E2929 P5N32-E SLI PDF

Motherboard
P5N32-E SLI
E2929
First Edition V1
November 2006
Copyright © 2006 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless
such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the
product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
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Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or
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ii
Contents
Notices......................................................................................................... vii
Safety information..................................................................................... viii
About this guide.......................................................................................... ix
P5N32-E SLI specifications summary........................................................ xi
Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents.......................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Special features............................................................................. 1-2
1.3.1 Product highlights............................................................ 1-2
1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle features . ............................................ 1-4
1.3.3 ASUS special features..................................................... 1-7
Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-2
2.2.1 Placement direction......................................................... 2-2
2.2.2 Screw holes..................................................................... 2-2
2.2.3 ASUS Stack Cool 2.......................................................... 2-3
2.2.4 Motherboard layout.......................................................... 2-4
2.2.5 Layout contents................................................................ 2-5
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-7
2.3.1 Installing the CPU............................................................ 2-8
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan............................... 2-10
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan.......................... 2-12
2.3.4 Installing the optional fan............................................... 2-14
2.4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-15
2.4.1 Overview........................................................................ 2-15
2.4.2 Memory configurations................................................... 2-16
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM........................................................... 2-17
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM......................................................... 2-17
2.5 Expansion slots........................................................................... 2-18
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card.......................................... 2-18
2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card...................................... 2-18
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments.................................................... 2-19
iii
Contents
2.5.4 PCI slots......................................................................... 2-20

2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot........................................................ 2-20
2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots.................................................... 2-20
2.6 Jumper......................................................................................... 2-21
2.7 Audio card installation............................................................... 2-22
2.8 Connectors.................................................................................. 2-23
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors................................................... 2-23
2.8.2 Internal connectors........................................................ 2-26
Chapter 3: Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1
3.2 Turning off the computer.............................................................. 3-2
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function..................................... 3-2
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch............................... 3-2
Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 4-1
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility......................................................... 4-1
4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk........................................ 4-4
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.................................................... 4-5
4.1.4 Updating the BIOS........................................................... 4-6
4.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file............................................. 4-8
4.2 BIOS setup program..................................................................... 4-9
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen......................................................... 4-10
4.2.2 Menu bar........................................................................ 4-10
4.2.3 Legend bar......................................................................4-11
4.2.4 Menu items.....................................................................4-11
4.2.5 Sub-menu items..............................................................4-11
4.2.6 Configuration fields.........................................................4-11
4.2.7 Pop-up window.............................................................. 4-12
4.2.8 General help.................................................................. 4-12
4.3 Main menu................................................................................... 4-13
4.3.1 System Time.................................................................. 4-13
4.3.2 System Date.................................................................. 4-13
4.3.3 Language....................................................................... 4-13
iv
Contents
4.3.4 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 4-13

4.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave.............................................. 4-14
4.3.6 SATA 1 ~ 6.......................................................................................4-16
4.3.7 HDD SMART Monitoring................................................ 4-17
4.3.8 Installed Memory............................................................ 4-17
4.3.9 Usable Memory.............................................................. 4-17
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu.............................................................. 4-18
4.4.1 AI Tuning........................................................................ 4-18
4.4.2 Overclocking.................................................................. 4-21
4.4.3 Over Voltage.................................................................. 4-23
4.4.4 NVIDIA GPU Ex............................................................. 4-24
4.4.5 SLI-Ready Memory........................................................ 4-24
4.4.6 SLI-Ready Memory CPUOC.......................................... 4-24
4.5 Advanced menu.......................................................................... 4-25
4.5.1 AI NET2......................................................................... 4-25
4.5.2 PCIPnP.......................................................................... 4-26
4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration....................................... 4-27
4.6 Power menu................................................................................. 4-30
4.6.1 ACPI Suspend Type....................................................... 4-30
4.6.2 ACPI APIC Support........................................................ 4-30
4.6.3 APM Configuration......................................................... 4-31
4.6.4 Hardware Monitor.......................................................... 4-33
4.7 Boot menu................................................................................... 4-36
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority....................................................... 4-36
4.7.2 Removable Drives.......................................................... 4-37
4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives............................................................ 4-37
4.7.4 CDROM Drives.............................................................. 4-37
4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 4-38
4.7.6 Security.......................................................................... 4-39
4.8 Tools menu.................................................................................. 4-41
4.8.1 ASUS Music Alarm......................................................... 4-41
4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile.......................................................... 4-42
4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2........................................................... 4-44
4.9 Exit menu..................................................................................... 4-45

Contents
Chapter 5: Software support

5.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1
5.2 Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1
5.2.1 Running the support DVD................................................ 5-1
5.2.2 Drivers menu.................................................................... 5-2
5.2.3 Utilities menu................................................................... 5-3
5.2.4 Make Disk menu.............................................................. 5-5
5.2.5 Manuals menu................................................................. 5-6
5.2.6 ASUS Contact information............................................... 5-6
5.2.7 Other information............................................................. 5-7
5.3 Software information.................................................................... 5-9
5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™............................................................ 5-9
5.3.2 SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility.........................5-11
5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II.......................................................... 5-16
5.3.4 ASUS Music Alarm......................................................... 5-22
5.3.5 ASUS AI Booster............................................................ 5-25
5.4 RAID configurations................................................................... 5-26
5.4.1 RAID definitions............................................................. 5-26
5.4.2 NVIDIA® RAID configurations........................................ 5-27
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................ 5-34
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support

6.1 Overview........................................................................................ 6-1
6.2 Dual graphics card setup............................................................. 6-2
6.2.1 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards.................................. 6-2
6.2.2 Installing the device drivers.............................................. 6-5
6.2.3 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows®................. 6-5
vi
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, and
• 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.
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.
vii
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.
• Make sure 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, make sure 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.
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.
viii
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: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers
and connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 3: Powering up
This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down
the system.
• Chapter 4: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Descriptions of the BIOS items are also provided.
• Chapter 5: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the
motherboard package.
• Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support
This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready PCI Express graphics cards.
Where to find more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and
software updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. 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.
ix
Conventions used in this guide
To make sure 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 Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics 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 (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
Command Means that you must type the command exactly
as shown, then supply the required item or value
enclosed in brackets.

Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
format A:/S

P5N32-E SLI specifications summary
CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2
Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 /
Celeron® D Processors
Intel® Quad-core CPU Ready
Compatible with Intel® 06/05B/05A processors
Note: Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the Intel® CPU support
list.
Chipset NVIDIA® nForce 680i SLI

- Supports SLI-Ready Memory Technology
Front Side Bus 1333** / 1066 / 800 / 533 MHz
Memory Dual-channel memory architecture
- 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support non-ECC
unbuffered DDR2 800/667/533 MHz memory modules
- Supports up to 8 GB system memory
Note: Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest Qualified
Vendors List (QVL).
SLI-Ready Memory 1200 MHz

Expansion slots 2 x PCI Express™ x16 slots support NVIDIA®
SLI™ technology at full x16, x16 speed (blue)
1 x PCI Express™ x 16, at x 8 speed (white)
1 x PCI Express™ x1
2 x PCI 2.2
Scalable Link Interface Supports two identical NVIDIA® SLI™-Ready graphics
(SLI™) cards (both at x16 mode)
Note: The blue PCI Express x 16 slots support NVIDIA® SLI™
technology at full x16, x16 speed. The middle slot is for an add-on card at
x8 speed.
Storage/RAID Southbridge supports:

- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33
- 6 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s
- NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID supports RAID 0, 1,
0+1, 5 and JBOD configuration across Serial ATA
drives
LAN NVIDIA® nForce 680i SLI built-in dual Gigabit MAC with
external Marvell PHY
- Supports NVIDIA® DualNet®å Technology
(continued on the next page)
xi
High Definition Audio SupremeFX Audio Card
- ADI 1988B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC
- Supports Jack-Sensing,
Multi‑streaming and Jack-Retasking
Coaxial, Optical S/PDIF out
DTS® Connect
IEEE 1394 VIA6308P controller supports:
- 2 x IEEE 1394a connectors (1 at mid-board, 1 on
the rear panel)
USB Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 at mid-board, 4
on the rear panel)
ASUS Exclusive Intelligent overclocking tools:
Overclocking features - AI NOS™ (Non-delay Overclocking System)
- AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner)
- AI Booster
- O.C. Profile
Overclocking protection:
- ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
ASUS Unique features ASUS EZ DIY:
* Q-Connector
* ASUS Crashfree BIOS2
* ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS Music Alarm
ASUS MyLogo 3
Q-Fan 2
Rear panel 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port (purple)
1 x PS/2 Mouse (green)
1 x Optical S/PDIF Output port
1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Output port
2 x LAN (RJ45) port
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x IEEE1394a port
(continued on the next page)
xii
Internal connectors 1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x IDE connector for 2 devices
6 x Serial ATA connectors
3 x USB 2.0 connectors support six additional USB 2.0
ports
1 x IEEE 1394a port connector
1 x Chassis intrusion connector
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
1 x S/PDIF output connector
8 x Fan connectors: 1 x CPU / 1 x Power / 1 x Chassis /
5 x optional fan connectors
System panel connector
BIOS features 8 Mb AWARD BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS
2.3, Multi-Language BIOS
Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chasis Intrusion, PXE
Accessories 1 x SLI bridge

1 x ASUS Q-connector Kit (USB, 1394, system panel;
Retail version only)
1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
4 x SATA cables
2 x SATA power cables
1 x 2-port USB2.0 module
1 x IEEE1394a module
User’s manual
Support DVD contents Device drivers
ASUS PC Probe II
ASUS Update
ASUS AI Booster
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID
Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

** available when the installed CPU is supporting 1333MHz FSB.
xiii
xiv
1
This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
Product
introduction
Chapter summary
1.1
1.2
1
Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1
Package contents.......................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Special features............................................................................. 1-2
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5N32-E SLI motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it
another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard ASUS P5N32-E SLI motherboard

I/O modules 1 x 1-port IEEE 1394a module
1 x 2-port USB 2.0 module
Cables 2 x Serial ATA power cables
4 x Serial ATA signal cables
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
Accessories I/O shield
1 x 3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit
(USB, IEEE 1394, system panel; Retail version only)
1 x ASUS SLI Bridge
Application DVD ASUS motherboard support CD/DVD
Documentation User guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
Green ASUS
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
Intel® Core™2 / Quad-core Processor Ready

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™2 processor in the LGA775
package. With the new Intel® Core™ microarchitecture technology and 1066 /
800 MHz FSB, the Intel® Core™2 is one of the most powerful and energy efficient
CPUs in the world. This motherboard also supports the latest Intel® Quad-core
processor, which is excellent for multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic
gamers with 1066 / 800 MHz FSB. See page 2-7 for details.
NVIDIA® nForce® 680i SLI chipset

The NVIDIA® nForce 680i SLI chipset supports the NVIDIA® Scalable Link Interface
(SLI™) technology that allows two graphics processing units (GPUs) in a single
system. It’s designed for enthusiast, extreme overclocking capability, ultimate
gaming performance with SLI technology support. It’s definitely one of the fastest
platform in the world. See Chapter 6 for details. The NVIDIA® nForce 680i SLI
chipset also supports six (6) Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s devices, dual PCI Express™ x16
slots at with NVIDIA® SLI™ support at full x16, x16 mode, and up to 10 USB 2.0
ports.
NVIDIA® Scalable Link Interface (SLI™)

NVIDIA SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) takes advantage of the increased
bandwidth of the PCI Express bus architecture and features intelligent hardware
and software that allows two GPUs to efficiently work together to deliver earth-
shattering, scalable performance.
1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

DDR2 memory support
The motherboard supports DDR2 memory that features data transfer rates
of 800/667/533 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest
3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2
architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system
performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s.
See page 2‑15 for details.
Serial ATA I/II technology

The motherboard fully supports the Serial ATA II 3.0 Gb/s technology through the
Serial ATA interfaces and the NVIDIA® nForce® 680i SLI™ chipset. The Serial
ATA 3.0 Gb/s specification provides twice the bandwidth of the current Serial ATA
products with a host of new features, including Native Command Queueing (NCQ),
and Power Management (PM) Implementation Algorithm. Serial ATA allows for
thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count and reduced voltage required.
See page 2-27 for details.
The NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID controller integrated in the NVIDIA® nForce®
680i SLI™ chipset allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD
configurations for six SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors. See pages 2-27 and 5-27 for
details.
IEEE 1394a support

The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals
& other PC portable devices. See pages 2-25 and 2-29 for details.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

S/PDIF digital sound ready
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater
audio systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY/PHILIPS Digital
Interface) jacks.It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog
format and keeps the best signal quality. See pages 2-24 and 2-25 for details.
Dual Gigabit LAN solution

The motherboard comes with dual Gigabit LAN controllers to provide the total
solution for your networking needs. These network controllers provide faster
data bandwidth for your wired or wireless Internet, LAN, and file sharing
requirements. See page 2-23 for details.

1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle features
ASUS has devoted special efforts to address the thermal issues across the
motherboard, and most notably the areas that reside the CPU, power, Northbridge
and Southbridge.
Advanced thermal design
Stack Cool 2
Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution offered exclusively
by ASUS. It effectively transfers heat generated by the critical components
to the other side of the specially designed PCB (printed circuit board) for
effective heat dissipation.
8 Phase Power Design

ASUS 8-Phase Power Design keeps CPU and power module away from
suffering risk of high power stress, which makes CPU lifetime much longer
and system more stable. Furthermore, It provides high efficiency operation
to generate less heat than conventional power solutions and consequently
achieve cool system environment. With this strong power pump, this
motherboard is made for overclocking.
Fanless Design: Heat-pipe Thermal solution

Cooling fans, though a popular thermal solution, also come with noise and
malfunction likelyhood. ASUS Motherboard's fansless concept is specifically
created to provide a cool environment without all the baggage.
The heat pipe, heat sinks and strategic board layout were tailor made to
dissipate heat in the most efficient manner.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS Q-Connector
The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front
panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique
adapter eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making
connection quick and accurate.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data
from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. This utility saves users the
cost and hassle of buying a replacement BIOS chip.
ASUS EZ Flash 2
EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply launch this tool and
update BIOS from a USB flash disk before entering the OS. You can update
your BIOS only in a few clicks without preparing an additional floppy diskette
or using an OS-based flash utility.
SupremeFX (ADI 1988b)

The SupremeFX audio card is designed to provide you the best game sound
experience. With 24bit/192KHz full sampling in all surround channels, no matter
if you're hearing your game through headphones or 7.1 surround speakers, we'll
deliver the effects loud and clear!
DTS® Connect
This feature is consists of two elements: DTS interactive and DTS NEO:PC. DTS
interactive re-encodes your stereo or multi-channel sound into a DTS audio signal
and send it out from your PC to any DTS enabled system. While DTS NEO:PC
turns your stereo audio such as MP3, WMA, CD, and other sound format into a
convincing multi-channel audio experience.

1.3.3 ASUS special features
ASUS O.C. Profile

The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently
store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the
CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite
overclocking settings.
AI NOS™
Applications such as 3D games and video editing demand a huge chunk of
system resource. Inject "nitrous oxide" into your CPU! The patented AI NOS™
(Non-delay Overclocking System) technology intelligently detects system load
and automatically boosts performance for the most demanding tasks. Unlike other
dynamic overclocking techniques, AI NOS™ reacts much faster to satisfy your
unending need for speeds.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
ASUS Multi-language BIOS

The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the
available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster configuration.
See page 4-13 for details.
ASUS MyLogo3
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add
style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for details.
Music Alarm
Wake up to the music of your choice instead of the irritating sound of an alarm
clock. The ASUS Music Alarm gives you a personal wake-up call with your favorite
CD music when system is off.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

2
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components. It
includes description of the jumpers and
connectors on the motherboard.
Hardware
information
Chapter summary
2.1
2
Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-2
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-7
2.4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-15
2.5 Expansion slots........................................................................... 2-18
2.6 Jumper......................................................................................... 2-21
2.7 Audio card installation............................................................... 2-22
2.8 Connectors.................................................................................. 2-23
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components
or change any motherboard settings.
• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to

a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling
components 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.
Onboard LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED 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
P5N32-E SLI
ON OFF
Standby Powered
Power Off
P5N32-E SLI Onboard LED
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to
ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage
motherboard components.
2.2.1 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, make sure 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.
2.2.2 Screw holes

Place nine (9) 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
P5N32-E SLI
2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.3 ASUS Stack Cool 2
The motherboard comes with the ASUS Stack Cool 2 cooling solution that lowers
the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses
a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat that critical
components generate.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2.2.4 Motherboard layout
24.5cm (9.6in)
CPU_FAN
ATX12V
Super
PS/2KBMS
I/O
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
SPDIF_O1
PWR_FAN
LGA775
DDR2 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module)

DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module)

1394a
FLOPPY
EATXPWR
LAN1_USB12
30.5cm (12.0in)
NVIDIA®
LAN2_USB34 CHA_FAN1 NFORCE® 680i SLI
Intel® Edition
USB910
Audio slot
PRI_IDE
OPT_FAN2 ®
Marvell
88E1116 PCIEX16_1
PCIEX1
SATA56
Marvell
88E1116 PCIEX16_2 NVIDIA®
NFORCE® 680i SLI
P5N32-E SLI Intel® Edition
SATA34
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
PCI1 CMOS Power
SB_PWR
SATA12
VT6308P
PCIEX16_3
VIA
8Mb
OPT_FAN4
OPT_FAN1 BIOS CLRTC
PCI2 CHASSIS
OPT_FAN5
SPDIF_O2
IE1394_2 USB56 USB78
ADH
OPT_FAN3
PANEL
Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and
internal connectors.

2.2.5 Layout contents
Slots Page
1. DDR2 DIMM slots 2-15
2. PCI slots 2-20
3. PCI Express x1 slot 2-20
4. PCI Express x16 slots 2-20
Jumper Page
1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_EN) 2-21
Rear panel connectors Page

1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2-23
2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 2-23
3. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. 2-23
4. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 2-23
5. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2, 3 and 4 2-25
6 IEEE1394a port 2-25
7. Optical S/PDIF Out port 2-25
8. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-25
Supreme FX Page
1. Line In port (light blue) 2-24
2. Line Out port (lime) 2-24
3. Microphone port (pink) 2-24
4. Center/Subwoofer port (orange) 2-24
5. Side Speaker Out port (gray) 2-24
6. Rear Speaker Out port (black) 2-24
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

Internal connectors Page
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2-26
2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) 2-26
3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) 2-27
4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB 78, USB910) 2-28
5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-29
6. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors 2-30
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin OPT-FAN 1~5,
3-pin PWR_FAN)
7. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2-31
8. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 2 x 4-pin ATX12V) 2-31
9. S/PDIF output connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_O2) 2-33
10. System panel connector (20-8-pin PANEL) 2-34
• System power LED (2-pin PLED)
• Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)
• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
• ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWR)
• Reset button (2-pin RESET)
11. ASUS Q-connector (system panel) 2-35

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the
Intel® Quad-core / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium®
D/ Pentium® 4 and Celeron® D processors.
• Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• Connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure
system stability.
• Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on
the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer
immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP
cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost
of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related.
• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes
with the cap on the LGA775 socket.
• The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts
resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/
incorrect removal of the PnP cap.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2.3.1 Installing the CPU
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
P5N32-E SLI
P5N32-E SLI CPU Socket 775
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the socket box is facing towards you
and the load lever is on your left.
2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is
released from the retention tab.
Retention tab
A
Load lever PnP cap
B This side of the socket box

should face you.
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you
are installing a CPU.
3. Lift the load lever in the direction of

the arrow to a 135º angle.

4. Lift the load plate with your thumb
and forefinger to a 100º angle (A),
B
then push the PnP cap from the load
plate window to remove (B).
A
Load plate
Alignment key
5. Position the CPU over the

socket, making sure that
the gold triangle is on the
bottom‑left corner of the
socket then fit the socket
alignment key into the
CPU notch
CPU notch.
Gold triangle mark
The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the
socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!
6. Close the load plate (A), then A

push the load lever (B) until it
snaps into the retention tab.
7. If installing a dual-core CPU, B
connect the chassis fan cable
to the CHA_FAN1 connector to
ensure system stability.
The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced
Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology
(EIST), and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more
information on these CPU features.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
The Intel LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan
®
assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
• When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan
and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you
use only Intel®‑certified multi‑directional heatsink and fan.
• Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design
and requires no tool to install.
• If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure
that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU
heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you
install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Place the heatsink on top of the

installed CPU, making sure that
the four fasteners match the holes
on the motherboard.
Orient the heatsink and fan

assembly such that the CPU fan
cable is closest to the CPU fan
connector.
Motherboard hole
Narrow end Fastener

of the groove
Make sure to orient each fastener with the narrow end of the groove pointing
outward. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information

2. Push down two fasteners at a time in
a diagonal sequence to secure the
B
heatsink and fan assembly in place.
A
A
A B B
B A
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled
CPU_FAN.
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
P5N32-E SLI
P5N32-E SLI CPU fan connector
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors
can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-11

2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:
1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from

the connector on the motherboard.
2. Rotate each fastener
counterclockwise.
3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in

a diagonal sequence to disengage
B
the heatsink and fan assembly
from the motherboard. A
A
B
A B
B A
4. Carefully remove the heatsink

and fan assembly from the
motherboard.

5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to
ensure correct orientation when
reinstalling.
Narrow end of the groove
The narrow end of the

groove should point
outward after resetting.
(The photo shows the
groove shaded for
emphasis.)
Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for
detailed information on CPU fan installation.

2.3.4 Installing the optional fan
Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler.
Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow
and destabilize the system.
1. Position the fan above the pipe 2. Fit the grooved edge to the
and heatsink assembly. heatsink.
3. Carefully push down the fan until 4. The above photo shows the fan
it snugly fits the heatsink, then installed on the motherboard.
connect the fan cables.
• Plug the optional fan cables to any of the OPT FAN1~5 connectors on the
motherboard.
• Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the
fan and motherboard components.
The optional fan is purchased separately. Contact your retailer for more
information.

2.4 System memory
2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory
Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a
240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched
differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:
DIMM_A1
DIMM_A2
DIMM_B1
DIMM_B2
®
P5N32-E SLI
P5N32-E SLI 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets
Channel Sockets
Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2
Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

2.4.2 Memory configurations
You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2
DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
• For dual-channel configuration, the total size of memory module(s) installed

per channel must be the same (DIMM_A1 + DIMM_A2 = DIMM_B1 +
DIMM_B2).
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum
compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the
same vendor. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest DDR2
Qualified Vendors List.
• Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 8 GB
system memory when you installed four 2 GB DDR2 memory modules.
• The motherboard can support up to 8 GB on the operating system listed

below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot.
32-bit 64-bit
Windows® 2000 Advanced Windows® Server 2003
Server Standard x64 Edition
Windows® Server 2003 Windows® XP Professional x64
Enterprise Edition Edition
Windows® Server 2003
Enterprise x64 Edition
Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2-800/667/533 MHz QVL.

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other

system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the
motherboard and the components.
To install a DIMM: 2
DDR2 DIMM notch
3
1. Unlock a DIMM socket by
pressing the retaining clips
outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket 1
such that the notch on the DIMM
matches the break on the socket. 1
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the
socket until the retaining clips
snap back in place and the DIMM
is properly seated.
Unlocked retaining clip
• A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. Do
not force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.
• The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not install DDR
DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:
2
1. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.
Support the DIMM lightly with

1
your fingers when pressing the
retaining clips. The DIMM might
get damaged when it flips out with 1 DDR2 DIMM notch
extra force.
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

2.5 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.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard
components.
2.5.1 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. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a
chassis).
3. 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. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.
6. Replace the system cover.
2.5.2 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 4 for information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.
3. 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. Refer to the table on the next page for details.

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
IRQ Standard function
0 System timer
1 Standard 101/102-key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard
4 Communications Port (COM1)*
6 Standard floppy disk controller
8 System CMOS/real-time clock
9 Microsoft ACPI-compliant system
9 NVIDIA nForce networking controller #3
9 NVIDIA nForce networking controller #4
10 NVIDIA nForce PCI system management
11 Mass storage controller
12 PS/2 compatible mouse port
13 Numeric data processor
14 Primary IDE channel
16 NVIDIA GeForce 6600 GT
19 VIA OHCI compliant IEEE 1394 host controller
20 NVIDIA nForce 590/570/550 Serial ATA controller
20 NVIDIA network bus enumerator
21 NVIDIA network bus enumerator
22 Standard OpenHCD USB host controller
23 Standard Enhanced PCI to USB host controller
IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H
PCIEx16_1 – – – – shared – – –
PCIEx16_2 – – – – – shared – –
PCIEx16_3 – – – – shared – – –
PCIEx1_1 – – – – – shared – –
PCI Slot_1 shared – – – – – – –
PCI Slot_2 – shared – – – – – –
USB 1.1 – shared – – – – – –
USB 2.0 – – shared – – – – –
LAN_1 – shared – – – – – –
LAN_2 – shared – – – – – –
PATA shared – – – – – – –
SATA_1 – shared – – – – – –
SATA_2 – – shared – – – – –
SATA_3 – – – used – – – –
SATA_RAID – shared – – – – – –
1394 – shared – – – – – –
Audio – – shared – – – – –

2.5.4 PCI slots
The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other
cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location
of the slots.
2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other
cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for
the location of the slot.
2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots

This motherboard has three PCI Express x16 slots that support PCI Express x16
graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure
below for the location of the slots.
PCI slot
PCI Express x 16 slot (blue)
PCI slot
PCI Express x 16 slot (x 8 link white)
PCI Express x 1 slot
PCI Express x 16 slot (blue)

2.6 Jumper
Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)
You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by
erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data.
To erase the 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 to enable the CLRTC
function.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to
re-enter data.
CLRTC_EN
P5N32-E SLI
1 2 2 3
Normal Clear RTC

P5N32-E SLI Clear RTC RAM (Default)
• Make sure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the
CMOS.
• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to
overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU
Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS
can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.

2.7 Audio card installation
1. Take out the Audio card from the

package.
2. Locate the slot on the motherboard.
3. Align the card connector with the

slot and press firmly until the card
sits on the slot completely.
4. The above photo shows the audio

card installed on the motherboard.

2.8 Connectors
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
1 2 3 4
10
14 13 12 11
1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device
via an optical S/PDIF cable.
3. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. Supported by NV Gigabit LAN
controller, this port allows Gigabit connection to a Local ACTIVITY/ SPEED
Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the LINK LED LED
table on the next page for the LAN port LED indications.
4. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. Supported by the NV Gigabit LAN
controller, this port allows Gigabit connection to a Local LAN port
Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the
table below for the LAN port LED indications.
32-bit OS LAN port LED indications

Activity/Link Speed LED Description
OFF OFF Soft-off Mode
YELLOW* OFF During Power ON/OFF
YELLOW* ORANGE 100 Mbps connection
* Blinking

64-bit OS LAN port LED indications
Activity/Link Speed LED Description
DNR DNR Soft-off Mode
DNR DNR During Power ON/OFF
DNR DNR 100 Mbps connection
DNR DNR 1 Gbps connection
5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or
other audio sources.
6. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In
4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port
becomes Front Speaker Out.
7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.
8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer
speakers.
9. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers on a
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration.
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an
8-channel audio configuration.
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration
Headset
Port 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel
2-channel
Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In
Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In
Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer
Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out
Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

11. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB)
ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
12. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed
connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable
devices.
13. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device
via an optical S/PDIF cable.
14. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

2.8.2 Internal connectors
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the
signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when

using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
FLOPPY
NOTE: Orient the red markings on
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
P5N32-E SLI
PIN 1
P5N32-E SLI Floppy disk drive connector
2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)

The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable.
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable:
blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE
connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.
Drive jumper setting Mode of Cable connector

device(s)
Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black
Two devices Cable-Select Master Black
Slave Gray
Master Master Black or gray
Slave Slave
• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you
connect the IDE cable.
• Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device

jumpers have the same setting.

PRI_IDE
NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE
ribbon cable to PIN 1.
P5N32-E SLI
PIN 1
P5N32-E SLI IDE connector
3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)

These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk
drives.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID
1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBOD configuration with the onboard NVIDIA®
MediaShield™ RAID controller.
The RAID function of these connectors is set to [Disabled] by default. If you

intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, enable the RAID
Enabled item under the Serial ATA Configuration sub-menu in the BIOS. See
section “4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration” for details.
SATA2 SATA4 SATA6

RSATA_RXN2
RSATA_RXN4
RSATA_RXN6
RSATA_RXP2
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXP6
RSATA_TXN2
RSATA_TXN4
RSATA_TXN6
RSATA_TXP2
RSATA_TXP4
RSATA_TXP6
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
SATA1 SATA3 SATA5

RSATA_RXN1
RSATA_RXN3
RSATA_RXN5
RSATA_RXP1
RSATA_RXP3
RSATA_RXP5
RSATA_TXN1
RSATA_TXN3
RSATA_TXN5
RSATA_TXP1
RSATA_TXP3
RSATA_TXP5
P5N32-E SLI
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
P5N32-E SLI SATA connectors
These connectors support Native Command Queuing (NCQ), Power

Management (PM) Implementation Algorithm, Hot Swap and smart setup.

Right-angle side
Connect the right-angle side of SATA

signal cable to the SATA device, or
connect the right‑angle side of the
SATA cable to the onboard SATA port
to avoid mechanical conflict with huge
graphics cards.
4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910)

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 480 Mbps connection speed.
USB_P6+
USB_P6-
USB+5V
GND
NC
USB910
®
1
USB+5V
USB_P5-
USB_P5+
GND
USB_P8+
USB_P6+
USB_P8-
USB_P6-
USB+5V
USB+5V
P5N32-E SLI
GND
GND
NC
NC
USB56 USB78
1 1
P5N32-E SLI USB 2.0 connectors
USB+5V
USB_P5-
USB_P5+
GND
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and
then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.

5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)
This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back
of the system chassis.
TPB2-
TPA2-
+12V
GND
GND
P5N32-E SLI
IE1394_2
PIN1
TPA2+
GND
TPB2+
+12V
P5N32-E SLI IEEE 1394 connector
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage
the motherboard!
You can connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q-Connector (1394, red) first, and
then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard.

6. CPU, chassis, power, and optional fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 3‑pin OPT_FAN1~5)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 1A~2.2A (26.4 W max.) at +12V.
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making
sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the
connector.
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!
CPU_FAN CPU_FAN PWR_FAN CHA_FAN1
Rotation
Rotation
PWR_FAN
+12V
+12V
GND
GND
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
CHA_FAN1 OPT_FAN4
®
OPT_FAN2
OPT_FAN2 OPT_FAN3
+12V
Rotation
GND
OPT_FAN1 Rotation
OPT_FAN3
+12V
+12V
Rotation
GND
GND
P5N32-E SLI
OPT_FAN4
OPT_FAN5 OPT_FAN1 OPT_FAN5
Rotation
Rotation
+12V
GND
+12V
GND
P5N32-E SLI Fan connectors
• Only the CHA_FAN1 and OPT_FAN 1~3 connectors support the ASUS
Q-FAN 2 feature.
• If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis
fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled OPT_FAN1 or OPT_FAN2
for better themal environment.

7. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “ Ground” are shorted with
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the
chassis intrusion detection feature.
Chassis Signal
+5VSB_MB
®
GND
P5N32-E SLI
CHASSIS
(Default)
P5N32-E SLI Chassis intrusion connector
8. ATX power connectors

(24-pin EATXPWR, 2 x 4-pin ATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
EATXPWR
+12V DC
+12V DC
+12V DC
+12V DC
ATX12V +3 Volts Ground

+12 Volts +5 Volts
+12 Volts +5 Volts
+5V Standby +5 Volts
Power OK -5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
GND
® Ground Ground
+5 Volts Ground
Ground Ground
+5 Volts PSON#
P5N32-E SLI
Ground Ground
+3 Volts -12 Volts
+3 Volts +3 Volts
P5N32-E SLI ATX power connectors
• Make sure to remove the cap on the ATX12V connector before connecting
an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug.
• Use only either a 4-pin ATX12V or an 8-pin EPS +12V power plug for the
ATX12V connector.

• For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version)
and provides a minimum power of 550 W.
• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise,
the system will not boot.
• Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when
configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
• If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
500 W to 600 W power or above to ensure the system stability.
• The ATX 12 V Specification 2.0-compliant (500 W) PSU has been

tested to support the motherboard power requirement with the following
configuration:
Normal Loading
CPU PSC 3.73G 1066
DDR800 1GB*2
VGA Nvidia 7800GTX*2
SATA-HD SATA*4
ESATA-HD 1
IDE-HD 1
CD-ROM 1
USB 2
PCI 1
• If you want to use two EN7950GX2 graphics cards, visit the NVIDIA
website (www.nvidia.com) for the qualified PSU vendor list.

9. S/PDIF output connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_O2)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)
port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install
the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
SPDIFOUT
®
GND
+5V
P5N32-E SLI
SPDIF_O2
P5N32-E SLI SPDIF OUT connector
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
PLED SPEAKER
Speaker
Ground
Ground
PLED+
PLED-
+5V
PANEL
IDE_LED+
IDE_LED-
PWR
Ground
Reset
Ground
®
P5N32-E SLI IDE_LED RESET

PWR
* Requires an ATX power supply.
P5N32-E SLI 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 IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is
read from or written to the HDD.
• System warning speaker (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.
• ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWR)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button
turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending
on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds
while the system is ON turns the system OFF.
• 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.

ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)
You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel
cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q-
Connector.
1. Connect the front panel cables to the

ASUS Q-Connector.
Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector
to know the detailed pin definitions, then
match them to the respective front panel
cable labels.
2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the

system panel connector, making sure
the orientation matches the labels on the
motherboard.
3. The front panel functions are now enabled.

The figure shows the Q-Connector properly
installed on the motherboard.

3
This chapter describes the power up
sequence, the vocal POST messages,
and ways of shutting down the system.
Powering up
Chapter summary
3.1
3.2
3
Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1
Turning off the computer.............................................................. 3-2
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

3.1 Starting up for the first time
1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
2. Be sure that all switches are off.
3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system
chassis.
4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge
protector.
5. Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case
lights up. For systems withATX power supplies, the system LED lights up
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up
or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are
running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional
messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30
seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed
a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your
retailer for assistance.
7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 4.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 3-

3.2 Turning off the computer
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
If you are using Windows® 2000:
1. Click the Start button then click Shut Down...

2. Make sure that the Shut Down option button is selected, then click the OK
button to shut down the computer.
3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.
If you are using Windows® XP or later version:
1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.

2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.
3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch

While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts
the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section “4.6 Power Menu” in
Chapter 4 for details.
3- Chapter 3: Powering up

4
This chapter tells how to change
the system settings through the BIOS
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions
of the BIOS parameters are also
provided.
BIOS setup
Chapter summary
4.1
4.2
Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 4-1
4
BIOS setup program..................................................................... 4-9
4.3 Main menu................................................................................... 4-13
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu.............................................................. 4-18
4.5 Advanced menu.......................................................................... 4-25
4.6 Power menu................................................................................. 4-30
4.7 Boot menu................................................................................... 4-36
4.8 Tools menu.................................................................................. 4-41
4.9 Exit menu..................................................................................... 4-45
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.
1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)

2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a floppy disk or a USB
flash disk.)
3. Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable
floppy disk.)
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk in
case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard
BIOS using the ASUS Update or Award BIOS Flash utilities.
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you
to:
• Save the current BIOS file
• Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet
• Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file
• Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and
• View the BIOS version information.
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard
package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an

Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update:
1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.
2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. See page
5-3 for the Utilities screen menu.
3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 4-

Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet

To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
2. Select Update BIOS from the 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
Internet option from the drop‑down you to avoid network traffic, or
menu, then click Next. click Auto Select. Click Next.
4- Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS
version that you wish to download.
Click Next.
5. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is

capable of updating itself through
the Internet. Always update the
utility to avail all its features.
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file

To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
2. Select Update BIOS from a file
option from the drop‑down menu,
then click Next.
3. Locate the BIOS file from the Open

window, then click Open.
4. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 4-

4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk
1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.
DOS environment
a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.
b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>.
Windows® XP environment
a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive.
b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.
d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy
Disk window appears.
e. Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options field,
then click Start.
Windows® 2000 environment
To create a set of boot disks for Windows® 2000:
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk into the drive.
b. Insert the Windows® 2000 CD to the optical drive.
c. Click Start, then select Run.
d. From the Open field, type
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:
assuming that D: is your optical drive.
e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue.
2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy
disk.

4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go
through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS‑based
utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for
the motherboard.
2. Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk, then restart the system.
3. You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.
(1) Insert the floppy disk/USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to
the floppy disk drive or the USB port.
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B312
FLASH TYPE: Winbond W39V080A 8Mb LPC
Current ROM Update ROM
BOARD: P5N32-E SLI BOARD: Unknown
VER: 0116 VER: Unknown
DATE: 10/30/2006 DATE: Unknown
PATH: C:\
C WIN98E <DIR>
NETTERM <DIR>
DRIVERS <DIR>
RECYCLED <DIR>
WUTEMP <DIR>
NEWFOL~1 <DIR>
INSTALL <DIR>
TEST-REB <DIR>
MSDOWNLD.TMP <DIR>
Note
[Enter] Select [S] Save [ESC]Exit
[Tab]Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ

Flash 2 and press <Enter> to enable it.
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the
correct file is found. Then press <Enter>.
4. When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update
process and automatically reboots the system when down.
• This function can support devices such as USB flash disk, hard disk,
or floppy disk with FAT32/16/12 format only.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to
prevent system boot failure!
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 4-

4.1.4 Updating the BIOS
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS
Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility.
1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS web site. Rename the file to
P5N32-E.BIN and save it to a floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk in
FAT 16/12 format.
Save only the updated BIOS file in the disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file.
2. Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.exe) from the Software folder
of the support DVD to the floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk with the
latest BIOS file.
3. Boot the system in DOS mode using the bootable floppy disk, CD ROM or a
USB flash disk you created earlier.
4. Under the DOS mode, AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14
use <X:> (X stands for (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
the name of the disk For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006
assignment) to switch to Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH
the folder of floppy disk, File Name to Program:

CD ROM or USB flash
disk you saved the BIOS
fileand AwardBIOS Flash
Utility.
5. At the prompt, type Message: Please input File Name!
awdflash then press
<Enter>. The Award BIOS
Flash Utility screen appears.

6. Type the BIOS file name in AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14
the File Name to Program (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
field, then press <Enter>.
For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006
Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH
File Name to Program: P5N32-E.bin
Message: Do You Want To Save Bios (Y/N)
7. Press <N> when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The
following screen appears.
8. The utility verifies the BIOS AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14
file in the floppy disk, CD (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
ROM or a USB flash disk For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006
and starts flashing the Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH
BIOS file. File Name to Program: P5N32-E.bin
Programming Flash Memory - OFE00 OK
Write OK No Update Write Fail
Warning: Don’t Turn Off Power Or Reset System!
Do not turn off or reset the system during the flashing process!
9. The utility displays a AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14

Flashing Complete (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
message indicating that For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006
you have successfully Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH
flashed the BIOS file. File Name to Program: P5N32-E.bin

Remove the disk then Flashing Complete
Press <F1> to Continue
press <F1> to restart the
system.
Write OK No Update Write Fail
F1 Reset
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 4-

4.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file
You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can
load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing
process.
Make sure that the floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk has enough disk
space to save the file.
To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility:
1. Follow steps 1 to 6 of the AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14

previous section. (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006

2. Press <Y> when the utility Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH
prompts you to save the
File Name to Program: 0112.bin
current BIOS file. The
following screen appears. Save current BIOS as:
Message:
3. Type a filename for the AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14
current BIOS file in the (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
Save current BIOS as field, For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006

then press <Enter>. Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH

Checksum: 810DH
Save current BIOS as: 0113.bin
Message: Please Wait!
4. The utility saves the AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14
current BIOS file to the (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
floppy disk, then returns to For C55XEMCP55PXE-P5N32-E DATE:03/30/2006

the BIOS flashing process. Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH

Now Backup System BIOS to
File!
Message: Please Wait!

4.2 BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you
can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and
updating your BIOS.”
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring
your system, or prompted to“Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure
your system using this utility.
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the
configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the
security password feature or change the power management settings. This
requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the
LPC chip.
The LPC chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press
<Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise,
POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if
the first two failed.
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for 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 Default Settings item under the
Exit Menu. See section “4.9 Exit Menu.”
• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
• Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for
this motherboard.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 4-

4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields General help
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility

Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
System Time 15 : 30 : 36 Select Menu
System Date Sat, Jan 21 2006
Language [English] Item Specific Help
Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Change the day, month,
Primary IDE Master [ST321122A] year and century.
Primary IDE Slave [ASUS CDS520/A]
SATA1 [None]
SATA2 [None]
SATA3 [None]
SATA4 [None]
SATA5 [None]
SATA6 [None]
HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]
Installed Memory 512MB

Usable Memory 511MB
F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item -/+: Change Value F5: Setup Defaults

ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu F10: Save and Exit
Sub-menu items Legend bar
4.2.2 Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main For changing the basic system configuration

Extreme Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Power For changing the advanced power management (APM)
configuration
Boot For changing the system boot configuration
Tools For configuring options for special functions
Exit 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.
• The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
• Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS
information.
4-10 Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4.2.3 Legend bar
At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow
you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys
found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.
Navigation Key Function
<F1> Displays the General Help screen
<F5> Loads setup default values
<Esc> Exits the BIOS setup or returns to the main menu from a
sub‑menu
Left or Right arrow Selects the menu item to the left or right
Up or Down arrow Moves the highlight up or down between fields
Page Down or – (minus) Scrolls backward through the values for the highlighted field
Page Up or + (plus) Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field
<Enter> Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted field
<F10> Saves changes and exit
4.2.4 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, and Exit) on the menu bar have their
respective menu items.
4.2.5 Sub-menu items

A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
4.2.6 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 “4.2.7 Pop-up window.”

4.2.7 Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the
configuration options for that item.

System Time 15 : 30 : 36
System Date Thu, Apr 6 2006
Language [English] Select Menu
Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Item Specific Help
Primary IDE Master Legacy Diskette A:
[ST321122A] Specifies the capacity and
Primary IDE Slave [ASUS CDS520/A] physical size of diskette
SATA1 Disabled ..... [ ]
[None]
720K , 3.5 in.[None]
..... [ ] drive A.
SATA2
SATA3 1.44M, 3.5 in.[None]
..... [ ]
SATA4 [None]
SATA5 [None]
SATA6 [None]
Installed Memory ↑↓ :Move ENTER:Accept

512MB ESC:Abort
Usable Memory 512MB

Pop-up menu
4.2.8 General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected
item.

4.3 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 “4.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen
items and how to navigate through them.

System Time 15 : 30 : 36 Select Menu

System Date Sat, Jan 21 2006
Language [English] Item Specific Help
Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Change the day, month,
year and century.
Primary IDE Master [ST321122A]
Primary IDE Slave [ASUS CDS520/A]
SATA1 [None]
SATA2 [None]
SATA3 [None]
SATA4 [None]
SATA5 [None]
SATA6 [None]
Installed Memory 512MB

Usable Memory 511MB

4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

Allows you to set the system time.
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

Allows you to set the system date.
4.3.3 Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration
options: [English] [French] [Deutsch] [Chinese (Trad.)] [Chinese (Simp.)]
[Japanese]
4.3.4 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]

Sets the type of floppy drive installed.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]

4.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices.
There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then
press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.

Main
Primary IDE Master Select Menu

PIO Mode [Auto] Item Specific Help
UDMA Mode [Auto]
Set a PIO mode for IDE
Primary IDE Master [Auto] device. Mode0 through 4
Access Mode [Auto] for successive increase in
performance.
Capacity 82 GB
Cylinder 39420
Head 16
Sector 255
Transfer Mode UDMA 5

The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items
(Capacity, Cylinder, Head, Sector and Transfer Mode). These values are not
user‑configurable. These items show N/A if no IDE device is installed in the
system.
PIO Mode [Auto]

Sets the PIO mode for the IDE device.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Mode 0] [Mode 1] [Mode 2] [Mode 3] [Mode 4]
UDMA Mode [Auto]

Disables or sets the UDMA mode. Configuration options: [Disable] [Auto]
Primary IDE Master/Slave [Auto]

Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic detection
is successful, the BIOS automatically fills in the correct values for the remaining
fields on this sub-menu. If the hard disk was already formatted on a previous
system, the setup BIOS may detect incorrect parameters. Select [Manual] to
manually enter the IDE hard disk drive parameters. If no drive is installed select
[None]. Configuration options: [None] [Auto] [Manual]

Access Mode [Auto]
The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive.
Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual].
Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto]
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.
Capacity
Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.
Cylinder
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.
Head
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.
Sector
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.
Transfer Mode
Shows the Transfer mode. This item is not configurable.
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.

4.3.6 SATA1/2/3/4/5/6
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.

Main
SATA1 Select Menu

Extended IDE Drive [Auto] Item Specific Help
Access Mode [Auto]
Selects the type of fixed
Capacity 0 MB disk connected to the
system.
Cylinder 0
Head 0
Landing Zone 0
Sector 0

The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Capacity,
Cylinder, Head, Landing Zone and Sector). These values are not user-
configurable. These items show 0 if no SATA device is installed in the system.
Extended IDE Drive [Auto]

Selects the type of fixed disk connected to the system.
Configuration options: [None] [Auto]
Access Mode [Auto]

Sets the sector addressing mode. Configuration options: [Large] [Auto]
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.
Capacity
Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.
Cylinder
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.

Head
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.
Landing Zone
Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable.
Sector
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.
4.3.7 HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the HDD Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting
Technology (SMART) feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4.3.8 Installed Memory [xxx MB]

Shows the size of installed memory.
4.3.9 Usable Memory [XXX MB]

Shows the size of usable memory.

4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu
The Extreme menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme menu items. Incorrect
field values can cause the system to malfunction.

AI Tuning [Auto] Select Menu

x Overclock Options Disabled
x N.O.S. Option Item Specific Help
x System Clocks
x FSB & Memory Config Press [Enter] to select
Overclocking overclock profile.
Over Voltage
NVIDIA GPU EX [Disabled]

x SLI-Ready Memory Not Detected

4.4.1 AI Tuning [Auto]

Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal
frequency. Selct either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:
Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system.
Standard Loads the standard settings for the system.
AI Overclock Loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for
stability when overclocking.
AI N.O.S. The ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature
intelligently determines the system load and automatically
boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks.
The following item becomes user-configurable when you set AI Tuning to

[AI Overclock]
Overclock Options [Disabled]

Allows you to set the overclocking options.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 10%] [Overclock 15%]
[Overclock 20%] [FSB 960/800] [FSB 1280/800] [FSB 1000/667] [FSB 1333/667]
[FSB 1200/800]

The following items become user-configurable when you set AI Tuning to
[Manual].
System Clocks
This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an
item, then press <Enter> to edit.
Extreme Tweaker
System Clocks Select Menu

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (MHz) [100] Item Specific Help
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (MHz) [100]
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (MHz) [100] Set C55 PCIE Overclock
SPP <-> MCP Ref Clock, MHz [Auto]

Allows you to set the PCIEX16_1 overclocking frequency.
Configuration options: [100 MHz]~[200 MHz]
SPP <-> MCP Ref Clock, MHz [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [200.0 MHz] [200.5 MHz] [201.0 MHz] [201.5
MHz]~[500.0 MHz]

FSB & Memory Config
Extreme Tweaker
FSB & Memory Config Select Menu
FSB - Memory Clock Mode [Linked] Item Specific Help

FSB - Memory Ratio [Auto]
FSB (QDR), MHz [800] System clock mode
Actual FSB (QDR), MHz 800.0
x MEM (DDR), MHz Linked [Optimal]
Actual MEM (DDR), MHz 667 Set FSB and memory speed
automatically.
[Linked]
Enter FSB Speed manually.
Memory Speed changes
proportionally.
FSB - Memory Clock Mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the system clock mode.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Linked] [Unlinked]
The following items become user-configurable when you set the FSB-Memory
Clock Mode item to [Linked].
FSB - Memory Ratio [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [1:1] [5:4] [3:2] [Sync Mode]
FSB (QDR), MHz [800]
N.O.S Option [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%] [Overclock
10%]

4.4.2 Overclocking
Extreme Tweaker
Overclocking Select Menu

CPU Type Genuine Intel (R) CPU Item Specific Help
CPU Speed 2.80GHz
Cache RAM 1024K x2
CPU Multiplier [17]
Memory Timing Setting

Spread Spectrum Control
Intel SpeedStep [Disabled]
CPU Internal Thermal Control [Auto]
X TM2 Bus Ratio 12 X
X TM2 Bus VID 1.2000V
Limit CPUID MaxVal [Disabled]
EnhancedC1 (C1E) [Disabled]
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep(tm) Tech. [Disabled]
Hyper-Threading Technology [Enabled]
LDT Frequency [5x]

ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu Enter: Select Sub-menu F10: Save and Exit
CPU Multiplier [17]

Configuration options: [6]~[50]
Memory Timing Setting

Extreme Tweaker
Memory Timing Setting Select Menu

tCL (CAS Latency) [Auto] Item Specific Help
tRCD [Auto]
tRAS [Auto]
Command Per Clock (CMD) [Auto]
** Advanced Memory Settings **

tRRD [Auto]
tRC [Auto]
tWR [Auto]
tWTR [Auto]
tREF [Auto]
Async Latency [Auto]
tCL (CAS Latency) [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
tRCD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]
tRP [Auto]
tRAS [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]...[31]

Command Per Clock (CMD) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1 clock] [2 clock]
tRRD [Auto]
tRC [Auto]
tWR [Auto]
tWTR [Auto]
tREF [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]
Async Latency [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00nS] [1.25nS] [1.50nS] [1.75nS] [2.00nS]
[2.25nS] [2.50nS]
Spread Spectrum Control

Extreme Tweaker
Spread Spectrum Control Select Menu

CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled] Item Specific Help
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Down Spread]
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum [Down Spread]
SATA Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
LDT Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Center Spread] [UP Spread]
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Down Spread]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread]
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum [Down Spread]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread]
SATA Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
LDT Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Center] [Down]

Intel SpeedStep [Disabled]
This item is user-configurable only when you set [AI Tuning] to [Standard], [Auto],
or [AI N.O.S.]. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
CPU Internal Thermal Control [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
Limit CPUID MaxVal [Disabled]
Enhanced C1 (CIE) [Disabled]
Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]
Virtualization Technology [Enabled]
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep(tm) Tech. [Disabled]
Hyper-Threading Technology [Enabled]
LDT Frequency [5x]
Configuration options: [1x] [2x] [3x] [4x] [5x]
4.4.3 Over Voltage

This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system voltage-related items. Select an
Extreme Tweaker
Over Voltage Select Menu

VCore Voltage [Auto] Item Specific Help
Memory Voltage [Auto]
1.2V HT Voltage [Auto] Set CPU VID to desired
NB Core Voltage [Auto]
SB Core Voltage [Auto] voltage, but it will cause
CPU VTT Voltage [Auto] other CPU power management
DDR2 Controller Ref Voltage [Auto] feature such as C1E, EIST,
DDR2 Channel A Ref Voltage [Auto] and TM2) fail to control
DDR2 Channel B Ref Voltage [Auto] CPU VID. Select [Auto] to
let CPU VID keep original
value.
VCore Voltage [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [1.90000V] [1.89375V] [1.88750V] [1.88125V]
[1.87500V]...[0.83750V] [0.83125V]
Memory Voltage [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.850V] [1.875V] [1.900V]...[3.400V] [3.425V]

1.2V HT Voltage [Auto]
NB Core Voltage [Auto]
SB Core Voltage [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.55V] [1.60V] [1.65V] [1.70V] [1.75V]
[1.80V] [1.85V]
CPU VTT Voltage [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.25V] [1.30V] [1.35V]...[1.50V] [1.55V]
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2_Vol/2] [DDR2_Vol/2-30mv] [DDR2_
Vol/2-20mv] [DDR2_Vol/2-10mv] [DDR2_Vol/2+10mv] [DDR2_Vol/2+20mv]
[DDR2_Vol/2+30mv]
DDR2 Channel A Ref Voltage / DDR2 Channel B Ref Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DDR2 Controller/ChannelA/B Ref voltage.
Configuration options: Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2_Vol/2] [DDR2_
Vol/2-30mv] [DDR2_Vol/2-20mv] [DDR2_Vol/2-10mv] [DDR2_Vol/2+10mv]
[DDR2_Vol/2+20mv] [DDR2_Vol/2+30mv]
4.4.4 NVIDIA GPU Ex [Disabled]

Enables or disables with the optimized NVIDIA Ex graphics driver.
4.4.5 SLI-Ready Memory [Disabled]

Allows you to select the SPD profile for SLI-Ready memory modules. The
configuration options may vary depending on the type of module you installed.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Optimal] [High Performance] [High Frequency]
The following item becomes user-configurable when SLI-Ready Memory is set

to [Enabled].
4.4.6 SLI-Ready Memory CPUOC [CPUOC 0%]

Configuration options: [CPUOC 0%] [CPUOC 1%]~[CPUOC 14%] [CPUOC MAX]

4.5 Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for system devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect
field values can cause the system to malfunction.

AI NET2 Select Menu

PCIPnP
Onboard Device Configuration Item Specific Help
USB Configuration
Press [Enter] to set.

4.5.1 AI NET2
Advanced
AI NET2 Select Menu

POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled] Item Specific Help
POST Check LAN2 Cable [Disabled]
Enable or Disable LAN
Pair Status Length
cable check during POST.
LAN1(1-2) Open N/A
LAN1(3-6) Open N/A
LAN1(4-5) Open N/A
LAN1(7-8) Open N/A
LAN2(1-2) Open N/A

LAN2(3-6) Open N/A
LAN2(4-5) Open N/A
LAN2(7-8) Open N/A

POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled]

POST Check LAN2 Cable [Disabled]
Enables or disables checking of the LAN/LAN2 cable during the Power-On
Self‑Test (POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

4.5.2 PCIPnP
Advanced
PCIPnP Select Menu

Plug & Play O/S [No] Item Specific Help
Primary Display Adapter [PCI]
Select Yes if you are using
a Plug and Play capable
operating system. Select
No if you need the BIOS to
configure non-boot devices.
Plug & Play O/S [No]

When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When 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]
Primary Display Adapter [PCI]

Allows you to select the graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.
Configuration options: [PCI] [PCI-E]

4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration
Advanced
Onboard Device Configuration Select Menu

IDE Function Setup Item Specific Help
Serial-ATA Configuration
HD Audio [Auto]
Front Panel Support Type [AC97]
Onboard 1st nVidia LAN [Enabled]
Onboard 2nd nVidia LAN [Enabled]
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Onboard 1394 [Enabled]

IDE Function Setup

This sub-menu contains IDE function-related items. Select an item then press
<Enter> to edit.
Advanced
IDE Function Setup Select Menu
OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled] Item Specific Help

IDE DMA transfer access [Enabled]
IDE Prefetch Mode [Enabled]
OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onchip IDE channel 0 controller .
IDE DMA transfer access [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE DMA transfer access.
IDE Prefetch Mode [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE PIO read prefetch mode.

Serial-ATA Configuration
This sub-menu allows you to change Serial ATA settings. Select an item then press
<Enter> to edit.
Advanced
Serial-ATA Configuration Select Menu
Serial-ATA Controller [Enabled] Item Specific Help

RAID Enabled [Disabled]
x SATA1 RAID Disabled
Serial-ATA Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onboard Serial ATA controller.
RAID Enabled [Disabled]
Enables or disables the onboard RAID controller. When set to [Enabled], the
succeeding items become user-configurable.
SATA1/2/3/4/5/6 [Disabled]
Enables or disables the RAID function of the first to sixth SATA master drive.
HD Audio [Auto]
Allows you to disable or set the High-Definition audio function.
Front Panel Support Type [HD Audio]

Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC`97
or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio
module supports. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]
Onboard 1st/2nd Nvidia LAN [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard NVIDIA® LAN controller.
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN boot ROM.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Onboard 1394 [Enabled]
Allows you to disable or enable the onboard 1394 device support.
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.
Advanced
USB Configuration Select Menu

USB Controller [Enabled] Item Specific Help
USB2.0 Controller [Enabled]
USB Legacy support [Enabled]
Enable or disable
the USB 1.1 and 2.0
Controller.
USB Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onchip USB controller.
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller.
USB Legacy Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operating
systems (OS). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

4.6 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.

ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3] Select Menu

ACPI APIC support Enabled
APM Configuration Item Specific Help
Hardware Monitor
Press [Enter] to select
overclock profile.

4.6.1 ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]

Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state
to be used for system suspend.
Configuration options: [S1 (POS)] [S3(STR)] [S1&S3]
4.6.2 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface
(ACPI) support in the Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When set
to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.

4.6.3 APM Configuration

Power
APM Configuration Select Menu

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off] Item Specific Help
PWR Button < 4 secs [Instant-Off]
Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices [Disabled]
Power On By External Modems [Disabled] Press [Enter] to select
USB Resume from S5 [Disabled] whether or not to restart
Power On by RTC Alarm [Disabled] the system after AC power
x Date (of Month) Alarm 0 loss
x Alarm Time (hh:mm) 0 : 0 : 0
HPET Support [Enabled]
Power Up By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off]

Allows you to enable or disable the Restore on AC Power Loss function.
Configuration options: [Power-Off] [Power-On] [Last State]

Allows you to set the event after the power button is pressed for more than 4
seconds. Configuration options: [Suspend] [Instant-Off]

Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices & NV
Onboard LAN. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power On By External Modem [Disabled]

This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the computer
when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode.
The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and
applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the first
try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is off
causes an initialization string that turns the system power on.
USB Resume from S5 [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the support of USB keyboard or mouse resumption
from S5. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off]
Allows you to enable or disable the Restore on AC Power Loss function.
Configuration options: [Power-Off] [Power-On]

Allows you to set the event after the power button is pressed for more than 4
seconds. Configuration options: [Suspend] [Instant-Off]

Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices & NV
Onboard LAN. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Alarm Time (hh:mm) [ X: X: X]
To set the time of alarm:
1. Highlight this item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up menu for the hour
field.
2. Key-in a value (Min=0, Max=23), then press <Enter>.
3. Press <TAB> to move to the minutes field then press <Enter>.
4. Key-in a minute value (Min=0, Max=59), then press <Enter>.
HPET Support [Enabled]
Power Up By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on
the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on
the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys
on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-ESC] [Power Key]

4.6.4 Hardware Monitor
The items in this sub-menu displays the hardware monitor values automatically
detected by the BIOS. It also allows you to change CPU Q-Fan feature-related
parameters. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Power
Hardware Monitor Select Menu
Voltage Monitor Item Specific Help

Temperature Monitor
Fan Speed Monitor Press [Enter] to go to
Fan Speed Control the sub-menu.
CPU Fan Speed warning [600 RPM]


Power
Voltage Monitor
Voltage Monitor Select Menu
Vcore Voltage [ 1.32V] Item Specific Help

Memory Voltage [ 1.84V]
1.2V HT Voltage [ 1.23V] Press [Enter] to set.
NB Voltage [ 1.20V]
SB Voltage [ 1.50V]
CPU VTT Voltage [ 1.34V]
DDR2 Termination Voltage [ 0.92V]
3.3V Voltage [ 2.94V]
5V Voltage [ 4.81V]
12V Voltage [ 11.07V]

Vcore / 3.3V / 5V / 12V Voltage

+1.2V HT / +1.5V Voltage
VTT CPU / DDR2 Termination /DDR2 Voltage
+1.4V / DDR2 Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output
through the onboard voltage regulators.

Temperature Monitor
Power
Temperature Monitor Select Menu
CPU Temperature 57ºC Item Specific Help

M/B Temperature 37ºC
CPU, M/B Temperature

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard
and CPU temperatures. These items are not user-configurable.
Fan Speed Monitor

Power
Fan Speed Monitor Select Menu
CPU Fan Speed 2960 RPM Item Specific Help

CHA_FAN1 Speed 0 RPM
PWR FAN Speed 0 RPM
CPU FAN / CHA _FAN1 Speed

PWR FAN Speed
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, Chassis,
fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If any of the fans is not connected to the
motherboard, the field shows 0. These items are not user‑configurable.

Fan Speed Control
Power
Fan Speed Control Select Menu
CPU Fan Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Item Specific Help

CPU Fan Duty Cycle [100%]
CHA Fan Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Press [Enter] to enable
CHA Fan Duty Cycle [100%] or disable.
x CHA Fan Q-Fan Sense CPU Temperature
CPU / CHA / OPT Fan1, 2, 3, Fan Control

[Duty Cycle Mode]
Allows you to select the fan control mode.
Configuration options: [Duty Cycle Mode] [Q-FAN Mode]
CPU / CHA Fan Duty Cycle [100%]
Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. When the Fan Control item is set to
Q-FAN Mode, this item is not user-configurable.
Configuration options: [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%]
CHA Fan Q-Fan Sense [CPU Temperature]

Allows the Q-Fan to sense CPU/MB temperature and to adjust the fan speed.
When the previous items are set to Q-FAN Mode, these items become user-
configurable. Configuration options: [CPU Temperature] [MB Temperature]
CPU Fan Speed warning [600 RPM]
Allows you to set the CPU fan warning speed function, which gives off a warning
when the CPU fan speed is too low. If you set this item to [Disabled], the system
will not warn you even if no fan is installed or if the fan is not functioning properly.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [600 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM]

4.7 Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Boot Device Priority Select Menu

Removable Drives
Hard Disk Drives Item Specific Help
CDROM Drives
Boot Settings Configuration Select Boot Device
Security Priority

4.7.1 Boot Device Priority

Boot
Boot Device Priority Select Menu

1st Boot Device [Removable] Item Specific Help
2nd Boot Device [Hard Disk]
3rd Boot Device [CDROM]
4th Boot Device [Disabled] Select Your Boot
Device Priority
1st ~ 4th Boot Device [Removable]

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] [Hard Disk] [CDROM] [Disabled]

4.7.2 Removable Drives
Boot
Removable Drives Select Menu

1. Floppy Disks Item Specific Help
1. Floppy Disks
Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system.
4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives

Boot
Hard Disk Drives Select Menu

1. 1st Master: XXXXXXXXX Item Specific Help
1. 1st Master: XXXXXXXXX

Allows you to assign hard disk drives attached to the system.
4.7.4 CDROM Drives

Boot
CDROM Drives Select Menu

1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX Item Specific Help
1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX

Allows you to assign optical drives attached to the system.

4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration
Boot
Boot Settings Configuration Select Menu

Case Open Warning [Enabled] Item Specific Help
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled]
Bootup Num-Lock [On] Press [Enter] to
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled] enable or disable.
x Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) 6
x Typematic Delay (Msec) 250
OS Select For DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]
Full Screen LOGO [Enabled]
Halt On [All Errors]

Case Open Warning [Enabled]

Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to Enabled, clears the
chassis open status. Refer to section “2.8.2 Internal connectors” for setting details.
Quick Boot [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the system quick boot feature. When Enabled, the
system skips certain tests while booting.
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled]

Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to Enabled, clears the
chassis open status. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.
Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled]

Allows you to set the keystroke rate. Enable this item to configure the Typematic
Rate (Chars/Sec) and the Typematic Delay (Msec).
The items Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) and Typematic Delay (Msec) become
user-configurable only when the item Typematic Rate Setting is enabled.

Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6]
Allows you to select the rate at which a character repeats when you hold a key.
Configuration options: [6] [8] [10] [12] [15] [20] [24] [30]
Typematic Delay (Msec) [250]

Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat.
Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000]
OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]

Set this item to OS2 only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with
an installed RAM of greater than 64 MB. Configuration options: [Non-OS2] [OS2]
Full Screen LOGO [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.
Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you want to use the ASUS
MyLogo3™ feature.
Halt On [All Errors]

Allows you to set the error report type.
Configuration options: [All Errors] [No Errors] [All, But Keyboard] [All, But Diskette]
[All, But Disk/Key]
4.7.6 Security
Boot
Security Select Menu

Supervisor Password Clear
User Password Clear Item Specific Help
Password Check [Setup]
Supervisor Password
User Password
These fields allow you to set passwords:
To set a password:
1. Select an item then press <Enter>.

2. Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8)
alpha‑numeric characters, then press <Enter>.

3. When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again,
then press <Enter>. The password field setting is changed to Set.
To clear the password:

1. Select the password field and press <Enter> twice. The following message
appears:
PASSWORD DISABLED !!!

Press any key to continue...
2. Press any key to continue. The password field setting is changed to Clear.
A note about passwords

The Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program
preventing unauthorized access. The User password is required to boot the
system preventing unauthorized use.
Forgot your password?
If you forget your password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time
Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password information is
powered by the onboard button cell battery. If you need to erase the CMOS
RAM, refer to section “2.6 Jumper” for instructions.
Password Check
This field requires you to enter the password before entering the BIOS setup or the
system. Select [Setup] to require the password before entering the BIOS Setup.
Select [System] to require the password before entering the system.
Configuration options: [Setup] [System]

4.8 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.
ASUS Music Alarm Select Menu

ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS EZ Flash 2 Item Specific Help

4.8.1 ASUS Music Alarm

Tools
ASUS Music Alarm Select Menu

ASUS Music Alarm [Disabled] Item Specific Help
x Alarm Date: Sunday Enabled
x Monday Enabled
x Tuesday Enabled Press [Enter] to select.
x Wednesday Enabled
x Thursday Enabled
x Friday Enabled
x Saturday Enabled
x Alarm Time (hh:mm) 0 : 0
x Audio CD Drive Primary IDE Master
x Detect CD Enter
x Starting Track N/A
x Repeat Track Disabled
x Length 10 Mins
x Volume 16

ASUS Music Alarm [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Music Alarm function.
The succeeding items become user-configurable when you enable the ASUS
Music Alarm.
Alarm Date: Sunday/Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday/

Saturday [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the alarm for a particular day.

Alarm Time (hh:mm) 0 : 0
Allows you to set the alarm time. Press <Tab> to select the field, then use <+> or
<-> to change the value. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Audio CD Drive [Primary IDE Master]

Allows you to select the connection configuration of the optical storage device from
which the alarm music will play from.
Configuration options: [Primary IDE Master] [Primary IDE Slave]
Detect CD [Enter]
Press <Enter> to search the CD track number.
Starting Track
Allows you to choose the starting track from the CD from which you would like the
alarm music to play.
Repeat Track [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the repeat track function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Single] [All]
Length [10 Mins]

Allows you to set the length of the music alarm.
Configuration options: [10 Mins] [20 Mins] [30 Mins] [1 Hour]
Volume [16]
Allows you to set the volume level of the music alarm.
Configuration options: [01] ~ [32]
4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile

This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Tools
ASUS BIOS Profile Select Menu

Load BIOS Profile Item Specific Help
Save BIOS Profile
Press [Enter] to select.
Load BIOS Profile

Tools
Load BIOS Profile Select Menu

Load from Profile 1 Item Specific Help
Load from Profile 2
Load from File
Load BIOS Profile from
Profile 1.

Load from Profile 1/2
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press
<Enter> to load the file.
Load from File
Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/USB
flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the
BIOS file.
1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file.

2. Turn on the system.
3. Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Load from
File.” Press <Enter> then the setup screen will appear.
4. Press <Tab> to switch between drives before the correct “xxx.CMO” file
is found. Then press <Enter> to load the file.
5. A pop-up message will inform you when the loading process finishes.
• Suggest only to update the BIOS file coming from the same memory/CPU
configuration and BIOS version.
• Only the “xxx.CMO” file can be loaded.
Save BIOS Profile

Tools
Save BIOS Profile Select Menu

Save to Profile 1 Item Specific Help
Save to Profile 2
Save to File
Save current BIOS Profile
to Profile 1.
Save to Profle 1/2

Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save
the file.
Save to File
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the hard disk/floppy disk/USB flash disk
with FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to save the BIOS file.
1. Insert the storage devices with enough space.

3. Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Save to
File.” Press <Enter> then the setup screen will appear.
4. Press <Tab> to switch between the drives. Press hot-key <S> to save
the file.

5. Key in the file name. Then press <Enter>.
6. A pop-up message will inform you when the saving process finishes.
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility B318
Current CMOS Update CMOS

PATH: A:\
A: CMOS backup is done! Press any key to Exit.
Note
[Enter] Select [S] Save [ESC]: Exit
[Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move
The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“.
4.8.3 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.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B318

FLASH TYPE: Winbond W39V080A 8Mb LPC
Current ROM Update ROM
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select [S] Save [ESC] Exit
[Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move

4.9 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.
Exit & Save Changes Select Menu

Exit & Discard Changes
Load Setup Default Item Specific Help
Discard Changes
This option save data
to CMOS and exiting
the setup menu.

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 YES to
save changes and exit.
If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the
program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes
before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
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.
Load Setup Default

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 YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes
or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
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
YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.

5
This chapter describes the contents
of the support CD that comes with the
motherboard package.
Software
support
Chapter summary
5.1
5.2
5
Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1
Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1
5.3 Software information.................................................................... 5-9
5.4 RAID configurations................................................................... 5-26
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................ 5-34
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

5.1 Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® 2000/2003 Server/XP/64-bit XP 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. Use the setup

procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS
documentation for detailed information.
• Make sure that you install Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows®
XP Service Pack2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better
compatibility and system stability.
5.2 Support DVD information

The Support DVD that came 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 ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.
5.2.1 Running the Support DVD

Place the Support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.
Click an icon to
display support DVD/
motherboard information
Click an item to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled in 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.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 5-

5.2.2 Drivers menu
The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed
devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers

Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard.
Nvidia Chipset Driver Program

Installs the NVIDIA® Chipset drivers for the NVIDIA® nForce™ 680i SLI chipset.
SoundMAX® AD1988 Audio Driver

Installs the SoundMAX® AD1988 audio driver and application.
USB 2.0 Driver

Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver.
5- Chapter 5: Software support

5.2.3 Utilities menu
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard
supports.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities

Launches the ASUS InstAll utilities installation wizard.
ASUS PC Probe II
This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages,
and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer
in healthy operating condition.
ASUS Update
The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows®
environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network
or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
ASUS AI Booster
The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in
Windows® environment.
ASUS Music Alarm

The ASUS Music Alarm is an audio alarm clock that uses your favorite CD music to
give you a personal wake-up call.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 5-

Adobe Reader V7.0
Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print
documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c

Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a
multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX®
improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching
TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the
Microsoft website (www.microsoft.com) for updates.
Anti-Virus Utility
The anti-virus application scans, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View
the online help for detailed information.

5.2.4 Make Disk menu
The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA® nForce™ 680i SLI
SATA RAID driver disk.
Make NVIDIA 32bit XP/2000/2003 SATA RAID Driver

Make NVIDIA 64bit 2003 SATA RAID Driver
Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA RAID driver disk for a 32-bit/64‑bit
system.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 5-

5.2.5 Manuals menu
The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to
open the folder of the user manual.
Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual
file.
5.2.6 ASUS Contact information

Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find
this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.

5.2.7 Other information
The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the
motherboard and the contents of the Support DVD. Click an icon to display the
specified information.
Motherboard Info
Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.
Browse this DVD

Displays the Support DVD contents in graphical format.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 5-

Technical support form
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when
requesting technical support.
Filelist
Displays the contents of the Support DVD and a brief description of each in text
format.

5.3 Software information
Most of the applications in the Support DVD have wizards that will conveniently
guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came
with the software application for more information.
5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™

The ASUS MyLogo3™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the
image that appears on screen during the Power‑On Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS
MyLogo3™ is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from
the Support DVD. See section “5.2.3 Utilities menu” for details.
• Before using the ASUS MyLogo3™, use the Award BIOS Flash utility to
make a copy of your original BIOS file, or obtain the latest BIOS version
from the ASUS website. See section “4.1.4 Updating the BIOS.”
• Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled]
if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3. See section “4.7.5 Boot Settings
Configuration”.
• You can create your own boot logo image in GIF, or BMP file formats.
• The file size should be smaller than 150 K.
To launch the ASUS MyLogo3™:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section “4.1.1 ASUS Update utility”
for details.
2. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next.
3. Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before
flashing BIOS, then click Next.
4. Select Update BIOS from a file from the drop down menu, then click Next.
5. When prompted, locate the new
BIOS file, then click Next. The ASUS
MyLogo window appears.
6. From the left window pane, select the
folder that contains the image you
intend to use as your boot logo.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 5-

7. When the logo images appear on the
right window pane, select an image to
enlarge by clicking on it.
8. Adjust the boot image to your desired

size by selecting a value on the Ratio
box.
9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to
load the new boot logo.
10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo
during POST.
5-10 Chapter 5: Software support

5.3.2 SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility
The ADI AD1988B High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio
capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to
deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high
quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input
technologies.
Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD1988B Audio Driver from the
Support DVD that came with the motherboard package to activate the SoundMAX®
audio utility.
• You must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.
• SoundMAX® requires Microsoft® Windows® 2000/XP or later version. Make
sure that one of these operating systems is installed before installing
SoundMAX®.
• Jack Retasking function works on High Definition front panel audio ports
only.
If the SoundMAX® audio utility is correctly installed, you

will find the SoundMAX® icon on the taskbar.

From the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX®
Control Panel.
Audio Setup Wizard

By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily
configure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and
begin enjoying High Definition Audio.

Jack configuration Adjust speaker volume
This screen helps you configure your This screen helps you adjust speaker
computer’s audio ports, depending on volume. Click the Test button to hear
the audio devices you have installed. the changes you have made.
Adjust microphone volume

This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-
written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.

Audio preferences
Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change
various audio settings.
General options
Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/
disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output.
DTS
This feature is consists of two elements: DTS interactive and DTS NEO:PC. DTS
interactive re-encodes your stereo or multi-channel sound into a DTS audio signal
and send it out from your PC to any DTS enabled system.
While DTS NEO:PC turns your stereo audio such as MP3, WMA, CD, and other
sound format into a convincing multi-channel audio experience.

Microphone options
Click the Listening Environment tab allows you to optimize your microphone input
settings.
Enhanced Microphone Features

Noise Filtering
Enables Noise Filter function. Detects repetitive and stationary noises like
computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates
it in the incoming sudio stream while recording. You can enable it for a better
recording quality.
Voice Recording
Receives only the sound coming from the reception cone and eliminates
interferences including neighboring speakers and reverberations. You can
enable it to transit clearer sound during on-line games, MSN, or Skype.
Directional Array
Advanced de-reverberation techniques can help to reduce echo and minimize
its effect on the speech engine. You can enable it when you have conference
call to reduce echoes in the other side.
The directional Array and Speaker Phone

function only when working with the ASUS Array
Mic.
The ASUS Array Mic is purchased separately.

5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II
PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects
and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan
rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC
Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment
you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a
healthy operating condition.
Installing PC Probe II
To install PC Probe II on your computer:
1. Place the Support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.
If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support
DVD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click
the setup.exe file to start installation.
2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II.

3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.
Launching PC Probe II
You can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the
Windows® desktop.
To launch the PC Probe II from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs
> ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window
appears.
After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows®
taskbar. Click this icon to close or restore the application.
Using PC Probe II
Main window
The PC Probe II main window
allows you to view the current
status of your system and change
the utility configuration. By
default, the main window displays
the Preference section. You can
close or restore the Preference
section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle.
Click to close the
Preference panel

Button Function
Opens the Configuration window
Opens the Report window
Opens the Desktop Management Interface window
Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window
Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window
Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window
Shows/Hides the Preference section
Minimizes the application
Closes the application
Sensor alert
When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle
turns red, as the illustrations below show.
When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the
Monitor panels section for details.
Preferences
You can customize the application using the
Preference section in the main window. Click
the box before each preference to activate or
deactivate.

Hardware monitor panels
The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as
fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages.
The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and
rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the
Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.
Small display
Large display
Changing the monitor panels position

To change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop,
click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select
another position from the list box. Click OK when finished.
Moving the monitor panels
All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If
you want to detach a monitor panel from
the group, click the horseshoe magnet
icon. You can now move or reposition the
panel independently.
Adjusting the sensor threshold value

You can adjust the sensor threshold
value in the monitor panel by
clicking the or buttons. You can Click to
increase
also adjust the threshold values value
using the Config window.
Click to
You cannot adjust the sensor decrease
threshold values in a small value
monitoring panel.

Monitoring sensor alert
The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower
than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below.
Small display
Large display
WMI browser
Click to display the
WMI (Windows Management
Instrumentation) browser. This
browser displays various Windows®
management information. Click an
item from the left panel to display on
the right panel. Click the plus sign (+)
before WMI Information to display the
available information.
You can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner
of the browser.
DMI browser
Click to display the DMI
(Desktop Management Interface)
browser. This browser displays various
desktop and system information.
Click the plus sign (+) before DMI
Information to display the available
information.

PCI browser
Click to display the PCI
(Peripheral Component Interconnect)
browser. This browser provides
information on the PCI devices installed
on your system. Click the plus sign
(+) before the PCI Information item to
display available information.
Usage
The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive
space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser.
CPU usage
The CPU tab displays real-
time CPU usage in line graph
representation. If the CPU has
an enabled Hyper‑Threading,
two separate line graphs display
the operation of the two logical
processors.
Hard disk drive space usage

The Hard Disk tab displays the
used and available hard disk
drive space. The left panel of the
tab lists all logical drives. Click
a hard disk drive to display the
information on the right panel.
The pie chart at the bottom of
the window represents the used
(blue) and the available HDD
space.

Memory usage
The Memory tab shows both
used and available physical
memory. The pie chart at the
bottom of the window represents
the used (blue) and the available
Configuring PC Probe II
Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values.
The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/
Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold
values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the
temperature scale.
Loads the default

threshold values for Cancels or Loads your saved
each sensor ignores your configuration
Applies your changes
Saves your
changes configuration

5.3.4 ASUS Music Alarm
This motherboard is equipped with an audio alarm clock called ASUS Music Alarm.
The ASUS Music Alarm gives you a personal wake-up called with your favorite CD
music when the system is off. The onboard audio CODEC supports this feature,
which requires an optical drive (CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM).
• Make sure that the power cord is plugged to a grounded power source so
that the system has standby power.
• ASUS Music Alarm only supports audio CDs.
• ASUS Music Alarm will not work if you installed and enabled an add-on
sound card.
• Only IDE ATAPI devices from the Southbridge support this feature.
Hardware setup
To set up the hardware:
1. Connect the analog audio cable from the optical drive to the 4-pin CD-In
connector on the audio module.
2. Connect speakers or a headphone to the Line-Out (lime-colored) port on
the front or rear panel for audio output. You may also connect speakers or a
headphone to the output jack on the optical drive.
3. Refer to the succeeding sections to make the appropriate settings in the
BIOS or in Windows®.
BIOS configuration
To enable ASUS Music Alarm in the BIOS:

2. During POST, press <Del> to enter BIOS setup.
3. Go to the Tools menu, then select ASUS Music Alarm.
4. Set the ASUS Music Alarm item to [Enabled]. See section “4.8.1 ASUS
Music Alarm” for details.

OS configuration
To configure ASUS Music Alarm in Windows®
1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive.

2. Click the Utilities tab and choose ASUS Music Alarm to install the utility.
3. Insert an audio CD into the optical drive.
4. Launch the ASUS Music Alarm application by going to Start > ASUS > ASUS
Music Alarm. The main window appears.
Minimize button
Alarm information section Exit button
shows the alarm time and
days
Music section Options section
shows the drive letter of the shows playing options
chosen optical drive and the
starting track number to use
as music alarm
5. Click the arrow ( ) next to Time

for Next Alarm in the Alarm
information section. The Alarm
Time Setting panel appears. Set
the days and time of the alarm, or
enable/disable the Music Alarm
feature.
When done, click OK.
6. Click the arrow ( ) next to Music in the Music

section. The Music Selection panel appears.
Select the optical storage device, then choose
the starting CD track number from which you
would like the music alarm to play.

7. Click the arrow ( ) next to Options
in the Options section. The Options
panel appears. Disable or select the
Repeat mode, then specify the length
of the alarm music to play. Set the
desired volume.
8. After you have finished making all the required settings, turn off the system.
Adjusting the volume

To adjust the volume while the music alarm is playing:
• Use the <Up> or <Down> arrow key to increase or decrease the volume.
Turning off the music alarm

To turn off the music alarm:
• Press any key to stop playing the CD and turn off the system.
• While the music alarm is playing, the system wake-up features (LAN,
keyboard, mouse, PCI/PCIE device, modem) are deactivated.
• If the system loses connection or if it does not detect any optical drive or
audio CD, the ASUS Music Alarm is automatically disabled/turned off.
• While the music alarm is playing, the optical drive front panel functions are
automatically disabled.
• The ASUS Music Alarm works only when the system is off.

5.3.5 ASUS AI Booster
The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in
WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.
After installing the program from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the
utility by double-clicking the AI Booster icon on the Windows® OS taskbar.
The options on the task bar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/
Memory/PCI-E frequency manually, or create and apply your personal overclocking
configurations.

5.4 RAID configurations
The motherboard comes with two RAID controllers that allow you to configure
Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets.
• The NVIDIA® nForce™ 680i SLI Southbridge includes a high performance
SATA RAID controller that supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and
JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels.
5.4.1 RAID definitions

RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a
single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone,
thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives
is required for this setup.
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one
drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software
directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of
the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and
increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an
existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same
size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 0+1 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 0+1 configuration you get
all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk
drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID
5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database
applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a
minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
JBOD (Spanning) stands for Just a Bunch of Disks and refers to hard disk drives
that are not yet configured as a RAID set. This configuration stores the same
data redundantly on multiple disks that appear as a single disk on the operating
system. Spanning does not deliver any advantage over using separate disks
independently and does not provide fault tolerance or other RAID performance
benefits.

If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a RAID set,
first copy the RAID driver from the Support DVD to a floppy disk before you
install an operating system to a selected hard disk drive. Refer to section “5.5
Creating a RAID driver disk” for details.
5.4.2 NVIDIA® RAID configurations

The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in
the NVIDIA® nForce™ 680i SLI southbridge chipset. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels.
Installing Serial ATA (SATA) hard disks

The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives.
For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity
when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:
1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.

2. Connect the SATA signal cables.
3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
Refer to the RAID controllers user manual in the motherboard support DVD
for detailed information on RAID configurations. See section “5.2.5 Manuals
menu.”
Setting the BIOS RAID items

After installing the hard disk drives, make sure to set the necessary RAID items in
the BIOS before setting your RAID configuration.
To set the BIOS RAID items:
1. Boot the system and press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to
enter the BIOS Setup Utility.
2. Enable the RAID Enabled item in the BIOS. See section “4.5.3 Onboard
Device Configuration > Serial-ATA Configuration” for details.
3. Select and enable the IDE or SATA drive(s) that you want to configure
as RAID. See section “4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration > Serial-ATA
Configuration” for details.
4. Save your changes and Exit Setup.

Make sure to re-enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared;
otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup.
• For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA® RAID configuration, refer to the

“NVIDIA® RAID User Guide” found in your motherboard Support DVD.
• When using Windows® 2000 operating system, make sure to install the
Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or later version.
Entering the NVIDIA® RAID utility

To enter the NVIDIA® RAID utility:
1. Boot up your computer.

2. During POST, press <F10> to display the main menu of the utility.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only, and
may not exactly match the items on your screen.
NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004

- Define a New Array -
RAID Mode: Striping Striping Block: Optimal
Free Disks Array Disks

Loc Disk Model Name Loc Disk Model Name
1.0.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
1.1.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX [→] Add
[←] Del
[F6] Back [F7] Finish [TAB] Navigate [↑↓] Select [ENTER] Popup
At the bottom of the screen are the navigation keys. These keys allow you to move
through and select menu options.

Creating a RAID Volume
To create a RAID volume:
1. From the NVIDIA® RAID utility Define a New Array menu, select RAID Mode
then press <Enter>. The following submenu appears.
Use the up or down arrow keys to select a Mirroring
RAID mode then press <Enter>. Striping
Stripe Mirroring
Spanning
2. Press <TAB> select the Striping 8K ↑

Block then press <Enter>. The 16K
32K
following submenu appears: 64K
128K
Optim↓
If you selected Striping or Stripe Mirroring, use the up or down arrow keys to
select the stripe size for your RAID 0 array then press <Enter>.The available
values range from 8 KB to 128 KB. The default selection is 128 KB. The strip
value should be chosen based on the planned drive usage.
• 8 /16 KB - low disk usage
• 64 KB - typical disk usage
• 128 KB - performance disk usage
TIP: For server systems, we recommend using a lower array block size. For
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing, we
recommend a higher array block size for optimum performance.
3.` Press <TAB> to select the Free Disks area. Use the left or right arrow keys to
assign the array disks.
4. Press <F7> to create RAID set. The following message box appears.
Clear disk data?
[Y] YES [N] NO
5. Press <Y> to clear the selected disks or <N> to proceed without clearing the
disks. The following screen appears.
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!

NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004
- Array List -
Boot Id Status Vendor Array Model Name

No 4 Healthy NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG
[Ctrl-X]Exit [↑↓]Select [B]Set Boot [N]New Array [ENTER]Detail
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.

6. Press <Ctrl+X> to save settings and exit.
Rebuilding a RAID array

To rebuild a RAID array:
1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID
array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG

- Array Detail -
RAID Mode: Mirroring

Striping Width: 1 Striping Block: 64K
Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity

2 1 Master 0 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear Disk [ENTER] Return

2. Press <R> to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears.

- Select Disk Inside Array -


[↑↓] Select [F6] Back [F7] Finish
3. Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array to rebuild, then press
<F7>. The following confirmation message appears.
Rebuild array?
[ENTER] OK [ESC] Cancel
4. Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel.

5. After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears.
You will need to enter Window® XP and run the NVIDIA utility in order to
complete the rebuilt process.

Deleting a RAID array
To delete a RAID array:

- Array Detail -



2. Press <D> to delete a RAID array. The following confirmation message
appears.
Delete this array?
[Y] YES [N] No
3. Press <Y> to delete array or press <N> to cancel.
4. If you selected Yes, the Define a New Array menu appears.

Clearing a disk data
To clear disk data:

- Array Detail -



2. Press <C> to clear disk. The following confirmation message appears.
Clear disk data?
[Y] YES [N]
5. Press <Y> to clear the disk data or press <N> to cancel.

5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® 2000/XP
operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.
To create a RAID driver disk:
1. Place the motherboard support DVD into the DVD-ROM drive.

2. Select Make Disk tab.
3. From the Make Disk menu, select the RAID driver disk you want to create or
browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the driver disk utility.
Refer to section “5.2.4 Make Disk menu” for details.
4. Insert floppy disk to floppy disk drive.

5. Follow succeeding screen information to complete process.
6. Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.
To install the RAID driver:
1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to
install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.
2. Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk
drive.
3. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset
doesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.

6
This chapter tells how to install SLI‑ready
PCI Express graphics cards.
NVIDIA® SLI™
technology support
Chapter summary
6.1 Overview........................................................................................ 6-1

6.2 Dual graphics cards setup........................................................... 6-2
ASUS P5N32-E SLI

6.1 Overview
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology
that allows you to install two identical PCI Express™ x16 graphics cards. Follow
the installation procedures in this section.
Requirements
• You should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified.
• Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology.
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
• Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the
minimum power required by your system. See “8. ATX power connectors” on
page 2-31 for details.
• The NVIDIA SLI technology supports Windows® XP™ 32-bit/64bit operating

system only.
• Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified
graphics card and supported 3D application list.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 6-

6.2 Dual graphics card setup
6.2.1 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards
Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®-certified.
Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly.
To install the graphics cards:
1. Prepare two graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for
the SLI connector.
Goldfingers
2. Remove the metal bracket covers opposite the two PCI Express x16 slots.
6- Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support

3. Insert one graphics card into one of the blue slots (PCIEX16_1). Make sure
that the card is properly seated on the slot.
4. Insert the second graphics card into the other slot (PCIEX16_3). Make sure
that the card is properly seated on the slot.
If required, connect an auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics

cards.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 6-

5. Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card.
Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.
SLI connector
6. When installing two VGA cards using a 20-pin ATX PSU with sufficient+12v
capability, we recommend that you connect the auxillary power source from
the power supply to the graphics card. Refer to the PSU documentation for
dual VGA power requirements.
7. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.
We recommend to install an additional chassis fan for better thermal

environment.

6.2.2 Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install
the device drivers.
Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI
technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.
com).
6.2.3 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows®

After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the
Multi‑Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) feature in the NVIDIA nView properties.
To enable the multi-GPU feature:
1. Click the NVIDIA Settings icon on

your Windows taskbar.
NVIDIA Settings icon
2. From the pop-up menu, select

nView Desktop Manager then click
nView Properties.
3. From the nView Desktop Manager

window, select the Desktop
Management tab.
4. Click Properties to display the
Display Properties dialog box.
ASUS P5N32-E SLI 6-

5. From the Display Properties dialog
box, select the Settings tab then
click Advanced.
6. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab.
7. Click the slider to display the

following screen, then select the SLI
multi‑GPU item.
Slider
8. Click the Enable SLI multi-GPU check box.

9. Click OK when done.

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Motherboard

Copyright © 2006 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5.4 PCI slots......................................................................... 2-20

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4.3.4 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 4-13

Chapter 5: Software support

Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support

Federal Communications Commission Statement

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

How this guide is organized

Where to find more information

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the

Chipset NVIDIA® nForce 680i SLI

SLI-Ready Memory 1200 MHz

Storage/RAID Southbridge supports:

(continued on the next page)

(continued on the next page)

Accessories 1 x SLI bridge

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

ASUS P5N32-E SLI

1.2 Package contents

Motherboard ASUS P5N32-E SLI motherboard

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

Intel® Core™2 / Quad-core Processor Ready

NVIDIA® nForce® 680i SLI chipset

NVIDIA® Scalable Link Interface (SLI™)

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Serial ATA I/II technology

IEEE 1394a support

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

Dual Gigabit LAN solution

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

8 Phase Power Design

Fanless Design: Heat-pipe Thermal solution

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2

SupremeFX (ADI 1988b)

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ASUS O.C. Profile

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

ASUS Multi-language BIOS

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

ASUS P5N32-E SLI

• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to

P5N32-E SLI Onboard LED

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2.2.1 Placement direction

2.2.2 Screw holes

DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Place this side towards

2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 1-

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-

2- Chapter 2: Hardware information

ASUS P5N32-E SLI 2-