ASUS F2A85MCSM User Manual

Motherboard

F2A85-M

ii

E8005
Third Edition

December 2012

Copyright © 2012 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

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such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

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iii

Contents

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

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

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

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

Product introduction

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

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

1-1

1.1.2 DIGI+VRM Digital Power Design ....................................................

1-2

1.1.3 Innovative ASUS features ...............................................................

1-2

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

1-5

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

1-6

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

1-6

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

1-6

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

1-7

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

1-8

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

1-8

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

1-9

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

1-10

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

1-12

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

1-12

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

1-13

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

1-20

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

1-20

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

1-21

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

1-21

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

1-21

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

1-21

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

1-21

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

1-22

1.7 Jumpers

.......................................................................................................1-23

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

1-24

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

1-24

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

1-26

1.9 Onboard switches ......................................................................................

1-32

1.10 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................................

1-33

1.11 Software support ........................................................................................

1-35

1.11.1 Installing an operating system ......................................................

1-35

1.11.2 Support DVD information ..............................................................

1-35

iv

BIOS information

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

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

2-1

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

2-2

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

2-3

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

2-4

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

2-6

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

2-10

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

2-10

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

2-10

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

2-10

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

2-10

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

2-12

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

2-14

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

2-14

2.4.3 APU Multiplier [Auto] .....................................................................

2-14

2.4.4 NB Frequency [Auto] .....................................................................

2-14

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

2-14

2.4.6 GPU Boost [Auto] ..........................................................................

2-15

2.4.7 OC Tuner ......................................................................................

2-15

2.4.8 DRAM Timing Control ...................................................................

2-15

2.4.9 CPU Voltage [Offset Mode] ...........................................................

2-15

2.4.10 DRAM Voltage [Auto] ....................................................................

2-16

2.4.11 SB 1.1V Voltage [Auto] .................................................................

2-16

2.4.12 1.1VSB Voltage [Auto] ..................................................................

2-16

2.4.13 APU1.2V Voltage [Auto] ................................................................

2-16

2.4.14 VDDA Voltage [Auto] .....................................................................

2-16

2.4.15 DIGI+ VRM ....................................................................................

2-16

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

2-18

2.5.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................................

2-18

2.5.2 SATA Conguration .......................................................................

2-19

2.5.3 USB Conguration ........................................................................

2-20

2.5.4 NB Conguration ...........................................................................

2-20

2.5.5 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................................

2-20

2.5.6 APM ..............................................................................................

2-21

2.5.7 Network Stack ...............................................................................

2-22

2.6 Monitor menu ..............................................................................................

2-23

2.6.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature

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

2.6.2 CPU / PWR / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A] .

2-23

v

2.6.3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled] ......................................................2-24

2.6.4 CHA_FAN Q-Fan Control [Enabled] .............................................

2-24

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

2-25

2.6.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled] .......................................................

2-25

2.7 Boot menu ...................................................................................................

2-26

2.7.1 Bootup NumLock State [On] .........................................................

2-26

2.7.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled] ...........................................................

2-27

2.7.3 Fast Boot [Enabled] ......................................................................

2-27

2.7.4 Post Logo Delay Time [3 sec] .......................................................

2-27

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

2-27

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

2-27

2.7.7 Next boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] ..............................

2-28

2.7.8 CSM Parameters ..........................................................................

2-28

2.7.9 Security Boot parameters .............................................................

2-28

2.7.10 Setup Mode [EZ Mode] .................................................................

2-29

2.7.11 Boot Option Priorities ....................................................................

2-29

2.7.12 Boot Override ................................................................................

2-29

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

2-30

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

2-30

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

2-30

2.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole .........................................................................

2-30

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

2-31

Appendices

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

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

vi

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.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

vii

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.

viii

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

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

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

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

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

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

ix

(continued on the next page)

F2A85-M specications summary

APU AMD® socket FM2 for A- series /AthlonTM Series Processors, supports CPU

up to 4 cores

Supports AMD® Turbo Core Technology 3.0

• 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 maximum 64GB unbuffered non-ECC

DDR3 2400(O.C.)/2250(O.C.)/2200(O.C.)/2133(O.C.)/2000(O.C.)/1866/

1600/1333/1066MHz memory modules

Dual-channel memory architecture

* 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.

** 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

®

32-bit
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.

Graphics Integrated AMD Radeon™ HD 7000 Series Graphics in A-series APU

Multi-VGA output support: HDMI/DVI/D-Sub port

- Supports HDMI with max. resolution 1920x1080@60Hz

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

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

- Supports Microsoft

®

DirectX 11

- Maximum shared memory of 2G

- Supports AMD

®

Dual Graphics technology

* Refer to

http://www.amd.com/us/products/technologies/dual-graphics/
Pages/dual-graphics.aspx#3 for the discrete GPUs which support Dual
Graphics technology

Expansion slots 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (blue @ x16 mode, black @ x4 mode)

1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

1 x PCI slot

Multi-GPU support

Supports AMD CrossFireX™ Technology (x16 & x4)

Storage / RAID

AMD® A85X FCH:

- 7x Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors(gray) with RAID 0, RAID 1,RAID

5,RAID 10 and JBOD support

- 1x eSerial ATA 6Gb/s at the back I/O

LAN

Realtek® 8111F 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

- Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O

USB

AMD® A85X FCH :

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

board)

- 10 x USB2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at back panel, [black], 6 ports at mid-

board)

x

F2A85-M specications summary

ASUS unique features

ASUS Digital Power Design:

- Industry leading digital 4+2 phase power design

- CPU Power Utility

ASUS EPU

- EPU

ASUS Exclusive Features

- ASUS USB 3.0 Boost

- ASUS Network iControl*

- ASUS Remote GO!

- ASUS AI Charger

- ASUS GPU Boost

- ASUS TurboV

- ASUS Disk Unlocker

- ASUS MemOK!

- ASUS AI Suite II

- ASUS Anti-Surge

- ASUS ESD

- 100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish heatsink solution

- ASUS Fan Xpert

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS My Logo 2

* The ASUS Network iControl feature does not support Windows

®

XP/Vista operating systems.

ASUS Exclusive
overclocking features

Precision Tweaker 2

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.00625V increment

- vDDNB: Adjustable CPU/NB voltage at 0.00625V increment

- vDRAM Bus: Adjustable DRAM voltage at 0.005V increment

- vFCH: Adjustable FCH voltage at 0.01V increment

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

- APU Frequency tuning from 90MHz up to 300MHz at 1MHz

increment

Overclocking Protection

- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)

(continued on the next page)

xi

F2A85-M specications summary

Specications are subject to change without notice.

Back Panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port

1 x HDMI port

1 x DVI port

1 x D-Sub port

1 x Optical S/PDIF Output port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

1 x eSATA port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports

8-Channel audio I/O ports

Internal I/O
connectors/buttons/
switches

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

3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

7 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (gray)

1 x CPU fan connector (4-pin)

1 x Chassis fan connector (4-pin)

1 x power Fan connector (3-pin)

1 x Front panel audio connector

1 x S/PDIF Out connector

1 x COM connector

1 x GPU Boost switch

1 x MemOK! button

1 x TPM header

1 x System panel connector (20-8pin)

1 x 24-pin EATX power connector

1 x 4-pin ATX 12V poweer connector

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

BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS
CrashFree BIOS 3, F12 Printscreen function, F3 Shortcut function and
ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information

Support DVD Drivers

ASUS utilities

ASUS Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Form factor

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

xii

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

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

User Manual

1 x I/O Shield User Guide Support DVD

• 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.

F2A85-M

PCIEX16_1

PCIEX16_2

PCI1

PCIEX1_1

USB56USB78USB910

TPM

PANEL

SPDIF_OUT

AAFP

CPU_FAN

PWR_FAN

CHA_FAN

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O

AUDIO

ALC

887-VD2

RTL

8111F

COM

KBMS_USB34

64Mb
BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTC

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)

ESATA6G
_USB3
_12

LAN
_USB12

SATA6G_6

SATA6G_5

SATA6G_7

SATA6G_4

SATA6G_3

SATA6G_2

SATA6G_1

SPDIFO
_HDMI

MemOK!

DRAM_LED

DVI_VGA

SOCKET FM2

EATXPWR

USB3_34

GPU_LED

GPU Boost

ATX12V

DIGI+
VRM

ASUS F2A85-M

1-1

Product introduction

1

1.1 Special features

1.1.1 Product highlights

AMD® A-series and AthlonTM Series Processors

This motherboard supports AMD® A- series and AthlonTM Series Processors. 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 Dual-channel 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.

AMD® CrossFireX™ Technology

AMD’s CrossFireX™ boosts image quality along with rendering speed, eliminating the

need to scale down screen resolution to get high quality images. CrossFireX™ allows

higher antialiasing, anisotropic ltering, shading, and texture settings. Adjust your display
congurations, experiment with the advanced 3D settings, and check the effects with a real-

time 3D-rendered previews within AMD Catalyst™ Control Center.

Dual-Channel DDR3 2400 (O.C.)/2250 (O.C.)/2200 (O.C.)/2133 (O.C.)/2000
(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066MHz support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 2400(O.C.)

/2250(O.C.) /2200(O.C.) /2133(O.C.) /2000(O.C.) /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.

Complete USB 3.0 integration

This motherboard offers you the strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear
panels, allowing you to experience the convenience of the latest plug and play connectivity
solution at speed up to ten times faster than USB 2.0.

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.

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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.

100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

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

1.1.2 DIGI+VRM Digital Power Design

DIGI+ POWER CONTROL: Digital Power Design for the APU*

ASUS motherboards using the AMD® A85X chipset employ precise digital regulation for
the APU, called DIGI+ VRM (Vloltage Regulation Modules) digital power design. The APU

voltage is adjusted via either carefully developed automated modes, or by using user-dened
proles. The effect is that DIGI+ VRM technology ensures greater energy efciency and the

most precise power delivery. Boosetd by world-renowned ASUS quality, it creates an ideal

computing platform for a diverse range of applications, from gaming to multimedia or ofce

work and heavy multitasking. Engineered and tested to assure unmitigated performance,

ASUS A85X boards with DIGI+ VRM remain efcient and accurate, for reliable application in

every scenario.

* DIGI+ VRM functions are also available in FM2 socket compatible CPUs.

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.

1.1.3 Innovative ASUS features

ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the rst mouse-controlled intuitive

graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls,

providing you with more exibility, convenience, and easy to navigate EFI BIOS than the

traditional BIOS versions. It offers you with dual selectable modes and native support for hard
drives larger than 2.2 TB.

ASUS UEFI BIOS includes the following new features:

• F12 BIOS snapshot hotkey

• F3 Shortcut for most accessed information

• ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) information detecting faulty DIMMs, and

helping with difcult POST situations.

ASUS F2A85-M

1-3

Remote GO!

Remote GO! links PCs, tablets, smartphones and TVs wirelessly together through an existing
LAN cable and router setup. It allows users to stream multimedia content from PC to DLNA
devices, access their computer anywhere using their mobile device at home, while also

allowing easy le transfers between your computer and mobile device. It provides seamless

environment for a futuristic connected lifestyle with three useful functions: DLNA Media Hub,
Remote Desktop and File Transfer.

DLNA Media Hub: Enjoy HD video, music and photos stored in the PC streaming to your
DLNA devices via Wi-Fi connectivity. You can even control the PC to play multimedia on a TV

with a tablet. It’s the perfect match for creating your own home theater!

Remote Desktop: Operate and control your PC in real-time from a smartphone or tablet
for complete comfort. This function brings notebook-like convenience, by creating a virtual
remote desktop, offering portable access to your data in desktop with a smartphone or tablet.

File Transfer: Send and share les between your PC and smart devices* with only a right

click on the mouse.

* iPad/iPhone can send, but not receive les from the PC.

ASUS TurboV

With its user-friendly interface, ASUS TurboV offers you the adrenaline rush of real-time
overclocking without exiting or rebooting the OS. It also provides you with the ASUS OC

proles for the best overclocking settings in different scenarios.

GPU Boost

GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance, facilitates

exible frequency adjustments, and easily delivers stable system-level upgrades for every

use.

Network iControl

Network iControl is an intuitive one-step network control center that makes it easier for you to
manage your bandwidth and allows you to set, monitor, and schedule the bandwidth priorities
for your network programs. It allows you to automatically connect to a PPPoE network for a
more convenient online experience.

ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

This special design prevents expensive devices and the motherboard from damage caused
by power surges from switching power supply (PSU).

MemOK!

MemOK!, the remarkable memory rescue tool, allows you to simply press a button to
patch memory issues, ensure memory boot compatibility, determine fail-safe settings, and

dramatically improve the system’s bootup.

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.

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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.

Fanless Design: stylish heatsink solution

The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers you a noiseless PC
environment. The heatsink design also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power

phase area through high efcient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics,

the ASUS stylish heatsink will give you an extremely silent and cooling experience with the
elegant appearance!

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert 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.

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-M

1-5

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.

1-6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

F2A85-M

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-M

1-7

1.3.3 Motherboard layout

F2A85-M

PCIEX16_1

PCIEX16_2

PCI1

PCIEX1_1

USB56USB78USB910

TPM

PANEL

SPDIF_OUT

AAFP

CPU_FAN

PWR_FAN

CHA_FAN

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O

AUDIO

ALC

887-VD2

RTL

8111F

COM

KBMS_USB34

64Mb
BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTC

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)

ESATA6G
_USB3
_12

LAN
_USB12

SATA6G_6

SATA6G_5

SATA6G_7

SATA6G_4

SATA6G_3

SATA6G_2

SATA6G_1

SPDIFO
_HDMI

MemOK!

DRAM_LED

DVI_VGA

SOCKET FM2

EATXPWR

USB3_34

GPU_LED

GPU Boost

ATX12V

DIGI+
VRM

1 2

5

2 43

9

10

1617 15

13

12

11

14

8

6

7

1

9

18

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.3.4 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) 1-27

2. CPU, power fan and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN and
3-pin PWR_FAN)

1-28

3. GPU Boost switch 1-33

4. GPU Boost LED (GPU_LED) 1-34

5. AMD® FM2 Socket 1-8

6. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-12

7. MemOK! switch 1-32

8. DRAM LED (DRAM_LED) 1-33

9. SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~7) 1-30

10. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 1-33

11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-31

12. TPM header (20-1 pin TPM) 1-27

13. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-23

14. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34) 1-29

15. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910) 1-29

16. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) 1-28

17. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-26

18. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-26

1.4 Accelerated Processing Unit (APU)

This motherboard comes with an FM2 socket designed for AMD® A- series and AthlonTM
processors.

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!

F2A85-M

F2A85-M CPU socket FM2

ASUS F2A85-M

1-9

1.4.1 Installing the APU

1

43

2

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1

2

53 4

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

ASUS F2A85-M

1-11

To uninstall the APU heatsink and fan assembly

5

3

1

4

2

1-12

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5 System memory

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

F2A85-M

F2A85-M 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_A2

DIMM_B1

DIMM_B2

ASUS F2A85-M

1-13

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

®

OS, when you install 4GB
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.

• 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.

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMMs 4 DIMMs

G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP) 4GB(2x 2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65V • •
Kingmax FLLE88F-C8KKAA HAIS(XMP) 2GB SS - - 10-11-10-30 1.8V • • •

Team TXD34096M2400HC9N-L 4GB DS

SEC 128
HCH9

K4B2G0846D 9-11-11-28 1.65V • •

Team TXD34096M2400HC9N-L 4GB DS

SEC 128
HCH9

K4B2G0846D 9-11-11-28 1.65V • •

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

DDR3 2400 (O.C.) MHz capability

1-14

Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3-2000 (O.C.) MHz capability

DDR3-2200 (O.C.) MHz capability

DDR3-2250 (O.C.) MHz capability

DDR3-2133 (O.C.) MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip
Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMMs 4 DIMMs

Kingston KHX2250C9D3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • • •

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/
DS

Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMMs 4 DIMMs

GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 2GB DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65V • • •
GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 4GB DS - - 9-11-9-28 1.65V • • •
Kingmax FLKE85F-B8KJAA-FEIS(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - • • •
Kingmax FLKE85F-B8KHA EEIH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.5V-1.7V • •
Kingmax FLKE85F-B8KJA FEIH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.5V-1.7V • •

Vendors Part No. Size

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMMs 4 DIMMs

A-DATA AX3U2133GC2G9B-DG2(XMP) 2GB SS - - 9-11-9-27

1.55~

1.75V

• •

Corsair CMT16GX3M4X2133C9(XMP 1.3) 16GB(4GB x 4) DS - - 9-11-10-27 1.50V • • •
Corsair CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-24 1.65V • •
Corsair CMT4GX3M2B2133C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-10-9-27 1.50V • • •
Corsair CMT8GX3M2B2133C9(XMP) 8GB(4GB x 2) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.50V •
G.SKILL F3-17000CL9Q-16GBZH(XMP1.3) 16GB(4GB x 4) DS - - 9-11-10-28 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2133C11D3T1K2/16GX(XMP) 16GB(8GB x 2) DS - - - 1.6V • • •
Kingston KHX2133C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • • •
Kingston KHX2133C9AD3X2K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2133C9AD3T1K4/8GX(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-11-9-27 1.65V • • •
Kingston KHX2133C9AD3T1FK4/8GX(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • •
PATRIOT PGD38G2133C11K(XMP) 16GB(4GB x 4) DS - - 11-11-11-30 1.65V • • •

Team TXD34096M2133HC9N-L 4GB DS

SEC 128
HCH9

K4B2G
0846D

9-11-11-28 1.65V • • •

Kingston KHX21C11T1BK2/16X(XMP) 16GB(8GB x 2) DS - - - 1.6V • • •
Kingston KHX21C11T1BK2/8X(XMP) 8GB(4GB x 2) DS - - - 1.6V • • •

Team TXD34096M2133HC9N-L 4GB DS

SEC 128
HCH9

K4B2G
0846D

9-11-11-28 1.65V • • •

Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS

Chip
Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMMs 4 DIMMs

Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • •

Corsair CMZ4GX3M2A2000C10(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) SS - -

10-10­10-27

1.50V • • •

Corsair CMT6GX3M3A2000C8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-9-8-24 1.65V • •
G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • • •
G.SKILL F3-16000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • •
G.SKILL F3-16000CL6T-6GBPIS(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 6-9-6-24 1.65V • •
GEIL GUP34GB2000C9DC(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65V • • •
Kingston KHX2000C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2000C9AD3W1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2000C9AD3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX2000C9AD3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65V • •

Asint SLA302G08-ML2HB(XMP) 4GB DS HYNIX

H5TQ2G8
3BFR H9C

- - • •