TF720 A2+ - Motherboard BIOSTAR - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL TF720 A2+ BIOSTAR

FCC Information and Copyright

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits of 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 the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

The vendor makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents here and specially disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any purpose. Further the vendor reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes to the contents here without obligation to notify any party beforehand.

Duplication of this publication, in part or in whole, is not allowed without first obtaining the vendor's approval in writing.

The content of this user's manual is subject to be changed without notice and we will not be responsible for any mistakes found in this user's manual. All the brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction....1

1.1 Before You Start 1
1.2 Package Checklist....1
1.3 Motherboard Features....2
1.4 Rear Panel Connectors 3
1.5 Motherboard Layout....4

Chapter 2: Hardware Installation .... 5

2.1 Installing Central Processing Unit (CPU) 5
2.2 FAN Headers....7
2.3 Installing System Memory 8
2.4 Connectors and Slots 10

Chapter 3: Headers & Jumpers Setup 12

3.1 How to Setup Jumpers 12
3.2 Detail Settings 12

Chapter 4: NVIDIA RAID Functions ...... 20

4.1 Operation System 20
4.2 Raid Arrays 20
4.3 How RAID Works....20

Chapter 5: T-Series BIOS & Software 24

5.1 T-Series BIOS 24
5.2 T-Series Software 32

Chapter 6: Useful Help ...... 41

6.1 Driver Installation Note....41
6.2 Extra Information....42
6.3 AMI BIOS Beep Code 43
6.4 Troubleshooting.... 44

Appendencies: SPEC In Other Language 46

German....46
France 48
Italian....50
Spanish 52
Portuguese 54
Polish....56
Russian 58
Arabic....60
Japanese 62

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 B EFORE YOU START

Thank you for choosing our product. Before you start installing the motherboard, please make sure you follow the instructions below:

■ Prepare a dry and stable working environment with sufficient lighting.
■ Always disconnect the computer from power outlet before operation.
■ Before you take the motherboard out from anti-static bag, ground yourself properly by touching any safely grounded appliance, or use grounded wrist strap to remove the static charge.
■ Avoid touching the components on motherboard or the rear side of the board unless necessary. Hold the board on the edge, do not try to bend or flex the board.
■ Do not leave any unfastened small parts inside the case after installation. Loose parts will cause short circuits which may damage the equipment.
- Keep the computer from dangerous area, such as heat source, humid air and water.

1.2 PACKAGE CHECKLIST

HDD Cable X 1
Serial ATA Cable X 2
Serial ATA Power Cable X 1
Rear I/O Panel for ATX Case X 1
User's Manual X 1
Fully Setup Driver CD X 1
FDD Cable X 1 (optional)
USB 2.0 Cable X1 (optional)
S/PDIF out Cable X 1 (optional)
DVI to HDMI Adapter X 1 (optional)

Note: The package contents may differ by area or your motherboard version.

1.3 MOTHERBOARD FEATURES

TF8200 A2+ SE TF720 A2+/TF710 A2+
CPU	Socket AM2+AMD Athlon 64 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 x2 / Sempron / Phenom processorsAMD 64 Architecture enables 32 and 64 bit computingSupports Hyper Transport 3.0 and PowerNow	Socket AM2+AMD Athlon 64 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 x2 / Sempron / Phenom processorsAMD 64 Architecture enables 32 and 64 bit computingSupports Hyper Transport 3.0 and PowerNow
FSB	Support HyperTransport 3.0Supports up to 5.2 GT/s Bandwidth	Support HyperTransport 3.0Supports up to 5.2 GT/s Bandwidth
Chipset	GeForce 8200	GeForce 8100 (TF720 A2+)nForce 710a (TF710 A2+)
Super I/O	ITE 8718FProvides the most commonly used legacy Super I/O functionality.Low Pin Count InterfaceEnvironment Control initiatives ,H/W MonitorFan Sp eed ControllerITE's "S mart Guard ian" funct ion	ITE 8718FProvides the most commonly used legacy Super I/O functionality.Low Pin Count InterfaceEnvironment Control initiatives ,H/W MonitorFan Sp eed ControllerITE's "S mart Guard ian" funct ion
Main Memory	DIMM Slots x 4Each DIMM supports 256/512MB & 1/2/4GB DDR2Max Memory Capcity 16GBDual Channel Mode DDR2 memory modu leSupports DDR2 533 / 667 / 800Supports DDR2 1066 (by AM2+ CPU)Registered DIMM and ECC DIMM is not supported	DIMM Slots x 4Each DIMM supports 256/512MB & 1/2/4GB DDR2Max Memory Capcity 16GBDual Channel Mode DDR2 memory modu leSupports DDR2 533 / 667 / 800Supports DDR2 1066 (by AM2+ CPU)Registered DIMM and ECC DIMM is not supported
Graphics For TF8200A2+ SE / TF720 A2+ Only	Integrated in GeForce 8200 ChipsetMax Shared V id eo Memory is 512MBDX10 / HDCP / PureV id eo HD support	Integrated in GeForce 8100 ChipsetMax Shared V id eo Memory is 512MBDX10 / HDCP / PureV id eo support
IDE	Integrated IDE ControllerUltra DMA 33 / 66 / 100 / 133 Bus Master Mode supports PIO Mode 0~4	Integrated IDE ControllerUltra DMA 33 / 66 / 100 / 133 Bus Master Mode supports PIO Mode 0~4
SATA II	Integrated Serial ATA ControllerData transfer rates up to 3 Gb/s.SATA Version 2.0 spec ifcat ion co mp liant.	Integrated Serial ATA ControllerData transfer rates up to 3 Gb/s.SATA Version 2.0 spec ifcat ion co mp liant.
LAN	Realtek RTL 8111C10 / 100 / 1000 Mb/s auto negotiationHalf / Full duplex capability	Realtek RTL 8111C10 / 100 / 1000 Mb/s auto negotiationHalf / Full duplex capability
Sound	ALC6625.1 channels audio outSupports HD Audio	ALC6625.1 channels audio outSupports HD Audio

TF8200 A2+ SE TF720 A2+/TF710 A2+
Slots	PCI slot x3 PCI slot x3PCI Express Gen2 x16 slot x1 PCI Express Gen2 x16 slot x1PCI Express x1 slot x2 PCI Express x1 slot x2
On Board Connector	Floppy connector x1 Floppy connector x1Printer Port connector x1 Printer Port connector x1IDE Connector x1 IDE Connector x1SATA Connector x6 SATA Connector x6Front Panel Connector x1 Front Panel Connector x1Front Audio Connector x1 Front Audio Connector x1CD-in Connector x1 CD-in Connector x1S/PDIF out connector x1 S/PDIF out connector x1CPU Fan header x1 CPU Fan header x1System Fan header x2 System Fan header x2CMOS clear header x1 CMOS clear header x1USB connector x4 USB connector x4Serial port Connector x1 Serial port Connector x1Power Connector (24pin) x1 Power Connector (24pin) x1Power Connector (4pin) x2 Power Connector (4pin) x2
Back Panel I/O	PS/2 Keyboard x1 PS/2 Mouse x1 LAN port x1 USB Port x4 Audio Jack x3 DVI port x1 VGA port x1		PS/2 Keyboard x1 PS/2 Mouse x1 LAN port x1 USB Port x4 Audio Jack x3 DVI port (for TF720 A2+) x1 VGA port (for TF720 A2+) x1
Board Size	220 mm (W) x 305 mm (L)		220 mm (W) x 305 mm (L)
Special Features	RAID 0 / 1 / 5 / 0+1 support Hybrid SLI support (by nVIDIA driver)		RAID 0 / 1 / 5 / 0+1 support Hybrid SLI support (by nVIDIA driver) (for TF720 A2+)
OS Support	Windows XP / VISTABiostar Reserves the right to add or remove support for any OS With or without notice.		Windows XP / VISTABiostar Reserves the right to add or remove support for any OS With or without notice.

1.4 REAR PANEL CONNECTORS

1.5 MOTHERBOARD LAYOUT

graph TD
    A["JKBMS1"] --> B["JPSPW1"]
    B --> C["VDI"]
    C --> D["JUSB1"]
    D --> E["JUSBLAN1"]
    E --> F["JAUDIO1"]
    F --> G["JCDN1"]
    G --> H["LAN"]
    H --> I["PCI-EX1_1"]
    I --> J["PCI-EX1_2"]
    J --> K["PCI-I-EX1"]
    K --> L["PCI1"]
    L --> M["PCI2"]
    M --> N["Super I/O"]
    N --> O["BAT1"]
    O --> P["JUSBPW2"]
    P --> Q["JSPDIF OUT1"]
    Q --> R["JCPRT1"]
    R --> S["JCOM2"]
    S --> T["JUSB2"]
    T --> U["JUSB3"]
    U --> V["JUSB4"]
    V --> W["JUSS5"]
    W --> X["JJSPAN1"]
    X --> Y["JFAN1"]
    Y --> Z["SATA4"]
    Z --> AA["SATA5"]
    AA --> AB["SATA6"]
    AB --> AC["SATA3"]
    AC --> AD["IDE1"]
    AD --> AE["FDD1"]
    AE --> AF["JATXPWR1"]
    AF --> AG["JATXPWR2"]
    AG --> AH["JCFAN1"]
    AH --> AI["GEForce 8200/8100 or nForce 710a"]

Note: represents the 1 ^st pin.

CHAPTER 2: HARDWARE INSTALLATION

2.1 INSTALLING CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)

Step 1: Remove the socket protection cap.

Diagram showing a device with a hexagonal grid structure before and after rotation, no text or symbols present.

Step 2: Pull the lever toward direction A from the socket and then raise the lever up to a 90-degree angle.

Diagram showing two rectangular blocks with a red arrow indicating rotation, no text or symbols present

Step 3: Look for the white triangle on socket, and the gold triangle on CPU should point towards this white triangle. The CPU will fit only in the correct orientation.

Close-up of a microchip or electronic component with a red circle highlighting a small green component, mounted on a perforated base (no text or symbols visible)

Step 4: Hold the CPU down firmly, and then close the lever toward direct B to complete the installation.

graph TD
    A["CPU"] -->|Signal| B["AMD"]
    B --> C["Computer"]

Step 5: Put the CPU Fan on the CPU and buckle it. Connect the CPU FAN power cable to the JCFAN1. This completes the installation.

Note: Please update the BIOS to the latest version while using AM2+ CPUs. Due to the latest CPU transition, you may encounter the situation that the new system failed to boot while using new AM2+ CPUs. In this case, please install one standard AM2 CPU to boot your system, and update the latest BIOS from our website for AM2+ CPUs support.

2.2 FAN HEADERS

These fan headers support cooling-fans built in the computer. The fan cable and connector may be different according to the fan manufacturer. Connect the fan cable to the connector while matching the black wire to pin#1.

JCFAN1: CPU Fan Header

Pin	Assignment
1	Ground
2	+12V
3	FAN RPM rate sense
4	Smart Fan Control (By Fan)

JSFAN1: System Fan Header

JNFAN1: Chipset Fan Header

graph TD
    A["User Interface"] --> B["JNFAN1"]
    A --> C["JSFAN1"]
    B --> D["3 1"]
    C --> E["1 3"]

Pin	Assignment
1	Ground
2	+12V
3	FAN RPM rate sense

Note:

The JCFAN1 and JSFAN1/JNFAN1 support 4-pin and 3-pin head connectors. When connecting with wires onto connectors, please note that the red wire is the positive and should be connected to pin#2, and the black wire is Ground and should be connected to GND.

2.3 INSTALLING SYSTEM MEMORY

A. Memory Modules

graph TD
    A["CPU"] --> B["Memory"]
    B --> C["Memory Block"]
    C --> D["Stacked Blocks"]
    D --> E["Vertical Stack"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333

1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the Slot.

Close-up of a green computer RAM module with multiple slots and ventilation slots, showing circuit board edges and mounting points (no readable text or symbols)

1. Insert the DIMM vertically and firmly into the slot until the retaining chip snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

Green printed circuit board with multiple integrated circuits and connectors (no visible text or symbols)

B. Memory Capacity

DIMM Socket Location	DDR2 Module	Total Memory Size
DIMMA1	256MB/512MB/1GB/2GB/4GB	Max is 16GB.
DIMMB1	256MB/512MB/1GB/2GB/4GB
DIMMA2	256MB/512MB/1GB/2GB/4GB
DIMMB2	256MB/512MB/1GB/2GB/4GB

C. Dual Channel Memory installation

To trigger the Dual Channel function of the motherboard, the memory module must meet the following requirements:

Install memory module of the same density in pairs, shown in the following table.

Dual Channel Status	DIMMA1	DIMMB1	DIMMA2	DIMMB2
Enabled	O	O	X	X
Enabled	X	X	O	O
Enabled		O	O	O

(O means memory installed, X means memory not installed.)

The DRAM bus width of the memory module must be the same (x8 or x16)

2.4 CONNECTORS AND SLOTS

FDD1: Floppy Disk Connector

The motherboard provides a standard floppy disk connector that supports 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88M floppy disk types. This connector supports the provided floppy drive ribbon cables.

IDE1: Hard Disk Connector

The motherboard has a 32-bit Enhanced IDE Controller that provides PIO Mode 0\~4, Bus Master, and Ultra DMA 33/66/100/133 functionality.

The IDE connector can connect a master and a slave drive, so you can connect up to two hard disk drives.

PCI-EX1: PCI-Express Gen2 x16 Slot

• PCI-Express 2.0 compliant.
• Maximum theoretical realized bandwidth of 8GB/s simultaneously per direction, for an aggregate of 16GB/s totally.
• PCI-Express Gen2 supports a raw bit-rate of 5.0Gb/s on the data pins.
• 2X bandwidth over the PCI-Express 1.1 architecture.

PCI-EX1\_1/PCI-EX1\_2: PCI-Express x1 Slots

• PCI-Express 1.1 compliant.
• Data transfer bandwidth up to 250MB/s per direction; 500MB/s in total.
• PCI-Express supports a raw bit-rate of 2.5Gb/s on the data pins.
• 2X bandwidth over the PCI architecture.

PCI1\~PCI3: Peripheral Component Interconnect Slots

This motherboard is equipped with 3 standard PCI slots. PCI stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect, and it is a bus standard for expansion cards. This PCI slot is designated as 32 bits.

graph LR
    A["PC1"] --> B["PC2"]
    B --> C["PC3"]

CHAPTER 3: HEADERS & JUMPERS SETUP

3.1 HOW TO SETUP JUMPERS

The illustration shows how to set up jumpers. When the jumper cap is placed on pins, the jumper is "close", if not, that means the jumper is "open".

Pin1-2
closed

3.2 DETAIL SETTINGS

JPANEL1: Front Panel Header

This 16-pin connector includes Power-on, Reset, HDD LED, Power LED, and speaker connection. It allows user to connect the PC case's front panel switch functions.

Pin	Assignment	Function	Pin	Assignment	Function
1	+5V	Speaker Connector	9	N/A	N/A
2	N/A		10	N/A
3	N/A		11	N/A	N/A
4	Speaker		12	Power LED (+)	Power LED
5	HDD LED (+)	Hard drive LED	13	Power LED (+)
6	HDD LED (-)		14	Power LED (-)
7	Ground	Reset button	15	Power button	Power-on button
8	Reset control		16	Ground

JATXPWR1: ATX Power Source Connector

This connector allows user to connect 24-pin power connector on the ATX power supply.

Pin	Assignment			Pin	Assignment
13	+3.3V		1	+3.3V
14	-12V		2	+3.3V
15	Gro	und		3	Gro	und
16	PS_ON		4	+5V
17	Gro	und		5	Gro	und
18	Ground		6	+5V
19	Gro	und		7	Gro	und
20	NC		8	PW_OK
21	+5V		9	Standby Voltage+5V
22	+5V			10	+12V
23	+5V			11	+12V
24	Ground			12	+3.3V

JATXPWR2: ATX Power Source Connector

By connecting this connector, it will provide +12V to CPU power circuit.

Note:

Before power on the system, please make sure that both JATXPWR1 and JATXPWR2 connectors have been plugged-in.

JUSB2\~JUSB5: Headers for USB 2.0 Ports at Front Panel

This header allows user to connect additional USB cable on the PC front panel, and also can be connected with internal USB devices, like USB card reader.

JAUDIOF1: Front Panel Audio Header

This header allows user to connect the front audio output cable with the PC front panel. This header allows only HD audio front panel connector; AC'97 connector is not acceptable.

Pin Assignment

1 Mic Left in
2 Ground
3 Mic Right in
4 GPIO
5 Right line in
6 Jack Sense
7 Front Sense
8 Key
9 Left line in
10 Jack Sense

JCDIN1: CD-ROM Audio-in Connector

This connector allows user to connect the audio source from the variety devices, like CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, PCI sound card, PCI TV turner card etc.

JCMOS1: Clear CMOS Header

By placing the jumper on pin2-3, it allows user to restore the BIOS safe setting and the CMOS data, please carefully follow the procedures to avoid damaging the motherboard.

1. Remove AC power line.
2. Set the jumper to "Pin 2-3 close".
3. Wait for five seconds.
4. Set the jumper to "Pin 1-2 close".
5. Power on the AC.
6. Reset your desired password or clear the CMOS data.

JPRNT1: Printer Port Connector

This header allows you to connector printer on the PC.

Pin	Assignment			Pin	Assignment
1	-Strobe	14		Ground
2	-ALF	15	Data	6
3	Data 0		16	Ground
4	-Error	17	Data	7
5	Data 1		18	Ground
6	-Init	19	-ACK
7	Data 2		20	Ground
8	-Scltin	21	Busy
9	Data 3		22	Ground
10	Ground	23	PE
11	Data 4		24	Ground
12	Ground	25	SCLT
13	Data 5		26	Key

JCOM2: Serial port Connector

The motherboard has a Serial Port Connector for connecting RS-232 Port.

Pin Assignment

1	Carrier detect
2	Received data
3	Transmitted data
4	Data terminal ready
5	Signal ground
6	Data set ready
7	Request to send
8	Clear to send
9	Ring indicator
10	NC

SATA1\~SATA6: Serial ATA Connectors

The motherboard has a PCI to SATA Controller with 6 channels SATA interface, it satisfies the SATA 2.0 spec and with transfer rate of 3.0Gb/s.

Pin Assignment

1	Ground
2	TX+
3	TX-
4	Ground
5	RX-
6	RX+
7	Ground

Note:

Due to the chipset's specification, SATA5 and SATA6 do not support SATA mode, only support AHCI+RAID mode.

On-Board LED Indicators

There are 2 LED indicators on the motherboard to show system status.

LED1 and LED2:

These 2 LED indicate system power on diagnostics.

Please refer to the table below for different messages:

LED1	LED2	Message
ON	ON	Normal
ON	OFF	Memory Error
OFF	ON	VGA Error
OFF OFF Abnormal: CPU / Chipset error.

On-Board Buttons

There are 2 on-board buttons.

PWRSW1:

This is an on-board Power Switch button.

RSTSW1:

This is an on-board Reset button.

JSPDIF\_OUT1: Digital Audio-out Connector

This connector allows user to connect the PCI bracket SPDIF output header.

Pin Assignment

1	+5V
2	SPDIF_OUT
3	Ground

J1: Auxiliary Power for Graphics

This connector is an auxiliary power connection for graphics cards. Exclusive power for the graphics card provides better graphics performance.

Pin Assignment

1	+12V
2	Ground
3	Ground
4	VCC

JUSBPW1/JUSBPW2: Power Source Headers for USB Ports

Pin 1-2 Close:

JUSBPW1: +5V for USB ports at JUSB1/JUSBLAN1.

JUSBPW2: +5V for USB ports at front panel (JUSB2\~JUSB5).

Pin 2-3 Close:

JUSBPW1: +5V STB for USB ports at JUSB1/JUSBLAN1.

JUSBPW2: +5V STB for USB ports at front panel (JUSB2\~JUSB5).

JPSPW1: Power Source Header for PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse

CHAPTER 4: NVIDIA RAID FUNCTIONS

Supports Windows XP and Windows VISTA.

4.2 RAID ARRAYS

NVRAID supports the following types of RAID arrays:

RAID 0: RAID 0 defines a disk striping scheme that improves disk read and write times for many applications.

RAID 1: RAID 1 defines techniques for mirroring data.

RAID 0+1: RAID 0+1 combines the techniques used in RAID 0 and RAID 1.

RAID 5: RAID 5 provides fault tolerance and better utilization of disk capacity.

4.3 How RAID WORKS

RAID 0:

The controller “stripes” data across multiple drives in a RAID 0 array system. It breaks up a large file into smaller blocks and performs disk reads and writes across multip le drives in parallel. The size of each block is determined by the stripe size parameter, which you set during the creation of the RAID set based on the system environment. This technique reduces overall disk access time and offers high bandwidth.

Features and Benefits

• Drives: Minimum 2, and maximum is up to 6 or 8. Depending on the platform.
• Uses: Intended for non-critical data requiring high data throughput, or any environment that does not require fault tolerance.
• Benefits: provides increased data throughput, especially for large files. No capacity loss penalty for parity.
• Drawbacks: Does not deliver any fault tolerance. If any drive in the array fails, all data is lost.
• Fault Tolerance: No.

graph TD
    A["GeForce 8200/8100 or nForce 710a"] --> B["Block 1"]
    A --> C["Block 3"]
    A --> D["Block 5"]
    A --> E["Block 2"]
    A --> F["Block 4"]
    A --> G["Block 6"]

RAID 1:

Every read and write is actually carried out in parallel across 2 disk drives in a RAID 1 array system. The mirrored (backup) copy of the data can reside on the same disk or on a second redundant drive in the array. RAID 1 provides a hot-standby copy of data if the active volume or drive is corrupted or becomes unavailable because of a hardware failure. RAID techniques can be applied for high-availability solutions, or as a form of automatic backup that eliminates tedious manual backups to more expensive and less reliable media.

Features and Benefits

• Drives: Minimum 2, and maximum is 2.
• Uses: RAID 1 is ideal for small databases or any other application that requires fault tolerance and minimal capacity.
• Benefits: Provides 100% data redundancy. Should one drive fail, the controller switches to the other drive.
• Drawbacks: Requires 2 drives for the storage space of one drive. Performance is impaired during drive rebuilds.

- Fault Tolerance: Yes.

graph TD
    A["GeForce 8200/8100 or nForce 710a"] --> B["Block 1"]
    A --> C["Block 2"]
    A --> D["Block 3"]
    B --> E["Block 1"]
    B --> F["Block 2"]
    B --> G["Block 3"]
    C --> H["Block 1"]
    C --> I["Block 2"]
    C --> J["Block 3"]

Motherboard Manual

RAID 0+1:

RAID 0 drives can be mirrored using RAID 1 techniques. Resulting in a RAID 0+1 solution for improved performance plus resiliency.

Features and Benefits

• Drives: Minimum 4, and maximum is 6 or 8, depending on the platform.
• Benefits: Optimizes for both fault tolerance and performance, allowing for automatic redundancy. May be simultaneously used with other RAID levels in an array, and allows for spare disks.
• Drawbacks: Requires twice the available disk space for data redundancy, the same as RAID level 1.
• Fault Tolerance: Yes.

graph TD
    A["GeForce 8200/8100 or nForce 710a"] --> B["Block 1\nBlock 3\nBlock 5"]
    A --> C["Block 2\nBlock 4\nBlock 6"]
    A --> D["Block 1\nBlock 3\nBlock 5"]
    A --> E["Block 2\nBlock 4\nBlock 6"]
    B --> F["="]
    C --> F
    D --> F
    E --> F

RAID 5:

RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more drives. It writes data and parity blocks across all the drives in the array. Fault tolerance is maintained by ensuring that the parity information for any given block of data is placed on a different drive from those used to store the data itself.

Features and Benefits

• Drives: Mini mum 3.
• Uses: RAID 5 is recommended for transaction processing and general purpose service.
• Benefits: An ideal combination of good performance, good fault tolerance, and high capacity and storage efficiency.
• Drawbacks: Individual block data transfer rate same as a single disk. Write performance can be CPU intensive.
• Fault Tolerance: Yes.

graph TD
    A["GeForce 8200/8100 or nForce 710a"] --> B["Disk 1"]
    A --> C["Disk 2"]
    A --> D["Disk 3"]
    B --> E["DATA 1"]
    B --> F["DATA 3"]
    B --> G["PARITY"]
    B --> H["DATA 7"]
    B --> I["DATA 9"]
    B --> J["PARITY"]
    C --> K["DATA 2"]
    C --> L["PARITY"]
    C --> M["DATA 5"]
    C --> N["DATA 8"]
    C --> O["PARITY"]
    C --> P["DATA 11"]
    D --> Q["PARITY"]
    D --> R["DATA 4"]
    D --> S["DATA 6"]
    D --> T["PARITY"]
    D --> U["DATA 10"]
    D --> V["DATA 12"]

※ For more detailed setup information, please refer to the Driver CD, or go to http://www.nvidia.com/object/IO_28159.html to download the NVIDIA RAID User's Guide.

CHAPTER 5: T-SERIES BIOS & SOFTWARE

5.1 T-SERIES BIOS

T-Series BIOS Features

Overclocking Navigator Engine (O.N.E.)
■ Memory Integration Test (M.I.T., under Overclock Navigator Engine)
BIO-Flasher: Update BIOS file from USB Flash Drive or FDD
■ Self Recovery System (S.R.S)
Smart Fan Function
CMOS Reloading Program

!! WARNING !!

For better system performance, the BIOS firmware is being continuously updated. The BIOS information described below in this manual is for your reference only and the actual BIOS information and settings on board may be different from this manual. For further information of setting up the BIOS, please refer to the BIOS Manual in the Sectu CD.

A. Overclocking Navigator Engine (O.N.E.)

ONE provides two powerful overclocking engines: MOS and AOS for both Elite and Casual overclockers.

Manual Overclock System (M.O.S.)

MOS is designed for experienced overclock users.

It allows users to customize personal overclock settings.

↓

Over-Voltage Configuration

Enter this function for advanced CPU/chipset/memory/Hyper Transport over-voltage settings.

DRAM Timing Configuration

Enter this function for more advanced DRAM clock settings.

Spread Spectrum Configuration

Enter this function for more advanced spread spectrum settings.

CPU Frequency, MHz

CPU Frequency is directly in proportion to system performance. To maintain the system stability, CPU voltage needs to be increased also when raising CPU frequency.

Processor Frequency Multiplier

This function allows you to adjust the frequency ratio of CPU.

SB to K8(CPU) Freq Auto

This function allows you to set the SB to K8 frequency.

SB to K8(CPU) LinkWidth

This function allows you to choose the SB to K8 link width.

Memory Clock Mo de

This function allows you to control the Memory Clock.

MCP PCI-Express Frequency, MHz

It helps to increase VGA card performance.

NOTE

Overclock is an optional process, but not a “must-do” process; it is not recommended for inexperienced users. Therefore, we will not be responsible for any hardware damage which may be caused by overclocking. We also would not guarantee any overclocking performance.

Automatic Overclock System (A.O.S.)

For beginners in overclock field, BET had developed an easy, fast, and powerful feature to increase the system performance, named A.O.S. Based on many tests and experiments, A.O.S. provides 3 ideal overclock configurations that are able to raise the system performance in a single step.

V6 Tech Engine

This engine will make a good over-clock performance.

V8 Tech Engine

This engine will make a better over-clock performance.

V12 Tech Engine

This engine will make a best over-clock performance.

Notices:

1. Not all types of AMD CPU perform above overclock setting ideally; the difference will be based on the selected CPU model.

B. Memory Integration Test (M.I.T.)

This function is under "Overclocking Navigator Engine" item.

MIT allows users to test memory compatibilities, and no extra devices or software are needed.

Step 1

The default setting under this item is "Disabled"; the condition parameter should be changed to "Enable" to proceed this test.

↓

Step 2

Save and Exit from CMOS setup and reboot the system to activate this test.

Run this test for 5 minutes (minimum) to ensure the memory stability.

Step 3

When the process is done, change the setting back from "Enable" to "Disable" to complete the test.

C. BIO-Flasher

BIO-Flasher is a BIOS flashing utility providing you an easy and simple way to update your BIOS via USB pen drive or floppy disk.

The BIO-Flasher is built in the BIOS chip. To enter the utility, press during the Power-On Self Tests (POST) procedure while booting up.

Updating BIOS with BIO-Flasher

1. Go to the website to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard.
2. Then, save the BIOS file into a USB pen drive or a floppy disk.
3. Insert the USB pen drive or the floppy disk that contains the BIOS file to the USB port or the floppy disk drive.
4. Power on or reset the computer and then press during the POST process. A select dialog as the picture on the right appears. Select the device contains the BIOS file and press to enter the utility.

1. The utility will show the BIOS files and their respective information. Select the proper BIOS file and press then to perform the BIOS update process.

2. After the update process, the utility will ask you to reboot the system. Press to proceed. BIOS update completes.

• This utility only allows storage device with FAT32/16 format and single partition.
• Shutting down or resetting the system while updating the BIOS will lead to system boot failure.

D. Self Recovery System (S.R.S.)

This function can't be seen under BIOS setup; and is always on whenever the system starts up.

However, it can prevent system hang-up due to inappropriate overclock actions.

When the system hangs up, S.R.S. will automatically log in the default BIOS setting, and all overclock settings will be re-configured.

E. Smart Fan Function

Smart Fan Function is under "Smart Fan Configuration" in "Advanced Menu". This is a brilliant feature to control CPU/System Temperature vs. Fan speed. When enabling Smart Fan function, Fan speed is controlled automatically by CPU/System temperature.

This function will protect CPU/System from overheat problem and maintain the system temperature at a safe level.

Smart Fan Calibration

Choose this item and then the BIOS will automatically test and detect the CPU/System fan functions and show CPU/System fan speed.

Control Mode

This item provides several operation modes of the fan.

Fan Ctrl OFF(°C)

If the CPU/System temperature is lower than the set value, the CPU/System fan will turn off. The range is from 0\~127, with an interval of 1.

Fan Ctrl On(°C)

The CPU/System fan starts to work when CPU/System temperature arrives to this set value. The range is from 0\~127, with an interval of 1.

Fan Ctrl Start Value

When CPU/System temperature arrives to the set value, the CPU/System fan will work under Smart Fan Function mode. The range is from 0\~127, with an interval of 1.

Fan Ctrl Sensitive

Increasing the value of slope PWM will raise the speed of CPU/System fan. The range is from 1\~127, with an interval of 1.

F. CMOS Reloading Program

It allows users to save different CMOS settings into BIOS-ROM.

Users are able to reload any saved CMOS setting for customizing system configurations. Moreover, users are able to save an ideal overclock setting during overclock operation.

There are 10 sets of record addresses in total, and users are able to name the CMOS data according to personal preference.

5.2 T-SERIES SOFTWARE

Installing T-Series Software

1. Insert the Setup CD to the optical drive. The drivers installation program would appear if the Auto-run function has been enabled.
2. Select Software Installation, and then click on the respective software title.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Launching T-Series Software

After the installation process, you will see the software icon "T-Utility OverClock III" / "HW Monitor" / "eHOT Line" / "Tseries BIOS Update" appears on the desktop. Double-click the icon to launch T-Series utility.

OverClock 3

OverClock 3 is equipped with friendly interface and solid over-clock features, and it will help you easily do over-clocking under windows environment.

Double-click the desktop icon, OverClock 3 will be launched; the first window you will see is Main Panel. In this panel you will see current CPU Speed and CPU/Memory/PCI-E/PCI Clock.

Over Clock Panel

AUTO

User can click this button and the utility will set the best and stable performance and frequency automatically. A warning dialog as below will show up to notify you that the system may become unstable, click on "OK" to continue.

Motherboard Manual

Then the utility will execute a series of testing until system fail. Then system will do fail-safe reboot by using Watchdog function. After reboot, launch the utility again and the utility will load the previously verified best and stable frequency.

V3 / V6 / V9

Provide user the ability to do real-time over-clock adjustment. For beginners in over-clock field, this is a powerful feature to increase system performance.

■ V3 Engine
This engine will make a good over-clock performance.
■ V6 Engine
This engine will make a better over-clock performance.
■ V9 Engine
This engine will make a best over-clock performance.

TEST

You can also manually adjust CPU clock by pressing +/- button or moving the level bar. After manually adjust the CPU clock, you should click TEST button and the utility will proceed a testing for current frequency. If the testing is ok, then the current frequency will be saved into system registry. If the testing fails, system will do a fail-safe rebooting. After reboot, the utility will restore to the hardware default setting.

Warning

Manually over-clock is potentially dangerous, especially when the over-clocking percentage is over 110 %. We strongly recommend you test every speed you over-clock by click the TEST button. Or, you can just click AUTO over-clock button and let the Utility automatically get the best result for you.

RESET

Click this button and the utility will restore all values to the hardware default setting.

Over Voltage Panel

CPU Voltage

This function allows user to adjust CPU voltage. Click on “+” to increase or “-” to decrease the CPU voltage.

Memory Voltage

This function allows user to adjust Memory voltage. Click on "+" to increase or "-" to decrease the Memory voltage.

Chip Voltage

This function allows user to adjust Chipset voltage. Click on "+" to increase or "-" to decrease the Chipset voltage.

FSB Voltage

This function allows user to adjust FSB voltage. Click on “+” to increase or “-” to decrease the FSB voltage.

About Panel

In this panel, you can get model name and other system information that may related to over-clocking. You can also get the version number of this software.

Note

Because the Over Clock and Over Voltage features are controlled by several separate chipset, the utility divides these features to separate panels. If one chipset is not on board, the correlative button in Main panel will be disabled, but it will not interfere with other panels' functions. This property can make the utility more robust.

Hardware Monitor

HW Monitor is a monitor utility that helps you to maintain the health of the PC. It provides real-time information of CPU/GPU/System temperature, fan speed, and voltage.

eHot-Line (Optional)

eHot-Line is a convenient utility that helps you to contact with our Tech-Support system. This utility will collect the system information which is useful for analyzing the problem you may have encountered, and then send these information to our tech-support department to help you fix the problem.

Before you use this utility, please set Outlook Express as your default e-mail client application program.

After filling up this information, click "Send" to send the mail out. A warning dialog would appear asking for your confirmation; click "Send" to confirm or "Do Not Send" to cancel.

If you want to save this information to a .txt file, click "Save As..." and then you will see a saving dialog appears asking you to enter file name.

Enter the file name and then click "Save". Your system information will be saved to a .txt file.

Open the saved .txt file, you will see your system information including motherboard/BIOS/CPU/video/device/OS information. This information is also concluded in the sent mail.

We will not share customer's data with any other third parties, so please feel free to provide your system information while using eHot-Line service.

If you are not using Outlook Express as your default e-mail client application, you may need to save the system information to a .txt file and send the file to our tech support with other e-mail application. Go to the following web http://www.biostar.com.tw/app/en-us/about/contact.php for getting our contact information.

BIOS Update

BIOS Update is a convenient utility which allows you to update your motherboard BIOS under Windows system.

Once click on this button, the saving dialog will show. Choose the position to save file and enter file name. (We recommend that the file name should be English/number and no longer than 7 characters.) Then click Save.

After the saving process, finish dialog will show. Click on OK to complete the BIOS Backup procedure.

Before doing this, please download the proper BIOS file from the website.

For AWARD BIOS, update BIOS procedure should be run with Clear CMOS function, so please check on Clear CMOS first.

Then click Update BIOS button, a dialog will show for asking you backup current BIOS. Click Yes for BIOS backup and refer to the Backup BIOS procedure; or click No to skip this procedure.

After the BIOS Backup procedure, the open dialog will show for requesting the BIOS file which is going to be updated. Please choose the proper BIOS file for updating, then click on Open.

The utility will update BIOS with the proper BIOS file, and this process may take minutes. Please do not open any other applications during this process.

After the BIOS Update process, click on OK to restart the system.

While the system boots up and the full screen logo shows, press key to enter BIOS setup.

In the BIOS setup, use the Load Optimized Defaults function and then Save and Exit Setup to exit BIOS setup. BIOS Update is completed.

All the information and content above about the T-Series software are subject to be changed without notice. For better performance, the software is being continuously updated. The information and pictures described above are for your reference only. The actual information and settings on board may be slightly different from this manual.

CHAPTER 6: USEFUL HELP

6.1 DRIVER INSTALLATION NOTE

After you installed your operating system, please insert the Fully Setup Driver CD into your optical drive and install the driver for better system performance.

You will see the following window after you insert the CD

The setup guide will auto detect your motherboard and operating system.

Note:

If this window didn't show up after you insert the Driver CD, please use file browser to locate and execute the file SETUP.EXE under your optical drive.

A. Driver Installation

To install the driver, please click on the Driver icon. The setup guide will list the compatible driver for your motherboard and operating system. Click on each device driver to launch the installation program.

B. Software Installation

To install the software, please click on the Software icon. The setup guide will list the software available for your system, click on each software title to launch the installation program.

C. Manual

Aside from the paperback manual, we also provide manual in the Driver CD. Click on the Manual icon to browse for available manual.

Note:

You will need Acrobat Reader to open the manual file. Please download the latest version of Acrobat Reader software from http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html

6.2 EXTRA INFORMATION

CPU Overheated

If the system shutdown automatically after power on system for seconds, that means the CPU protection function has been activated.

When the CPU is over heated, the motherboard will shutdown automatically to avoid a damage of the CPU, and the system may not power on again.

In this case, please double check:

1. The CPU cooler surface is placed evenly with the CPU surface.
2. CPU fan is rotated normally.
3. CPU fan speed is fulfilling with the CPU speed.

After confirmed, please follow steps below to relief the CPU protection function.

1. Remove the power cord from power supply for seconds.
2. Wait for seconds.
3. Plug in the power cord and boot up the system.

Or you can:

1. Clear the CMOS data.
   (See "Close CMOS Header: JCMOS1" section)
2. Wait for seconds.
3. Power on the system again.

6.3 AMI BIOS BEEP CODE

Boot Block Beep Codes

Number of Beeps	Description
1 No media present. (Insert diskette in floppy drive A:)
2	“AMIBOOT.ROM” file not found in root directory of diskette in A:
3 Insert next diskette if multiple diskettes are used for recovery
4 Flash Programming successful
5 File read error
7 No Flash EPROM detected
10 Flash Erase error
11 Flash Program error
12 “AMIBOOT.ROM” file size error
13	BIOS ROM image mismatch (file layout does not match image present in flash device)

POST BIOS Beep Codes

Number of Beeps	Description
1 Memory	refresh timer error
3 Base memory	read/write test error
6 Keyboard controller BAT command failed
7 General exception error (processor exception interrupt error)
8 Display memory error (system video adapter)

Troubleshooting POST BIOS Beep Codes

Number of Beeps	Troubleshooting Action
1, 3 Reseat	the memory, or replace with known good modules.
6, 7	Fatal error indicating a serious problem with the system. Consult your system manufacturer. Before declaring the motherboard beyond all hope, eliminate the possibility of interference by a malfunctioning add-in card. Remove all expansion cards except the video adapter.If beep codes are generated when all other expansion cards are absent, consult your system manufacturer's technical support.If beep codes are not generated when all other expansion cards are absent, one of the add-in cards is causing the malfunction. Insert the cards back into the system one at a time until the problem happens again. This will reveal the malfunctioning card.
8	If the system video adapter is an add-in card, replace or reseat the video adapter. If the video adapter is an integrated part of the system board, the board may be faulty.

6.4 TROUBLESHOOTING

Probable	Solution
1. No power to the system at all Power light don’t illuminate, fan inside power supply does not turn on.2. Indicator light on keyboard does not turn on.	1. Make sure power cable is securely plugged in.2. Replace cable.3. Contact technical support.
System inoperative. Keyboard lights are on, power indicator lights are lit, and hard drive is spinning.	Using even pressure on both ends of the DIMM, press down firmly until the module snaps into place.
System does not boot from hard disk drive, can be booted from optical drive.	1. Check cable running from disk to disk controller board. Make sure both ends are securely plugged in; check the drive type in the standard CMOS setup.2. Backing up the hard drive is extremely important. All hard disks are capable of breaking down at any time.
System only boots from optical drive. Hard disk can be read and applications can be used but booting from hard disk is impossible.	1. Back up data and applications files.2. Reformat the hard drive. Re-install applications and data using backup disks.
Screen message says “Invalid Configuration” or “CMOS Failure.”	Review system’s equipment. Make sure correct information is in setup.
Cannot boot system after installing second hard drive.	1. Set master/slave jumpers correctly.2. Run SETUP program and select correct drive types. Call the drive manufacturers for compatibility with other drives.

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APPENDENCIES: SPEC IN OTHER LANGUAGE

GERMAN