Contents

Contents
Notices
Safety information
About this guide
P5Q PRO specifications summary
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 Exclusive Overclocking Features
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed
2.2 Motherboard overview
2.2.1 Motherboard layout
2.2.2 Layout contents
2.2.3 Placement direction
2.2.4 Screw holes
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
2.4 System memory
2.4.1 Overview
2.4.2 Memory configurations
2.4.3 Installing a DDR2 DIMM
2.4.4 Removing a DDR2 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
2.8 Starting up for the first time
2.9 Turning off the computer
2.9.1 Using the OS shut down function
2.9.2 Using the dual function power switch
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
3.1.1 ASUS Update utility
3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
3.1.3 AFUDOS utility
3.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
3.2 BIOS setup program
3.2.1 BIOS menu screen
3.2.2 Menu bar
3.2.3 Navigation keys
3.2.4 Menu items
3.2.5 Sub-menu items
3.2.6 Configuration fields
3.2.7 Pop-up window
3.2.8 Scroll bar
3.2.9 General help
3.3 Main menu
3.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
3.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
3.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
3.3.4 Language [English]
3.3.5 SATA 1-6
3.3.6 Storage Configuration
3.3.7 AHCI Configuration
3.3.8 System Information
3.4 Ai Tweaker menu
3.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
3.4.2 CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]
3.4.3 FSB Strap to North Bridge [Auto]
3.4.4 DRAM Frequency [Auto]
3.4.5 DRAM Timing Control [Auto]
3.4.6 DRAM Static Read Control [Auto]
3.4.7 DRAM Read Training [Auto]
3.4.8 MEM. OC Charger
3.4.9 Ai Clock Twister [Auto]
3.4.10 Ai Transaction Booster [Auto]
3.4.11 CPU Voltage [Auto]
3.4.12 CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
3.4.13 FSB Termination Voltage [Auto]
3.4.14 DRAM Voltage [Auto]
3.4.15 NB Voltage [Auto]
3.4.16 SB Voltage [Auto]
3.4.17 PCIE SATA Voltage [Auto]
3.4.18 Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
3.4.19 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
3.4.20 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]
3.5 Advanced menu
3.5.1 TPM Configuration
3.5.2 CPU Configuration
3.5.3 Chipset
3.5.4 Onboard Device Configuration
3.5.5 USB Configuration
3.5.6 PCIPnP
3.6 Power menu
3.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]
3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]
3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
3.6.5 APM Configuration
3.6.6 Hardware Monitor
3.7 Boot menu
3.7.1 Boot Device Priority
3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration
3.7.3 Security
3.8 Tools menu
3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
3.8.2 Drive Xpert
3.8.3 Express Gate
3.8.4 ASUS O.C. Profile
3.8.5 AI NET 2
3.9 Exit menu
Chapter 4: Software support
4.1 Installing an operating system
4.2 Support DVD information
4.2.1 Running the support DVD
4.2.2 Drivers menu
4.2.3 Utilities menu
4.2.4 Make disk menu
4.2.5 Manual menu
4.2.6 ASUS Contact information
4.2.7 Other information
4.3 Software information
4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo2
4.3.2 AI NET2
4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II
4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite
4.3.5 ASUS AI Nap
4.3.6 ASUS Fan Xpert
4.3.7 ASUS AI Booster
4.3.8 ASUS EPU6 Engine
4.3.9 ASUS AI Direct Link
4.3.10 ASUS Drive Xpert
4.3.11 ASUS Express Gate
4.4 RAID configurations
4.4.1 RAID definitions
4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
4.4.3 Intel RAID configurations
4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
CPU features
A.1 Intel EM64T
A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)
A.3 Intel Hyper-Threading Technology

ASUS P5Q PRO User Manual

Pages 180

Year 2008

Language(s)

of 180

ASUS P5Q PRO Motherboard Specification

The ASUS P5Q PRO is a high-performance motherboard designed for Intel processors, supporting the LGA 775 socket. It is built on the Intel P45 chipset, providing robust compatibility with a range of Intel Core 2 processors, including Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Extreme, Core 2 Duo, Pentium, and Celeron CPUs. This motherboard features four DIMM slots, supporting up to 16GB of dual-channel DDR2 memory with speeds up to 1200 MHz when overclocked. It includes a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot for graphics, enabling enhanced gaming and multimedia experiences. An additional PCI Express x16 slot operates at x8 speed, allowing for multi-GPU setups using ATI CrossFireX technology.

For connectivity and expansion, it offers two PCI Express x1 slots and three PCI slots. The board supports multiple storage options with six SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports, facilitating RAID configurations 0, 1, 5, and 10 for enhanced data performance and security. Integrated audio is provided by the ADI AD2000B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC, ensuring superior sound quality. Networking capabilities are handled by a Gigabit Ethernet LAN controller, providing reliable and fast internet connectivity.

The ASUS P5Q PRO also features an array of ASUS proprietary technologies, such as AI Nap for reduced power consumption and AI Gear 3+ for dynamic system performance adjustment. The motherboard's design emphasizes durability and stability, with high-quality components such as solid capacitors. It supports ASUS's EPU (Energy Processing Unit) for improved energy efficiency. The BIOS is user-friendly, featuring ASUS's EZ Flash 2 for easy BIOS updates. Overall, the P5Q PRO is engineered to deliver a balanced blend of performance, expandability, and energy efficiency, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and professional applications.

ASUS P5Q PRO Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard?

To update the BIOS on the ASUS P5Q PRO, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Use the ASUS EZ Flash utility, which can be accessed by pressing 'DEL' during boot to enter the BIOS setup and selecting the 'Tools' tab. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the BIOS.

What should I do if my ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard doesn't boot?

If your ASUS P5Q PRO doesn't boot, first check if all power connections are secure. Ensure RAM and other components are seated properly. Clear the CMOS by removing the battery or using the CLR_CMOS jumper. If the issue persists, test with minimal hardware connected.

How can I enable AHCI mode for SATA drives on this motherboard?

To enable AHCI mode, enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'DEL' during startup. Navigate to 'Advanced' -> 'SATA Configuration' and change the mode from IDE to AHCI. Save the settings and exit the BIOS.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS P5Q PRO?

The ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard supports a maximum of 16GB of DDR2 RAM, with four slots available for up to 4GB per slot.

How do I configure RAID on the ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard?

To configure RAID, enter the BIOS setup and set the SATA mode to RAID in the 'Advanced' -> 'SATA Configuration' section. Reboot and press 'CTRL+I' during startup to enter the RAID configuration utility. Follow the prompts to set up your RAID array.

Can I use a PCIe graphics card on the ASUS P5Q PRO?

Yes, the ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard has a PCIe 2.0 x16 slot that supports modern graphics cards. Ensure your power supply has the necessary connectors for your graphics card.

What should I do if my USB devices are not recognized on the ASUS P5Q PRO?

If USB devices are not recognized, check the BIOS settings to ensure USB ports are enabled. Try updating the USB drivers via the ASUS support site. Additionally, test the USB devices on another computer to rule out device issues.

How can I improve system performance on the ASUS P5Q PRO?

To improve performance, ensure your BIOS and drivers are up to date. Consider upgrading RAM to the maximum supported capacity and use an SSD for the operating system. Overclocking the CPU and RAM may also enhance performance, but do so cautiously.

Does the ASUS P5Q PRO support overclocking?

Yes, the ASUS P5Q PRO supports overclocking. Enter the BIOS setup and navigate to the 'AI Tweaker' section to adjust CPU and memory frequencies and voltages. Ensure adequate cooling is in place to prevent overheating.

How do I reset the CMOS on the ASUS P5Q PRO motherboard?

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