M5A78L-M LX3 Series
• M5A78L-M LX3
• M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
Contents
About this guide......................................................................................................... vi
Chapter 1:
Special features............................................................................................1-1
Before you proceed......................................................................................1-3
Motherboard overview .................................................................................1-4
Central Processing Unit (CPU)....................................................................1-6
System memory..........................................................................................1-10
Expansion slots..........................................................................................1-16
PCI slot .........................................................................................1-16
Jumpers.......................................................................................................1-17
Connectors..................................................................................................1-19
Software support........................................................................................1-25
Chapter 2:
iii
BIOS setup program.....................................................................................2-4
Menu bar.........................................................................................2-5
Scroll bar.........................................................................................2-6
Main menu.....................................................................................................2-7
Advanced menu............................................................................................2-9
Chipset..........................................................................................2-13
PCIPnP .........................................................................................2-14
Power menu ................................................................................................2-16
Boot menu...................................................................................................2-19
Security.........................................................................................2-20
Tools menu..................................................................................................2-22
Exit menu ....................................................................................................2-23
iv
Safety information
Electrical safety
•
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet
before relocating the system.
•
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
•
•
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all
power cables are unplugged.
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
•
•
•
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
where it may become wet.
•
•
Place the product on a stable surface.
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
•
Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports.
•
Chapter 2: BIOS information
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
vi
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.
1.
2.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to
complete a task
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task..
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text
Italics
Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
vii
M5A78L-M LX3 Series specifications summary
CPU
AMD® Socket AM3+ for AMD® FX™ / Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /
Sempron™ 100 series processors
AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
Supports AMD® AM3/AM3+ CPU up to 95W
Chipset
AMD® 760G(780L) / SB710
Front side bus
Memory
Up to 5200 MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface
Dual-channel memory architecture
2 x 240-pin DIMM slots support maximum 16GB unbuffered ECC and non-
ECC DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066MHz memory modules
* AMD® FX™ Series CPU on this motherboard supports up to DDR3
1866MHz as its standard memory frequency.
** Due to CPU specification, AMD® AM3 CPUs on this motherboard support
up to DDR3 1333MHz.
List).
**** Use a 64-bit Windows® OS if you want to install 4GB or more memory
on the motherboard.
Graphics
Integrated ATI Radeon™ HD 3000 GPU
Supports max. shared memory of 1GB
Supports RGB with max. resolution of 2560 x 1440 (@75Hz)
Supports Microsoft® DirectX 10
Supports Hybrid CrossFireXTM (For Windows Vista or later versions)
CrossFireX™.
Expansion slots
1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot
1 x PCIe 2.0 x1 slot
1 x PCI slot
Storage / RAID
LAN
4 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors support RAID 0, 1, 10 and JBOD
Qualcomm Atheros Gb LAN
Audio
Realtek® ALC887 8-channel* High Definition Audio CODEC
* Use the chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support 8-
channel audio output.
USB
Supports up to 8 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at the
back panel)
ASUS Unique
Features
ASUS MyLogo 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS EPU
ASUS Anti-Surge
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS Core Unlocker
(continued on the next page)
viii
M5A78L-M LX3 Series specifications summary
Special features
100% All high quality conductive polymer capacitors (M5A78L-M LX3
PLUS only)
Back panel I/O ports
1 x PS/2 Keyboard port
1 x PS/2 Mouse port
1 x COM port
1 x D-Sub port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
3 x Audio jacks
Internal I/O connectors
2 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports
4 x SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Chassis fan connector
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x Speaker connector
1 x System panel connector
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
BIOS
16Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI v2.0, WfM2.0, ACPI v2.0a,
SM BIOS 2.7
Support DVD
Drivers
ASUS Update
ASUS PC Probe II
Anti-Virus software (OEM version)
Form factor
MicroATX form factor: 9.6 in x 7.4 in (24.4 cm x 18.8 cm)
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
ix
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
KBMS
CPU_FAN
EPU
ATX12V
USB34
LAN1_USB12
CHA_FAN
AMD®
RS780L
AUDIO
PCIEX1_1
AR
8161
PCIEX16
16Mb
BIOS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
Super
I/O
AMD®
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
SB710
SATA3G_2 SATA3G_4
PCI1
ALC
SB_PWR
887-VD2
USB78
USB56
F_PANEL
AAFP
CLRTC
SPEAKER
USBPW5-8
SATA3G_1 SATA3G_3
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series motherboard
2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s cables
User Manual
1 x I/O Shield
User Guide
Support DVD
•
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
•
The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specifications may
vary with different models.
x
Product introduction
1
1.1
Special features
Product highlights
1.1.1
AMD® FX™ / Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 series CPU support
This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM3+ multi-core processors with unique L3
cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption. It features
dual-channel DDR3 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via
HyperTransport™ 3.0-based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD® CPUs in the
new 32nm manufacturing process.
HyperTransport™ 3.0 support
HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than HT1.0 that
radically improves system efficiency for a smoother and faster computing environment.
AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology
This motherboard supports the AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology which monitors system
operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool and quiet
operating environment.
Dual-Channel DDR3 1866 support
This motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1866 /1600
/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest operating system,
3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications.
Hybrid CrossFireX™ support
ATI Hybrid CrossFireX™ technology greatly boosts graphics performance with an onboard
GPU and a discrete GPU.
*
Hybrid CrossFireX™ is supported by Windows® Vista or later versions only.
Gigabit LAN solution
The onboard LAN controller is a highly integrated Gb LAN controller. It is enhanced with an
ACPI management function to provide efficient power management for advanced operating
systems.
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology and RAID support
This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage
specification, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed
data retrieval and save. It also supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 0+1 configurations for
Serial ATA hard drives.
1-1
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors (M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
only)
This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability, improved
lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.
1.1.2
ASUS Exclusive Features
Core Unlocker
ASUS Core Unlocker simplifies the activation of a latent AMD® CPU-with just pressing a key.
Enjoy an instant performance boost by simply unlocking the extra cores, without performing
complicated BIOS changes.
ASUS Anti-Surge Protection
This special design protects expensive devices and the motherboard from damage caused
by power surges from switching power supply unit (PSU).
ASUS EPU
ASUS EPU is a unique power saving technology that detects the current system loadings and
adjusts the power consumption in real time.
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a
bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility.
ASUS MyLogo2™
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more
colorful and vivid image on your screen.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that allows you to restore a corrupted BIOS
file using the bundled support DVD or a USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file.
ErP ready
The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP
requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirements in regards to energy
consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-
efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the
product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2
Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.
•
•
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.
•
•
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
•
Before you install or remove any component, switch off the ATX power supply and
detach its power cord. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, or components.
Standby Power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system
is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down
the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard
component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.
SB_PWR
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
ON
OFF
Standby Power Powered Off
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS Onboard LED
1-3
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
1.3
Motherboard overview
Placement direction
1.3.1
When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct
orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in
the image below.
1.3.2
Screw holes
Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
1-4
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.3.3
Motherboard layout
M5A78L-M LX3 Series motherboards include M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS and M5A78L-M LX3
models. The package contents vary from models. The layout illustrations in this user guide
are for M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS only.
1
2
3
4
4
5
6
3
18.8cm(7.4in)
KBMS
CPU_FAN
EPU
ATX12V
USB34
LAN1_USB12
CHA_FAN
AMD®
RS780L
AUDIO
PCIEX1_1
AR
8161
PCIEX16
16Mb
BIOS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
Super
I/O
AMD®
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
SB710
SATA3G_2 SATA3G_4
7
8
7
PCI1
USB78
ALC
887-VD2
SB_PWR
USB56
F_PANEL
SPEAKER
AAFP
SATA3G_1 SATA3G_3
CLRTC
USBPW5-8
13 12
11
10
1
9
1-5
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
1.3.4
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED
Page
1. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW 1-4, USBPW 5-8)
1-18
2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)
1-18
1-21
1-24
1-6
3. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
4. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN and 3-pin CHA_FAN)
5. AMD CPU socket
6. DDR3 DIMM slots
1-10
1-22
1-3
7. SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_1~4)
8. Standby power LED (SB_PWR)
9. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)
10. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
11. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)
12. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
1-23
1-23
1-24
1-17
1-20
13. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
1.4
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
This motherboard comes with an AM3+ socket designed for FX™ / Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /
Sempron™ 100 series processors.
The AM3+ socket has a different pinout from the AM2+/AM2 socket. Ensure that you use a
CPU designed for the AM3+ socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT
force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS CPU socket AM3+
1-6
Chapter 1: Product introduction
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
1
2
3
4
5
1-9
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
1.5
System memory
Overview
1.5.1
This motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) sockets.
A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched
differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for
better performance with less power consumption.
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
Channel
Sockets
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
Channel A
Channel B
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
1-10
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.5.2
Memory configurations
You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.
•
•
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or date code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the retailer to get the correct memory modules.
Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
-
Install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows®
OS.
-
Use a 64-bit Windows® OS if you want to install 4GB or more memory on the
motherboard.
•
This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.
M5A78L-M LX3 Series Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-1866MHz capability
DIMM socket support (Optional)
SS/ Chip Chip
DS Brand NO.
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM*
2 DIMMs*
KHX1866C9D3T1K3/
6GX(XMP)
KINGSTON
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
1.65V
•
•
OCZ
OCZ3G1866LV4GK
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10-10-10-27 1.65V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
G.SKILL
CMT4GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
CMT6GX3MA1866C9(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
F3-14900CL9Q-8GBXL(XMP) 8GB(2GBx4) DS
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-10-9-27
9-9-9-24
1.65V
1.65V
1.50V
1.6V
1-11
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
DDR3-1600MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
SS/ Chip
DS Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM* 2 DIMMs*
A-Data
A-Data
AD31600E001GM(O)U3K
3GB(3 x 1GB) SS
8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
-
-
-
-
8-8-8-24 1.65V-1.85V
7-9-7-21 1.55V-1.75V
•
•
AX3U1600XC4G79-
2X(XMP)
•
•
A-Data
AX3U1600GC4G9-2G(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.55V-1.75V
9-9-9-24 1.65V
8-8-8-24 1.65V
9-9-9-24 1.65V
9-9-9-24 1.65V
9-9-9-24 1.65V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C9 G(XMP)
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
CMP8GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS
F3-12800CL9D-
2GB(2 x 1GB) SS
2GBNQ(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24 1.5V
9-9-9-24 XMP 1.35V
7-8-7-24 1.6V
8-8-8-24 1.60V
7-8-7-24 1.6V
9-9-9-24 1.5V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-12800CL9D-
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
4GBECO(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
4GBRM(XMP)
F3-12800CL8D-
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
4GBRM(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-
8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
8GBRH(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-
8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
8GBRL(XMP)
FLGE85F-B8KJ9A
FEIS(XMP)
KINGMAX
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
2GB
2GB
DS
DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
KHX1600C9AD3/2G
1.65V
1.65V
1.5V
KHX1600C7D3K2/
4GX(XMP)
4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS
KINGSTON
OCZ
KHX1600C9D3P1K2/4G
OCZ3G1600LV4GK
WA160UX6G9
4GB(2 x 2GB) SS
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
8-8-8-24 1.65V
Super Talent
GEIL
9
-
GET316GB1600C9QC(XMP) 16G(4x 4GB )
BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
JM1600KLN-8GK 8GB(4GBx2)
DS
9-9-9-28 1.6V
Crucial
-
-
-
-
Transcend
DS Transcend TK483PCW3
DDR3-1333 MHz capability
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM* 2 DIMMs*
AD30908C8D-151C
E0906
A-Data
AD31333001GOU
1GB
2GB
SS A-Data
SS A-Data
-
-
•
•
A-Data
A-Data
AD63I1B0823EV
3CCA-1509A
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
AD31333G001GOU
3GB(3 x 1GB) SS
-
-
-
8-8-8-24
1.65-1.85V
1.25V-
1.35V(low
voltage)
AXDU1333GC2G9-2G
(XMP)
A-Data
4GB(2 x 2GB) SS
-
9-9-9-24
•
•
A-Data
AD31333G002GMU
AD63I1C1624EV
78.A1GC6.9L1
2GB
4GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
1GB
DS
-
8-8-8-24
1.65-1.85V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
A-Data
DS A-Data
DS Apacer
DS Apacer
DS Apacer
3CCA-1509A
-
-
Apacer
AM5D5808DEWSBG
-
-
Apacer
78.A1GC6.9L1
AM5D5808FEQSBG
9
-
Apacer
78.B1GDE.9L10C
CM3X1024-1333C9
TR3X3G1333C9 G
TR3X6G1333C9 G
AM5D5908CEHSBG
-
-
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
SS
-
-
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
1.60V
1.50V
1.50V
3GB(3 x 1GB) SS
6GB(3x 2GB) SS
CMD24GX3M6A1333C9
(XMP)
CORSAIR
24GB(6x4GB) DS
-
-
9-9-9-24
1.60V
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
Crucial
TW3X4G1333C9D G
CMD8GX3M4A1333C7
CT25664BA1339.16FF
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
8GB(4 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
7-7-7-20
9
1.50V
1.60V
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
2GB
DS Micron
9KF27D9KPT
BL25664BN1337.16FF
(XMP)
Crucial
Crucial
ELPIDA
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
-
-
7-7-7-24
1.65V
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
CT25672BA1339.18FF
2GB
1GB
DS Micron
SS ELPIDA
91F22D9KPT(ECC)
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
9
-
1.35V(low
voltage)
EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F
1.35V(low
voltage)
ELPIDA
EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F
2GB
1GB
DS ELPIDA
SS G.SKILL
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
-
•
•
F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK
(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ
2GB(2 x 1GB) SS
-
9-9-9-24
1.5V
continued on the next page
1-12
Chapter 1: Product introduction
DDR3-1333 MHz capability
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendors
Part No.
Size
Chip Brand Chip NO.
Timing
Voltage
1 DIMM* 2 DIMMs*
F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK
(XMP)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
3GB(3 x 1GB) SS
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
8GB(2 x 4GB) DS
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
7-7-7-18
8-8-8-8-24
7-7-7-18
7-7-7-21
1.5~1.6V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F3-10666CL8D-
4GBECO(XMP)
XMP
1.35V
F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK
(XMP)
1.5~1.6V
1.5V
F3-10666CL7D-8GBRH
(XMP)
16GB(4x
DS
GEIL
GEIL
GEIL
GET316GB1333C9QC
GV32GB1333C9DC
GG34GB1333C9DC
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
9-9-9-24
1.5V
1.5V
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB )
2GB(2 x 1GB) DS
-
1.3V(low
voltage)
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS GEIL
GL1L128M88BA12N
GEIL
GEIL
GV34GB1333C9DC
GVP34GB1333C7DC
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
-
9-9-9-24
7-7-7-24
1.5V
1.5V
•
•
•
•
1.35V(low
voltage)
Hynix
Hynix
Hynix
HMT112U6TFR8A-H9
HMT325U6BFR8C-H9
HMT125U6TFR8A-H9
1GB
2GB
2GB
SS Hynix
SS Hynix
DS Hynix
DS Hynix
H5TC1G83TFRH9A
H5TQ2G83BFRH9C
H5TC1G83TFRH9A
H5TQ2G83BFRH9C
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
1.35V(low
voltage)
Hynix
HMT351U6BFR8C-H9
FLFE85F-C8KF9 CAES
FLFE85F-C8KL9 NAES
FLFE85F-C8KM9 NAES
FLFE85F-B8KL9 NEES
FLFF65F-C8KL9 NEES
FLFF65F-C8KM9 NEES
4GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
4GB
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
SS KINGMAX KFC8FMFXF-DXX-15A
SS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
SS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
DS KINGMAX KKB8FNWBFGNX-26A
DS KINGMAX KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A
DS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A
KVR1333D3N9/2G
(low profile)
KINGSTON
2GB
2GB
2GB
SS Hynix
SS Micron
DS ELPIDA
H5TQ2G83AFRH9C
IID77 D9LGK
9
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGSTON KVR1333D3S8N9/2G
1.5V
1.5V
KVR1333D3N9/2G
KINGSTON
J1108BFBG-DJ-F
9
(low profile)
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G
2GB
2GB
DS KTC
D1288JPNDPLD9U
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
9
9
1.5V
1.5V
•
•
•
•
DS ELPIDA
KVR1333D3N9/2G-SP
KINGSTON
2GB
2GB
DS KTC
D1288JEMFNGD9U
-
1.5V
1.5V
1.65V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
(low profile)
KVR1333D3N9/2G-SP
KINGSTON
DS KINGSTON D1288JPSFPGD9U
-
(low profile)
KHX1333C7D3K2/4GX
KINGSTON
(XMP)
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
4GB(2 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
7
9
9
KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX
XMP
1.25V
KINGSTON
(XMP)
-
KVR1333D3N9/4G
KINGSTON
4GB
DS ELPIDA
J2108BCSE-DJ-F
1.5V
(low profile)
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G
4GB
4GB
DS KTC
D2568JENCNGD9U
H5TQ2G83AFR
-
-
1.5V
-
•
•
•
•
DS Hynix
KVR1333D3N9/4G-SP
KINGSTON
4GB
DS KINGSTON D2568JENCPGD9U
-
1.5V
•
•
(low profile)
Micron
Micron
Micron
Micron
Micron
OCZ
MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1
1GB
2GB
SS Micron
SS Micron
DS Micron
DS Micron
SS MICRON
OJD12D9LGQ
OJD12D9LGK
9KF27D9KPT
OLD22D9LGK
IJM22 D9PFJ
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
-
MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB
MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB
MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1 2GB
OCZ3G1333LV6GK
9
-
-
-
-
-
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
-
-
-
9-9-9-20
1.65V
OCZ
OCZ3P1333LV6GK
-
7-7-7-20
1.65V
OCZ
OCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS
-
8-8-8-20
1.60V
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
PSC
AL7F8G73F-DJ2
1GB
2GB
1GB
2GB
4GB
8GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
4GB
SS PSC
DS PSC
A3P1GF3FGF
A3P1GF3FGF
-
-
PSC
AL8F8G73F-DJ2
-
-
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
M378B2873FHS-CH9
M378B5673FH0-CH9
M378B5273CH0-CH9
M378B1G73AH0-CH9
SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C
DS SAMSUNG K4B4G0846A-HCH9
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Super Talent W1333UA1GH
Super Talent W1333X2G8(XMP)
Super Talent W1333UB2GS
Super Talent W1333UB4GS
Super Talent W1333UX6GM
SS Hynix
SS
H5TQ1G83TFR
-
9
-
-
8
-
DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F
DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C
9
-
-
-
6GB(3x 2GB) DS Micron
0BF27D9KPT
9-9-9-24
1.5V
Transcend
Transcend
Transcend
NANYA
JM1333KLN-2G
2GB
2GB
2GB
4GB
SS Micron
SS Hynix
0YD77D9LGK
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
JM1333KLN-2G
H5TQ2G83BZRH9C
JM1333KLU-2G
DS Transcend TK243PDF3
DS NANYA NT5CB256M8GN-CG
NT4GC64B8HG0NF-CG
1-13
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
DDR3-1066 MHz capability
DIMM socket support
(Optional)
Chip
Brand
Vendors
Part No.
Size
SS/DS
Chip NO.
Timing Voltage
1 DIMM* 2 DIMMs*
Crucial
Crucial
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
CT12864BA1067.8FF
CT25664BA1067.16FF
EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F
EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F
1GB
2GB
1GB
2GB
SS
DS
SS
DS
Micron
Micron
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
9GF22D9KPT
7
7
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
9HF22D9KPT
-
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
J1108EDSE-DJ-F
1.35V(low voltage)
1.35V(low voltage)
-
KVR1066D3N7/1G(low
profile)
KINGSTON
1GB
SS
ELPIDA
J1108BFSE-DJ-F
7
1.5V
•
•
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
Micron
KVR1066D3N7/2G
KVR1066D3N7/4G
2GB
4GB
DS
DS
SS
ELPIDA
Hynix
J1108BDSE-DJ-F
H5TQ2G83AFR
9GF22D9KPT
7
7
7
1.5V
1.5V
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB
Micron
MT16JTF25664AZ-
2GB
Micron
DS
Micron
9HF22D9KPT
7
-
•
•
1G1F1
•
•
AMD® FX™ Series CPU on this motherboard supports up to DDR3 1866MHz as its
standard memory frequency.
Due to CPU spec., AMD® AM3 CPUs on this motherboard support up to DDR3
1333MHz.
SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided
DIMM support:
•
1 DIMM*: Supports one module inserted into any slot as single-channel memory
configuration.
•
2 DIMMs*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either slot or the blue slots as
one pair of dual-channel memory configuration.
1-14
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.6
Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.6.1
Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card:
1.
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2.
3.
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later
use.
4.
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is completely
seated on the slot.
5.
6.
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.
Replace the system cover.
1.6.2
Configuring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings.
1.
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.
2.
3.
Assign an IRQ to the card.
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that
the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
1.6.3
PCI slot
The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that
comply with PCI specifications.
1.6.4
PCI Express x1 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that
comply with the PCI Express specifications.
1.6.5
PCI Express x16 slot
This motherboard supports one PCI Express x16 graphics card that comply with the PCI
Express specifications.
1-16
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.7
Jumpers
1.
Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can
clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing
the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
CLRTC
1
2
2
3
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
Normal
Clear RTC
(Default)
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS Clear RTC RAM
1.
Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2.
Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3.
4.
Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to
reenter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
•
•
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper
again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the
battery.
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter
settings to default values.
1-17
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2.
Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. When you
set this jumper to pins 2–3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a key
on the keyboard. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A
on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS.
KBPWR
+5VSB
+5V
(Default)
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS Keyboard power setting
3.
USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-4, 3-pin USBPW5-8)
Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped,
DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB
devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep modes (no power to CPU,
DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power mode).
USBPW1-4
+5VSB
+5V
(Default)
USBPW5-8
1
2
2
3
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
+5VSB
+5V
(Default)
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS USB device wake-up
•
•
The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can provide 500mA on
the +5VSB lead for each USB port; otherwise, the system would not power up.
The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB)
whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.
1-18
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.8
Connectors
1.8.1
Rear panel ports
1
2
3 4
10
9
8
7
6
5
1.
2.
PS/2 Mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.
LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)
through a network hub.
LAN port LED indications
ACT/LINK SPEED
LED
LED
Activity/Link LED
Speed LED
Status
Description
Status
Description
OFF
No link
OFF
10Mbps connection
100Mbps connection
1Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
3.
4.
Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio
sources.
Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel,
6-channel, and 8-channel configurations, the function of this port becomes Front
Speaker Out.
5.
Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in the 2, 4, 6,
or 8-channel configuration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, 8-channel configuration
Headset
Port
4-channel
6-channel
8-channel
2-channel
Line In
Line Out
Mic In
-
Light Blue (Rear panel)
Lime (Rear panel)
Pink (Rear panel)
Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out
Bass/Center
Mic In
-
Bass/Center
-
Lime (Front panel)
Side Speaker Out
To configure an 8-channel audio output:
Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 8-channel audio
output.
1-19
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
6.
7.
8.
9.
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for
USB 2.0/1.1 devices.
USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB
USB 2.0/1.1 devices.
Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other
VGA-compatible devices.
COM port. This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
10. PS/2 Keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
1.8.2
Internal connectors
1.
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either High Definition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front
panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
AAFP
PIN 1
PIN 1
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
HD-audio-compliant
pin definition
Legacy AC’97
compliant definition
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS Front panel audio connector
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard high-definition audio capability.
If you want to connect a high definition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Select item in the BIOS to [HD Audio]. See section 2.4.4 Onboard
Devices Configuration for details.
•
The front panel audio I/O module is purchased separately.
1-20
Chapter 1: Product introduction
2.
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are
designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
ATX12V
EATXPWR
+3 Volts
GND
+12 Volts
+12 Volts
+5V Standby
Power OK
GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
-5 Volts
GND
PIN 1
+5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
+5 Volts
GND
PSON#
GND
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
-12 Volts
+3 Volts
PIN 1
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS ATX power connectors
•
•
We recommend that you use an ATX 12V Specification 2.0-compliant power supply
unit (PSU) with a minimum of 300W power rating. This PSU type has 24-pin and 4-pin
power plugs.
If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, ensure that the 20-pin
power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 V and that the PSU has a minimum
power rating of 300W. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the
power is inadequate.
•
DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will
not boot up.
•
We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when configuring a
system with more power-consuming devices or when you intend to install additional
devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is
inadequate.
•
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
1-21
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
3.
Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_1~4)
These connectors are for the Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial ATA hard
disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can
create a RAID 0, RAID 1, or RAID 10 configuration through the onboard controller.
SATA3G_2
SATA3G_1
SATA3G_4
SATA3G_3
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors
•
These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE mode, you can connect
Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a
Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the type of the SATA connectors in
the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 2.3.4 SATA Configuration for details.
•
•
You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later version.
When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the type of the SATA connectors in the BIOS to
[AHCI]. See section 2.3.4 SATA Configuration for details.
1-22
Chapter 1: Product introduction
4.
System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
PLED PWRBTN
F_PANEL
PIN 1
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
+HDLED RESET
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS System panel connector
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
•
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +HDLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The HD LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to
the HDD.
•
•
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power button.
Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without
turning off the system power.
5.
Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
SPEAKER
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
PIN 1
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS Speaker out connector
1-23
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
6.
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to
480Mbps connection speed.
USB78
USB56
PIN 1
PIN 1
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS USB2.0 connectors
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.
7.
CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN and 3-pin CHA_FAN)
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN
GND
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS
+12V
Rotation
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS fan connectors
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside
the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT
place jumper caps on the fan connectors.
Only the 4-pin CPU fan connector supports the ASUS Fan Xpert feature.
1-24
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.9
Software support
1.9.1
Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 7 Operating Systems (OS). Always install
the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
•
•
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for
detailed information.
Ensure that you install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows®
Vista Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better
compatibility and system stability.
1.9.2
Support DVD information
The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.
The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
To run the Support DVD
Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the DVD
automatically displays the Specials screen. Click Drivers, Utilities, Make Disk, Manual, and
Contact tabs to display their respective menus.
The following screen is for reference only.
Click an icon to display
Support DVD/motherboard
information
Click an item to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled on your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to
locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run
the DVD.
1-25
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
1-26
Chapter 1: Product introduction
BIOS information
2
2.1
Managing and updating your BIOS
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to
restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.
2.1.1
ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in Windows® environment.
•
•
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1.
2.
3.
Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Specials menu appears.
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS
To update the BIOS:
1.
From the Windows® desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > AI Suite II > AI Suite
II X.XX.XX to launch the AI Suite II utility. The AI Suite II Quick Bar appears.
2.
Click Update button from the Quick Bar, and then click ASUS Update from the popup
menu. The ASUS Update main screen appears. From the list, select either of the
following methods:
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-1
Updating from the Internet
a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.
b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, then click Next.
c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download then click
Next.
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update
the utility to avail all its features.
Updating from a BIOS file
a. Select Update BIOS from file, then click Next.
b. Locate the BIOS file from the Open window, then click Open.
Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.
3.
2.1.2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website at
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1.
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port, then launch
EZ Flash 2 in either of these two ways:
•
•
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST.
Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and
press <Enter> to enable it.
Press <Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS file is found.
2.
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process
and automatically reboots the system when done.
•
This function supports USB flash disks with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
2-2
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.1.3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file
when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS
file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS
file.
•
•
Before using this utility, rename the BIOS file in the USB flash drive into
MA78LLX3.ROM (for M5A78L-M LX3) or MA78LL3P.ROM (for M5A78L-M LX3
PLUS).
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1.
Turn on the system.
2.
Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB flash drive that contains the
BIOS file to the USB port.
3.
The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted BIOS file.
4.
Turn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and turn on again.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select
the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.8 Exit menu for
details.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-3
2.2
BIOS setup program
Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS
screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.
Entering BIOS Setup at startup
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:
•
Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,
POST continues with its routines.
Entering BIOS Setup after POST
To enter BIOS Setup after POST:
•
•
•
Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.
Press the reset button on the system chassis.
Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you
failed to enter BIOS Setup using the first two options.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force
reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We
recommend that you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.
•
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply to most conditions to ensure
optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS
settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the
Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.8 Exit Menu.
•
•
The BIOS setup screens in this chapter are for reference only. They may not exactly
match what you see on your screen.
Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this
motherboard.
2-4
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.2.1
BIOS menu screen
Menu items
Menu bar
Power
Configuration fields
General help
Version 0305
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Main Advanced
Boot
Tools
Exit
Main Settings
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a field.
System Time
System Date
[19:34:30]
[Thu 12/29/2011]
SATA3G_1
SATA3G_2
SATA3G_3
SATA3G_4
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
Use [+] or [-] to
configure system
Time.
SATA Configuration
System Information
Select Screen
Select Item
Change Field
Select Field
General Help
+-
Tab
F1
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
Navigation keys
Submenu items
2.2.2
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main
For changing the basic system configuration
Advanced
Power
Boot
For changing the advanced system settings
For changing the advanced power management (APM) configuration
For changing the system boot configuration
Tools
Exit
For configuring options for special functions
For selecting the exit options and loading default settings.
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the
desired item is highlighted.
2.2.3
Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu.
Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-5
2.2.4
Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, Tools, and Exit) on the menu bar have their
respective menu items.
2.2.5
Submenu items
A solid triangle before each item on a menu screen means that the item has a submenu. To
display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
2.2.6
Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- configurable, you can
change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-configurable.
A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the
value of a field, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 2.2.7 Pop-up
window.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Version 0302
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
2.2.7
Pop-up window
Power Settings
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
Select a menu item then press
<Enter> to display a pop-up
window with the configuration
options for that item.
Suspend Mode
ACPI 2.0 Support
ACPI APIC support
[Auto]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
Options
S1 (POS) only
S3 only
APM Configuration
Hardware Monitor
Anti Surge Support
Auto
[Enabled]
Select Screen
Select Item
+-
F1
Change Field
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2.2.8
Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side
of a menu screen when there are
items that do not fit on the screen.
Press the <Up> / <Down> arrow
keys or <Page Up> /<Page Down>
keys to display the other items on
the screen.
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American, AmericanMegatrends, Inc.
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
2.2.9
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
2-6
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.3
Main menu
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an
overview of the basic system information.
Refer to section 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and
how to navigate through them.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Power Boot Tools Exit
Version 0302
Main
Advanced
Main Settings
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
System Time
System Date
[19:34:30]
[Thu 08/14/2011]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a field.
SATA3G_1
SATA3G_2
SATA3G_3
SATA3G_4
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
:[Not Detected]
Use [+] or [-] to
configure system
Time.
SATA Configuration
System Information
Select Screen
Select Item
+-
Tab
F1
Change Field
Select Field
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.3.1
System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
2.3.2
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
2.3.3
SATA3G_1~4
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There
is a separate submenu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to
display the SATA device information.
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, LBA/Large
Mode, Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) Mode, PIO Mode, DMA Mode, SMART monitoring
and 32Bit Data Transfer). These values are not user-configurable. These items show Not
Detected if no SATA device is installed in the system.
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting this item to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode
disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When this item is set to [Auto], the data
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-
sector transfer feature. When this item is set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the
device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-7
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Auto]
[Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.3.4
SATA Configuration
The SATA Configuration menu allows you to configure your storage devices. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard channel SATA port. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
The following item only appears when you set OnChip SATA Channel to [Enabled].
SATA Port1 - Port4 [IDE]
Allows you to set the SATA configuration.
[IDE]
Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as
Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
[RAID]
[AHCI]
Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the SATA
hard disk drives.
Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI
(Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to
internally optimize the order of commands.
2.3.5
System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS
automatically detects the items in this menu.
BIOS Information
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification.
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory.
2-8
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.4
Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system
devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field
values can cause the system to malfunction.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Version 0302
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
Advanced Settings
Adjust System
Frequency/Voltage etc.
JumperFree Configuration
CPU Configuration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Configuration
PCIPnP
USB Configuration
Select Screen
Select Item
+-
Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.4.1
JumperFree Configuration
The items and configuration options in this menu may vary depending on the AMD CPU
type.
CPU OverClocking [Overclock Profile]
Selects the CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency.
Configuration options: [Manual] [Auto] [Overclock Profile] [Test Mode]
The following item appears only when you set CPU Overclocking to [Manual].
CPU/HT Reference Clock (MHz) [200]
Sets the CPU/HT Reference Clock. Configuration options: [Min.=200] [Max.=550]
The following item appears only when you set CPU Overclocking to [Overclock Profile].
Overclock Options [Overclock 5%]
Selects the overclocking profile. Configuration options: [Auto] [Overclock 2%]
[Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%] [Overclock 10%]
GPU Overclocking [Auto]
Configures the GPU overclocking. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item appears only when you set GPU Overclocking to [Manual].
GPU Engine Clock [350]
Sets the GPU Engine Clock. Use <+> / <-> keys to adjust the ratio or input a number
between 200 and 350.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-9
PCIE Overclocking [Auto]
Configures the PCIE overclocking. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item only appears when you set PCIE Overclocking to [Manual].
PCIE Clock [100]
Sets the PCIE Clock. Use <+> / <-> keys to adjust the ratio or input a number between
100 and 150.
CPU Ratio [Auto]
Sets the CPU ratio. Configuration options:[Auto] [x4.0 800MHz] [x4.5 900MHz] [x5.0
1000MHz] [x5.5 1100MHz] [x6.0 1200MHz] [x6.5 1300MHz] [x7 1400MHz] [x7.5 1500MHz]
[x8.0 1600MHz] [x8.5 1700MHz] [x9 1800MHz] [x9.5 1900MHz] [x10.0 2000MHz] [x10.5
2100MHz] [x11 2200MHz]
CPU/NB Frequency [Auto]
Sets the CPU/Northbridge frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [840MHz] [1050MHz]
[1260MHz] [1470MHz] [1680MHz] [1890MHz] [2100MHz]]
CPU Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the CPU over voltage. The valid value ranges vary depending on your CPU model. Use
<+> / <-> keys to adjust the ratio. Configuration options: [Auto]
VDDNB Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the VDDNB over voltage. The valid value ranges vary depending on your CPU model.
Use <+> / <-> keys to adjust the ratio. Configuration options: [Auto]
LoadLine Calibration [Auto]
Sets the LoadLine. Configuration options: [Auto] [0%] [3.225%] [6.450%] [9.675%] [12.90%] ~
[87.075%] [90.3%] [93.525%] [96.75%] [100%]
If the system becomes unstable after changing the setting, set it back to [Auto] for safe
mode.
HT Link Speed [Auto]
Sets the HyperTransport link speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [210MHz] [420MHz]
[630MHz] [840MHZ] [1050MHz] [1260MHz] [1470MHz] [1680MHz] [1890MHz] [2100MHz]
DRAM Timing Config [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following items only appear when you set DRAM Timing Config to [Manual].
Memory Clock Speed [400MHz]
Selects the memory clock frequency programming method. Configuration options:
[400MHz] [533MHz] [667MHz] [800MHz]
2-10
Chapter 2: BIOS information
DRAM Timing Configuration
The configuration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs you
install on the motherboard.
DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [15 CLK] ~ [30 CLK]
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]
DRAM Row Cycle Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [12 CLK] ~ [42 CLK]
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK]
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]
DRAM READ to WRITE Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [17 CLK]
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]
DRAM WRITE to WRITE Timing [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
DRAM READ to READ Timing [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [90ns] [110ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns]
DRAM Refresh Rate [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Every 7.8ms] [Every 3.9ms]
DRAM Command Rate [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]
Memory Voltage [Auto]
Sets the memory voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.350V] [1.500V] [1.650V] [1.800V]
PCI/PCIe CLK Status [Enabled]
Enables or disables clock for PCI/PCIe slot. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-11
2.4.2
CPU Configuration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer may
enable it for testing purpose. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Enables or disables Microcode Updation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM). Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]
Enables or disables the AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology. Configuration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
C1E Support [Disabled]
Enables or disables the CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving function
in system halt state. When this item is enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be
reduced during the system halt state to decrease power consumption.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Advanced Clock Calibration [Disabled]
Adjusts the processor’s overclocking capability. When this item is set to [Auto], the BIOS
automatically adjusts this function. When this item is set to [All Cores], the processor has
the best overclocking performance. When this item is set to [Per Core], the processor’s
overclocking capability is enhanced. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [All Cores]
[Per Core]
The following items appear only when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [Auto],
[All Cores], or [Per Core].
Unleashing Mode [Disabled]
Enable the Unleashing Mode to get full computing power of the processor. However,
this might make your system unstable depending on your processor’s overclocking
capability. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Active CPU Cores [Auto]
Allows you to manually turn ON/OFF a process core. Configuration options: [Auto]
[Manual]
2nd / 3rd / 4th Core [On]
These items appear only when you set Active CPU Cores to [Manual].
Configuration options: [On] [Off]
Value (All Cores) [-2%]
This item appears only when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [All Cores]. It
allows you to set the overclocking percentage for all the processor cores as a whole.
Configuration options: [0%] [+2%] [+4%] [+6%] [+8%] [+10%] [+12%] [-2%] [-4%]
[-6%] [-8%] [-10%] [-12%]
2-12
Chapter 2: BIOS information
Value (Core 0) / (Core 1) / (Core 2) / (Core 3) [-2%]
These items only appear when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [Per Core]
and allow you to set the overclocking percentage for each process core separately.
Configuration options: [0%] [+2%] [+4%] [+6%] [+8%] [+10%] [+12%] [-2%] [-4%]
[-6%] [-8%] [-10%] [-12%]
2.4.3
Chipset
NorthBridge Configuration
DRAM Controller Configuration
Bank Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Auto]
Node Interleaving [Disabled]
Allows you to enable the node memory interleaving. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Auto]
Channel Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Auto]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable memory remapping around memory hole. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
DCT Unganged Mode [Always]
Allows you to select unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width). Configuration options:
[Always] [Auto]
Power Down Enable [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable DDR power down mode. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Enabled]
ECC Configuration
ECC Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct
memory errors automatically. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Basic] [Good] [Super]
[Max] [User]
Internal Graphics
Primary Video Controller [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI]
Selects the primary display adapter. Configuration options: [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI] [GPP-
GFX0-IGFX-PCI] [PCI-GFX0-GPP-IGFX] [IGFX-GFX0-GPP-PCI]
GFX0:primary video controller on a PCIe x16 slot
GPP: primary video controller on a PCIe x1 slot
IGFX: onboard display output port
PCI: primary video controller on a PCI slot
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-13
UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto]
Selects the UMA frame buffer size. Configuration options: [Auto] [32MB] [64MB]
[128MB] [256MB] [512MB] [1GB]
•
•
The [512MB] option only appears when you install 1GB system memory or more.
The [1GB] option only appears when you install 2GB system memory or more.
Surround View [Auto]
Disables or enables the Surround View function. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
[Enabled]
This item becomes user-configurable when you install an ATI graphics card into the
PCIe x16 slot.
Frame Buffer Location [Above 4G]
Configuration options: [Below 4G] [Above 4G]
2.4.4
Onboard Devices Configuration
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the high definition audio controller. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. Configuration
options: [AC97] [HD Audio]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.4.5
PCIPnP
The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.
The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA
devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values
can cause the system to malfunction.
Plug and Play O/S [No]
When this item is set to [No], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When this item
is set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system
configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
2-14
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.4.6
USB Configuration
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If no
USB device is detected, the item shows None.
USB Functions [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB functions. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled].
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables USB 2.0 Controllers. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Legacy USB Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable support for Legacy USB storage devices, including USB flash
drives and USB hard drives. Setting to Auto allows the system to detect the presence of USB
devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device
is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
Allows you to configure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480Mbps) or Full Speed
(12Mbps). Configuration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]
The following items only appear when a USB storage device is plugged in.
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]
Sets the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to initialize.
Configuration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]
Emulation Type [Auto]
Allows you to set the emulation type. Configuration options: [Auto] [Floppy]
[Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-15
2.5
Power menu
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and
Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Version 0302
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
Power Settings
Suspend Mode
ACPI 2.0 Support
ACPI APIC Support
[Auto]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
APM Configuration
HW Monitor Configuration
Anti Surge Support
[Enabled]
Select Screen
Select Item
+-
F1
Change Option
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.5.1
Suspend Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used
for system suspend. Configuration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]
2.5.2
ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0
support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.5.3
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)
support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When set to Enabled, the
ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.4
APM Configuration
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
When this item is set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
When this item is set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When this
item set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system
state was before the AC power loss. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last
State]
Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Enables or disables PME wake from sleep states. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Enables or disables ring to generate a wake event. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2-16
Chapter 2: BIOS information
Power on By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
Enables or disables PS/2 Keyboard to generate a wake event. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Space Bar] [Power Key] [Ctrl-Esc]
Power on From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Enables or disables RTC to generate a wake event. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.5
HW Monitor Configuration
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU
temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [N/A], [xxxxRPM], or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / Chassis fan
speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field
shows N/A. Select [gnored] if you do not want the detected speed to be displayed.
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xx.xxxV] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators.
CPU Q-Fan Function [Enabled]
Enables or disables the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the CPU fan speeds for
more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when you set CPU Q-Fan Function to [Enabled].
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]
Allows you to manually set a lower limit for the CPU fan speed. If the CPU fan speed is
below the specified limit, the system sends out warning beeps. Configuration options:
[600 RPM] [500 RPM] [400 RPM] [300 RPM] [200 RPM] [Ignored]
CPU Q-Fan Mode [Standard]
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard]
Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending
on the CPU temperature.
[Silent]
[Turbo]
[Manual]
Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
Set to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
Allows you to individually set the CPU fan parameters.
The following four items appear only when you set CPU Q-Fan Mode to [Manual].
CPU Upper Temperature [70oC/158oF]
Allows you to select the CPU upper temperature. Configuration options: [30oC/86oF]
[40oC/104oF] [50oC/122oF] [60oC/140oF] [70oC/158oF] [80oC/176oF] [90oC/194oF]
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-17
CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100%]
Allows you to select the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. When the CPU temperature
reaches the upper limit, the CPU fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle. Configu-
ration options: [20%] [30%] [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%].
CPU Lower Temperature [20oC/68oF]
Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20%]
Allows you to select the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. When the CPU temperature is
under 40ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle. Configuration options:
[00%] [10%] [20%] [30%] [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%].
2.5.6
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Anti-Surge protection feature. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Enabled]
2-18
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.6
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the submenu.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Power Boot Tools Exit
Version 0302
Main
Advanced
Specifies the Boot
Device Priority
sequence.
Boot Settings
Boot Device Priority
A virtual floppy disk
drive (Floppy Drive B:)
may appear when you set
the CD-ROM drive as the
first boot device.
Boot Settings Configuration
Security
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub
Screen
F1
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.6.1
Boot Device Priority
1st ~ xxth Boot Device
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system. Configuration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive]
[ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]
•
•
To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS logo appears.
To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.
2.6.2
Boot Settings Configuration
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting
to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When this item is set to [Disabled], BIOS
performs all the POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
Enables or disables the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-19
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Selects the power-on state for the NumLock. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
When this item is set to [Enabled], the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error
occurs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]
When this item is set to [Enabled], the system displays the message Press DEL to run
Setup during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.6.3
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select
an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Change Supervisor Password
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item
on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item
shows Installed.
To set a Supervisor Password:
1.
2.
Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.
On the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters, or numbers, or
both, then press <Enter>.
3.
Confirm the password when prompted.
The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a supervisor
password.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press
<Enter> twice. The message Password uninstalled appears.
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock
(RTC) RAM. See section 1.7 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
2-20
Chapter 2: BIOS information
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change
other security settings.
User Access Level [Full Access]
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Configuration options:
[No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]
No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.
View Only allows access but does not allow change to any field.
Limited allows changes only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.
Full Access allows viewing and changing all the fields in the Setup utility.
Change User Password
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the
screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a User Password:
1.
2.
Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.
On the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters, or numbers, or
both, then press <Enter>.
3.
Confirm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password successfully.
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
Clear User Password
Select this item to clear the user password.
Password Check [Setup]
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When
set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the
system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-21
2.7
Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Power Boot Tools Exit
Version 0302
Press ENTER to run
the utility to select
and update BIOS. This
utility supports:
1.FAT 12/16/32 (r/w)
2.NTFS (read only)
3.CD-DISC (read only)
Main
Advanced
Tools Settings
ASUS EZ Flash
2
ASUS O.C. Profile
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub
Screen
F1
General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.7.1
ASUS EZ Flash 2
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
confirm your choice. See section 2.1.2 for details.
2.7.2
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Add Your CMOS Profile
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, key in
your profile name and press <Enter>, and then choose a profile number to save your CMOS
settings in the Save to sub-item.
Load CMOS Profiles.
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to
load the file.
Start O.C. Profile
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility.
•
•
•
•
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and
single partition only.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system
boot failure!
We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU
configuration and BIOS version.
Only the CMO file can be loaded.
2-22
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.8
Exit menu
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS
items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
M5A78L-M LX3 PLUS BIOS Setup
Boot Tools Exit
Version 0302
Main Advanced
Exit Options
Power
Exit system setup
after saving the
cahnges.
Exit
Exit
&
&
Save Changes
Discard Changes
Discard Changes
F10 key can be used
for this operation.
Load Setup Defaults
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this
menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.
Exit & Save Changes
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to
ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery
sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this
option, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to save changes and exit.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup
program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and
Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.
Discard Changes
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved
values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select OK to discard any changes
and load the previously saved values.
Load Setup Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears.
Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes
before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
2-23
2-24
Chapter 2: BIOS information
Appendices
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
•
•
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
•
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement
Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS
210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian
interference-causing equipment regulations.
This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :
(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.
A-1
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement
VCCI Class B Statement
KC: Korea Warning Statement
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services
ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards
for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to
responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging
information in different regions.
A-2
Appendices
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address
Telephone
Fax
E-mail
Web site
15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
+886-2-2894-3447
+886-2-2890-7798
Technical Support
Telephone
Online support
+86-21-38429911
support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address
Telephone
Fax
800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
+1-812-282-3777
+1-510-608-4555
usa.asus.com
Web site
Technical Support
Telephone
Support fax
+1-812-282-2787
+1-812-284-0883
support.asus.com
Online support
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address
Fax
Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
+49-2102-959911
Web site
Online contact
Technical Support
Telephone
Support Fax
+49-1805-010923*
+49-2102-9599-11
support.asus.com
Online support
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
A-3
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
A-4
Appendices
A-5
ASUS M5A78L-M LX3 Series
|
