Contents

Contents
- Notices
- Safety information
- About this guide
- M3N78 PRO 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 unique features
  - 1.3.3 ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking features
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 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
- 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 EZ Flash 2
  - 4.7.2 Express Gate
- 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
- 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 Hybrid SLI technology support
- 6.1 NVIDIA Hybrid SLI Technology
  - 6.1.1 System requirements
  - 6.1.2 Enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower

ASUS M3N78 PRO User Manual

Pages 168

Year 2008

Language(s)

of 168

ASUS M3N78 PRO Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard is designed to deliver a balance of performance and value, catering to users seeking a reliable platform for general computing and multimedia applications. It supports AMD AM2+/AM2 processors, including the AMD Phenom, Athlon, and Sempron series, leveraging HyperTransport 3.0 technology to enhance data transfer rates. The chipset combines the NVIDIA GeForce 8300 GPU with the NVIDIA nForce 720a, providing integrated graphics and support for DirectX 10, making it suitable for light gaming and high-definition video playback. The motherboard accommodates up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM across four DIMM slots, supporting dual-channel memory architecture to optimize system performance.

In terms of expansion, the M3N78 PRO includes one PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot for discrete graphics cards, two PCI Express x1 slots, and three PCI slots, offering ample options for additional peripherals and upgrades. Storage capabilities are robust, featuring six SATA 3Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 0+1, 5, and JBOD support, and a single Ultra DMA 133/100/66 for legacy devices. Connectivity options are comprehensive, with 12 USB 2.0 ports (six rear, six via headers), a Gigabit Ethernet port, and integrated 8-channel HD audio with support for S/PDIF output, ensuring high-quality audio and network performance.

The M3N78 PRO incorporates ASUS' proprietary technologies such as AI Lifestyle features for easier system management and AI Gear 2 for power efficiency. The motherboard's design includes fanless cooling solutions and solid capacitor components, enhancing durability and thermal management. Overall, the ASUS M3N78 PRO offers a versatile and stable foundation for building a capable desktop system, suitable for various computing needs without compromising on essential features.

ASUS M3N78 PRO Motherboard F.A.Q.

What should I do if my ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard fails to boot?

First, ensure that all cables are securely connected and the RAM modules are properly seated. Check for any hardware conflicts and try resetting the BIOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes.

How can I update the BIOS on my ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Download the latest BIOS update from the ASUS support website. Use the ASUS EZ Flash utility within the BIOS setup to load the update file from a USB drive.

What type of RAM is compatible with the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

The ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard supports DDR2 memory modules with speeds of 1066, 800, and 667 MHz. Ensure compatibility by checking the memory QVL list on the ASUS website.

Why is my system overheating when using the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Ensure that the CPU cooler is properly installed and functioning. Check thermal paste application and ensure adequate airflow within the case. Clean any dust build-up from fans and heat sinks.

How do I enable integrated graphics on the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup and navigate to the Advanced menu. Enable the onboard graphics option and set it as the primary display adapter if needed.

Can I use a PCIe 3.0 graphics card with the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Yes, PCIe 3.0 graphics cards are backward compatible with the PCIe 2.0 slots on the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard, but will operate at PCIe 2.0 speeds.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

The ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard supports up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM across its four DIMM slots.

How do I troubleshoot audio issues on the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Ensure that the audio drivers are correctly installed. Check the BIOS settings to ensure onboard audio is enabled. Verify speaker connections and test with different audio outputs.

What should I do if USB ports are not working on my ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

Check the BIOS settings to ensure USB ports are enabled. Update the chipset drivers and test with different USB devices. Inspect the USB ports for physical damage.

How do I clear the CMOS on the ASUS M3N78 PRO motherboard?

To clear the CMOS, power off the system and unplug it. Remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes, then reinsert it. Alternatively, use the CLRTC jumper for a few seconds to reset the BIOS settings.