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Asus M5A88-M User Manual
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Asus M5A88-M User Manual

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  • Page 1 M5A88-M...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Product introduction Welcome! ....................1-1 Package contents..................1-1 Special features..................1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights................ 1-2 1.3.2 ASUS Hybrid Processor - TPU (TurboV Processing Unit)* ..1-3 1.3.3 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid Switch*........1-3 1.3.4 ASUS unique features..............1-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information Before you proceed ...................
  • Page 4 BIOS setup Knowing BIOS .................... 3-1 Updating BIOS .................... 3-1 3.2.1 ASUS Update utility..............3-2 3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ............... 3-4 3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility........... 3-5 3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ..............3-6 BIOS setup program .................. 3-9 3.3.1...
  • Page 5 Boot Device Priority..............3-32 3.8.2 Boot Settings Configuration ............3-33 3.8.3 Security ..................3-34 Tools menu ....................3-36 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ..............3-36 3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Profile ..............3-36 3.10 Exit menu ....................3-38 Chapter 4: Software support Installing an operating system ..............
  • Page 6 Turbo Unlocker ................4-10 ASUS Unique Overclocking Utility—TurboV EVO ......... 4-11 4.4.1 Using ASUS TurboV ..............4-11 4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode ........4-12 4.4.3 Using CPU Level UP ..............4-13 4.4.4 Using ASUS Turbo Key ............. 4-13 RAID configurations ................

  • Page 7: Notices

    This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials.

  • Page 8: Safety Information

    Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling.

  • Page 9: About This Guide

    Where to find more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.

  • Page 10: Conventions Used In This Guide

    Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

  • Page 11: M5A88-M Specifications Summary

    *** When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 MHz or higher frequency DIMMs. **** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List). ***** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more, Windows ®...
  • Page 12 - MemOK! button ASUS Power Solutions - ASUS Anti-Surge Protection - ASUS EPU ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions - ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish heatsink solution - ASUS Fan Xpert ASUS EZ DIY - ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 - ASUS EZ Flash 2 - ASUS MyLogo 2™...
  • Page 13 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector BIOS features 16 Mb Flash ROM, SPI, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE...

  • Page 15: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    ® The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

  • Page 16: Special Features

    The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirements in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy- efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

  • Page 17: Asus Hybrid Processor - Tpu (Turbov Processing Unit)

    Auto Tuning! ASUS TurboV Feel the adrenaline rush of real-time OC-now a reality with the ASUS TurboV. This easy OC tool allows you to overclock without exiting or rebooting the OS; and its user- friendly interface makes overclock with just a few clicks away.

  • Page 18: Asus Unique Features

    BIOS file. This protection eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. ASUS EZ-Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Precision Tweaker 2 Allows you to fine-tune the VCore / VDDNB voltage in 0.003125V steps and DRAM voltage in...

  • Page 19: Chapter 2: Hardware Information

    Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. ASUS M5A88-M...

  • Page 20: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout 24.4cm(9.6in) KB_USB56 CPU_FAN Super ATX12V SPDIFO_ HDMI COM1 MemOK! DRAM_LED USB3_12 LAN1_USB12 CHA_FAN 1042 AUDIO ® 880G PCIEX1_1 8111E Lithium Cell CMOS Power PCIEX16 M5A88-M ® 16Mb BIOS PCIEX1_2 SB850 SATA6G_2 SATA6G_4 SATA6G_6 PCI1 SPDIF_OUT SB_PWR USB78 USB910...

  • Page 21: Layout Contents

    System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 2-29 USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112, USB1314) 2-25 Core Unlocker LED (O2LED1) 2-31 Core Unlocker switch 2-18 Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-27 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-26 ASUS M5A88-M...

  • Page 22: Placement Direction

    2.2.3 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below. 2.2.4 Screw holes Place eight screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

  • Page 23: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Press the lever sideways to unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90º angle. Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up Socket lever to a 90º angle. Otherwise, the CPU will not fit in completely. ASUS M5A88-M...
  • Page 24 Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Gold triangle Small triangle When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU.

  • Page 25: Installing The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    Retention module base Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter. ASUS M5A88-M...
  • Page 26 Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket...
  • Page 27 M5A88-M M5A88-M CPU fan connector • Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. • This connector is backward compatible with old 3-pin CPU fan. ASUS M5A88-M...

  • Page 28: System Memory

    System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.

  • Page 29: Memory Configurations

    Due to CPU spec., AMD ® 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz. • When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 MHz or higher frequency DIMMs.

  • Page 30: Installing A Dimm

    2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. DIMM notch Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward.

  • Page 31: Expansion Slots

    When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details. ASUS M5A88-M 2-13...

  • Page 32: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Priority Standard function System Timer Keyboard Controller – Redirect to IRQ#9 Communications Port (COM1)* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Reserved System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Numeric Data Processor...

  • Page 33: Pci Slot

    This motherboard has a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express 2.0 x16 graphics cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot PCIe 2.0 x16 slot PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot PCI slot ASUS M5A88-M 2-15...

  • Page 34: Jumper

    Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.

  • Page 35: Onboard Switches

    BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. ASUS M5A88-M 2-17...
  • Page 36 O2LED1 LED. • If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu follows the current setting of the Core Unlocker switch. You may also press <4> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) or enable the ASUS •...

  • Page 37: Connectors

    USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 Audio I/O ports** *and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port and audio port definitions. ***: Refer to the notes and troubleshooting on HDTV overscaling or underscaling on the next pages. ASUS M5A88-M 2-19...

  • Page 38: Lan Port Led Indications

    * LAN port LED indications ACT/LINK SPEED Activity Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description No link 10 Mbps connection ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection LAN port BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection ** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Headset Port 4-channel...
  • Page 39 DFP resolution check box. The Scaling Options function of the DTV (HDMI™) 1 item in the ATI CATALYST Control Center is adjustable only when you are using an HDTV compliance resolution such as 480i, 720i, or 1080i. ASUS M5A88-M 2-21...

  • Page 40: Audio I/O Connections

    2.8.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo / 2.1-channel Speakers 2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 41 Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers ASUS M5A88-M 2-23...

  • Page 42: Internal Connectors

    2.8.3 Internal connectors SB850 Serial ATA Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6) ® These connectors are for the Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 configuration through the onboard AMD ®...
  • Page 43 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.

  • Page 44: Front Panel Audio Connector

    Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. COM1 M5A88-M M5A88-M Serial port (COM1) connector The COM module is purchased separately.
  • Page 45 These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power. • Only the 4-pin CPU_FAN connector supports the ASUS Fan Xpert feature. ASUS M5A88-M 2-27...
  • Page 46 • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support. asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. 2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 47 ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW) This connector is for the system power button. • Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS M5A88-M 2-29...

  • Page 48: Asus Q-Connector (System Panel)

    2.8.4. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. To install the ASUS Q-Connector: Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, and then match them to their respective front panel cable labels.

  • Page 49: Onboard Leds

    The Core Unlocker LED lights when the Core Unclocker switch is turned to Enable. M5A88-M O2LED1 M5A88-M Core Unlocker LED The Core Unlocker LED keeps on lighting even though the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu is set to [Disabled]. ASUS M5A88-M 2-31...

  • Page 50: Starting Up For The First Time

    2.10 Starting up for the first time After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: Monitor External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

  • Page 51: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility.

  • Page 52: Asus Update Utility

    3.2.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: ® • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet •...
  • Page 53 Auto Select. Click Next. Next. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file...

  • Page 54: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

  • Page 55: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file.

  • Page 56: Asus Bios Updater

    3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process.
  • Page 57 ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [09/06/22] Current ROM Update ROM BOARD: M5A88-M BOARD: Unknown VER: 0303 (H:00 B:01) VER: Unknown DATE: 03/29/2011 DATE: Unknown PATH: BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue. Note Saving BIOS: ASUS M5A88-M...
  • Page 58 Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>. D:\>bupdater /pc /g The BIOS Updater screen appears as below. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [09/06/22] Current ROM Update ROM BOARD:...

  • Page 59: Bios Setup Program

    For changing the advanced system settings Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) configuration Boot For changing the system boot configuration Tools For configuring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings ASUS M5A88-M...

  • Page 60: Navigation Keys

    3.3.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. The navigation keys may differ from one screen to another. 3.3.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu.

  • Page 61: Main Menu

    The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART Monitoring). These values are not user-configurable. These items show Not Detected if no SATA device is installed in the system. ASUS M5A88-M 3-11...
  • Page 62 Type [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device installed. [Not Installed] Select this option if no device is installed. [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the appropriate device type. [CDROM] Select this option if you are specifically configuring a CD-ROM drive. [ARMD] Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.

  • Page 63: Sata Configuration

    SATA connectors 5 or 6 when installing OS. If you use a SATA optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical dirve to the SATA connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode. ASUS M5A88-M 3-13...

  • Page 64: System Information

    3.4.3 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the BIOS information, CPU specification, and system memory in this menu. M5A88-M BIOS Setup Version 0303 Main BIOS Information Version : 0303 Build Date: 03/29/11 Processor Type...

  • Page 65: Ai Tweaker Menu

    CPU Overclocking to [Manual] after selecting a CPU level. Configuration options: [Auto] [Phenom II-955] [Phenom II-3.4G] [Phenom II-3.6G] • The configuration options vary depending on the CPU model you install on the motherboard. • The CPU Level UP function support depends on CPU types. ASUS M5A88-M 3-15...

  • Page 66: Cpu Overclocking [Auto]

    3.5.2 CPU OverClocking [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. Allows you to select a DRAM O.C.

  • Page 67: Cpu Ratio [Auto]

    Enhanced iGPU SpeedStep item to [Manual]. Allows you to set the GPU Engine Clock. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200MHz to 2000MHz. ASUS M5A88-M 3-17...

  • Page 68: Oc Tuner Utility

    GPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the GPU Booster item to [Enabled]. [Enabled] Select [Enabled] to reduce the iGPU power consumption when the system is idle. [Disabled] Disables this function. 3.5.8 OC Tuner Utility OC Tuner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM.

  • Page 69: Dram Driving Configuration

    Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key. ASUS M5A88-M 3-19...

  • Page 70: Cpu & Nb Voltage Mode [Offset]

    3.5.11 CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset] Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB Voltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item setting. Configuration options: [Offset] [Manual] CPU Offset Voltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage.

  • Page 71: Cpu Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

    Cache L2: 2048KB testing purpose. Cache L3: 6MB Speed : 3000MHz, uCode Patch Level : 0x10000C6 Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled] Cool‘n’Quiet [Enabled] C1E Support [Auto] ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] CPU Core Activation [Auto] ASUS M5A88-M 3-21...
  • Page 72 [Auto] Allows automatic selection of C1E support function. [Disabled] Disables this function. ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor. [Disabled] Disables this function. CPU Core Activation [Auto] [Auto] Allows automatic activation of cores.

  • Page 73: Chipset

    CS Sparing Enable [Disabled] Enables this item to reserve a spare memory rank in each node. Configuraiton options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Bank Swizzle Mode [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the bank swizzle mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M5A88-M 3-23...

  • Page 74: Ecc Configuration

    ECC Configuration Version 0303 M5A88-M BIOS Setup Advanced ECC Configuration Set the level of ECC protection. Note: The ECC Mode [Disabled] ‘Super’ ECC mode DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled] dynamically sets the DRAM scrub rate so all of memory is scrubbed in 8 hours. ECC Mode [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM ECC mode that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors.

  • Page 75: Onboard Devices Configuration

    Selects the Parallel Port mode. Configuration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP + ECP] Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7] Allows BIOS to select the Parallel Port IRQ. Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7] HDAudio Controller [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the HD Audio controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M5A88-M 3-25...

  • Page 76: Pcipnp

    Front Panel Select [HD Audio] Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports. [AC 97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 [HD Audio] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio.

  • Page 77: Usb Configuration

    Version 0303 Advanced USB Mass Storage Device Configuration Number of seconds POST waits for the USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec] USB mass storage device after start Device #1 Kingston DataTraveler unit command. Emulation Type [Auto] ASUS M5A88-M 3-27...

  • Page 78: Power Menu

    USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec] Sets the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to initialize. Configuration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec] Emulation Type [Auto] Allows you to set the emulation type. Configuration options: [Auto] [Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM] Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power...

  • Page 79: Apm Configuration

    [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key] Power On From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event. When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and System [Enabled] Time will become user-configurable with set values. ASUS M5A88-M 3-29...

  • Page 80: Hw Monitor Configuration

    3.7.5 HW Monitor Configuration M5A88-M BIOS Setup Version 0303 Power Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature [35ºC/95ºF] MB Temperature [34ºC/93ºF] CPU Fan Speed [3590RPM] Chassis Fan Speed [N/A] VCORE Voltage [ 1.040V] 3.3V Voltage [ 3.008V] Voltage [ 4.776V] Voltage [11.648V] ←→...

  • Page 81: Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

    Disables the Anti Surge support. 3.7.7 NB Thermal Protect [Enabled] When this item is enabled, the system will automatically shut down when the Northbridge temperature is over 95ºC to avoid any damage to the Northbridge chipset. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M5A88-M 3-31...

  • Page 82: Boot Menu

    Configuration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled] • To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears. • To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following: - Press <F5>...

  • Page 83: Boot Settings Configuration

    Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] [Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot sequence.

  • Page 84: Security

    3.8.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item and press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Version 0303 M5A88-M BIOS Setup Boot Security Settings <Enter> to change password. Supervisor Password : Not Installed <Enter>...
  • Page 85 Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Password Check [Setup] [Setup] BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. [Always] BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. ASUS M5A88-M 3-35...

  • Page 86: Tools Menu

    (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc. 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.
  • Page 87 DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! • We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU configuration and BIOS version. • Only the CMO file can be loaded. ASUS M5A88-M 3-37...

  • Page 88: Exit Menu

    3.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Version 0303 M5A88-M BIOS Setup Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools...

  • Page 89: Chapter 4: Software Support

    The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD into the optical drive.

  • Page 90: Obtaining The Software Manuals

    The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files. ® Click the Manual tab. Click ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide from the manual list on the left. The Manual folder of the support DVD appears. Double-click the folder of your selected software.

  • Page 91: Software Information

    Launching PC Probe II Install PC Probe II from the motherboard support DVD. Launch PC Probe II by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window appears.

  • Page 92: Cool 'N' Quiet!™ Technology

    Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software Install Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software from the motherboard support DVD. Click Start > All Programs > ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet. The Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology screen appears and displays the current CPU Frequency and CPU Voltage.

  • Page 93: Asus Ai Suite

    Launching AI Suite Install AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD. Launch AI Suite by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx. xx. The AI Suite main window appears. The AI Suite icon appears in the Windows notification area.

  • Page 94: Asus Fan Xpert

    4.3.4 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust the CPU fan speed according to different ambient temperature and your PC’s system loading. The various fan profiles offer flexible controls of CPU fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool system environment.

  • Page 95: Asus Epu

    4.3.5 ASUS EPU ASUS EPU is an energy-efficient tool that provides you with a total system power-saving solution. It detects the current computer loading and intelligently adjusts the power in real-time. With auto phase switching for components, the EPU automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent acceleration and overclocking.

  • Page 96: Audio Configurations

    4.3.6 Audio configurations The Realtek audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio ® experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Detection function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes the Realtek proprietary UAJ ®...

  • Page 97: Asus Gpu Boost

    DVD. • For system stability, all changes made in ASUS GPU Boost will not be saved to BIOS settings and will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.

  • Page 98: Turbo Unlocker

    4.3.8 Turbo Unlocker Specially-designed for AMD Black Edition processors, the ASUS exclusive Turbo Unlocker ® allows dynamic and automatic CPU core adjustments based on system load. Follow the instructions below to enable Turbo Unlocker and unleash the full power of your system.

  • Page 99: Asus Unique Overclocking Utility-Turbov Evo

    TurboV EVO ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV, CPU Level UP and Turbo Key—three powerful tools that allow you to overclock your system effectively. Install ASUS TurboV EVO from the support DVD that came with the motherboard package. If the TurboV EVO is correctly installed, you will find the TurboV EVO icon on the Windows notification area.

  • Page 100: Using Asus Turbov Auto Tuning Mode

    4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode The Auto Tuning Mode allows smart auto-overclocking. Follow the instructions below to let TurboV EVO detect and overclock your system. Click the Auto Tuning tab and then click Start. You can also click More...

  • Page 101: Using Cpu Level Up

    4.4.4 Using ASUS Turbo Key ASUS Turbo Key allows the user to set a group of hotkeys into physical overclocking buttons. After the easy setup, Turbo Key can boost performances without interrupting ongoing work or games—with just one touch! Configuring ASUS Turbo Key Click the Turbo Key tab.

  • Page 102: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the AMD SB850 chipset that allows you to configure ® Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID configurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10. •...

  • Page 103: Installing Serial Ata Hard Disks

    Go to the Main menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>. Set the type of the SATA connectors to [RAID]. Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup. See section 3.4.2 SATA Configuration for details. ASUS M5A88-M 4-15...

  • Page 104: Amd ® Option Rom Utility

    4.5.4 Option ROM Utility ® To enter the AMD Option ROM utility: ® Boot up your computer. During POST, press <Ctrl> + <F> to display the utility main menu. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ Main Menu ] View Drive Assignments ..[ 1 ] LD View / LD Define Menu...

  • Page 105: Creating A Raid Volume

    <Press Ctrl-Y Key if you are sure to erase it> <Press any other key to ignore this option> Press <Ctrl> + <Y> to enter the screen to modify the array capacity, or press any key to use the maximum capacity. ASUS M5A88-M 4-17...

  • Page 106: Deleting A Raid Configuration

    Deleting a RAID configuration Take caution when deleting a RAID volume. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID volume. To delete a RAID volume: In the Main Menu, press <3> to enter the Delete LD function. Select the RAID item you want to delete and press <Del>...

  • Page 107: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver. Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive. ASUS M5A88-M 4-19...

  • Page 108: Using A Usb Floppy Disk Drive

    When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. To install the RAID driver for Windows Vista or later OS ® During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver.
  • Page 109 “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106”,”ahcix86” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104”,”ahcix86” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104”,”ahcix64” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106”,”ahcix64” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104”,”ahcix64” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” Add the same line to both sections. The VID and PID vary with different vendors. Save and exit the file. ASUS M5A88-M 4-21...
  • Page 110 4-22 Chapter 4: Software support...

  • Page 111: Chapter 5: Ati ® Hybrid Crossfirex™ Technology Support

    Internal Graphics Mode [UMA] GPP-GFX0-IGFX-PCI UMA Frame Buffer Size [256MB] PCI-GFX0-GPP-IGFX Surround View [Enabled] IGFX-GFX0-GPP-PCI Frame Buffer Location [Above 4G] AMD HDMI Audio [Enabled] Press <F10> to save the changes and exit BIOS settings. Select OK to confirm. ASUS M5A88-M...

  • Page 112: Installing Amd Chipset Driver

    Installing AMD Chipset Driver To install the driver that supports Hybrid CrossFireX technology: Insert the Support DVD that comes with your motherboard into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Highlights menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer. If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder.
  • Page 113 Click OK. The onboard graphics card is set to be the main monitor. If you are using both an add-on and the on-board graphics cards at same time and want to set the onboard graphics card as your main monitor, follow the instructions on the next page. ASUS M5A88-M...
  • Page 114 Follow steps 1 to 3 on Using the onboard graphics card. From the ATI CATALYST(R) Control Center screen, click Display Manager > Graphics Adapter. Select ATI Radeon HD 4250 Graphics [Gabbs, G HW173]. Click OK, and then Yes from the confirmation window.

  • Page 115: Asus Contact Information

    +1-510-739-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site usa.asus.com Technical Support Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959911 Web site www.asus.de Online contact www.asus.de/sales Technical Support Telephone (Component) +49-1805-010923*...

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