memory that remains powered while
mostother hardware components turn off to save energy.
The information storedin memorywill be used to restore
the system when an “wake up” event occurs.
USB Wakeup From S3
This item allows the activity of the USB device to wake up the system from S3
3-14
AMI BIOS Setup
(Suspend to RAM) sleep state. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
MouseWakeup From S3
This item allows the activity of the mouse to wake up the system from S3
(Suspend to RAM) sleep state. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
Keyboard Wakeup FromS3
This item allows the activity of the keyboard to wake up the system from S3
(Suspend to RAM) sleep state. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
Specific Key forWakeup
This setting allows users to set a specific key for the Keyboard Wakeup
From S3 function.
PowerManagement/APM
Setting to Enabled will activate an Advanced Power Management (APM)
device to enhance Max Saving mode and stop CPU internal clock.Settings are
Disabled and Enabled.
Suspend Time Out (Minute)
After the selected period of system inactivity, all devicesexcept the CPU shut
off. Settings are Disabled, 1, 2, 4, 8, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60.
FDC/LPT/COMPorts,Primary/SecondaryMaster/SlaveIDE
These items specify if the BIOS will monitor the activity of thespecified hard-
ware peripheral or component. If set to Monitor, any activitydetected on the
specified hardware peripheral or component will wake up the system or pre-
vent the system from entering the power saving modes. Settings: Monitor and
Ignore.
Power Button Function
This feature sets the function of the power button. Settings are:
On/Off
Suspend
The power button functions as normal on/off button.
When you press the power button, the computer enters
the suspend/sleep mode, but if the button is pressed for
more than four seconds, the computer is turned off.
3-15
Chapter 3
Wake Up On Ring
When setting to Enabled, thefeature allows your system to be awakened from
the powersaving modes through an incoming call from the modem. Settings:
Enabled and Disabled.
Note: You need to install a modem supporting power on function for
Wake Up On Ring function.
WakeUp OnPME
When setting to Enabled, thefeature allows your system to be awakened from
the power saving modes through any event on PME (Power Management
Event). Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
Resume By RTCAlarm
This is used to enable or disable the feature of booting up the system on a
scheduled time/date from thesoft off(S5)state. Settings: Enabled and Disabled.
RTCAlarmDate/Hour/Minute/Second
If Resume ByRTC Alarm is set to Enabled, the system will automatically
resume (boot up) on a specific date/hour/minute/secondspecified in these
fields. Available settings for each item are:
Alarm Date
01 ~ 31, Every Day
00 ~ 23
00 ~ 59
Alarm Hour
AlarmMinute
Alarm Second
00 ~ 59
Note: If you change these settings, you must reboot the system until it
enters the operating system and then power off the system. By doing
so, the changed settings will come into effect next time when you
power on the system.
PowerAgain
This settingspecifies whether your system will reboot after a power failure or
interrupts occurs. Available settings are:
Power Off
Power On
Last State
Leaves the computer in the power off state.
Reboots the computer.
Restores the system to the status before power failure or
interrupt occurs.
3-16
AMI BIOS Setup
PNP/PCI Configurations
This sectiondescribes configuring the PCI bus system and PnP(Plug & Play)
feature. PCI, or Personal Computer Interconnect, is a system which allows I/O
devices to operate at speeds nearing the speed the CPU itself uses when
communicating with its special components. This section covers some very
technical items and it is strongly recommended that only experienced users
should make any changes to the default settings.
ClearESCD
TheESCD(Extended SystemConfiguration Data) NVRAM (Non-volatile Ran-
dom Access Memory) is where the BIOS stores resource information for both
PNP and non-PNP devices in abit string format. Whenthe item is setto Yes,the
system will reset ESCD NVRAM right after the system isbooted up and then
set the setting of the itemback to No automatically.
PCIVGA Palette Snoop
When set to Enabled, multiple VGA devices operating on differentbuses can
handle data from the CPU on each set of palette registers on every video
device. Bit 5 ofthe command register in the PCI device configuration space is
the VGA Palette Snoop bit (0 is disabled). For example, if there are two VGA
devices in the computer (one PCI and one ISA) and the:
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Chapter 3
VGA PaletteSnoop
Bit Setting
Action
Disabled
Data read or written by the CPU is only directed to the
PCI VGA device’spalette registers.
Enabled
Data read or written by the CPU is directed to both the
PCI VGA device’s palette registers and the ISA VGA
device’s palette registers, permittingthe palette registers
of both VGA devices to be identical.
The setting must be set to Enabled if any ISA bus adapter in the system
requires VGA palette snooping.
PCI Slot1/6 IRQ, PCI Slot2/5 IRQ, PCI Slot3 IRQ, PCI Slot4 IRQ
This item specifies the IRQ line for each PCI slot. Settings: 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10,11
and Auto. Selecting Auto allows BIOS toautomatically determine the IRQline
for each PCI slot.
DMA Channel 0/1/3/5/6/7
These items specify the bus that the system DMA (Direct Memory Access)
channel is used.
The settings determine if AMIBIOS should remove a DMA from the available
DMAs passed to devices that are configurable by the system BIOS. The
available DMA pool is determined by reading the ESCD NVRAM. If more
DMAs must be removed from the pool, the end user canreserve the DMA by
assigning an ISA/EISA setting to it.
IRQ 3/4/5/7/9/10/11
These items specify the bus where the specified IRQ line is used.
The settings determine if AMIBIOS should remove an IRQ from the pool of
available IRQs passed to devices that are configurable by the system BIOS.
The available IRQ pool is determined by reading the ESCD NVRAM.If more
IRQs must be removed from the IRQ pool, the end user can use these settings
to reserve the IRQ by assigning an ISA/EISA setting to it. Onboard I/O is
configured by AMIBIOS. All IRQs used by onboard I/O are configured as
PCI/PnP. If all IRQs are set to ISA/EISA, and IRQ 14/15 are allocated to the
onboard PCI IDE, IRQ 9 will still be available for PCI and PnP devices. Avail-
able settings: ISA/EISA and PCI/PnP.
3-18
AMI BIOS Setup
Integrated Peripherals
USB Controller
This setting is used to enable/disable the onboard USB controllers. Settings:
All USB Port, Disabled, USB Port 0&1, USB Port 2&3.
USB Legacy Support
Set to All Device if your need to use any USB device in the operating system
that does not support or have any USB driver installed, such as DOSand SCO
Unix. Set to No Mice only if your want to use any USB device other than the
USB mouse. Setting options: Disabled, No Mice, All Device.
On-Chip IDE
This setting controls the on-chip IDE controller. Setting options: Disabled,
Primary, Secondary, Both.
AC’ 97Audio
Auto allows the mainboard to detect whether an audio device is used. If the
device is detected, the onboard AC’ 97 (Audio Codec’ 97) controller will be
enabled; if not, it is disabled. Disable the controller if you want to use other
controller cards to connectan audio device. Settings: Auto, Disabled.
AC’ 97Modem
Auto allows the mainboard to detect whether a modem is used. If a modem is
3-19
Chapter 3
used, the onboard MC’ 97 (Modem Codec’ 97) controllerwillbe enabled;if not,
it isdisabled. Disablethe controller if you wantto use other controller cards to
connect to a modem. Settings: Auto, Disabled.
FloppyController
This is used to enable or disable the onboard Floppy controller.
Option
Description
Auto
BIOS will automatically determinewhether to enable the
onboard Floppy controller or not.
Enabled
Disabled
Enables the onboard Floppy controller.
Disables the onboard Floppy controller.
Serial Port A/B
These items specify the base I/O port addresses of the onboard Serial Port 1
(COMA)/Serial Port 2 (COM B). Selecting Auto allows AMIBIOS toautomati-
cally determine the correct base I/O port address. Settings: Auto, 3F8/COM1,
2F8/COM2, 3E8/COM3, 2E8/COM4 and Disabled.
Serial PortBMode
This item sets the operation mode for Serial Port B. Settings: Normal,
1.6uS, 3/16 Baud and ASKIR (the last three operation modes are setting
options forIR function).
IRDuplex Mode
Thisfield specifies a duplex value forthe IRdevice connected to COM B.
Full-Duplexmode permitssimultaneous two-direction transmission. Half-
Duplexmodepermits transmission inonedirectiononlyat a time. Settings:
Half Duplex and Full Duplex.
IR Pin Select
Set to IRRX/IRTX when using an internal IR module connected to the IR
connector. Set to SINB/SOUTB. when connecting an IR adapter to COM
B.
ParallelPort
This field specifies the base I/O port address of the onboard parallel port.
Selecting Auto allows AMIBIOS to automatically determine the correct base I/
3-20
AMI BIOS Setup
O port address. Settings: Auto, 378, 278, 3BC and Disabled.
ParallelPort Mode
This item selects the operation mode for the onboard parallel port: ECP,
Normal, Bi-Dir or EPP.
EPP Version
The item selects the EPP version usedby the parallel port if the portis set
to EPP mode. Settings: 1.7 and 1.9.
IRQ
When Parallel Port is set to Auto, the item shows Auto indicating that
BIOSdetermines the IRQ for the parallel port automatically.
DMA Channel
This featureneeds to be configuredonly when Parallel Port Mode is set
to the ECP mode. When Parallel Port is set to Auto, the field will show
Auto indicating thatBIOS automatically determines the DMA channelfor
the parallel port.
OnBoardMidi Port
The field specifies the base I/O port address for the onboard Midi Port.
Midi IRQ Select
The item is used to select the IRQ line for onboard Midi port.
OnBoardGame Port
This item is used to specify the address for the onboard game port.
3-21
Chapter 3
Hardware Monitor Setup
This section describes how to set the CPU FSB frequency, monitor the current
hardware status includingCPU/system temperatures, CPU/System Fan speeds,
Vcore etc. Monitor function is available only if there ishardware monitoring
mechanismonboard.
CPU RatioSelection
This setting controls themultiplier that is used to determine the internal clock
speed of the processor relative to the external or motherboard clock speed.
CPU FSB Clock (Mhz)
This setting allows you to select the CPU Front Side Bus clock frequency.
Setting options: 100MHz~200MHz at 1MHz increment.
SpreadSpectrum
When the motherboard clock generatorpulses, the extreme values (spikes) of
the pulses creates EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). The Spread Spectrum
function reduces the EMI generated by modulating the pulses so that the
spikes of the pulses are reduced to flatter curves. If you do not have any EMI
problem, leave the setting at Disabled for optimal system stability and
performance. But if you are plagued by EMI, setting to Enabled for EMI
reduction. Remember to disable Spread Spectrum if you are overclocking be-
cause even a slight jitter canintroduce a temporary boost in clockspeed which
3-22
AMI BIOS Setup
may just cause your overclocked processor to lock up.
CPU Vcore Adjust
This setting isused toadjust the CPU corevoltage (Vcore),making overclocking
possible.
Note: Changing CPU Vcore could result in unstable system;
therefore, it is not recommended to change the default setting for
long-term purpose.
DDR/AGP Power Voltage
The item is to adjust the DDR/AGP voltage to increase the DDR/AGP rate.
Modifying the setting may lead to unstable system, so changing the DDR/
AGP Vcore for long-term use is not recommended.
CPU/System Temperature, CPU/System FanSpeed, Vcore, 3.3V, +5.0V,+12.
0V, -12.0V, -5.0V, Battery, +5V SB
These items display the current status of all of the monitored hardware de-
vices/components such as system voltages, temperatures and fan speeds.
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Chapter 3
Load High Performance/BIOS Setup Defaults
The two options on the main menu allow users to restore all of the BIOS
settings to High Performance defaults or BIOS Setup defaults. The High Per-
formance Defaults are the default values set by the mainboard manufacturer
for thebest system performance but probably will causea stability issue. The
BIOSSetup Defaults are the default values also set by the mainboard manufac-
turer for stable performance of the mainboard.
Whenyou selectLoad High Performance Defaults, a message as below appears:
Pressing ‘ Y’ loads the default BIOS values that enable the best system
performance but may lead to a stability issue.
When you select Load BIOS Setup Defaults, a message as below appears:
Pressing ‘ Y’ loads the default values that are factory settings forstable system
performance.
The option is for power or overclocking users only. Use of high
performance defaults will tighten most timings to increase the sys-
tem performance. Therefore, a high-end system configuration is a
WARNING!
must, which means you need high-quality VGA adapter, RAM and
so on. We don’ t recommend that users should apply the high
performance defaults in their regular systems. Otherwise, the sys-
tem may become unstable or even crash. If the system crashes or
hangs after enabling the feature, please CLEAR CMOS DATA to
resolve the problem. For more information, refer to “Clear CMOS
Jumper:JBAT1” in Chapter 2.
3-24
AMI BIOS Setup
Supervisor/User Password
When you select Supervisor Password, a message as below willappear on the
screen:
When you select User Password, a message as below will appear on the screen:
Type the password, up to six characters in length, and press <Enter>. The
password typed now will replace any previously set password from CMOS
memory. You will be prompted to confirm the password. Retype the password
and press <Enter>. You may also press <Esc> to abort the selection and not
enter a password.
To clear a set password, just press <Enter> when you are prompted to enter the
password. A message will show up confirming the password will be disabled.
Once the password is disabled, the system will boot and you can enter Setup
without entering any password.
Whena password has been set, you will be prompted to enter it every time you
try to enter Setup. This prevents an unauthorized person from changing any
part of your system configuration.
Additionally, when a password is enabled, you can also have AMIBIOS to
request a password each time the system is booted. This would prevent unau-
3-25
Chapter 3
thorized use of your computer. The setting to determine when the password
prompt is required isthe PASSWORDCHECK option of the ADVANCEDBIOS
FEATURES menu. If the PASSWORD CHECK option is set to Always, the
password is required both at boot and at entry to Setup. If set to Setup, pass-
word prompt only occurs when you try to enter Setup.
About Supervisor Password & User Password:
Supervisor password: Can enter and change the settings of
the setup menu.
User password:
Can only enter but do not have the right
to changethe settings of thesetup menu.
3-26
AMI BIOS Setup
IDE HDD AUTO Detection
You can use this utility to AUTOMATICALLY detect the characteristics of
most hard drives.
3-27
MSI Smart Key
Appendix B: MSI Smart Key
A
MSI Smart Key
If security is important to you, the MSI Smart Key is the best solution to
prevent your data in thecomputer from being accessed by unauthorized people.
In the public workspace, the passwords (BIOS password, system
password, etc.) are not enough to keep your privacy. Do you believe that a
hacker can easily enter your computer and monitor your confidential data? It
happens everyday, everywhere; you just do not know... A password only
stops them at the first gate. If this protection is broken, what else can you rely
on?
The MSI Smart Key is a hardware device that provides you the com-
plete and perfect protection on your system. Once the key is installed and
setup, any unauthorized user absolutely cannot access and use your computer
without the key. The computer needs the key to boot up, and the operating
system needs the key to work normally. Furthermore, if you have to leave
your desktop for a while, you can simply unplugthe key to keep your system
in a safest status.
TOPICS
Installing MSI Smart Key
Using MSI Smart Key
A-2
A-3
A-1
Appendix A
Installing MSI Smart Key
Installation
Simply follow the few steps below, you can install the Smart Key into
your computer very easily.
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Locate the USB port on your computer.
3. Connect the cable to the USB port, and then plug the Smart Key
into the connector properly.
4. Turn on the computer, and now you can implement this power-
ful feature.
Note: After you have installed the Smart Key into your computer, the
BIOS will detect it when the system boots up, and you have to enabled/
disabled this function. Furthermore, you should install the dedicated
software application in the operating system, whichis provided by MSI,
to obtain the overall protection on your system. The following sections
will provide the detailed instructions for the BIOS setup and software
installation.
SystemRequirements
Before you use the MSI Smart Key, please check the hardware, soft-
ware and operating system requirements first.
Operating System
Connector
Windows 98/ME/2000/XP
USB port
Disk Space
At least 2 MB to install the
software application
A-2
MSI Smart Key
Using MSI Smart Key
BIOSSetup
When the Smart Key is inserted into your computer, the BIOS will de-
tect it automatically. You can enable or disable the Smart Key through the
BIOS setting. Please note that it needs a personalized password to ex-
ecute any kind of Smart Key setting; so, keep the password firmly in mind.
If, unfortunately, the Smart Key is lost or the password is missed, you can not
enterthe operating system successfully. At this time, contact your local dealer
for further service.
Enable/Disable the Smart Key
The first time installation
1. Insert the Smart Key into the computer and turn on the power.
2. Press <F7> during system boot up.
3. The message as below appears on the screen asking you to
enable or disable the key:
Welcome to MSI Smart Key, please press “Y” to begin,
press “N” to exit
Type <Y> to enable it; type <N> to disable it and bypass the
BIOS to enter the operating system. When you type <Y>, it shows
the following message:
Please input your password and press “Enter”
password:
A-3
Appendix A
4. Type the password, up to 8 characters, and press <Enter>, it will
show the following message to ask you confirm the password:
Please input your password and press “Enter”
Confirm your password:
Type the password again and press <Enter>.
5. After the password is confirmed, the system will generate a set
of random ID, and record this ID into the BIOS ROM and the
memory chip on the key; it will show the following message
when the Smart Key is enabled successfully:
Processing .....
You have enabled the Smart Key Successfully
Then, you can enter the operating system and start to work.
Note:
1. You should firmly remember the password you set;if the Smart Key
is lost, you can get a new key from MSI, and turn on the computer with
the original password.
2. To avoid the password from being forgotten, we provide the table
below for you to keep note in this guide. Please write down the pass-
word and keep the guide properly.
3. Afterthe Smart Key function is successfully configured under DOS,
the system will automatically reset and enter the installed OS. Please
DO NOT unplug the Smart Key until the system has entered the OS.
A-4
MSI Smart Key
Enable/disable Smart Key function
1. Turn on the computer with the Smart Key installed.
2. Press <F7> during system boot up.
3. The message as below appears on the screen asking you to
enable or disable the key:
If you want to disable MSI Smart Key,
please press “Y”, or press “N” to exit
Type <Y> to disable it; type <N> to keep the function enabled
and enter the operating system. When you type <Y>, it shows
the following message:
Processing .....
You have disabled the Smart Key Successfully
Then, you can enter the operating system and start to work.
A-5
Appendix A
Boot up with no key /wrong key/new key installed
Once the MSI Smart Key is enabled,always keep the key insertedin the
computer. If the key is unplugged,the other user can not access the computer.
The message as below appears during the system booting up:
No MSI Smart Key is Present
Please plug in your MSI Smart Key
or contact your local distributor for details
The user have to find and re-plug the original key into the computer to
continue booting up the system. If thewrong key or anew key* is inserted, it
will show the message as below on the screen:
MSI Smart Key password is wrong
Please input your password and press “Enter”
password:
If the user remember the original password, typing in the password will
allow the user to enter the operating system, and the system BIOS will copy
the original password data into the wrong key/new key. Otherwise, the sys-
tem will halt after entering the wrong password for three times.
* If, unfortunately, your Smart Key was lost , you have to purchase a new
key from MSI as a replacement.
A-6
MSI Smart Key
Software Setup
When the Smart Key is inserted into your computer and the software
application is installed in the operating system, it will serve as a safeguard for
your system. When the key is unplugged, the operating system will enter
protection status immediately and the mouse and keyboard will be locked;
when the key is inserted again, the operating system will resume from the
protected mode.
Installation
1. Install the Smart Key into the computer and turn on the power
to enter the operating system successfully.
2. Insert the CD-ROM provided and the setup program will
execute automatically. The welcome screen will appear as below:
3. Press [ Next > ] to start the installation.
A-7
Appendix A
4. When the Software License Agreement window appears on the
screen, press [ Yes ] to continue.
Clickhere
5. Choose the folder to install the software in your computer;
simply press [ Next > ] to install it in the default folder.
Defaultfolder
6. When the installation is completed, restart the computer as
instructed.
A-8
MSI Smart Key
Using the Software Application
1. When the program is installed in the operating system, it will
embed in the system tray and show an icon as below:
SmartKeyicon
Note: When the Smart Key function is disabled in BIOS, this program
will not be launched in the operating system.
2. To launch the program’s setup screen, simply left-click on the
Smart Key icon in the system tray. The program’ s setup screen
appears as below.
Controloptions
Programversion
This window contains the information of the program and
the main options for the user to control: Security Setting and
Other.
A-9
Appendix A
Security Setting
This option allows you to logon to Windows automatically.
Select the “Auto Login” item and check the “Auto Logon to Windows” item
in the Setting Page field to enable the function. Once the functionis enabled
and set properly, you do not have to type the user’ s name and password
everytime when entering Windows.
Checkthis
In Windows 2000, it will show the related fields when the “Auto Logon to
Windows” is checked, you should fill in the correct information in these
fields.
Enterthe
information
A-10
MSI Smart Key
Other
This option contains two items:
1) Disable Screen Saver allows you to enable/disable the screen
saver program when the system is locked.
Checkthis
2) Set Screen When System Locked allows you to set the status
when the Smart Key is unplugged and the system locked. You
can set the monitor to display:
a) blank screen
b) the retaining screen when the system locked
c) MSI Logo
The default setting is to show MSI Logo.
A-11
Appendix A
3. Press the “Apply Changes” button to enable the option you
choose.
Clickhere
4. Press the “bulb” button at the right-bottom to hide the program
in the system tray and keep on monitoring the system.
Clickhere
5. Press the “door” button at the right-bottom to exit the program.
Clickhere
A-12
MSI Smart Key
Removing the Software Application
To remove the program, follow the steps below:
1. Click
and choose Settings → Control Panel; double-
click the Add/Remove Programs item to open the “Add/Remove
Programs Properties” window.
Choosethis
Clickhere
2. Select the “SmartKey” item in the field and click the [ Add/
Remove... ]; when it shows the dialog box requiring your
confirmation, press [ Yes ] to start removing the program as the
on-screen instructions.
3. Restart the computer when the un-installation is completed.
A-13
Glossary
Glossary
Glossary
ACPI (Advanced Configuration & Power Interface)
This power management specification enables the OS (operating system) to control the
amount of power given to each device attached to the computer. Windows 98/98SE,
Windows 2000 and Windows ME can fully support ACPI to allow users managing the
system power flexibly.
AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port)
A new, high-speed graphics interface that based on PCI construction and designed
especially for the throughput demands of 3-D graphics. AGP provides a direct channel
(32-bit wide bus) between the display controller and main memory for high graphics
quality and performance.
ATX
A modern shape and layout of mainboard that supersedes the widely-used Baby AT
form factor. It improves many placement of components and makes a more efficient
design.
BIOS (basic input/output system)
On PCs, an essential software that contains all the control code of input/output inter-
face (such as keyboard, disk drives, etc.). It executes hardware test on booting the
system, starts the OS, and provides an interface between the OS and the components.
The BIOS is stored in a ROM chip.
Bus
A set of hardware lines within the computer system, through which the data is trans-
ferred among different components. In a PC, the term bus usually refers to a local bus
that connects the internal components to the CPU and main memory.
Cache
A special memory subsystem that is used to speed up the data transfer. It stores the
contents of frequently accessed RAM locations and the addresses where these data
items are stored.
Chipset
A collection of integrated chips designed to perform one or more related functions. For
G-1
Glossary
example, a modem chipset contains all the primary circuits for transmitting and receiv-
ing data; a PC chipset provides the electronic interfaces between all subsystems.
CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor)
CMOS is a widely used type of semiconductor, which features high speed and low
power consumption. PCs usually contain a small amount of battery-powered CMOS
memory to retain the date, time, and system setup parameters.
COM
In MS-DOS system, the name of a serial communications port. DOS supports four
serial ports. For example, if a modem is connected to one serial port and a serial mouse
to another, they are identified as COM1 and COM2.
DIMM (dual in-line memory module)
A small circuit board that holds memory chips. A SIMM (single in-line memory
module) has a 32-bit path to the memory chips whereas a DIMM has 64-bit path.
DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
A most common type of computer memory. It usually uses one transistor and a
capacitor to represent a bit. As the development of technology, the memory type and
specification used in computer becomes variety, such as SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, and
RDRAM. For further instruction, please see the table below:
Dynamic RAM (DRAM) Memory Technologies
Peak
Bandwidth
Type
First Used Clock Rate Bus* Width
Volts
FPM (60,70ns)
1990
1994
1996
1998
1999
25MHz
40MHz
64 bits
64 bits
64 bits
64 bits
64 bits
16 bits
64 bits
64 bits
200 MBps
320 MBps
528 MBps
800 MBps
1.1 GBps
1.6 GBps
1.6 GBps
2.1 GBps
5v
EDO (50,60,70ns)
SDRAM (66MHz)
SDRAM (100MHz)
SDRAM (133MHz)
5v
66MHz
3.3v
3.3v
3.3v
2.5v
3.3v
3.3v
100MHz
133MHz
400MHz
100MHz
133MHz
RDRAM (Direct Rambus) 1999
DDR SDRAM (100MHz)
DDR SDRAM (133MHz)
2000
2000
* Memory channel width (64 bits started with 75MHz Pentium)
Source: Computer Desktop Encyclopedia
G-2
Glossary
ECC Memory (error correcting code memory)
A type of memory that contains special circuitry for testing the accuracy of data and
correcting the errors on the fly.
IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics)
A type of disk-drive interface widely used to connect hard disks, CD-ROMs and tape
drives to a PC, in which the controller electronics is integrated into the drive itself,
eliminating the need for a separate adapter card. The IDE interface is known as the
ATA (AT Attachment) specification.
IEEE1394
A new, high speed external bus standard, also known as FireWire or iLink, which
supports data transfer rates of up to 400 Mbps for connecting up to 63 external
devices.
IrDA (Infrared Data Association)
A group of device vendors, including computer, component and telecommunications,
who have developed a standard for transmitting data via infrared light waves. This
enables you to transfer data from one device to another without any cables.
LAN (local area network)
A computer network that covers a relatively smaller area, such as in a building or an
enterprise. It is made up of servers, workstations, shared resources, a network oper-
ating system and a communications link. These individual PCs and devices on a LAN
are known as “nodes”, and are connected by cables to access data and devices any-
where on the LAN, so that many users can share expensive devices and data.
LED (light emitting diode)
A semiconductor device that converts electrical energy into light. Since it lights up
(usually red) when electricity is passed through it, it is usually used for the activity
lights on computer’s component, such as disk drivers.
LPT (line printer terminal)
Logical device name for a line printer; a name reserved by the MS-DOS for up to three
parallel printer ports: LPT1, LPT2, and LPT3. It is frequently used by the OS to
identify a printer.
G-3
Glossary
PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)
A local bus standard developed by Intel that first appeared on PCs in late 1993. PCI
provides “plug and play” capability and allows IRQs to be shared. The PCI controller
can exchange data with the system's CPU either 32 bits or 64 bits at a time.
PnP (Plug and Play)
A set of specifications that allows a PC to configure itself automatically to work with
peripherals. The user can "plug" in a peripheral device and "play" it without configur-
ing the system manually. To implement this useful feature, both the BIOS that sup-
ports PnP and a PnP expansion card are required.
POST (Power On Self Test)
During booting up your system, the BIOS executes a series of diagnostic tests, include
checking the RAM, the keyboard, the disk drives, etc., to see if they are properly
connected and operating.
PS/2 Port
A type of port developed by IBM for connecting a mouse or keyboard to a PC. The
PS/2 port supports a mini DIN plug containing just 6 pins. Most modern PCs equipped
with PS/2 ports so that the special port can be used by another device, such as a
modem.
USB (universal serial bus)
A hardware interface for low-speed peripherals such as the keyboard, mouse, joystick,
etc. USB provides a maximum bandwidth of 12 Mbit/sec (Mbps) for connecting up to
127 peripheral devices to PC. USB features hot swap capability and multiple data
streams, allows external devices to be plugged in and unplugged without turning the
system off.
Virus
A program or a piece of code that infects computer files by inserting in those files
copies of itself. The virus code is buried within an existing program, and is activated
when that program is executed. All the viruses are man-made, and often have damaging
side effects.
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