ECS X58B-A User Manual

25
Using BIOS
Chapter 3
Using BIOS
About the Setup Utility
The computer uses the latest “American Megatrends Inc.” BIOS with support for
Windows Plug and Play. The CMOS chip on the motherboard contains the ROM
setup instructions for configuring the motherboard BIOS.
The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) Setup Utility displays the system’s
configuration status and provides you with options to set system parameters. The
parameters are stored in battery-backed-up CMOS RAM that saves this information
when the power is turned off. When the system is turned back on, the system is
configured with the values you stored in CMOS.
The BIOS Setup Utility enables you to configure:
• Hard drives, diskette drives and peripherals
• Video display type and display options
• Password protection from unauthorized use
• Power Management features
The settings made in the Setup Utility affect how the computer performs. Before
using the Setup Utility, ensure that you understand the Setup Utility options.
This chapter provides explanations for Setup Utility options.
The Standard Configuration
A standard configuration has already been set in the Setup Utility. However, we
recommend that you read this chapter in case you need to make any changes in the
future.
This Setup Utility should be used:
• when changing the system configuration
• when a configuration error is detected and you are prompted to make
changes to the Setup Utility
• when trying to resolve IRQ conflicts
• when making changes to the Power Management configuration
• when changing the password or making other changes to the Security
Setup
Entering the Setup Utility
When you power on the system, BIOS enters the Power-On Self Test (POST)
routines. POST is a series of built-in diagnostics performed by the BIOS. After the
POST routines are completed, the following message appears:
Press DEL to enter SETUP

ECS X58B-A Specifications

General

Brand	ECS
Model	X58B-A
Category	Motherboard
Language	English

Summary

Chapter 1 Introducing the Motherboard

Introduction

General overview of the motherboard's purpose, target market, and key technologies.

Feature

Details the significant features and capabilities of the motherboard and its components.

Specifications

Lists comprehensive technical specifications including CPU, chipset, memory, and expansion slots.

Motherboard Components

Identifies and explains the physical parts and connectors on the motherboard.

Chapter 2 Installing the Motherboard

Safety Precautions

Essential safety guidelines to follow before and during motherboard installation to prevent damage.

Choosing a Computer Case

Guidance on selecting a compatible computer case that accommodates the motherboard's form factor.

Installing the Motherboard in a Case

Step-by-step instructions for physically mounting the motherboard inside a computer case.

Checking Jumper Settings

Explains how to configure motherboard settings using jumpers for correct operation.

Installing Hardware

Procedures for installing physical components like CPU, memory modules, and expansion cards.

Connecting Optional Devices

Instructions for connecting various optional devices and ports like audio, USB, and SATA.

Connecting Case Components

Guide to connecting power supply cables, fans, and front panel connectors to the motherboard.

Chapter 3 Using BIOS

About the Setup Utility

Explains the purpose and functionality of the BIOS Setup Utility for system configuration.

Standard CMOS Setup

Configure basic system settings like date, time, and drive parameters.

Advanced Setup

Adjust advanced system performance and feature settings.

Integrated Peripherals

Manage onboard devices like SATA, Audio, LAN, USB, and COM ports.

Power Management Setup

Configure system power saving and wake-up features.

PCI/PnP Setup

Configure settings for PCI devices and Plug and Play capability.

PC Health Status

Monitor system voltages, temperatures, and fan speeds.

M.I.B (MB Intelligent BIOS)

Fine-tune CPU clock speed, system bus, and memory timings.

Password Settings

Manage system security with user and supervisor passwords.

BIOS Update

Instructions for downloading and installing the latest BIOS version.

Chapter 4 Using the Motherboard Software

About the Software CD-ROM

Information about the bundled software CD-ROM and its contents.

Auto-installing under Windows XP/Vista

Guide for using the CD's autorun feature for automatic driver installation.

Manual Installation

Steps for manually installing drivers and software from the CD.

Utility Software Reference

Description of available utility software and licensing terms.

Chapter 5 ATI CrossFire™ Technology Support

Requirements

Lists the necessary hardware and software for ATI CrossFire™ setup.

Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards

Step-by-step guide for physically installing CrossFire™ compatible graphics cards.

Catalyst Control Center Configuration

How to configure ATI CrossFire™ settings using the Catalyst Control Center.

Chapter 6 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Before creating a RAID set

Preparation steps and required items before configuring a RAID array.

Entering Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS utility

Instructions to access the RAID configuration utility from the BIOS.

Creating a RAID set

Step-by-step guide to configure RAID 0 or RAID 1 arrays.

Deleting a RAID set

Procedure for removing an existing RAID set configuration.

Resetting disks to Non-RAID

How to revert configured RAID disks back to their original non-RAID state.