ASUS M4A87TD EVO User Manual

M4A87TD
EVO

Motherboard

E5263

First Edition V1
March 2010

Copyright © 2010 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
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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
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etc to this email address).

ii

Contents

Notices ......................................................................................................... vi

Safety information ..................................................................................... vii

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

M4A87TD EVO specications summary ................................................... ix

Chapter 1

1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-1

1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-1

1.3.2 ASUS Unique Features ................................................... 1-2

1.4 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-4

1.5 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-4

1.5.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 1-4

1.5.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 1-4

1.5.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-5

1.5.4 Layout contents ............................................................... 1-5

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-6

1.6.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 1-6

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ........................................ 1-7

1.7 System memory ........................................................................... 1-9

1.7.1 Overview ......................................................................... 1-9

1.7.2 Memory congurations .................................................... 1-9

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-16

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-16

1.8 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 1-17

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-17

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 1-17

1.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................ 1-17

1.8.4 PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots ............................................... 1-17

1.8.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots ............................................. 1-17

1.9 Jumper ........................................................................................ 1-18

1.10 Onboard switches ...................................................................... 1-19

1.11 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................ 1-21

1.12 Connectors ................................................................................. 1-23

1.12.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 1-23

iii

Contents

1.12.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-25

1.13 Software support ........................................................................ 1-33

1.13.1 Installing an operating system ...................................... 1-33

1.13.2 Support DVD information .............................................. 1-33

Chapter 2

2.1 Knowing BIOS .............................................................................. 2-1

2.2 Updating BIOS .............................................................................. 2-1

2.2.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-2

2.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 2-3

2.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 2-4

2.3 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 2-5

2.3.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 2-6

2.3.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 2-6

2.3.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 2-7

2.3.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 2-7

2.3.5 Submenu items ............................................................... 2-7

2.3.6 Conguration elds ......................................................... 2-7

2.3.7 General help ................................................................... 2-7

2.3.8 Pop-up window ............................................................... 2-7

2.3.9 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 2-7

2.4 Main menu .................................................................................... 2-8

2.4.1 SATA 1–6 ........................................................................ 2-8

2.4.2 Storage Conguration ..................................................... 2-9

2.4.3 System Information ....................................................... 2-10

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................ 2-11

2.5.1 CPU Level UP ...............................................................2-11

2.5.2 OC Tuner Utility ..............................................................2-11

2.5.3 Ai Overclock Tuner ........................................................2-11

2.5.4 CPU Ratio .................................................................... 2-12

2.5.5 DRAM Frequency ........................................................ 2-12

2.5.6 CPU/NB Frequency ..................................................... 2-13

2.5.7 HT Link Speed ............................................................. 2-13

2.5.8 DRAM Timing Conguration ......................................... 2-13

2.5.9 DRAM Driving Conguration ......................................... 2-14

2.5.10 CPU & NB Voltage Mode .............................................. 2-14

iv

Contents

2.5.11 CPU VDDA Voltage ...................................................... 2-15

2.5.12 DRAM Voltage ............................................................. 2-15

2.5.13 HT Voltage ................................................................... 2-15

2.5.14 NB Voltage ................................................................... 2-15

2.5.15 CPU Load-Line Calibration .......................................... 2-15

2.5.16 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration .................................... 2-15

2.5.17 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 2-15

2.5.18 PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................ 2-15

2.6 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-16

2.6.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 2-16

2.6.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 2-17

2.6.3 Onboard Devices Conguration .................................... 2-17

2.6.4 USB Conguration ........................................................ 2-18

2.6.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 2-19

2.7 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-20

2.7.1 Suspend Mode ............................................................. 2-20

2.7.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 2-20

2.7.3 ACPI 2.0 Support ......................................................... 2-20

2.7.4 ACPI APIC support ...................................................... 2-20

2.7.5 APM Conguration ........................................................ 2-21

2.7.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 2-21

2.8 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-23

2.8.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-23

2.8.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 2-23

2.8.3 Security ......................................................................... 2-24

2.9 Tools menu ................................................................................. 2-25

2.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 2-25

2.9.2 Express Gate ............................................................... 2-25

2.9.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 2-26

2.9.4 AI NET 2........................................................................ 2-26

2.10 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-27

v

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, and

• 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.

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.

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://green.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.

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.

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 setup

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.

Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

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 yourselfInformation to prevent injury to yourself

when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the componentsInformation 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 aTips and additional information to help you complete a

task.

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.

Typography

Bol d te xt Indicates a menu or an item to select.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 (+).
Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<D>

viii

M4A87TD EVO specications summary

CPU AMD® Socket AM3 for AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /

Sempron™ 100 Series ProcessorsSempron™ 100 Series Processors
AMD® 140W CPU Support

AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ 2.0 Technology (by CPU type)
Supports 45nm CPU

Chipset AMD® 870 / SB850

System bus Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface

Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 16 GB, DDR3 2000 (O.C.) / 1600 / 1333 /

1066 MHz ECC / non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual-channel memory architecture
DDR3 Memory Ultra Low Voltage support

* Due to OS limitation, when installing total memory of 4GB

capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operating system may only
recognize less than 3GB. Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you
want to install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard.

** Due to CPU spec., AMD 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to
DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can
support up to DDR3 1333MHz.

*** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory

QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists)

Multi-GPU support Supports ATIATI® Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ TechnologyCrossFireX™ Technology

Expansion slots 2 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slots (blue at x16 mode, black at x4 mode)

1 x PCIe 2.0 x1 slot
3 x PCI 2.2 slots

Storage SB850 chipet:

- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10
JMicron® JMB361 SATA & PATA controllers:

- 1 x UltraDMA 133/100 for up to 2 PATA devices

- 1 x External SATA 3Gb/s port (SATA On-the-Go)

LAN RTL8111E PCIe Gigabit LAN controller featuring AI NET 2

Audio VIA® VT1818 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC

- Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-Streaming and Front
Panel Jack-Retasking

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

- Supports 192kHz/24bit BD Lossless Sound

- ASUS Noise Filter

IEEE 1394 VIA® VT6308P controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports

USB NEC USB 3.0 controller:

- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue at back panel)
SB850 chipset:

- 12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at midboard; 6 ports at back
panel)panel)

(continued on the next page)

ix

M4A87TD EVO specications summary

ASUS Unique Features ASUS Xtreme Design

ASUS Hybrid Processor—TurboV EVO

- TurboV, CPU Level UP, Turbo Key

ASUS Hybrid Switch

- Core Unlocker

ASUS Hybrid OS—Express Gate
ASUS Power Solutions

- ASUS EPU
ASUS Exclusive Feature

- MemOK!
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS Fanless Design: heatsink solution

- ASUS Fan Xpert
ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS O.C. Prole

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS MyLogo 2™

- Multi-language BIOS

ASUS Exclusive
Overclocking Features

Rear panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)

Precision Tweaker 2

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.003125V increment

- vDDNB: CPU NB voltage at 0.003125V increment

- vNB: Adjustable North Bridge voltage at 0.00625V
increment

- vHT bus: Adjustable HT voltage at 0.00625V increment

- vDRAM Bus: Adjustable DRAM voltage at 0.00625V
increment

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):

- CPU CLK tuning from 100MHz up to 600MHz at 1MHz
increment

- Memory tuning from 1066MHz up to 2000MHz

- PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz up to
150MHz at 1MHz increment

Overclocking protection:

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

1 x PS/2 mouse port (green)
2 X USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port
1 x IEEE 1394a port
1 X ESATA port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel audio I/O ports

(continued on the next page)

x

M4A87TD EVO specications summary

Internal I/O connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0 ports

BIOS features 8 Mb Flash ROM, SPI, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0,

Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Support DVD contents Drivers

Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in x 8.8 in (30.5 cm x 22.4 cm)

* Specications are subject to change without notice.

1 x IDE connector
1 x S/PDIF out header
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x chassis fan connector (4-pin)
1 x power fan connector (3-pin)
1 x COM port connector
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
1 x system panel connector
1 x high denition front panel audio connectorfront panel audio connector
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
1 x Core Unlocker switch
1 x IEEE1394a connector
1 x MemOK! button

SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS PC Probe II
ASUS Express Gate
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)

xi

xii

Chapter 1

Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M4A87TD EVO motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another

standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in

your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS M4A87TD EVO motherboard
Cables 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 cable1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 cable

2 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s cable
2 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s cable
1 x 2 in 1 Q-connector1 x 2 in 1 Q-connector

Accessories 1 x I/O shield
Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD
Documentations User manual

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

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

AMD® Socket AM3; Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-1

Series Processors

This motherboard supports AMD® AM3 multi-core processors with unique
L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power
consumption. It features dual-channel DDR3 1333 memory support and
accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransort™ 3.0
based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD® CPUs in the
new 45nm manufacturing process.

AMD® 870 chipset

1 2

AMD® 870 Chipset is designed to support up to 5200MT/s
HyperTransport™ 3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and PCI Express™ 2.0 x16

graphics. It is optimized with AMD®’s latest AM3 and multi-core CPUs to

provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities.

DDR3 2000(O.C.) support

This motherboard supports DDR3 2000(O.C,), which provides faster
data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory data transfer

rate and computing efciency. This enhances system performance in 3D

graphics and other memory demanding applications.

True SATA 6Gb/s Support

Supporting next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) storage interface, this
motherboard delivers up to 6.0Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally, get
enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current
bus systems.

True USB 3.0 Support

Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0—the
latest connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next generation
components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is
also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components.

1.3.2 ASUS Unique Features

ASUS Exclusive Features

Core Unlocker

ASUS Core Unlocker simplies the activation of a latent AMD® CPU—with

just a simple switch. Enjoy an instant performance boost by simply
unlocking the extra cores, without performing complicated BIOS changes.

MemOK!

MemOK! Quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable
memory rescue tool requires a mere push of a button to patch memory
issues. MemOK! Determines failsafe settings and dramatically improves
your system boot success. Get your system up and running in no time!

ASUS Power Solutions

8+1 Phase Power Design

To fully unleash the next-generation AM3 CPU’s potential, ASUS
M4A87TD EVO motherboard has adopted the brand-new 8-phase

VRM power design, which delivers high power efciency and supreme

overclocking ability. This series’ high quality power components effective
lowers system temperature to ensure longer component lifespan. ASUS
M4A87TD EVO also features an extra 1-phase power for integrated
memory/HT controller to provide independent power to vital components.

1-2 ASUS M4A87TD EVO

ASUS EPU

The ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) provides total system power
management by detecting current PC loadings and intelligently moderating
power usage for critical PC components in real-time–helping save power
and money!

ASUS Hybrid OS

ASUS Express Gate

Express Gate is an ASUS exclusive OS that provides you with quick access
to the Internet and key applications before entering the Windows® OS.

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions

Fanless Design: stylish heatsink solution

The streamline-shaped heatsink features 0-dB thermal solution that offers

users a noiseless PC environment. Not only the beautifully curved ns

upgrade the visual enjoyment for motherboard users, but also the special

thickened bottom design effectively cools down hot airows generated

by the north bridge chipset. Combined with usability and aesthetics, the
ASUS streamline-shaped heatsink will give users an extremely silent and
cooling experience with the elegant appearance!

ASUS Intelligent Overclocking Tools

TurboV EVO

Whether novice or enthusiast, TurboV EVO satises overclockers of any

level. Intelligently push systems to the fastest, stable clock speeds with
Auto-Tuning. Turbo Key boosts performance with a simple touch, while
TurboV offers additional advanced options for breaking those records!

CPU Level UP

Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your
CPU at no additional cost with CPU Level UP! Simply pick the processor
you want to OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest! See the new CPU
speed and enjoy that performance instantly. Overclocking is never as easy
as this.

Auto Tuning

Auto Tuning is an intelligent tool that automates overclocking to achieve
a total system level up. This tool also provides stability testing. Even O.C.
beginners can achieve extreme yet stable overclocking results with Auto
Tuning!

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-3

1.4 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, switch off the ATX power supply and
detach its power cord. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, or components.

1.5 Motherboard overview

1.5.1 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.

1.5.2 Screw holes

Place six (6) 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.

1-4 ASUS M4A87TD EVO

1.5.3 Motherboard layout

1.5.4 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page

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

2. CPU socket AM3 1-6

3. CPU, Chassis and Power Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1,
3-pin PWR_FAN)

4. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-9

5. MemOK! switch 1-19

6. Core Unlocker switch (CORE_UNLOCKER) 1-20

7. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) 1-25

8. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 1-21

9. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 1-31

10. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) 1-18

11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-29

12. Serial ATA 6G/b connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) 1-27

13. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) 1-30

14. IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 1-32

15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-31

16. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-30

17. USB 3.0 connectors 1-24

1-28

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-5

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with an AM3 socket designed for AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /
Sempron™ 100 Series Processors.

The CPU socket is not compatible with AMD® Opteron™ processors. Do not install an
Opteron™ processor on this motherboard.

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

To install a CPU:

1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

2. Press the lever sideways to unlock
the socket, then lift it up to a
90°–100° angle.

Socket lever

Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°–100° angle, otherwise the CPU will not t in

completely.

3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU
corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner
with a small triangle.

4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it ts in place.

The CPU ts only in one correct

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

1-6 ASUS M4A87TD EVO

Small triangle

Gold triangle

5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket
lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side
tab to indicate that it is locked.

6. Install a CPU heatsink and fan following the
instructions that came with the heatsink package.
You can also refer to section 1.6.2 Installing the
heatsink and fan for instructions.

7. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN
connector on the motherboard.

Do not forget to connect the CPU
fan connector! Hardware monitoring
errors can occur if you fail to plug this
connector.

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan

Ensure that you use only AMD-certied heatsink and fan assembly.

To install the CPU heatsink and fan:

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink ts

properly on the retention module base.

• The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase.

• You do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the CPU or
installing other motherboard components.

• If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that a Thermal
Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the
heatsink and fan assembly.

CPU Fan

CPU Heatsink

Retention bracket

Retention Module Base

Retention bracket lock

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-7

Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for

1

3

4

5

2

the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not
match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.

2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.

3. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking
sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place.

Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly ts the retention mechanism module

base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place.

4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the
heatsink and fan to the module base.

5. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the
connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.

Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if
you fail to plug this connector.

1-8 ASUS M4A87TD EVO

1.7 System memory

1.7.1 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_B1

Channel B DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2

1.7.2 Memory congurations

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

• 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.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.

• 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 install a 64-bit
Windows OS when having 4GB or more memory installed on the motherboard.

• Due to CPU spec., AMD 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With
ASUS Design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz.

• When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 or higher
frequency DIMMs.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less
(Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB).

• 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 2.5 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.

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-9

M4A87TD EVO Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR3-2000MHz capability

Vendor Part No. Size

CORSAIR TW3X4G2000C7GT ES ver2.1 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - -

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip
NO.

Timing Voltage

7-8-7­20

DDR3-1866MHz capability

DIMM socket support
(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

2.1V •

Vendor Part No. Size

G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBRH (XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 •

Crucial BL12864BE2009.8SFB3(EPP) 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-28 2 •

G.SKILL F3-16000CL9T-6GBPS(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

GEIL GU34GB2000C9DC(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 2 •

KINGSTON KHX2000C9D3T1FK3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX2000C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 •

OCZ OCZ3B2000LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-8-7 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-17066CL8D-4GBPS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

G.SKILL F3-17066CL9T-6GB-T 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 •

GEIL GE34GB2133C9DC(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 •

GEIL GU34GB2133C9DC(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX2133C8D3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 •

KINGSTON KHX2133C9D3T1K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip
NO.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support (Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

DDR3-1800MHz capability

Vendor Part No. Size

KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65 • • •

Patriot PVS32G1800LLKN(EPP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-20 1.9 •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip
NO.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support (Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

DDR3-1600MHz capability

Vendor Part No. Size

A-DATA AX3U1600PB1G8-2P 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 • • •

A-DATA AD31600E001GMU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 • • •

A-DATA AX3U1600PB1G8-3P 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 • • •

A-DATA AX3U1600XB2G7-EF(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 • • •

A-DATA AD31600F002GMU(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 • • •

A-DATA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 • • •

A-DATA AX3U1600XB2G7-FF(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 • • •

CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip
NO.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support (Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

1-10 ASUS M4A87TD EVO

DDR3-1600MHz capability (continued)

Vendor Part No. Size

CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C9Ver1.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 •

CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 • •

CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C9Ver2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR CMD8GX3M4A1600C8(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • •

Crucial BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP) 1GB SS - - - 1.8 • • •

Crucial BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL 4GB(4 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-8-7-24 - • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.6 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8T-6GBPI(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.6~1.65 • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5-1.6 • • •

KINGMAX FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP) 1GB SS - - - • • •

KINGMAX FLGE85F-B8MF7(XMP) 2GB DS - - - • • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP)

KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 • •

KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 • •

KINGSTON

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4G 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.7~1.9 •

KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

OCZ OCZ3P1600EB1G 1GB SS - - 7-6-6-24 - •

OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • •

OCZ OCZ3P16004GK(XMP) 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 •

OCZ OCZ3OB1600LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 •

OCZ OCZ3P1600EB4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-6 1.8 •

OCZ OCZ3P1600LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 •

OCZ OCZ3X16004GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 • • •

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV4GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

OCZ OCZ3FXE1600C7LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 • •

OCZ OCZ3G1600LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 •

OCZ OCZ3G1600LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • •

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • • •

OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 • •

Super Talent WP160UX4G8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 - • • •

Super Talent WP160UX4G9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - • • •

Super Talent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - - • • •

KHX1600C8D3T1K2/
4GX(XMP)

12GB(3 x
4GB)

12GB(3 x
4GB)

4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 • • •

SS/DSChip

DS - - - 1.65 • • •

DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

Brand

Chip
NO.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support (Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-11