Contents

Contents
- Notices
- Safety information
- About this guide
- Crosshair II Formula specifications summary
Chapter 1: Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Special features
  - 1.3.1 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features
  - 1.3.2 ROG unique features
  - 1.3.3 Product highlights
Chapter 2: 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 Audio card layout
  - 2.2.5 Layout contents
- 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 2.3.1 Installing the CPU
  - 2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan
  - 2.3.3 Installing the optional fans
- 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 x1 slots
  - 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots
- 2.6 Slide switch
- 2.7 Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation
  - 2.7.1 Audio card Installation
  - 2.7.2 I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation
- 2.8 Connectors
  - 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
  - 2.8.2 Internal connectors
  - 2.8.3 Onboard switches
Chapter 3: 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
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
- 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
  - 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility
  - 4.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
  - 4.1.3 Updating the BIOS
  - 4.1.4 Saving the current BIOS file
  - 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility
- 4.2 BIOS setup program
  - 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
  - 4.2.2 Menu bar
  - 4.2.3 Legend bar
  - 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 General help
- 4.3 Extreme Tweaker menu
  - 4.3.1 Configuring System Performance Settings
- 4.4 Main menu
  - 4.4.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
  - 4.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
  - 4.4.3 Language [English]
  - 4.4.4 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
  - 4.4.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave
  - 4.4.6 SATA 14
  - 4.4.7 HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]
  - 4.4.8 Installed Memory [xxx MB]
  - 4.4.9 Usable Memory [xxx MB]
  - 4.4.10 System Information
- 4.5 Advanced menu
  - 4.5.1 AI NET2
  - 4.5.2 PCIPnP
  - 4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration
  - 4.5.4 USB Configuration
  - 4.5.5 IDE Function Setup
  - 4.5.6 MCP Storage Config
  - 4.5.7 LCD Poster and Onboard LED Control
- 4.6 Power menu
  - 4.6.1 ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]
  - 4.6.2 ACPI APIC support [Enabled]
  - 4.6.3 APM Configuration
  - 4.6.4 Hardware Monitor
- 4.7 Boot menu
  - 4.7.1 Boot Device Priority
  - 4.7.2 Removable Drives
  - 4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives
  - 4.7.4 CDROM Drives
  - 4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration
  - 4.7.6 Security
- 4.8 Tools menu
  - 4.8.1 ASUS O.C. Profile
  - 4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2
- 4.9 Exit menu
Chapter 5: 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 Video menu
  - 5.2.7 ASUS Contact information
  - 5.2.8 Other information
- 5.3 Software information
  - 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3
  - 5.3.2 AI NET 2
  - 5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX High Definition Audio utility)
  - 5.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II
  - 5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite
  - 5.3.6 ASUS AI Gear 2
  - 5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap
  - 5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus
  - 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster 2
  - 5.3.10 CPU Level Up
- 5.4 RAID configurations
  - 5.4.1 RAID definitions
  - 5.4.2 NVIDIA 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/SATA driver disk in Windows
Chapter 6: NVIDIAtechnology support
- 6.1 NVIDIA SLI technology
  - 6.1.1 Requirements
  - 6.1.2 Graphics card setup
  - 6.1.3 Installing the device drivers
  - 6.1.4 Enabling the NVIDIA SLI technology in Windows
- 6.2 NVIDIA Hybrid SLI Technology
  - 6.2.1 System requirements
  - 6.2.2 Enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower
Appendix: Debug code table
- A.1 Debug code table

ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA User Manual

ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA Motherboard manual cover

Pages 186

Year 2008

Language(s)

of 186

ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA Motherboard Specification

The ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA is a high-performance motherboard designed for gaming enthusiasts and power users. It supports AMD AM2+ processors, providing compatibility with a wide range of CPUs, including the Phenom, Athlon, and Sempron series. This motherboard is based on the NVIDIA nForce 780a SLI chipset, which offers support for NVIDIA's SLI technology, allowing users to link multiple graphics cards for enhanced gaming performance.

The motherboard features four DDR2 DIMM slots, supporting up to 8GB of dual-channel memory, providing ample capacity for demanding applications. It includes a single PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 2.0 x8 slots, and two PCI slots, offering flexibility for various expansion needs. Storage options are robust, with six SATA 3Gb/s ports supporting RAID 0, 1, 0+1, 5, and JBOD configurations, as well as an eSATA port for external storage solutions.

Networking capabilities are enhanced with an integrated Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring high-speed internet connectivity. The CROSSHAIR II FORMULA also features SupremeFX II audio, delivering high-definition 8-channel sound for an immersive audio experience. Connectivity options include multiple USB 2.0 ports, FireWire, and PS/2 connectors for peripherals.

Additional features include the ASUS ROG (Republic of Gamers) exclusive technologies such as AI NOS, AI Audio 2, and Precision Tweaker 2, providing users with advanced overclocking and system optimization capabilities. The motherboard is built on a robust ATX form factor, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cases. Its design is focused on durability and performance, making it a reliable choice for high-end gaming and computing tasks.

ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Use the ASUS EZ Flash utility in the BIOS setup menu to perform the update. Ensure that the update process is not interrupted to avoid system issues.

What should I do if my system does not boot after installing new RAM on the ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA?

First, ensure the RAM is properly seated in the slots. Check that the RAM is compatible with the motherboard. If the problem persists, try booting with one stick of RAM at a time to identify if one is faulty.

How can I enable virtualization support on the ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup by pressing the "Delete" key during boot. Navigate to the "Advanced" tab, select "CPU Configuration," and enable "Secure Virtual Machine Mode" or "SVM." Save changes and exit the BIOS.

What should I check if my ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard is not detecting my SATA drives?

Ensure that the SATA cables are securely connected to both the motherboard and the drives. Verify that the drives are enabled in the BIOS under the "Main" or "Advanced" tab, and check if the SATA mode is set correctly to AHCI or RAID as per your configuration.

Which slots should I use for dual-channel memory configuration on ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA?

For optimal dual-channel memory configuration, install your memory modules in the slots labeled DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1. Refer to the motherboard manual for a visual guide.

How do I reset the CMOS on the ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

To reset the CMOS, turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord. Locate the CMOS jumper on the motherboard, move the jumper cap from the default position (1-2) to the reset position (2-3) for a few seconds, then move it back. Alternatively, remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes and then reinstall it.

What are the steps to troubleshoot no display issue on the ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

Check if the graphics card is properly seated and the power connectors are attached. Verify that the monitor is powered on and connected to the graphics card. Test with a different monitor or cable if possible. Additionally, ensure the BIOS settings are correct and reset if necessary.

How do I configure RAID on my ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup and go to the "Advanced" menu. Set the SATA mode to RAID. Save and exit BIOS, then enter the RAID configuration utility during boot (usually by pressing the "Ctrl" + "I" keys). Follow on-screen instructions to create and manage RAID arrays.

What are the power supply requirements for the ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

The ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA requires a compatible ATX power supply. Ensure your power supply has sufficient wattage for your complete system setup, including CPU, GPU, and peripherals. Check the manual for specific power connector requirements.

How can I improve the cooling performance of my ASUS CROSSHAIR II FORMULA motherboard?

Ensure adequate airflow in your case by installing additional case fans if necessary. Regularly clean dust from your components and consider upgrading to a more efficient CPU cooler. Use thermal paste correctly and ensure proper cable management to enhance airflow.