Contents

Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
1.2 Package contents
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
1.3.2 Unique features
Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.2.1 Placement direction
2.2.2 Screw holes
2.2.3 Motherboard layout
2.2.4 Layout contents
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2.3.1 Installing the CPU
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
2.3.4 Installing the optional fan
2.4 System memory
2.4.1 Overview
2.4.2 Memory configurations
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
2.5 Expansion slots
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card
2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
2.5.4 PCI slots
2.5.5 PCI Express x16 slots
2.6 Jumper
2.7 Audio Card Installation
2.8 Connectors
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
2.8.2 Internal connectors
2.8.3 Onboard switches
Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the first time
3.2 Turning off the computer
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch
BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility
4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
4.1.4 AFUDOS utility
4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
4.2 BIOS setup program
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
4.2.2 Menu bar
4.2.3 Navigation keys
4.2.4 Menu items
4.2.5 Sub-menu items
4.2.6 Configuration fields
4.2.7 Pop-up window
4.2.8 Scroll bar
4.2.9 General help
4.3 Main menu
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
4.3.4 Language [English]
4.3.5 Primary/Secondary/Third/Fourth IDE Master/Slave
4.3.6 IDE Configuration
4.3.7 System Information
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu
4.4.1 AI Tuning [Auto]
4.4.2 ASUS C.G.I. [Auto]
4.4.3 Static Read Control [Auto]
4.4.4 Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]
4.5 Advanced menu
4.5.1 LAN Cable Status
4.5.2 USB Configuration
4.5.3 CPU Configuration
4.5.4 Chipset
4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Configuration
4.5.6 PCI PnP
4.6 Power menu
4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled]
4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
4.6.5 APM Configuration
4.6.6 Hardware Monitor
4.7 Boot menu
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority
4.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration
4.7.3 Security
4.8 Tools menu
4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile
4.9 Exit menu
Software support
5.1 Installing an operating system
5.2 Support DVD information
5.2.1 Running the support DVD
5.2.2 Drivers menu
5.2.3 Utilities menu
5.2.4 Make Disk menu
5.2.5 Manuals menu
5.2.6 ASUS Contact information
5.2.7 Other information
5.3 Software information
5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3
5.3.2 SoundMAX High Definition Audio utility
5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II
5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite
5.3.5 ASUS AI N.O.S.
5.3.6 ASUS AI Gear
5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap
5.3.8 ASUS AI Booster
5.3.9 ASUS Q-Fan
5.4 RAID configurations
5.4.1 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
5.4.2 Intel RAID configurations
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
CPU features
A.1 Intel EM64T
A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)
A.2.1 System requirements
A.2.2 Using the EIST
A.3 Intel Hyper-Threading Technology
Contents
Contents
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
Safety information
Electrical safety
Operation safety
About this guide
How this guide is organized
Where to find more information
Conventions used in this guide
Typography
Commando specifications summary
Commando specifications summary
Commando specifications summary
Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
1.2 Package contents
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
1.3.2 Unique features
Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.2.1 Placement direction
2.2.2 Screw holes
2.2.3 Motherboard layout
2.2.4 Layout contents
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2.3.1 Installing the CPU
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
2.3.4 Installing the optional fan
2.4 System memory
2.4.1 Overview
2.4.2 Memory configurations
Commando Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)DDR2-800 MHz capability
Commando Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)DDR2-667 MHz capability
Commando Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)DDR2-533 MHz capability
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
2.5 Expansion slots
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card
2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
2.5.4 PCI slots
2.5.5 PCI Express x16 slots
2.6 Jumper
2.7 Audio Card Installation
2.8 Connectors
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
2.8.2 Internal connectors
2.8.3 Onboard switches
Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the first time
3.2 Turning off the computer
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch
BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
4.1.1 ASUS Update utility
4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
4.1.4 AFUDOS utility
4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
4.2 BIOS setup program
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
4.2.2 Menu bar
4.2.3 Navigation keys
4.2.4 Menu items
4.2.5 Sub-menu items
4.2.6 Configuration fields
4.2.7 Pop-up window
4.2.8 Scroll bar
4.2.9 General help
4.3 Main menu
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
4.3.4 Language [English]
4.3.5 Primary/Secondary/Third/Fourth IDE Master/Slave
4.3.6 IDE Configuration
4.3.7 System Information
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu
4.4.1 AI Tuning [Auto]
4.4.2 ASUS C.G.I. [Auto]
4.4.3 Static Read Control [Auto]
4.4.4 Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]
4.5 Advanced menu
4.5.1 LAN Cable Status
4.5.2 USB Configuration
4.5.3 CPU Configuration
4.5.4 Chipset
4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Configuration
4.5.6 PCI PnP
4.6 Power menu
4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled]
4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
4.6.5 APM Configuration
4.6.6 Hardware Monitor
4.7 Boot menu
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority
4.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration
4.7.3 Security
4.8 Tools menu
4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile
4.9 Exit menu
Software support
5.1 Installing an operating system
5.2 Support DVD information
5.2.1 Running the support DVD
5.2.2 Drivers menu
5.2.3 Utilities menu
5.2.4 Make Disk menu
5.2.5 Manuals menu
5.2.6 ASUS Contact information
5.2.7 Other information
5.3 Software information
5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3
5.3.2 SoundMAX High Definition Audio utility
Audio Setup Wizard
Jack configuration
Adjust microphone volume
Adjust speaker volume
Audio preferences
5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II
5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite
5.3.5 ASUS AI N.O.S.
5.3.6 ASUS AI Gear
5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap
5.3.8 ASUS AI Booster
5.3.9 ASUS Q-Fan
5.4 RAID configurations
5.4.1 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
5.4.2 Intel RAID configurations
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
CPU features
A.1 Intel EM64T
Using the Intel EM64T feature
A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)
A.2.1 System requirements
A.2.2 Using the EIST
A.3 Intel Hyper-Threading Technology
Using the Hyper-Threading Technology
2.1 Before you proceed
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2.4 System memory
2.5 Expansion slots
2.6 Jumper
2.7 Connectors
5.1 Installing an operating system
5.2 Support CD information
5.3 Software information
5.4 RAID configurations
5.5 Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk

ASUS Commando User Manual

Pages 154

Year 2006

Language(s)

of 154

ASUS Commando Motherboard Specification

The ASUS Commando Motherboard is designed for performance enthusiasts seeking robust capabilities and advanced features. Built on the Intel P965 chipset, it supports Intel Core 2 Extreme, Core 2 Duo, Pentium Extreme, and Pentium D processors, providing substantial overclocking potential and system stability. The motherboard supports up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM across four DIMM slots, allowing memory configurations conducive to high-speed data processing. It features an enhanced power design with ASUS's 8-phase power technology, ensuring efficient power delivery and reduced heat generation.

The ASUS Commando includes a PCI Express x16 slot for dedicated graphics, along with three PCI Express x1 slots and three PCI slots for additional expansion cards. Storage options are flexible with six SATA 3Gb/s connectors supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations, alongside a single Ultra ATA 100 connector for legacy devices. Audio is powered by an ADI AD1988B 8-channel high-definition audio codec, providing rich sound quality for immersive entertainment experiences.

Networking capabilities are strengthened with an integrated Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring high-speed internet connectivity. The motherboard's rear I/O panel includes a variety of ports such as USB 2.0, IEEE 1394a, and eSATA, enhancing connectivity options for external devices. ASUS's innovative features, such as the AI NOS (Non-delay Overclocking System) and AI Booster, facilitate easy system tuning and performance optimization. The inclusion of the SupremeFX audio card and Q-Connector further enhances usability and installation convenience. With its comprehensive design and feature set, the ASUS Commando Motherboard is an ideal choice for users seeking a balance of performance, expandability, and reliability.

ASUS Commando Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS Commando Motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Format a USB drive to FAT32, copy the BIOS file onto it, and restart your computer. Enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'Delete' during boot, and use the EZ Flash utility to update the BIOS.

What should I do if my ASUS Commando Motherboard is not booting?

First, check all cable connections and ensure that the power supply is functioning. Clear the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes. If the issue persists, try reseating the RAM and checking for any beep codes that can indicate hardware issues.

How can I enable overclocking on my ASUS Commando Motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'Delete' during startup. Navigate to the 'AI Tweaker' section and adjust the CPU and memory frequencies and voltages. Ensure adequate cooling is in place before applying any overclocking settings.

What are the supported RAM types for ASUS Commando Motherboard?

The ASUS Commando Motherboard supports DDR2 RAM modules. It is recommended to check the motherboard manual for specific supported frequencies and configurations.

How do I reset the BIOS to default settings on the ASUS Commando Motherboard?

To reset the BIOS, enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'Delete' during boot. Once in the BIOS menu, find the 'Load Setup Defaults' option, usually under the 'Exit' menu, and confirm the reset.

Is it possible to use a PCIe graphics card with the ASUS Commando Motherboard?

Yes, the ASUS Commando Motherboard is equipped with a PCIe x16 slot that supports modern graphics cards. Ensure you have an adequate power supply to support the new graphics card.

How can I improve the cooling efficiency for my ASUS Commando Motherboard?

Ensure that your case has good airflow with intake and exhaust fans. Consider installing aftermarket CPU coolers or additional case fans. Regularly clean dust from the components and ensure cables are managed to not obstruct airflow.

What should I do if the onboard audio of my ASUS Commando Motherboard is not working?

Check that the audio drivers are properly installed and up to date. Verify that the onboard audio is enabled in the BIOS. Also, ensure that the speakers or headphones are connected to the correct port and are functioning properly.

Can the ASUS Commando Motherboard support RAID configurations?

Yes, the ASUS Commando Motherboard supports RAID configurations. You can set up RAID by entering the BIOS setup and configuring the SATA mode to RAID, then using the RAID configuration utility to set up the desired RAID array.

How do I troubleshoot a non-responsive USB port on my ASUS Commando Motherboard?

First, check the Device Manager for any issues with USB drivers. Test the USB port with different devices to rule out device-specific issues. If the port remains non-responsive, ensure it is enabled in the BIOS. If the problem persists, the port may be faulty.