Contents

Contents
- Notices
- Safety information
- About this guide
- M3N-HD/HDMI specifications summary
Chapter 1: Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Special features
  - 1.3.1 Product highlights
  - 1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features
  - 1.3.3 ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking features
Chapter 2: Hardware information
- 2.1 Before you proceed
  - Onboard LED
- 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 heatsink and 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 x1 slots
  - 2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot (blue)
  - 2.5.7 Universal PCI Express x16 slot (black)
- 2.6 Jumper
- 2.7 Connectors
  - 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors
  - 2.7.2 Internal connectors
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 Creating a bootable floppy disk
  - 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
  - 4.1.4 Updating the BIOS
  - 4.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file
- 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 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 Primary IDE Master/Slave
  - 4.3.5 SATA1/2/3/4
  - 4.3.6 HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]
  - 4.3.7 Installed Memory [xxx MB]
  - 4.3.8 Usable Memory [XXX MB]
- 4.4 Advanced menu
  - 4.4.1 JumperFree Configuration
  - 4.4.2 AI Net 2
  - 4.4.3 CPU Configuration
  - 4.4.4 Chipset
  - 4.4.5 PCIPnP
  - 4.4.6 Onboard Device Configuration
  - 4.4.7 USB Configuration
- 4.5 Power menu
  - 4.5.1 ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]
  - 4.5.2 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
  - 4.5.3 APM Configuration
  - 4.5.4 Hardware Monitor
- 4.6 Boot menu
  - 4.6.1 Boot Device Priority
  - 4.6.2 Removable Drives
  - 4.6.3 Boot Settings Configuration
  - 4.6.4 Security
- 4.7 Tools menu
  - 4.7.1 ASUS O.C. Profile
  - 4.7.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2
  - 4.7.3 Express Gate Lite
- 4.8 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 Manual menu
  - 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information
  - 5.2.7 Other information
- 5.3 Software information
  - 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo2
  - 5.3.2 Cool n Quiet! Technology
  - 5.3.3 Audio configurations
  - 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 2
  - 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster
  - 5.3.10 ASUS Express Gate Lite
- 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: NVIDIA SLI technology support
- 6.1 Overview
  - Requirements
- 6.2 Dual graphics card setup
  - 6.2.1 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards
  - 6.2.2 Installing the device drivers
  - 6.2.3 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows

ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI User Manual

ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI Motherboard manual cover

Pages 164

Year 2008

Language(s)

of 164

ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard is a versatile platform designed to support AMD processors with its AM2+/AM2 socket, making it compatible with a wide range of AMD Phenom, Athlon, and Sempron CPUs. It incorporates the NVIDIA nForce 750a SLI chipset, which offers robust performance and support for NVIDIA's SLI technology, enabling dual-GPU configurations for enhanced graphics performance. The motherboard accommodates up to 8GB of DDR2 memory across its four DIMM slots, supporting dual-channel architecture for improved data bandwidth.

The M3N-HD-HDMI is equipped with integrated NVIDIA GeForce 8300 graphics, providing reliable onboard video output with HDMI support, making it suitable for high-definition multimedia applications. It includes a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot for additional discrete graphics cards, as well as multiple PCIe and PCI slots for expansion options. Storage capabilities are comprehensive, featuring six SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID support for enhanced data redundancy and performance.

Connectivity options are extensive, with high-speed Gigabit Ethernet for network connectivity, multiple USB 2.0 ports for peripheral devices, and eSATA for external storage solutions. The onboard 8-channel HD audio codec delivers superior sound quality, catering to audio enthusiasts and multimedia users alike. The motherboard also provides advanced overclocking options and a user-friendly BIOS interface, allowing users to fine-tune system performance.

Overall, the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard offers a balanced combination of performance, expandability, and multimedia features, making it a suitable choice for both gaming enthusiasts and home theater PC setups seeking reliable performance and flexibility.

ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Use the EZ Flash utility within the BIOS setup to update it. Ensure your PC is connected to a reliable power source during the update.

What should I do if my ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard fails to boot?

Check all power connections and ensure RAM and GPU are seated properly. Try resetting the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes. If the problem persists, consult the motherboard's manual for beep codes or error messages.

How can I enable HDMI audio output on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Ensure the HDMI cable is connected to an audio-capable monitor or TV. Install the latest NVIDIA graphics drivers and set HDMI as the default audio playback device in your system's audio settings.

What RAM is compatible with the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

The ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI supports DDR2 RAM with a maximum capacity of 8GB and speeds up to 1066 MHz. Check the ASUS QVL list for specific compatible RAM modules.

How can I troubleshoot overheating issues on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Ensure that your case has adequate ventilation and that the CPU fan is functioning properly. Reapply thermal paste if necessary and check for dust buildup in the heatsink and fans.

Is it possible to use multiple GPUs on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Yes, the motherboard supports NVIDIA SLI technology for dual-GPU configurations. Ensure you have a compatible power supply and sufficient cooling for optimal performance.

How do I reset the BIOS settings to default on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup during boot by pressing the 'Delete' key. Navigate to the 'Exit' tab and select 'Load Setup Defaults' to reset the BIOS settings to default.

What is the maximum supported CPU for the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

The motherboard supports AMD AM2+ processors, including the Phenom, Athlon, and Sempron series. Refer to the ASUS CPU support list for specific compatible models.

How can I improve boot times on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Disable unnecessary startup programs and BIOS features such as unused SATA ports. Ensure your storage drive is defragmented and consider upgrading to an SSD for faster boot times.

What should I do if my USB ports are not working on the ASUS M3N-HD-HDMI motherboard?

Check the BIOS settings to ensure USB ports are enabled. Update the motherboard chipset drivers and test the ports with different USB devices. If the problem persists, inspect the physical connections and consider a hardware issue.