The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 update represents a significant step in optimizing the performance and stability of the ASUS P5B motherboard. This BIOS revision incorporates a multitude of enhancements and fixes designed to improve compatibility, overclocking capabilities, and overall system functionality. This article provides a detailed overview of the key improvements introduced with this update, allowing users to understand the benefits of upgrading and ensuring they have the necessary information for a smooth and informed update process.
The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 update focuses on addressing various issues reported by users and enhancing the motherboard’s capabilities to support a wider range of hardware configurations and overclocking scenarios. From resolving SATA configuration problems to improving memory SPD item visibility for overclocking, and even optimizing fan speed control, this BIOS update delivers a comprehensive set of improvements.
Key Enhancements and Fixes in ASUS P5B BIOS 0309:
The following sections detail the specific improvements included in the ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 update, providing a clear understanding of the changes implemented:
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SATA Configuration Correction: The update rectifies an issue where selecting "disable" and "compatible mode" for SATA configuration would incorrectly display SATA3 and SATA4 ports. This ensures accurate SATA port identification and proper functionality in different configuration modes.
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Enhanced Memory Overclocking: To improve overclocking ability, the ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 update exposes more memory SPD (Serial Presence Detect) items. SPD data contains crucial information about the memory modules, enabling more precise and stable overclocking configurations. By revealing these items, users gain greater control over memory timings and voltages, leading to potentially higher and more reliable overclocking results.
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Improved Overclocking Above FSB 500: This BIOS revision enhances the motherboard’s capability to handle front-side bus (FSB) speeds exceeding 500MHz. This is particularly beneficial for overclockers aiming to push their systems to higher performance levels, as it provides increased stability and headroom when operating at elevated FSB frequencies.
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Jumperfree FSB Support up to 650: The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 expands the jumperfree FSB (Front Side Bus) setting up to 650MHz. This allows users to adjust the FSB speed directly from the BIOS without physically altering jumpers on the motherboard, simplifying the overclocking process and making it more accessible.
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Automatic DDR Frequency Calculation: The update introduces an automatic calculation rule for displaying DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) frequency. This ensures that the displayed memory frequency accurately reflects the actual operating speed, preventing confusion and facilitating more informed overclocking decisions.
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Conroe CPU Ratio Adjustment Support: This BIOS revision adds support for adjusting the CPU ratio for Conroe processors. This allows users to fine-tune the CPU clock speed by modifying the multiplier, providing greater flexibility in overclocking and optimizing CPU performance.
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POST Failure Fix for XE CPUs: The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 addresses an issue where the system would fail to POST (Power-On Self-Test) after a CrashFree BIOS recovery or EZFlash update when using particular XE (Extreme Edition) CPUs. While a clear CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) operation would still allow the system to boot, this fix eliminates the need for such intervention, ensuring a more seamless recovery process.
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ODD Read Error Correction: The update resolves a problem where some optical disc drives (ODDs) would fail to read files from CDs under EZFlash2, ASUS’s BIOS flashing utility. This ensures that users can reliably update their BIOS using CDs as a bootable source, preventing potential update failures.
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Enhanced NVIDIA VGA Performance: The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 includes optimizations that enhance performance with NVIDIA VGA (Video Graphics Array) cards. This can result in improved frame rates and smoother gameplay in graphically intensive applications and games.
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AiGear Support for Presler 3200 c1 Stepping CPU: The update adds support for AiGear, ASUS’s power-saving technology, for Presler 3200 c1 stepping CPUs. AiGear allows users to dynamically adjust CPU voltage and frequency based on system load, reducing power consumption and heat generation when the system is idle or performing less demanding tasks.
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NOS Table Revision for Conroe B2 Stepping: The NOS (Non-Overclocking Speed) table for Conroe B2 stepping CPUs has been revised. The NOS table helps regulate the CPU’s performance based on temperature and power consumption. The update likely fine-tunes this table for better performance and stability.
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FSB533 CPU Support Over 3.4GHz under AIbooster: The update allows FSB533 CPUs to reach frequencies over 3.4GHz under AIbooster, ASUS’s automatic overclocking utility. This expands the overclocking potential for users with FSB533 CPUs, enabling them to achieve higher performance levels with AIbooster’s automated settings.
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AI Gear Fan Speed Adjustment: The update addresses an issue where the AI Gear fan speed would sometimes be too low in normal mode. This ensures that the fan operates at an appropriate speed to maintain optimal cooling performance, preventing potential overheating problems.
Updating Your BIOS:
Before proceeding with a BIOS update, it is crucial to back up your current BIOS settings and read the update instructions carefully. A failed BIOS update can render your motherboard unusable, so proceed with caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. You can typically find the BIOS update and instructions on the ASUS website.
Download Link:
https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/7941/
Alternative Download Links:
- ASUS Support Website (search for ASUS P5B BIOS): Usually the primary source.
- Softpedia: Check for "ASUS P5B BIOS Update"
- DriverGuide: Search using the model number
- WinDrivers: May have older BIOS versions available.
- Station-Drivers: An archive of various motherboard drivers.
Conclusion:
The ASUS P5B BIOS 0309 update offers a significant array of improvements and fixes for the ASUS P5B motherboard. By addressing SATA configuration issues, enhancing overclocking capabilities, and optimizing system stability, this update provides a more robust and reliable computing experience. Users who are experiencing any of the issues addressed in this update or who are looking to improve their system’s performance are strongly encouraged to upgrade to this BIOS revision. Remember to always back up your current BIOS and follow the update instructions carefully to avoid any potential problems.