Contents

Z8NA-D6 Series specifications summary
About this guide
Safety information
Notices
Typography
Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Serial number label
- 1.4 Special features
  - 1.4.1 Product highlights
  - 1.4.2 Innovative ASUS 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 layouts
  - 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
- 2.4 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 Express x16 slot (x16 link)
  - 2.5.5 PCI Express x8 slots (x4 link)
  - 2.5.6 MIO PCIE slot
  - 2.5.7 PCI slot
  - 2.5.8 PIKE slot (Z8NA-D6 model only)
  - 2.5.9 Installing an ASUS PIKE RAID card (Z8NA-D6 model only)
  - 2.5.10 Installing i Button (Z8NA-D6 model only)
  - 2.5.11 Installing ASMB4 management board (Z8NA-D6 model only)
  - 2.5.12 Installing the audio card
  - 2.5.13 Connect Thermal sensor cable
- 2.6 Jumpers
- 2.7 Connectors
  - 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors
  - 2.7.2 Internal connectors
Powering up
- 3.1 Starting up for the first time
- 3.2 Powering off the computer
  - 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
BIOS setup
- 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
  - 4.1.1 AFUDOS utility
  - 4.1.2 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 [1.44 MB 3.5 in.]
  - 4.3.4 SATA16
  - 4.3.5 IDE Configuration
  - 4.3.6 AHCI Configuration
  - 4.3.7 System Information
- 4.4 Advanced menu
  - 4.4.1 CPU Configuration
  - 4.4.2 Chipset Configuration
  - 4.4.3 Legacy Device Configuration
  - 4.4.4 USB Configuration
  - 4.4.5 PCIPnP
  - 4.4.6 Power On Configuration
  - 4.4.7 Event Log Configuration
  - 4.4.8 Hardware Monitor
  - 4.4.9 PCI Express Configuration
  - 4.4.10 ACPI Configuration
- 4.5 Server menu
  - 4.5.1 Remote Access Configuration
- 4.6 Boot menu
  - 4.6.1 Boot Device Priority
  - 4.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration
  - 4.6.3 Security
- 4.7 Exit menu
  - Exit & Save Changes
  - Exit & Discard Changes
  - Discard Changes
  - Load Setup Defaults
RAID configuration
- Chapter summary
- 5.1 Setting up RAID
  - 5.1.1 RAID definitions
  - 5.1.2 Installing hard disk drives
  - 5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS
  - 5.1.4 RAID configuration utilities
- 5.2 LSI Software RAID Configuration Utility (Z8NA-D6 model only)
  - 5.2.1 Creating a RAID set
  - 5.2.2 Adding or viewing a RAID configuration
  - 5.2.3 Initializing the virtual drives
  - 5.2.4 Rebuilding failed drives
  - 5.2.5 Checking the drives for data consistency
  - 5.2.6 Deleting a RAID configuration
  - 5.2.7 Selecting the boot drive from a RAID set
  - 5.2.8 Enabling WriteCache
- 5.3 Intel Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility
  - 5.3.1 Creating a RAID set
  - 5.3.2 Creating a Recovery set
  - 5.3.3 Deleting a RAID set
  - 5.3.4 Resetting disks to Non-RAID
  - 5.3.5 Recovery Volume Options
  - 5.3.6 Exiting the Intel Matrix Storage Manager
  - 5.3.7 Rebuilding the RAID
  - 5.3.8 Setting the Boot array in the BIOS Setup Utility
Driver installation
- 6.1 RAID driver installation
  - 6.1.1 Creating a RAID driver disk
  - 6.1.2 Windows OS
  - 6.1.3 Red Hat Enterprise Linux OS
  - 6.1.4 SUSE Linux Enterprise Server OS
- 6.2 Intel chipset device software installation
- 6.3 LAN driver installation
- 6.4 Display driver installation
- 6.5 Management applications and utilities installation
  - 6.5.1 Running the support DVD
  - 6.5.2 Drivers menu
  - 6.5.3 Utilities menu
  - 6.5.4 Make disk menu
  - 6.5.5 Contact information
Reference information
- A.1 Z8NA-D6 block diagram
- A.2 Z8NA-D6C block diagram

ASUS Z8NA-D6C User Manual

Pages 168

Year 2009

Language(s)

of 168

ASUS Z8NA-D6C Motherboard Specification

The ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard is a versatile server board designed to support Intel's Xeon 5500/5600 series processors, leveraging the Intel 5500 chipset to deliver robust performance for enterprise applications. It accommodates dual LGA 1366 sockets, enabling dual-processor configurations that enhance multitasking and processing capabilities. This motherboard supports a maximum of 48GB of DDR3 ECC Registered or Unbuffered memory across six DIMM slots, offering memory speeds of up to 1333 MHz for efficient data handling.

For expansion, the Z8NA-D6C includes two PCIe 2.0 x16 slots, one PCIe x4 slot, and one PCI slot, providing ample opportunities for adding additional components such as RAID cards or network adapters. The onboard storage options incorporate six SATA II ports with support for RAID 0, 1, 10, and 5 configurations, facilitating flexible and reliable data management solutions. Networking is supported via dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed connectivity for data-intensive operations.

The motherboard features an ATX form factor, making it compatible with a wide range of server chassis. Its integrated ASMB4-iKVM module provides remote management capabilities, allowing server administrators to monitor and control the system remotely, which is essential for maintaining uptime and efficiency in data center environments. Additionally, the Z8NA-D6C includes integrated audio and video outputs, with a VGA port for direct video connectivity.

The ASUS Z8NA-D6C is engineered for reliability and performance, making it an ideal choice for businesses requiring a stable and scalable server platform. Its combination of powerful processing capabilities, flexible memory support, and robust connectivity options make it suitable for a wide range of server applications.

ASUS Z8NA-D6C Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I install the ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard into a chassis?

First, ensure that you have a compatible ATX or EEB case. Align the motherboard with the standoffs inside the chassis and secure it with screws. Make sure all ports and slots are accessible.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard?

The ASUS Z8NA-D6C supports up to 48GB of DDR3 ECC or non-ECC memory across its 6 DIMM slots.

How can I troubleshoot a no-display issue on the ASUS Z8NA-D6C?

Check that the RAM and CPU are properly seated. Ensure the graphics card is correctly installed and connected to the monitor. Verify the power supply connections and test with another monitor if possible.

What processors are compatible with the ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard?

The ASUS Z8NA-D6C supports Intel Xeon 5500/5600 series processors. It is advisable to check the ASUS website for a complete list of compatible CPUs.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS Z8NA-D6C?

Download the latest BIOS from the ASUS support website. Copy it to a USB drive, enter the BIOS setup, and use the EZ Flash utility to update the BIOS. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.

Is the ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard compatible with RAID configurations?

Yes, the ASUS Z8NA-D6C supports various RAID configurations such as RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 using its onboard SATA controllers.

What should I do if the ASUS Z8NA-D6C motherboard is not booting?

Ensure all power connections are secure. Check the CPU, RAM, and GPU for proper seating. Try resetting the CMOS and ensure there are no short circuits from the chassis.