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Contents Notices...vi Safety information vii About this guide vii M4A78 PLUS specifications summary ix Chapter 1 Product introduction 1.1 Welcome 1-1 1.2 Package contents 1-1 1.3 Special features 1-1 1.3.1 Product highlights 1-1 1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features 1-4 1.4 Before you proceed 1-6 Onboard LED 1-6 1.5 Motherboard overview 1-7 1.5.1 Placement direction 1-7 1.5.2 Screw holes 1-7 1.5.3 Motherboard layout 1-8 1.5.4 Layout contents 1-8 1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU 1-9 1.6.1 Installing the CPU 1-9 1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan 1-11...
Contents Notices...vi Safety information vii About this guide vii M4A78 PLUS specifications summary ix Chapter 1 Product introduction 1.1 Welcome 1-1 1.2 Package contents 1-1 1.3 Special features 1-1 1.3.1 Product highlights 1-1 1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features 1-4 1.4 Before you proceed 1-6 Onboard LED 1-6 1.5 Motherboard overview 1-7 1.5.1 Placement direction 1-7 1.5.2 Screw holes 1-7 1.5.3 Motherboard layout 1-8 1.5.4 Layout contents 1-8 1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU 1-9 1.6.1 Installing the CPU 1-9 1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan 1-11...
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Refer to complete a task. These documents are linked with a plus sign (+). Example: ++ Means that you must press two or more information Refer to find more keys simultaneously, the key names are not part of ... means that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the standard package. Where to the following symbols used in brackets. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you MUST follow to select. Keys enclosed in the less-than...
Refer to complete a task. These documents are linked with a plus sign (+). Example: ++ Means that you must press two or more information Refer to find more keys simultaneously, the key names are not part of ... means that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the standard package. Where to the following symbols used in brackets. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you MUST follow to select. Keys enclosed in the less-than...
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... recommend a maximum of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3GB. M4A78 PLUS specifications summary CPU Chipset System bus Memory Expansion slots Storage LAN Audio USB ASUS Unique fetures Phenom™ X4 / Phenom™ X3 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors (socket AM2...
... recommend a maximum of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3GB. M4A78 PLUS specifications summary CPU Chipset System bus Memory Expansion slots Storage LAN Audio USB ASUS Unique fetures Phenom™ X4 / Phenom™ X3 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors (socket AM2...
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M4A78 PLUS specifications summary Back panel I/O ports Internal I/O connectors ASUS overclocking features BIOS Accessories Form Factor Support DVD 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port 1 x PS/2 Mouse port 1 x RJ45 port 1 x ESATA port 1 x S/PDIF Out port (Optical) 9 x USB 2.0/1.1... v2.0, WfM2.0, ACPIv2.0a, SM BIOS v2.5 2 x Serial ATA cables 1 x 2in1 SATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable 1x I/O Shield User manual ATX form factor: 12'' x 8.8'' (30.5cm x 22.3cm) Drivers ASUS LiveUpdate Utility ASUS PC Probe II Anti-Virus software (OEM version) *Specifications are subject to change without notice.
M4A78 PLUS specifications summary Back panel I/O ports Internal I/O connectors ASUS overclocking features BIOS Accessories Form Factor Support DVD 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port 1 x PS/2 Mouse port 1 x RJ45 port 1 x ESATA port 1 x S/PDIF Out port (Optical) 9 x USB 2.0/1.1... v2.0, WfM2.0, ACPIv2.0a, SM BIOS v2.5 2 x Serial ATA cables 1 x 2in1 SATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable 1x I/O Shield User manual ATX form factor: 12'' x 8.8'' (30.5cm x 22.3cm) Drivers ASUS LiveUpdate Utility ASUS PC Probe II Anti-Virus software (OEM version) *Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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... overclocking capabilities with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for buying an ASUS® M4A78 PLUS motherboard! Before you for the following items. Motherboard Cables Accessories Application DVD Documentations ASUS M4A78 PLUS motherboard 2 x Serial ATA cables 1 x 2in1 SATA power cable 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable 1 x I/O shield ASUS motherboard support DVD User manual 1.3 1.3.1 If any of the above items...
... overclocking capabilities with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for buying an ASUS® M4A78 PLUS motherboard! Before you for the following items. Motherboard Cables Accessories Application DVD Documentations ASUS M4A78 PLUS motherboard 2 x Serial ATA cables 1 x 2in1 SATA power cable 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable 1 x I/O shield ASUS motherboard support DVD User manual 1.3 1.3.1 If any of the above items...
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... data transfer rate and computing efficiency, enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. 1-2 ASUS M4A78 PLUS This motherboard provides excellent compatibility and flexibility by supporting either 64-bit or 32-bit architecture. CrossFire ignites with the higher... antialiasing, anisotropic filtering, shading, and texture settings you want. AMD Cool 'n' Quiet Technology The motherboard supports the AMD Cool 'n' Quiet Technology, which monitors system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool...
... data transfer rate and computing efficiency, enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. 1-2 ASUS M4A78 PLUS This motherboard provides excellent compatibility and flexibility by supporting either 64-bit or 32-bit architecture. CrossFire ignites with the higher... antialiasing, anisotropic filtering, shading, and texture settings you want. AMD Cool 'n' Quiet Technology The motherboard supports the AMD Cool 'n' Quiet Technology, which monitors system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool...
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...to restore a corrupted BIOS file using an OS-based utility. ASUS MyLogo2™ Turn your system. Turbo Key ASUS Turbo Key allows you can access the Internet without entering Windows® or hard devices. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is built into an overclocking button. It ...adjusts CPU and chassis fan speeds according to system loading to turn the PC power button into the motherboard, so you to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. 1-4 ASUS M4A78 PLUS After the easy setup, Turbo Key boosts performances without using the bundled support DVD, or USB ...
...to restore a corrupted BIOS file using an OS-based utility. ASUS MyLogo2™ Turn your system. Turbo Key ASUS Turbo Key allows you can access the Internet without entering Windows® or hard devices. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is built into an overclocking button. It ...adjusts CPU and chassis fan speeds according to system loading to turn the PC power button into the motherboard, so you to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. 1-4 ASUS M4A78 PLUS After the easy setup, Turbo Key boosts performances without using the bundled support DVD, or USB ...
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...is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off the ATX power supply and detach its power cord. The illustration below shows the location of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall ... plugging in the bag that came with a standby power LED that lights up to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. M4A78 PLUS SB_PWR ON OFF Standby Power Powered Off M4A78 PLUS Onboard LED 1-6 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Failure to do so may cause severe damage to indicate that you install or remove any...
...is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off the ATX power supply and detach its power cord. The illustration below shows the location of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall ... plugging in the bag that came with a standby power LED that lights up to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. M4A78 PLUS SB_PWR ON OFF Standby Power Powered Off M4A78 PLUS Onboard LED 1-6 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Failure to do so may cause severe damage to indicate that you install or remove any...
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The edge with external ports goes to the chassis. Place this side towards the rear of the chassis as indicated in the correct orientation. M4A78 PLUS Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-7 1.5 Motherboard overview 1.5.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the image below. 1.5.2 Screw holes Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the rear part of the chassis. Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
The edge with external ports goes to the chassis. Place this side towards the rear of the chassis as indicated in the correct orientation. M4A78 PLUS Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-7 1.5 Motherboard overview 1.5.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the image below. 1.5.2 Screw holes Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the rear part of the chassis. Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
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...unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90°100° angle. Do not install an Opteron™ processor on the motherboard. Socket lever Ensure that the socket lever is not compatible with a CPU socket designed for AMD® AM3 Phenom™ II / ...8482; X3 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors. Locate the CPU socket on this motherboard. 1.6.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-9 M4A78 PLUS M4A78 PLUS CPU socket 940 2. The CPU socket is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU will...
...unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90°100° angle. Do not install an Opteron™ processor on the motherboard. Socket lever Ensure that the socket lever is not compatible with a CPU socket designed for AMD® AM3 Phenom™ II / ...8482; X3 / Athlon™ X2 / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors. Locate the CPU socket on this motherboard. 1.6.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-9 M4A78 PLUS M4A78 PLUS CPU socket 940 2. The CPU socket is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU will...
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Small triangle 5. The lever clicks on the motherboard. Gold triangle 7. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket to secure the CPU. You can occur if you fail to section 1.6.2 Installing heatsink and fan for instructions. Hardware monitoring errors can also refer to plug this connector. 1-10 ASUS M4A78 PLUS When the CPU is locked. 6. Connect...
Small triangle 5. The lever clicks on the motherboard. Gold triangle 7. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket to secure the CPU. You can occur if you fail to section 1.6.2 Installing heatsink and fan for instructions. Hardware monitoring errors can also refer to plug this connector. 1-10 ASUS M4A78 PLUS When the CPU is locked. 6. Connect...
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... connector. 1.7 System memory 1.7.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. Populated Populated Populated DIMM_B2 - Populated Populated Populated Sockets DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 - Populated 1-12 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Push down the retention bracket lock on a... fail to the retention module base. Align the other end of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B2 M4A78 PLUS M4A78 PLUS 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Mode Single-channel Dual-channel (1) Dual-channel (2) DIMM_A1 - 3. Hardware monitoring errors can...
... connector. 1.7 System memory 1.7.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. Populated Populated Populated DIMM_B2 - Populated Populated Populated Sockets DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 - Populated 1-12 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Push down the retention bracket lock on a... fail to the retention module base. Align the other end of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B2 M4A78 PLUS M4A78 PLUS 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Mode Single-channel Dual-channel (1) Dual-channel (2) DIMM_A1 - 3. Hardware monitoring errors can...
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... into the DIMM sockets. • You may install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard. • This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you are using a 32-bit...do any of memory, we recommend that you want to install 4GB or more memory on Windows® XP Professional x64 and Vista x64 editions. M4A78 PLUS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667MHz capability Size Vendor Part No. The system maps the total size of 256 megabits (Mb) or less....
... into the DIMM sockets. • You may install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard. • This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you are using a 32-bit...do any of memory, we recommend that you want to install 4GB or more memory on Windows® XP Professional x64 and Vista x64 editions. M4A78 PLUS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667MHz capability Size Vendor Part No. The system maps the total size of 256 megabits (Mb) or less....
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...; · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1-14 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Chip Brand 5 AM4B5708JQJS7E0751C Apacer 5 AM4B5808CQJS7E0751C Apacer N/A AM4B5708GQJS7E0636B Apacer 5 AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B Apacer 5 AM4B5808CQJS7E0749B Apacer 5 E5108AJBG-6E-E Elpida N/A AD29608A8A-3EG20813 ADATA N/A AD29608A8A-3EG80814 ADATA N/A AD20908A8A-3EG 30724 ADATA...
...; · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1-14 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Chip Brand 5 AM4B5708JQJS7E0751C Apacer 5 AM4B5808CQJS7E0751C Apacer N/A AM4B5708GQJS7E0636B Apacer 5 AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B Apacer 5 AM4B5808CQJS7E0749B Apacer 5 E5108AJBG-6E-E Elpida N/A AD29608A8A-3EG20813 ADATA N/A AD29608A8A-3EG80814 ADATA N/A AD20908A8A-3EG 30724 ADATA...
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...; · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1-16 ASUS M4A78 PLUS DDR2-800MHz capability Size 2G 2G 2G 2G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 1G...
...; · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 1-16 ASUS M4A78 PLUS DDR2-800MHz capability Size 2G 2G 2G 2G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 1G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 2G 1G...
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... to both the motherboard and the components. 1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to avoid damaging the DIMM. 3. The DIMM might get damaged when it fits in place 3 and the DIMM is keyed with your fingers when pressing the retaining 1 clips. Remove the DIMM from the socket. 1-18 ASUS M4A78 PLUS 1.7.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug...
... to both the motherboard and the components. 1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to avoid damaging the DIMM. 3. The DIMM might get damaged when it fits in place 3 and the DIMM is keyed with your fingers when pressing the retaining 1 clips. Remove the DIMM from the socket. 1-18 ASUS M4A78 PLUS 1.7.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug...
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..., reinstall the battery. • You do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the cap back to default values. 1-20 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Hold down and reboot the system so the BIOS can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the...RTC) RAM in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. You can automatically reset parameter settings to pins 1-2. 3. M4A78 PLUS CLRTC 12 23 Normal (Default) M4A78 PLUS Clear RTC RAM Clear RTC To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. 1.9 Jumpers...
..., reinstall the battery. • You do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the cap back to default values. 1-20 ASUS M4A78 PLUS Hold down and reboot the system so the BIOS can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the...RTC) RAM in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. You can automatically reset parameter settings to pins 1-2. 3. M4A78 PLUS CLRTC 12 23 Normal (Default) M4A78 PLUS Clear RTC RAM Clear RTC To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. 1.9 Jumpers...
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... the audio device of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6 or 8-channel configuration. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for a PS/2 keyboard. 1-22 ASUS M4A78 PLUS USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a optical S/PDIF cable. 16. This port connects to the...
... the audio device of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6 or 8-channel configuration. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for a PS/2 keyboard. 1-22 ASUS M4A78 PLUS USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a optical S/PDIF cable. 16. This port connects to the...
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...-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for details. ATX12V EATXPWR +12V DC +12V DC M4A78 PLUS GND GND +3 Volts +12 Volts +12 Volts +5V Standby Power OK PIN 1 GND +5 Volts GND +5 Volts GND +3 Volts +3 Volts PIN 1 M4A78 PLUS ATX power connectors GND +5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts -5 Volts GND GND GND PSON# GND -12 Volts +3 Volts... your system, refer to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, ensure that the 20-pin power plug can provide at http://support.asus. 1.10.2 Internal connectors 1. Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-23
...-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for details. ATX12V EATXPWR +12V DC +12V DC M4A78 PLUS GND GND +3 Volts +12 Volts +12 Volts +5V Standby Power OK PIN 1 GND +5 Volts GND +5 Volts GND +3 Volts +3 Volts PIN 1 M4A78 PLUS ATX power connectors GND +5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts -5 Volts GND GND GND PSON# GND -12 Volts +3 Volts... your system, refer to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, ensure that the 20-pin power plug can provide at http://support.asus. 1.10.2 Internal connectors 1. Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-23