ASUS F2A85-M2 User Manual

F2A85-M2

Motherboard

E7827
First Edition

January 2013

Copyright © 2013 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS

OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

This product contains copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”),
under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”) and/or other Free Open Source Software
Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the
applicable law. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.

Where the applicable license entitles you to the source code of such software and/or other additional data,
you may obtain it for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product, either

(1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download
or
(2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location

where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:

ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
Legal Compliance Dept.
15 Li Te Rd.,
Beitou, Taipei 112
Taiwan

In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the
product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we
can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.

The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as
the corresponding binary/object code.

This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.
ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source

Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source
code we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address [e-mail], stating
the product and describing the problem (please DO NOT send large attachments such as source code
archives, etc. to this email address).

ii

Contents

Safety information ...................................................................................................... vi

About this guide ........................................................................................................ vii

F2A85-M2 specications summary ..........................................................................ix

Package contents ...................................................................................................... xii

Product introduction

1.1 Special features ............................................................................................ 1-1

1.1.1 Product highlights ...........................................................................

1.1.2 Innovative ASUS features ...............................................................

1.2 Before you proceed ......................................................................................

1.3 Motherboard overview .................................................................................

1.3.1 Placement direction ........................................................................

1.3.2 Screw holes ....................................................................................

1.3.3 Motherboard layout .........................................................................

1.3.4 Layout contents ...............................................................................

1.4 Accelerated Processing Unit (APU) ............................................................

1.4.1 Installing the APU ............................................................................

1.4.2 APU heatsink and fan assembly installation ...................................

1.5 System memory ..........................................................................................

1.5.1 Overview .......................................................................................

1.5.2 Memory congurations ..................................................................

1.5.3 Installing a DIMM ..........................................................................

1.5.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................................

1.6 Expansion slots ..........................................................................................

1.6.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................................

1.6.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................................

1.6.3 PCI slot .........................................................................................

1.6.4 PCI Express x1 slot .......................................................................

1.6.5 PCI Express x16 slots ...................................................................

1.7 Jumpers

1.8 Connectors ..................................................................................................

1.8.1 Rear panel connectors ..................................................................

1.8.2 Internal connectors .......................................................................

1.9 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................................

.......................................................................................................1-21

1-1

1-2

1-4

1-5

1-5

1-5

1-6

1-7

1-7

1-8

1-9

1-11

1-11

1-11

1-18

1-18

1-19

1-19

1-19

1-19

1-19

1-20

1-22

1-22

1-24

1-30

iii

1.10 Software support ........................................................................................ 1-31

1.10.1 Installing an operating system ......................................................

1.10.2 Support DVD information ..............................................................

1-31

1-31

BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS .............................................................2-1

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................................

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............................................................................

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ......................................................

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .......................................................................

2.2 BIOS setup program .....................................................................................

2.3 Main menu .....................................................................................................

2.3.1 System Language [English] ............................................................

2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] .........................................................

2.3.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx] ...................................................................

2.3.4 Security ...........................................................................................

2.4 Ai Tweaker menu ..........................................................................................

2.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] ...............................................................

2.4.2 Memory Frequency [Auto] ...............................................................

2.4.3 EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] ..............................................

2.4.4 DRAM Timing Control .....................................................................

2.5 Advanced menu ..........................................................................................

2.5.1 Trusted Computing ........................................................................

2.5.2 CPU Conguration ........................................................................

2.5.3 SATA Conguration .......................................................................

2.5.4 Alert Specication Format (ASF) Conguration ............................

2.5.5 Management Component Transport Protocol ..............................

2.5.6 USB Conguration ........................................................................

2.5.7 NB Conguration ...........................................................................

2.5.8 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................................

2.5.9 APM ..............................................................................................

2.5.10 Serial Port Console Redirection ....................................................

2.5.11 Network Stack ...............................................................................

2.6 Boot menu ...................................................................................................

2.6.1 Fast Boot [Disabled] ......................................................................

2.6.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled] ...........................................................

2-1

2-2

2-3

2-4

2-6

2-7

2-7

2-7

2-7

2-7

2-9

2-9

2-9

2-9

2-9

2-10

2-10

2-10

2-11

2-12

2-12

2-13

2-14

2-14

2-15

2-17

2-18

2-19

2-19

2-19

iv

2.6.3 Post Delay Time [3 sec] ................................................................2-20

2.6.4 Bootup NumLock State [On] .........................................................

2.6.5 Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled] .......................................................

2.6.6 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS] ...........................................

2.6.7 Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] .....................................................

2.6.8 CSM (Compatibility Support Module) ............................................

2.6.9 Secure Boot ..................................................................................

2.6.10 Boot Option Priorities ....................................................................

2.6.11 Boot Override ................................................................................

2.7 Monitor menu ..............................................................................................

2.7.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature

2.7.2

2.7.3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled] ......................................................

2.7.4 CHA_FAN 1/2 Q-Fan Control [Enabled] .......................................

2.7.5 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage ..................

2.7.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled] .......................................................

2.8 Tools menu ..................................................................................................

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ................................................................

2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information .................................................................

2.9 Exit menu ....................................................................................................

CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A] ............2-23

[xxxºC/xxxºF]...................... 2-23

2-20

2-20

2-20

2-20

2-20

2-21

2-22

2-22

2-23

2-23

2-24

2-25

2-25

2-26

2-26

2-26

2-26

Appendices

Notices ..................................................................................................................... A-1

ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-4

v

Safety information

Electrical safety

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet

•
before relocating the system.

When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables

•
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all

•
power cables are unplugged.

Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices

•
could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not

•
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.

If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service

•
technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals

•
that came with the package.

Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power

•
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,

•
slots, sockets and circuitry.

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area

•
where it may become wet.

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service

•
technician or your retailer.

vi

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports.

• Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

Where to nd more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.

1. ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,

that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.

vii

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

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. .

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign

<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

means that you must press the enclosed key.

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

viii

F2A85-M2 specications summary

APU AMD® A- series accelerated processors with AMD® Radeon™ HD 7000

series graphics, up to 4 CPU cores, FM2 package

Supports AMD® Turbo Core Technology 3.0

Supports DirectX® 11

• The AMD® Turbo Core Technology 3.0 support depends on the APU types.

• Refer to

www.asus.com for AMD APU support list.

Chipset AMD® A85X FCH (Hudson D4)

Memory 4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support a maximum of 64GB unbuffered non-ECC

DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066MHz memory modules

Dual-channel memory architecture

* The maximum 64GB memory capacity can be supported with 8GB or above

DIMMs. ASUS will update the memory QVL once the DIMMs are available in the
market.

** Refer to

www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List).

*** When you install a total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows

operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. We recommend
a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a Windows® 32-bit
operating system.

®

32-bit

Graphics Integrated AMD Radeon™ HD 7000 Series Graphics in Trinity APU

Multi-VGA output support: Display Port/DVI/D-Sub port

- Supports DisplayPort with max. resolution 4096x2160@30Hz

- Supports Dual-link DVI with max. resolution 2560x1600@60Hz

- Supports D-Sub with max. resolution 1920x1600@60Hz

- Supports Microsoft

- Maximum shared memory of 2G

- Supports AMD

* Refer to

www.amd.com for the discrete GPUs which support Dual

Graphics technology

®

DirectX 11

®

Dual Graphics technology

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x4 slots

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

1 x PCI slots

Storage / RAID

AMD® A85X FCH:

- 6x Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors(gray) with RAID 0, RAID 1,RAID
5,RAID 10 and JBOD support

LAN

Realtek® RTL8111DP Gigabit LAN controller

Audio Realtek® ALC887 8-Channel High Denition Audio CODEC

- Support 192khz/24bit BD lossless sound

- BD Audio Layer Content Protection

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-Retasking

USB

AMD® A85X FCH :

- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports at back panel, [blue], 2 ports at mid­board)

- 8 x USB2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at back panel, 4 ports at mid-board)

(continued on the next page)

ix

F2A85-M2 specications summary

ASUS unique features

ASUS EPU

- EPU

ASUS Exclusive Features

- ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- ASUS AI Charger+

- ASUS AI Suite II

- 100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS Fan Xpert Plus

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS My Logo 2

Back Panel I/O ports

Internal I/O
connectors/buttons/
switches

1 x PS/2 keyboard port

1 x PS/2 mouse port

1 x DVI port

1 x D-Sub port

1 x Display port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

1 x COM port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports

3 x Audio jacks

1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports (19­pin)

2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

6 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (gray)

1 x Speaker connector

1 x Chassis intrusion connector

1 x CPU fan connector (4-pin)

2 x Chassis fan connector (4-pin)

1 x Front panel audio connector

1 x TPM IC onboard

1 x System panel connector

1 x 24-pin EATX power connector

1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector

(continued on the next page)

x

F2A85-M2 specications summary

BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM

Support DVD Drivers

Form factor

Specications are subject to change without notice.

BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS
CrashFree BIOS 3, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect)
memory information

ASUS utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

uATX form factor: 9.6 in x 9.6 in (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)

xi

Package contents

User Manual

F2A85-M2

PCIEX16_1

PCI1

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX1_4

F_PANEL

SPDIF_OUT

AAFP

CHA_FAN2CPU_FAN

CHA_FAN1

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O

AUDIO

ALC

887-VD2

RTL

8111DP

KBMS

64Mb

BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTCCHASSIS

SPEAKER

AMD

®

A85X

DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

LAN_USB3_12

USB1_4

SATA6G_6

SATA6G_5

SATA6G_4

SATA6G_3

SATA6G_2

SATA6G_1

DRAM_LED

BOOT_DEVICE_LED

CPU_LED

VGA_LED

VGA

DP

DVI

COM

SOCKET FM2

EATXPWR

USB3_34

ATX12V

USB78 USB56

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

ASUS F2A85-M2 motherboard 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables

1 x I/O Shield User Guide Support DVD

xii

• If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

• The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specications may

vary with different models.

Product introduction

1

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

AMD® A-series accelerated processors with AMD® Radeon™ HD 7000 series
graphics

This motherboard supports AMD® A- series accelerated processor with AMD® Radeon™
HD 7000 series graphics. This revolutionary APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) combines

processing power and advanced DirectX 11 graphics in one small, energy-efcient design to

enable accelerated performance and an industry-leading visual experience. It features Dual­channel DDR3 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5GT/s.

AMD® A85X FCH (Hudson D4) Chipset

AMD® A85X FCH (Hudson D4) is designed to support up to 5GT/s interface speed and AMD
CrossFireXTM. It supports 8 x SATA 6.0Gb/s ports and 4 x USB 3.0 ports.

Dual-Channel DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066MHz support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of

1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the higher

bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications.

8-channel high denition audio

The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Denition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia)
CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output and jack-detect feature that
automatically detects and identies what types of peripherals are plugged into the audio
I/O jacks and noties users of inappropriate connection, which means there will be no more

confusion of Line-in, Line-out, and Mic jacks.

Native SATA 6.0 Gb/s support

With AMD® A85X FCH natively support for the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage
interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6.0 Gb/s data transfer rates. It also provides
enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

Gigabit LAN solution

The onboard LAN controller is a highly integrated Gb LAN controller. It is enhanced with an

ACPI management function to provide efcient power management for advanced operating

systems.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-1

100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability, improved
lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.

ASUS EPU

EPU (Energy Processing Unit), the world’s rst real-time system power-saving chip,

automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage.

It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the

component’s lifespan.

1.1.2 Innovative ASUS features

USB 3.0 Boost

Accelerated USB 3.0 Data Transfer Rates with ASUS USB 3.0 Boost Technology

With USB 3.0 Boost technology, USB transfer speeds are signicantly increased up to

132%, enhancing an already impressive USB 3.0 transfer rate. ASUS software automatically
accelerates data speeds for compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any further

user conguration.

AI Suite II

With its user interface, ASUS AI Suite II integrates several ASUS utilities and allows you to

launch and operate these utilities simultaneously. It allows you to congure the overclocking

settings, adjust the frequencies and related voltages, remotely control the system via a
mobile device, and other easy-to-use helpful utilities.

Fan Xpert Plus

ASUS Fan Xpert Plus intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan
speeds based on different ambient temperatures, resulting to a quiet and cool computing
environment.

ASUS MyLogo2™

This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more
colorful and vivid image on your screen.

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that allows you to restore a corrupted BIOS

le using the bundled support DVD or USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The BIOS C.P.R. feature automatically restores the CPU default settings when the system
hangs due to overclocking failure. C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and
clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically
restores the CPU parameters to their default settings.

ErP ready

The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP

requires products to meet certain energy efciency requirements in regards to energy

consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-

efcient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the

product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-3

1.2 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.

• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.

• 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.

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

F2A85-M2

1.3 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard ts into it.

Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard.
Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.3.1 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.

1.3.2 Screw holes

Place eight screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Place this side

towards the rear of

the chassis

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-5

1.3.3 Motherboard layout

F2A85-M2

PCIEX16_1

PCI1

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX1_4

F_PANEL

SPDIF_OUT

AAFP

CHA_FAN2CPU_FAN

CHA_FAN1

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O

AUDIO

ALC

887-VD2

RTL

8111DP

KBMS

64Mb
BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTCCHASSIS

SPEAKER

24.4cm(9.6in)

24.4cm(9.6in)

AMD

®

A85X

DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

LAN_USB3_12

USB1_4

SATA6G_6

SATA6G_5

SATA6G_4

SATA6G_3

SATA6G_2

SATA6G_1

DRAM_LED

VGA

DP

DVI

COM

SOCKET FM2

EATXPWR

USB3_34

ATX12V

USB78 USB56

1 2 42 3

7

6

1314 12 891011

5

1

BOOT_DEVICE_LED

CPU_LED

VGA_LED

1-6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.3.4 Layout contents

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 CPU socket FM2

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) 1-26

2. CPU, power fan and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1 and
4-pin CHA_FAN2)

3. AMD® FM2 Socket 1-7

4. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-11

5. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 1-31

6. SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6) 1-29

7. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER) 1-26

8. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL) 1-30

9. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-22

10. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 1-27

11. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34) 1-28

12. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78) 1-28

13. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-25

14. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-25

1-27

1.4 Accelerated Processing Unit (APU)

This motherboard comes with an FM2 socket designed for AMD® A- series accelerated
processors with AMD® Radeon™ HD 7000 series graphics.

Ensure that you use a APU designed for the FM2 socket. The APU ts in only one correct

orientation. DO NOT force the APU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and
damaging the APU!

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-7

1.4.1 Installing the APU

1

2

43

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4.2 APU heatsink and fan assembly installation

Apply the Thermal Interface Material
to the APU heatsink and APU before
you install the heatsink and fan if
necessary.

To install the APU heatsink and fan assembly

1

2

53 4

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-9

To uninstall the APU heatsink and fan assembly

1

3

2

4

5

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5 System memory

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_A2

DIMM_B1

DIMM_B2

1.5.1 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.

The gure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:

Channel Sockets

Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2

Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

1.5.2 Memory congurations

You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.

• Memory module with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding
timing or the loaded XMP Prole is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and

compatibility of these memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other
installed devices.

• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

• We recommend that you install the memory modules from the blue slots for better
overclocking capability.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or date code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the retailer to get the correct memory modules.

• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:

- Install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows®

OS.

- Use a 64-bit Windows

®

OS if you want to install 4GB or more memory on the

motherboard.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.

• The maximum 64GB memory capacity can be supported with 16GB or above DIMMs.
ASUS will update the memory QVL once the DIMMs are available in the market.

®

OS, when you install 4GB

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-11

• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 2.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.

• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full

memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

F2A85-M2 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR3-1866 MHz capability

Chip

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

A-Data AX3U1866PB2G8-DP2(XMP) 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.55V-1.75V . . .
Corsair CMT4GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 4GB(2x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . .
Corsair CMT6GX3MA1866C9(XMP) 6GB(3x2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .
Corsair CMZ8GX3M2A1866C9(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.50V . . .
G.Skill F3-14900CL9Q-16GBZL(XMP1.3) 16GB(4GBx4 ) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5V . . .

F3-14900CL10Q2-64GBZLD

G.Skill

(XMP1.3)
G.Skill F3-14900CL9D-8GBXL(XMP) 8GB(2x4GB) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.5V . . .
G.Skill F3-14900CL9Q-8GBXL(XMP) 8GB(2GBx4) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.6V . . .
Kingston KHX1866C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3GB(3x1GB) SS - - - 1.65V . . .
Kingston KHX1866C9D3K4/16GX(XMP) 16GB(4GBx4 ) DS - - - 1.65V . . .
Kingston KHX1866C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3x2GB) DS - - - 1.65V . . .
Kingston KHX1866C11D3P1K2/8G 8GB(4GBX2) DS - - - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KHX1866C9D3K2/8GX(XMP) 8GB(4GBX2) DS - - - 1.65V . . .

64GB
(8GBx8)

DS - - 10-11-10-30 1.5V . . .

brand

Chip

Timing Voltage

No.

DIMM socket support
(optional)

1DIMM 2DIMMs 4DIMMs

1-12

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3-1600 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

A-Data AM2U16BC2P1 2GB SS A-Data 3CCD-1509A EL1126T - - . . .

A-Data AD31600E001GM(O)U3K

AX3U1600XB2G79-2X

A-Data

(XMP)

A-Data AM2U16BC4P2 4GB DS A-Data 3CCD-1509A EL1126T - - . . .

AX3U1600GC4G9-2G

A-Data

(XMP)
AX3U1600XC4G79-2X

A-Data

(XMP)
TR3X3G1600C8D

Corsair

(XMP)
CMD12GX3M6A1600C8

Corsair

(XMP)
CMZ32GX3M4X1600C10

Corsair

(XMP)
CMP4GX3M2A1600C8

Corsair

(XMP)
CMP4GX3M2A1600C9

Corsair

(XMP)
CMP4GX3M2C1600C7

Corsair

(XMP)
CMX4GX3M2A1600C9

Corsair

(XMP)
CMX4GX3M2A1600C9

Corsair

(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C8 G

Corsair

(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C8D G

Corsair

(XMP)
TR3X6G1600C9 G

Corsair

(XMP)
CMP8GX3M2A1600C9

Corsair

(XMP)
CMZ8GX3M2A1600C7R

Corsair

(XMP)
CMX8GX3M4A1600C9

Corsair

(XMP)
BL25664BN1608.16FF

Crucial

(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-4GBRH

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-4GBECO

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-4GBRM

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-4GBECO

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL7D-8GBRH

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL8D-8GBECO

G.Skill

(XMP)
F3-12800CL9D-8GBRL

G.Skill

(XMP)

SS/DSChip

3GB

SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V-1.85V . .

(3x1GB)
4GB

DS - - 7-9-7-21 1.55V-1.75V . . .

(2x2GB)

8GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.55V-1.75V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - 7-9-7-21 1.55V-1.75V . . .

(2x4GB)
3GB

SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V . . .

(3x1GB)
12GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V . . .

(6x2GB)
32GB

DS - - 10-10-10-27 1.50V . . .

(8GBx4)
4GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
8GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.50V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V . . .

(4x2GB)
6GB

DS - - - - . . .

(3x2GB)
2GB

SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x1GB)
4GB

SS - - 7-7-7-24 1.6V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 7-7-8-24 XMP 1.35V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.60V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 XMP 1.35V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V . . .

(3x2GB)
8GB

DS - - 7-8-7-24 1.6V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - 8-8-8-24 XMP 1.35V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x4GB)

Chip No. Timing Voltage

Brand

DIMM socket support
(optional)

1DIMM 2DIMM 4DIMMs

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-13

DDR3-1600 MHz capability

XMP

1.35V

DIMM socket support
(optional)

1DIMM 2DIMMs 4DIMMs

. . .

Vendors Part No. Size

GET316GB1600C9QC

Geil

(XMP)
GV34GB1600C8DC

Geil

(XMP)

HYNIX HMT351U6CFR8C-PB 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83CFR PBC - - . . .

FLGD45F-B8MF7 MAEH

Kingmax

(XMP)
FLGE85F-B8KJ9A FEIS

Kingmax

(XMP)
FLGE85F-B8MF7 MEEH

Kingmax

(XMP)

Kingston KHX1600C9D3P1K2/4G

KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX

Kingston

(XMP)
KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/

Kingston

12GX(XMP)
KHX1600C9D3K4/16GX

Kingston

(XMP)
Kingston KHX1600C9AD3/2G 2GB DS - - - 1.65V . . .
Kingston KVR1600D3N11/2G-ES 2GB DS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 11-11-11-28 1.35V-1.5V . . .

KHX1600C7D3K2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C8D3T1K2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3LK2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3X2K2/4GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3T1K3/6GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX
Kingston

(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3T1BK3/
Kingston

6GX(XMP)

KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX
Kingston

(XMP)

Kingston KHX1600C9D3P1K2/8G

Super

WA160UX6G9
Talent

Transcend JM1600KLN-8GK

SanMax SMD-4G68HP-16KZ 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFR PBC - - . . .

SS/DSChip

16GB

DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.6V . . .

(4x4GB)

2GB DS - - 8-8-8-28 1.6V . . .

1GB SS - - 7 - . . .

2GB DS - - - - . . .

2GB DS - - 7 - . . .

4GB

SS - - - 1.5V . . .

(2x2GB)
12GB

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V . . .

(3x4GB)
12GB

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V . . .

(3x4GB)
16GB

DS - - - 1.65V . . .

(4GBx4)

4GB

DS - - - 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 8 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 8 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
6GB

DS - - - 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 9 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)
8GB

DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V . . .

(2x4GB)
8GB

DS - - - 1.5V . . .

(2x4GB)
6GB

DS - - 9 - . . .

(3x2GB)
8GB

DS Transcend TK483PCW3 - - . . .

(4GBx2)

Chip No. Timing Voltage

Brand

1-14

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3-1333 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

A-Data AD31333001GOU 1GB SS AData AD30908C8D-151C E0906 - - . . .
A-Data AD3U1333C2G9 2GB SS AData 3CCD-1509HNA1126L - - . . .
A-Data AM2U139C2P1 2GB SS AData 3CCD-1509A EL1127T - - . . .
A-Data AX3U1333C2G9-BP 2GB SS - - - - . .

A-Data AD31333G001GOU

AXDU1333GC2G9-2G

A-Data

(XMP)
A-Data AD31333G002GMU 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V . . .
A-Data AD63I1C1624EV 4GB DS AData 3CCA-1509A - - . . .
A-Data AM2U139C4P2 4GB DS AData 3CCD-1509A EL1127T - - . . .
A-Data SU3U1333W8G9-B 8GB DS Elpida J4208BASE-DJ-F - - . . .
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808DEWSBG - - . . .
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - . . .
Apacer AU02GFA33C9NBGC 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808APQSBG - - . . .
Apacer 78.B1GDE.9L10C 4GB DS Apacer AM5D5908CEHSBG - - . . .

Corsair TR3X3G1333C9 G

Corsair TR3X6G1333C9 G

CMD24GX3M6A1333C9
Corsair

(XMP)

Corsair TW3X4G1333C9D G

Corsair CM3X4GA1333C9N2 4GB DS Corsair 256MBDCJGELC0401136 9-9-9-24 - . . .
Corsair CMX4GX3M1A1333C9 4GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V . . .

Corsair CMD8GX3M4A1333C7

Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - . . .
Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - . . .

BL25664BN1337.16FF
Crucial

(XMP)

Elpida EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS Elpida J1108EDSE-DJ-F -

Elpida EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS Elpida J1108EDSE-DJ-F -

F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK
G.Skill

(XMP)

G.Skill F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ

F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK
G.Skill

(XMP)

F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO
G.Skill

(XMP)

F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK
G.Skill

(XMP)

F3-10666CL7D-8GBRH
G.Skill

(XMP)

Geil GV32GB1333C9DC

Geil GG34GB1333C9DC

Geil GV34GB1333C9DC

Geil GVP34GB1333C7DC

Hynix HMT112U6TFR8A-H9 1GB SS Hynix H5TC1G83TFRH9A -

Hynix HMT325U6BFR8C-H9 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - . . .

Hynix HMT125U6TFR8A-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TC1G83TFRH9A -

Hynix HMT351U6BFR8C-H9 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - . . .
Kingmax FLFD45F-B8KL9 NAES 1GB SS Kingmax KKB8FNWBFGNX-27A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFE85F-C8KF9 CAES 2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FMFXF-DXX-15A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFE85F-C8KL9 NAES 2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFE85F-C8KM9 NAES 2GB SS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFE85F-B8KL9 NEES 2GB DS Kingmax KKB8FNWBFGNX-26A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFF65F-C8KL9 NEES 4GB DS Kingmax KFC8FNLXF-DXX-15A - - . . .
Kingmax FLFF65F-C8KM9 NEES 4GB DS Kingmax KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - . . .

SS/DSChip

3GB

SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V . . .

(3x1GB)
4GB

SS - - 9-9-9-24

(2x2GB)

3GB

SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V . . .

(3x1GB)
6GB

SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V . . .

(3x2GB)
24GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V . . .

(6x4GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V . . .

(2x2GB)

8GB

DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.60V . . .

(4x2GB)

6GB

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V . . .

(3x2GB)

1GB SS G.Skill - - - . . .

2GB

SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x1GB)
3GB

SS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V . . .

(3x1GB)
4GB

DS - - 8-8-8-8-24 XMP 1.35V . . .

(2x2GB)
6GB

DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V . .

(3x2GB)
8GB

DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5V . . .

(2x4GB)
2GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x1GB)
4GB

DS Geil GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5V . . .

(2x2GB)

Chip No. Timing Voltage

Brand

1.25V-1.35V
(low voltage)

1.35V
(low voltage)

1.35V
(low voltage)

1.3V
(low voltage)

1.35V
(low voltage)

1.35V
(low voltage)

DIMM socket support
(optional)

1DIMM 2DIMMs 4DIMMs

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-15

DDR3-1333 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/1G 1GB SS Elpida J1108BDBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 9 - . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3S8N9/2G 2GB SS Micron IID77 D9LGK - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3S8N9/2G-SP 2GB SS Elpida J2108BCSE-DJ-F - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS Elpida J1108BFBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 9 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS Elpida J1108BDSE-DJ-F 9 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G-SP 2GB DS KTC D1288JEMFNGD9U - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G-SP 2GB DS Kingston D1288JPSFPGD9U - 1.5V . . .

KHX1333C7D3K2/4GX

Kingston

(XMP)
KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX

Kingston

(XMP)
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS Elpida J2108BCSE-DJ-F 9 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS Elpida J2108BCSE-DJ-F - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS KTC D2568JENCNGD9U - 1.5V . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - - . . .
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/4G-SP 4GB DS Kingston D2568JENCPGD9U - 1.5V . . .
Micron MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1 1GB SS Micron OJD12D9LGQ - - . . .
Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - . . .
Micron MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB SS Micron OJD12D9LGK - - . . .
Micron MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4M1 2GB SS Micron IJM22 D9PFJ - - . . .
Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - . . .
Micron MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB DS Micron OLD22D9LGK - - . . .
Nanya NT4GC64B8HG0NF-CG 4GB DS NANYA NT5CB256M8GN-CG - - . . .
PSC AL7F8G73F-DJ2 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - . . .
PSC AL8F8G73F-DJ2 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - . . .
Samsung M378B2873FHS-CH9 1GB SS Samsung K4B1G0846F - - . . .
Samsung M378B5773DH0-CH9 2GB SS Samsung K4B2G0846D - - . . .
Samsung M378B5673FH0-CH9 2GB DS Samsung K4B1G0846F - - . . .
Samsung M378B5273CH0-CH9 4GB DS Samsung K4B2G0846C - - . . .
Samsung M378B1G73AH0-CH9 8GB DS Samsung K4B4G0846A-HCH9 - - . . .
Super Talent W1333UA1GH 1GB SS Hynix H5TQ1G83TFR 9 - . . .

Super Talent W1333UX2G8(XMP)

Super Talent W1333UB2GS 2GB DS Samsung K4B1G0846F 9 - . . .
Super Talent W1333UB4GS 4GB DS Samsung K4B2G0846C - - . . .

Super Talent W1333UX6GM

Transcend JM1333KLN-2G 2GB SS Hynix H5TQ2G83BZRH9C - - . . .
Transcend TS256MLK64V3U 2GB DS Micron 9GF27D9KPT - - . . .
Transcend TS1GLK64V3H 8GB DS Micron IVD22D9PBC - - . . .
Kingstek KSTD3PC-10600 2GB SS Micron PE911-125E - - . . .

SS/DSChip

4GB

DS - - 7 1.65V . . .

(2x2GB)
4GB

DS - - 9

(2x2GB)

2GB

SS - - 8 - . . .

(2x1GB)

6GB

DS Micron 0BF27D9KPT 9-9-9-24 1.5V . . .

(3x2GB)

Chip No. Timing Voltage

Brand

DIMM socket support
(optional)

1DIMM 2DIMMs 4DIMMs

XMP

. . .

1.25V

1-16

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3-1067 MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size

Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - . . .
Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - . . .
ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low voltage) . . .
ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low voltage) . . .
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BFSE-DJ-F 7 1.5V . . .
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F 7 1.5V . . .
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR 7 1.5V . . .

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip No. Timing Voltage

• SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided

DIMM support:

• 1 DIMM: Supports one (1) module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory
conguration. We suggest that you install the module into A2 slot.

•

2 DIMMs: Supports two (2) modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black

slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory conguration. We suggest that
you install the modules into slots A2 and B2 for better compatibility.

• 4 DIMMs: Supports four (4) modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as

two pairs of Dual-channel memory conguration

• Visit the ASUS website at

www.asus.com for the latest QVL.

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1DIMM 2DIMMs 4DIMMs

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-17

1.5.3 Installing a DIMM

Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components.
Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.

1. Press the retaining clips
outward to unlock a DIMM
socket.

2. Align a DIMM on the socket
such that the notch on the
DIMM matches the DIMM
slot key on the socket.

Unlocked retaining clip

A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into

a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.

3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the
socket until the retaining clips snap
back in place and the DIMM is
properly seated.

1.5.4 Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:

1. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

2

DIMM notch

1

1

DIMM slot key

3

Locked Retaining Clip

2

Support the DIMM lightly with

your ngers when pressing the

retaining clips. The DIMM might

get damaged when it ips out

with extra force.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

1-18

1

1

DIMM notch

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.6 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.6.1 Installing an expansion card

To install an expansion card:

1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later
use.

4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is completely

seated on the slot.

5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1.6.2 Conguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that

the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI

groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

1.6.3 PCI slot

The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that

comply with PCI specications.

1.6.4 PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards

that comply with the PCI Express specications.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-19

1.6.5 PCI Express x16 slots

This motherboard supports two PCI Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI

Express specications.

VGA conguration

Single VGA/PCIe card x16 (Recommended for single VGA card) N/A

Dual VGA/PCIe card x16 x4

• In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (blue) for a PCI Express x16

• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN when using

PCI Express operating mode

PCIe x16_1 PCIe x4_1

graphics card to get better performance.

multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

Onchip Chip SATA - - - V - - - -

Realtek 8111DP - V - - - - - -

PCI Slot - - - - V - - -

HD audio V - - - - - - -

On Chip USB OHCI 1/2/3/4 - - V - - - - -

On Chip USB EHCI 1/2/3/4 - V - - - - - -

On Chip USB XHCI 1 - - V - - - - -

On Chip USB XHCI 2 - V - - - - - -

PCIe X16 - - V - - - - -

PCIe X1_1 V - - - - - - ­PCIe X4_1 V - - - - - - -

1-20

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.7 Jumpers

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Clear RTC RAM

1 2 2 3

Normal

(Default)

Clear RTC

CLRTC

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.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3

for about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.

3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

4. Hold down the <

enter data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-

ASUS F2A85-M2

• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper
again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the
battery.

• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R.) feature.
Shut down and reboot the system, then the BIOS automatically resets parameter
settings to default values.

1-21

1.8 Connectors

2 4

811 9

5 6

7

1

12

3

10

1.8.1 Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 Mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. COM port.

3. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.

VGA-compatible devices.

4. LAN (RJ-45) port.

through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.

LAN port LED indications

This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.

This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other

This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)

Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF 10Mbps connection
ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100Mbps connection
BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1Gbps connection

5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other

audio sources.

6. Line Out port (lime).

8-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.

7. Microphone port (pink).

1-22

This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4, 6, and

This port connects to a microphone.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Activity Link

LED

LAN port

Speed

LED

Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or
8-channel conguration.

Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration

output.

Headset

2-channel

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

Port

Light Blue (Rear panel) Line In Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Lime (Rear panel) Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink (Rear panel) Mic In Mic In Bass/Center Bass/Center

Lime (Front panel) — — — Side Speaker Out

To congure an 8-channel audio output:

Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 8-channel audio

8. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 3.0/2.0 devices.

• DO NOT connect a keyboard / mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows
operating system.

• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under
Windows® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.

• USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.

• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.

®

9. USB 2.0 ports 1~4. These four 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB

2.0/1.1 devices.

10. DVI-D port.

This port is for any DVI-D compatible device. DVI-D can’t be converted to

output RGB Signal to CRT and isn’t compatible with DVI-I.

11. Display port.

12. PS/2 Keyboard port (purple).

This port connects to a high-denition digital display.

This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-23

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Front panel audio connector

AAFP

AGNDNCSENSE1_RETUR

SENSE2_RETUR

PORT1 L

PORT1 R

PORT2 R

SENSE_SEND

PORT2 L

HD-audio-compliant

pin definition

PIN 1

AGNDNCNC

NC

MIC2

MICPWR

Line out_R

NC

Line out_L

Legacy AC’97

compliant definition

1.8.2 Internal connectors

SPDIF_OUT

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Digital audio connector

1. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel
audio I/O module cable to this connector.

• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-denition audio capability.

•

If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector,

set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]. If you want to connect an
AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default,
this connector is set to [HD]. See section 2.5.5 Onboard Devices Conguration for
details.

2. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect
the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot
opening at the back of the system chassis.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

1-24

Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

PIN 1

GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts

-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND

-12 Volts
+3 Volts

+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts

+5V Standby

Power OK

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+5 Volts

GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts

ATX12V

PIN 1

+12V DC

+12V DC

GND

GND

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Speaker Out connector

+5V

GND

GND

Speaker Out

SPEAKER

PIN 1

These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are

designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and
push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a

minimum power of 300 W.

•

DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will
not boot up.

• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when conguring a

system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or
may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

•

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.

4. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

The 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-25

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Fan connectors

CHA_FAN2

CHA FAN PWM

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

CHA FAN PWM

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CHA_FAN1

5. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CHA_FAN, 4-pin CPU_FAN, and 4-pin

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 Chassis intrusion connector

CHASSIS

GND

Chassis Signal

+5VSB_MB

CHA_FAN)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow inside the

system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place
jumper caps on the fan connectors!

• The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.

• Only the 4-pin CPU fan and CHA FAN can support ASUS FanXpert feature.

6. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect
one end of the chassis instrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector when a
chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis
intrusion event.

By default, the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with a jumper
cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion
detecion feature.

1-26

Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 USB2.0 connectors

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P8-

USB_P8+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P7-

USB_P7+

GND

USB78

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P6-

USB_P6+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P5-

USB_P5+

GND

USB56

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 USB3.0 Front panel connector

USB3_34

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system

chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to

480 Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!

The USB module cable is purchased separately.

8. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)

This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports. Connect the USB 3.0 bracket cable
to this connector, then install the USB 3.0 bracket to the rear side of the chassis. If your

chassis support customized front panel installation, with ASUS USB 3.0 header, you

can have a front panel USB 3.0 solution.

The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.

ASUS F2A85-M2

1-27

9. Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G 1~6)

SATA6G_1 SATA6G_2

GND

RSATA_RXP1

RSATA_RXN1

GND

RSATA_TXN1

RSATA_TXP1

GND

GND

RSATA_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

GND

RSATA_TXN2

RSATA_TXP2

GND

SATA6G_3 SATA6G_4

GND

RSATA_RXP3

RSATA_RXN3

GND

RSATA_TXN3

RSATA_TXP3

GND

GND

RSATA_RXP4

RSATA_RXN4

GND

RSATA_TXN4

RSATA_TXP4

GND

SATA6G_5 SATA6G_6

GND

RSATA_RXP5

RSATA_RXN5

GND

RSATA_TXN5

RSATA_TXP5

GND

GND

RSATA_RXP6

RSATA_RXN6

GND

RSATA_TXN6

RSATA_TXP6

GND

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors

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, RAID 10, or JBOD conguration through the

onboard controller.

• These connectors are set to AHCI mode by default. In AHCI mode, you can connect

Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a
Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the type of the SATA connectors in
the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 2.5.2 SATA Conguration for details.

• You must install Windows
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later version.

• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the type of the SATA connectors in the BIOS to
[AHCI]. See section 2.5.2 SATA Conguration for details.

®

XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial

1-28

Chapter 1: Product introduction

10. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 System panel connector

PIN 1

PWR BTN

PLED+

PLED-

PWR

GND

HD_LED+

HD_LED-

Ground

Reset

F_PANEL

PWR LED

HD_LED RESET

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED
cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system
power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

•

Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +IDELED)

This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable

to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or written to

the HDD.

•

ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)

This 2-pin 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 F2A85-M2

1-29

1.9 Onboard LEDs

F2A85-M2

SB_PWR

ON

Standby Power Powered Off

OFF

F2A85-M2 Onboard LED

F2A85-M2

F2A85-M2 CPU / DRAM / VGA / BOOT_DEVICE LED

CPU_LED

BOOT_DEVICE_LED

VGA_LED

DRAM_LED

1. Standby Power LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the
system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should
shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any
motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

2. POST State LEDs

The POST State LEDs provide the status of the following key components during
POST (Power-On-Self-Tests): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives.
If an error is detected on any of these components, the corresponding LED will stay lit
until the problem is resolved.

1-30

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.10 Software support

1.10.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 64-bit Vista / Windows® 7 / 64-bit
Windows® 7 / Windows® 8 / 64-bit Windows 8 Operating Systems (OS). Always install the

latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.

• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for
detailed information.

• Ensure that you install Windows
Vista Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better
compatibility and system stability.

1.10.2 Support DVD information

The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.

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.

To run the Support DVD

Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the
DVD automatically displays the Specials screen which contains the unique features of ASUS
motherboard. Click Drivers, Utilities, Make Disk, Manual, and Contact tabs to display their
respective menus.

The following screen is for reference only.

®

XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows®

Click an item to install

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to

locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run

the DVD.

ASUS F2A85-M2

Click an icon to
display Support
DVD/motherboard
information

1-31

1-32

Chapter 1: Product introduction

BIOS information

2

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to

restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in Windows® environment.

• ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).

• This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.

Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update:

1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The

2. Click the

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.

Specials menu appears.

Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.

Updating the BIOS

To update the BIOS:

®

1. From the Windows

II X.XX.XX to launch the AI Suite II utility. The AI Suite II Quick Bar appears.

2. Click

ASUS F2A85-M2

Update button from the Quick Bar, and then click ASUS Update from the popup

menu. The ASUS Update main screen appears. From the list, select either of the
following methods:

desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > AI Suite II > AI Suite

2-1

Updating from the Internet

a. Select

b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc, then click

Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.

Next.

c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download then click

Next.

The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update
the utility to avail all its features.

Updating from a BIOS file

a. Select

b. Locate the BIOS le from the

Update BIOS from le, then click Next.

Open window, then click Open.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.

Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:

1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le to the USB port.

2. Enter the

ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.

3. Press <Tab> to switch to the

4. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS,

and then press <Enter>.

5. Press <Tab> to switch to the

6. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the BIOS le, and then press <Enter> to perform

the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select

Drive eld.

Folder Info eld.

2-2

• This function supports USB ash disks with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system
boot failure!

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS le

when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS

le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the updated BIOS
le.

• Before using this utility, rename the BIOS le in the removable device into

F2A85M2.CAP.

• The BIOS le in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest
BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB ash drive that contains the
BIOS le to the USB port.

3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS le and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.

4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure
system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default
BIOS values.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-3

2.1.4 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 le that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or

gets corrupted during the updating process.

The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may
not be same as shown.

Before updating BIOS

1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ash drive in FAT32/16 format and

single partition.

2. Download the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at

http://support.asus.com and save them on the USB ash drive.

NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS le and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ash drive in NTFS format.

3. Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).

Booting the system in DOS environment

1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater to the USB port.

2. Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the

Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the
optical drive as the boot device.

3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by
pressing the item number.

4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type d: and press <Enter> to switch the disk from Drive C

(optical drive) to Drive D (USB ash drive).

BIOS

2-4

Chapter 2: Getting started

Updating the BIOS le

To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater:

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type

2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30

F2A85-M2

BOARD:
VER: 5011
DATE: 10/07/2012

F2A85M2.CAP 4194304 2012-10-07 17:30:48

3. Press <Tab> to switch between screen elds and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS le and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS le
and prompts you to conrm BIOS update.

bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.

4. Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater. Restart your computer.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!

• For BIOS Updater version 1.30 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS
prompt after updating BIOS.

• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.9
Exit menu for details.

• Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS le if you have

disconnected them.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-5

2.2 BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS

screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.

Entering BIOS Setup at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,

•
POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.

•

Press the reset button on the system chassis.

•

Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you

•

failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.

Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from
a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend to
always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and
may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

• Visit the ASUS website at
motherboard.

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.9 Exit Menu for details.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.7 Jumpers for information
on how to erase the RTC RAM.

www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this

2-6

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.3 Main menu

The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to
set the system date, time, language, and security settings.

2.3.1 System Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conguration options:

[English] [Español] [Русский]

2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

Allows you to set the system date.

2.3.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

Allows you to set the system time.

2.3.4 Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.7 Jumpers for information on how to
erase the RTC RAM.

• The

Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default

Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-7

Administrator Password

If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator
password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only

selected elds in the BIOS setup program.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator

password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear

the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

User Password

If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set
a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

1. Select the

2. From the
<Enter>.

3. From the

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

User Password item and press <Enter>.

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

User Password item and press <Enter>.

Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press

<Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the

User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

2-8

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.4 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect eld

values can cause the system to malfunction.

The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Target CPU Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the CPU speed.

Target DRAM Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the current DRAM speed.

2.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal

frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

2.4.2 Memory Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. Conguration options: [Auto]
[DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3-1333MHz] [DDR3-1600MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz]
[DDR3-2133MHz] [DDR3-2400MHz]

Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default setting.

2.4.3 EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

EPU Setting [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the EPU Power Saving Mode item to [Enabled] and

allows you to select the EPU power saving mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [Light Power

Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max Power Saving Mode]

2.4.4 DRAM Timing Control

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard
and press <Enter>.

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default settings.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-9

2.5 Advanced menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system
devices.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

2.5.1 Trusted Computing

This item appears only when a TPM module is connected to the motherboard and allows you
to change TPM settings.

TPM Support [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable TPM support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.2 CPU Conguration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.

The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.

AMD PowerNow function [Enabled]

Enables or disables the AMD PowerNow function. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

NX Mode [Enabled]

Enables or disables the No-execute page protection function.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SVM Mode [Enabled]

Enables or disables CPU virtualization. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPB Mode [Auto]

Allows you to disable CPB mode function. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

C6 Mode [Enabled]

Enables or disables C6 mode function. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

IOMMU [Enabled]

Enables or disables IOMMU support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Bank Interleaving [Enabled]

Enables or disables Bank Interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Channel Interleaving [Enabled]

Enables or disables Channel Interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-10

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5.3 SATA Conguration

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The
SATA Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA
port.

OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]

Enables or disables onboard channel SATA port. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled].

The following three items appear only when you set the above item to [Enabled].

OnChip SATA Type [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

[RAID] Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID conguration from the SATA

[AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI

SATA Port 5 - Port 6 [AHCI]

This item only appears when OnChip SATA Type is set to [AHCI]. If SATA port 5

and port 6 are congured as [AHCI], the ports can only be used under OS with driver

installed. Set to [IDE] instead of [AHCI] to access devices on SATA port 5 and port 6

before entering OS. Conguration options: [AHCI] [IDE]

OnChip SATA MAX Speed [SATA 6.0 Gb/s]

Selects SATA speed. Conguration options: [SATA 6.0Gb/s] [SATA 3.0Gb/s]

S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]

S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When
read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning

messages during the POST. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

hard disk drives.

(Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard storage
driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases storage
performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally

optimize the order of commands.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-11

2.5.4 Alert Specication Format (ASF) Conguration

The Alert Specication Format (ASF 2.0) denes remote and alert settings in PCs that do not

have an OS and are maintained through the network.

ASF Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables ASF Support. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

ASF BIOS Mode [ON]

Manages ASF BIOS mode. Conguration options: [On] [Off] [Alert Only]

ASF WatchDog Timer [Disabled]

Sets ASF WatchDog Timer values. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following items are made available when you set the above item to [Enabled].

WatchDog Timer: BIOS 0

Key in timer value using the numeric keypad.

WatchDog Timer: OS 0

Key in timer value using the numeric keypad.

2.5.5 Management Component Transport Protocol (MCTP)

Conguration

MCTP enables communication between remote management controllers, allowing a PC
to serve as a subsystem that links with other devices regardless of hardware or operating
system.

MCTP Support [Enabled]

2-12

The following three items appear only when you set the above item to [Enabled].

PLDM for SMBIOS [Enabled]

Enable or disable PLDM for the SMBIOS. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

PLDM for BIOS Control and Configuration [Enabled]

Enable or disable PLDM for BIOS control and conguration. Conguration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

PLDM for Platform Monitoring [Enabled]

Enable or disable PLDM for monitoring. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5.6 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.

The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the
item shows None.

USB Device Enable

[Enabled] Enables USB devices

[Disabled] Disables USB devices

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Auto] or [Enabled].

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems

[Disabled] Disables the function.

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off

[Disabled] Disables the function.

USB Single Port Control

Allows you to enable/disable individual USB ports.

USB3_1~4, USB1~8 [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables USB3_1~4, USB1~8
[Disabled] Enables USB3_1~4, USB1~8

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is
detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

(OS).

feature.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-13

2.5.7 NB Conguration

IGFX Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Enables or disables the Internal Graphics Device Multi-Monitor support for add-on VGA

devices. And the memory size of Internal Graphics Device will keep memory reserved.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Primary Video Device [PCIE / PCI Video]

Selects the primary display device. Conguration options: [IGFX Video] [PCIE / PCI Video]

Integrated Graphics [Auto]

Enables the integrated graphics controller. Conguration options: [Auto] [Force]

2.5.8 Onboard Devices Conguration

HD Audio Device [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Device item to [Enabled].

Front Panel Type [HD]

Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-

denition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition audio.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97.

SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]

[SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.

[HDMI] Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.

Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the Realtek LAN controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

Realtek PXE OPROM [Disabled]

This item appears only when you set the Realtek LAN Controller item to [Enabled] and allows
you to enable or disable the Rom Help of the Realtek LAN controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Serial Port Conguration

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the serial port conguration.

2-14

Chapter 2: Getting started

Serial Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Change Settings Auto]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to
select the Serial Port base address.

Conguration options: [Auto] [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]
[IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

2.5.9 APM

Deep S4 [Disabled]

[Disabled] Prevents Deep S4 state from switching off all power.

[Enabled] Allows the BIOS to switch off all power at Deep S4 state to conserve

WOL (include AC Power Loss) [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables Wake On LAN after a power failure.

[Enabled] Wake On LAN after a power failure (G3 state).

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.

[Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

[Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was

Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 keyboard.

[Space Bar] Sets the Space Bar on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

[Ctrl-Esc] Sets the Ctrl+Esc key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

[Power Key] Sets Power key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature

power. When Enabled, waking up the system via peripheral devices are not
available. System will only wake up by pushing the power button.

before the AC power loss.

requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-15

Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse.

[Enabled] Enables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse. This feature requires an ATX

power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Power On By PME [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up by PCI/PCIE devices.

[Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI/PCIE LAN or modem card.

This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the
+5VSB lead.

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables Ring to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables Ring to generate a wake event.

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/

Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.

2-16

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5.10 Serial Port Console Redirection

Console Redirection [Disabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable Console Redirection for COM0, COM1, and the
Serial Port for Out-of-Band Management/Windows Emergency Management Services (EMS).

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled].

Console Redirection Settings

Terminal Type [VT-100+]

This item selects character emulation for terminal commands. Conguration options:

[VT100][VT100+][VT-UTF8][ANSI]

Bits per second [115200]

This item selects serial port transmission speed. Conguration options: [9600] [19200]

[38400] [57600] [115200]

Data Bits [8]

Selects bit transmission. Conguration options: [7] [8]

Parity [None]

Selects type of parity bit to be sent along with the data bits to detect transmission

errors. Conguration options: [None] [Even] [Odd] [Mark] [Space]

Stop Bits [1]

Selects the number of bits that identies the end of a serial data packet. Conguration

options: [1] [2]

Flow Control [Hardware RTS/CTS]

Enables ow control to prevent data loss from buffer overow. Conguration options:

[None] [Hardware RTS/CTS]

VT UTF8 Combo Key Support [Enabled}

Enables or disables VT-UTF8 combination key support for ANSI/VT100 terminals.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Recorder Mode [Disabled]

Disables or enables text mode to capture Terminal data. Conguration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-17

Legacy OS Redirection Resolution [80x25]

Sets the number of rows and columns supported in a legacy OS. Conguration options:

[80x25] [80x24]

Putty KeyPad [VT100]

Selects FunctionKey and Keypad on Putty. Conguration options: [VT100] [Linux]

[XTERMR6] [SCO] [ESCN] [VT400]

Redirection After BIOS POST [Always Enable]

This setting species if BootLoader is loaded before booting to a Legacy OS.
Conguration options: [Always Enable] [Bootloader]

2.5.11 Network Stack

Network Stack [Disable Link]

This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Conguration options:

[Disable Link] [Enabled]

The following two items appear only when you set the previous item to [Enabled].

Ipv4 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv4 PXE Boot support. Conguration options:

[Disable Link] [Enabled]

Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv6 PXE Boot support. Conguration options:

[Disable Link] [Enabled]

2-18

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.6 Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

2.6.1 Fast Boot [Disabled]

Enables or disables the fast boot function. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

• Disable Fast Boot if you intend to use the AMD DASH USB redirect feature.

• The following three items appear when

USB Support [Partial Initialization]

[Disabled] All the USB devices will be available only afater entering the operating

system (OS).

[Full Initial] All the USB devices will be available during POST and in OS.

[Partial Initial] Specic USB device / port will be available before entering OS.

PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Support [Auto]

[Disabled] Disables the PS2 devices support during POST.

[Enabled] Enables the PS/2 devices support during POST.

Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables network stack driver support during POST.

[Enabled] Enables network stack driver support during POST.

Next boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]

[Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot up process after AC Power Loss.

[Fast Boot] Accelerates the boot up speed after AC Power Loss.

Fast Boot is set to [Enabled].

2.6.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

[Enabled] 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.

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-19

Post Report [5 sec]

This item appears only when the Full Screen Logo item is set to [Disabled] and allows you to

set the waiting time for the system to display the post report. Conguration options: [1 sec] [2

sec] [3 sec] [4 sec] [5 sec] [6 sec] [7 sec] [8 sec] [9 sec] [10 sec] [Until Press ESC]

2.6.3 Post Delay Time [3 sec]

Allows you to set the Post Logo Delay Time. Conguration options: [0 sec] [1 sec] ~ [10 sec].

2.6.4 Bootup NumLock State [On]

[On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].

[Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].

2.6.5 Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

When this item is set to [Enabled], the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error

occurs. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.6 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]

[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot

[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party

sequence.

manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.

2.6.7 Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enable capture of Interrupt 19 during boot process.

[Disabled] Disables capture of Interrupt 19 during boot process.

2.6.8 CSM (Compatibility Support Module)

This option allows you to control the CSM launch parmeters.

Launch CSM [Enabled]

Conguration option: [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled]

2-20

The following four items appear when Launch CSM is set to [Enabled].

Boot Device Control [UEFI and Legacy OpROM]

Conguration option: [UEFI and Legacy OpROM] [Legacy OpROM only] [UEFI only]

Boot from Network Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Conguration option: [Legacy OpROM rst] [UEFI driver rst] [Ignore]

Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Conguration option: [Both, Legacy OpROM rst] [Both, UEFI rst] [Legacy OpROM
rst] [UEFI driver rst] [Ignore]

Boot from PCIe/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy OpROM first]

Conguration option: [Legacy OpROM rst] [UEFI driver rst]

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.6.9 Secure Boot

This option allows you to congure the Security Boot parameters.

OS Type [Windows UEFI mode]

Conguration option: [Windows UEFI mode] [Other OS]

The following items appear when OS Type is set to [Windows UEFI mode].

Secure Boot Mode [Standard]

This item appears only when you set the OS Type to [Windows UEFI mode].

Conguration option: [Standard] [Custom]

The following items appear when Secure Boot Mode is set to [Custom].

Key Management

Install default Secure Boot keys

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load PK from File

Conguration options: [OK]

Copy PK to File

Conguration options: [OK]

Delete PK

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Load KEK from File

Conguration options: [OK]

Copy KEK to File

Conguration options: [OK]

Delete the KEK

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Append KEK from File

Conguration options: [OK]

Load DB from File

Conguration options: [OK]

Copy DB to File

Conguration options: [OK]

Delete the DB

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Append DB from File

Conguration options: [OK]

Load DBX from File

Conguration options: [OK]

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-21

Copy DBX to File

Conguration options: [OK]

Delete the DBX

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Append DBX from File

Conguration options: [OK]

2.6.10 Boot Option Priorities

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system.

• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo
appears.

• To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.

2.6.11 Boot Override

These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on
the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start
booting from the selected device.

2-22

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.7 Monitor menu

The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change
the fan settings.

2.7.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard
temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.

2.7.2 CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and chassis fan

speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the eld

shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

2.7.3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to

disable or set the CPU fan warning speed. Conguration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300

RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Fan Prole [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to
set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.

[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

the CPU temperature.

The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Prole to [Manual].

ASUS F2A85-M2

Fan Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature.
The values range from 20ºC to 90ºC.

Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The
values range from 40% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the
upper limit, the CPU fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

2-23

Fan Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.

Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The
values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under
20ºC, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

2.7.4 CHA_FAN 1/2 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you

to disable or set the Chassis fan warning speed. Conguration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM]

[300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Fan Profile [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows
you to set the appropriate performance level of the Chassis fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the Chassis fan automatically adjust

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet Chassis fan

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum Chassis fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following four items appear only when you set Fan Prole to [Manual].

depending on the Chassis temperature.

operation.

2-24

Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the Chassis
temperature. The values range from 20ºC to 90ºC.

Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum Chassis fan duty cycle.
The values range from 40% to 100%. When the Chassis temperature
reaches the upper limit, the Chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty
cycle.

Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the Chassis temperature.

Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [40]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum Chassis fan duty cycle.
The values range from 40% to 100%. When the Chassis temperature is
under 20ºC, the Chassis fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.7.5 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.

2.7.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS F2A85-M2

2-25

2.8 Tools menu

The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item

then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 2 screen.

For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2.

2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information

DIMM Slot # [DIMM_A2]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the

selected slot. Conguration options: [DIMM A1] [DIMM A2] [DIMM B1] [DIMM B2]

2.9 Exit menu

Save Changes & Reset

Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to

ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,

a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Discard Changes & Exit

This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you

select this option or if you press <Esc>, a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to discard

changes and exit.

Launch EFI Shell from lesystem device

This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.e) from one of
the available devices that have a lesystem.

2-26

Chapter 2: Getting started

Appendices

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference.

•

This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause

•

undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

•

connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

•

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required

to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not

expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.

ASUS F2A85-M2

A-1

IC: Canadian Compliance Statement

Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specications. This device complies with RSS

210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian
interference-causing equipment regulations.

This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.

Cut appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le
matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence d’Industrie Canada. Le
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :

(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer d’interférences et

(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer
un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement

VCCI Class B Statement

KC: Korea Warning Statement

A-2

Appendices

REACH

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. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.

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. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling
information in different regions.

ASUS F2A85-M2

A-3

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
Telephone [phone]
Fax [phone]
E-mail [e-mail]
Web site www.asus.com.tw

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Telephone [phone]
Fax [phone]
Web site usa.asus.com

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]
Support fax [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
Fax [phone]
Web site www.asus.de
Online contact www.asus.de/sales

Technical Support

Telephone [phone]*
Support Fax [phone]
Online support support.asus.com

* EUR 0.14/minute from a German xed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.

Manufacturer: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.

Address: 4F, No.150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112,

Authorised representative in
Europe:

Address: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN,

A-4

TAIWAN

ASUS Computer GmbH

GERMANY

Appendices

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a)

Responsible Party Name: Asus Computer International

Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539.

Phone/Fax No: [phone]/[phone]

hereby declares that the product

Product Name : Motherboard

Model Number : F2A85-M2

Conforms to the following specifications:

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators

Supplementary Information:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to

the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful

interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,

including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Representative Person’s Name : Steve Chang / President

Signature :

Date : Dec. 10, 2012

Ver. 120601

EC Declaration of Conformity

We, the undersigned,

Manufacturer:

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address, City:

4F, No. 150, LI-TE Rd., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN R.O.C.

Country:

TAIWAN

Authorized representative in Europe:

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH

Address, City:

HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN

Country:

GERMANY

declare the following apparatus:

Product name : Motherboard

Model name : F2A85-M2

conform with the essential requirements of the following directives:

2004/108/EC-EMC Directive

EN 55022:2010

EN 61000-3-2:2006+A2:2009

EN 55013:2001+A1:2003+A2:2006

EN 55024:2010

EN 61000-3-3:2008

EN 55020:2007+A11:2011

1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive

EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-10)

EN 300 440-1 V1.6.1(2010-08)

EN 300 440-2 V1.4.1(2010-08)

EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03)

EN 301 908-1 V5.2.1(2011-05)

EN 301 908-2 V5.2.1(2011-07)

EN 301 893 V1.6.1(2011-11)

EN 302 544-2 V1.1.1(2009-01)

EN 302 623 V1.1.1(2009-01)

EN 300 330-1 V1.7.1(2010-02)

EN 300 330-2 V1.5.1(2010-02)

EN 50360:2001

EN 62479:2010

EN 301 489-1 V1.9.2(2011-09)

EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08)

EN 301 489-4 V1.4.1(2009-05)

EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11)

EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11)

EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1(2009-05)

EN 301 489-24 V1.5.1(2010-09)

EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06)

EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09)

EN 301 357-2 V1.4.1(2008-11)

EN 50385:2002

EN 62311:2008

2006/95/EC-LVD Directive

EN 60950-1 / A11:2009

EN 60950-1 / A12:2011

EN 60065:2002 / A2:2010

EN 60065:2002 / A12:2011

2009/125/EC-ErP Directive

Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008

Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009

Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009

2011/65/EU-RoHS Directive Ver. 121001

CE marking

Declaration Date: Dec. 10, 2012

Year to begin affixing CE marking:2012

Position : CEO

Name : Jerry Shen

Signature : __________

(EC conformity marking)

ASUS F2A85-M2

A-5

A-6

Appendices