ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO USB3 User Manual

M4A88TD-M EVO

Motherboard

E5341

First Edition V1 March 2010

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.

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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.

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This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.

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product and describing the problem (please do NOT send large attachments such as source code archives etc to this email address).

Contents

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

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

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

M4A88TD-M EVO specications summary ............................................... ix

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

1.2 Package contents .........................................................................

1.3 Special features ............................................................................

1.3.1 Product highlights ...........................................................

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ...............................................

1.4 Before you proceed .....................................................................

1.5 Motherboard overview .................................................................

1.5.1 Placement direction ........................................................

1.5.2 Screw holes ....................................................................

1.5.3 Motherboard layout .........................................................

1.5.4 Layout contents ...............................................................

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................

1.6.1 Installing the CPU ...........................................................

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ......................................

1.7 System memory .........................................................................

1.7.1 Overview ........................................................................

1.7.2 Memory congurations ..................................................

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ..........................................................

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................

1.8 Expansion slots ..........................................................................

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................

1.8.3 PCI slot .........................................................................

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots .....................................................

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot .....................................................

1.9 Jumpers ......................................................................................

1.10 Connectors .................................................................................

1.10.1 Rear panel ports ...........................................................

1.10.2 Internal connectors .......................................................

1.11 Onboard switch ..........................................................................

1-1

1-3

1-6

1-7

1-8

1-10

1-11

1-12

1-17

1-18

1-19

1-20

1-23

1-30

iii

Contents

1.12 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................ 1-33

1.13 Software support ........................................................................

1.13.1 Installing an operating system ......................................

1.13.2 Support DVD information ..............................................

Chapter 2: 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 ...................................................

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

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

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ..........................................................

2.2.2 Menu bar .........................................................................

2.2.3 Navigation keys ...............................................................

2.2.4 Menu items .....................................................................

2.2.5 Submenu items ...............................................................

2.2.6 Conguration elds .........................................................

2.2.7 Pop-up window ...............................................................

2.2.8 Scroll bar .........................................................................

2.2.9 General help ...................................................................

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

2.3.1 System Time .................................................................

2.3.2 System Date .................................................................

2.3.3 SATA 1/2/3/5/6, E-SATA, ...............................................

2.3.4 SATA Conguration ........................................................

2.3.5 System Information .......................................................

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

2.4.1 CPU Level UP ...............................................................

2.4.2 CPU OverClocking ........................................................

2.4.3 CPU Ratio .....................................................................

2.4.4 DRAM Frequency .........................................................

2.4.5 CPU/NB Frequency ......................................................

2.4.6 HT Link Speed ..............................................................

2.4.7 GPU OverClocking ........................................................

2.4.8 OC Tuner Utility .............................................................

1-35

2-1

2-2

2-3

2-4

2-7

2-8

2-9

2-10

2-11

2-12

2-13

2-14

2-15

Contents

2.4.9 DRAM Timing Conguration ......................................... 2-15

2.4.10 DRAM Driving Conguration .........................................

2.4.11 CPU & NB Voltage Mode ..............................................

2.4.12 CPU VDDA Voltage .......................................................

2.4.13 DRAM Voltage ..............................................................

2.4.14 HT Voltage ....................................................................

2.4.15 NB Voltage ....................................................................

2.4.16 NB 1.8V Voltage ............................................................

2.4.17 SB Voltage ....................................................................

2.4.18 SidePort Memory Voltage .............................................

2.4.19 CPU Load-Line Calibration ...........................................

2.4.20 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration .....................................

2.4.21 PCI/PCIe CLK Status ....................................................

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

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

2.5.2 Chipset ..........................................................................

2.5.3 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................

2.5.4 PCIPnP .........................................................................

2.5.5 USB Conguration ........................................................

2.6 Power menu ................................................................................

2.6.1 Suspend Mode ..............................................................

2.6.2 ACPI 2.0 Support ..........................................................

2.6.3 ACPI APIC Support .......................................................

2.6.4 APM Conguration ........................................................

2.6.5 HW Monitor Conguration .............................................

2.6.6 Anti Surge Support ........................................................

2.6.7 EuP Ready ....................................................................

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

2.7.1 Boot Device Priority ......................................................

2.7.2 Boot Settings Conguration ..........................................

2.7.3 Security .........................................................................

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

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

2.8.2 Express Gate ................................................................

2.8.3 AI NET 2

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

........................................................................ 2-29

2-16

2-17

2-18

2-19

2-20

2-21

2-22

2-23

2-24

2-25

2-26

2-27

2-28

2-29

2-30

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.

Safety information

Electrical safety

•

To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric 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 that 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 information

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 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.

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

Bold t e x t 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

M4A88TD-M EVO specications summary

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

Chipset AMD® 880G / SB850

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

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture

Graphics Integrated ATI Radeon™ HD 4250 GPU

Expansion slots 1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot

Storage / RAID AMD® SB850 southbridge:

Sempron™ 100 series processors Supports 45nm CPU AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology * Refer to www.asus.com for the AMD® CPU support list

4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support maximum 16GB unbuffered

ECC and non-ECC DDR3 2000(O.C.)/1333/1066 MHz

memory modules * AMD® AM3 100 and 200 series CPU support up to DDR3 1066MHz. ** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List). *** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more, Windows® 32-bit operating 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.

Supports SidePort Memory – onboard 128MB DDR3 1333 memory Supports HDMI™ with max. resolution up to 1920x1200 (1080P)

Supports DVI with max. resolution up to 2560x1600@60Hz Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 2560x1440 @75Hz

Supports Microsoft® DirectX 10.1, OpenGL 2.0, and Shader Model 4.1 Hardware Decode Acceleration for H.264, VC-1, and MPEG-2 Dual independent displays support with HDMI/DVI and D-Sub Maximum shared memory of 1GB Supports Hybrid CrossFireX™

* Refer to www.amd.com for the discrete GPUs which support Hybrid CrossFireX™.

2 x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots 1 x PCI slot

– 5 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s connectors support RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 congurations – 1 x eSATA port (6Gb/s ready)

VIA® VT6415 PATA controller: – 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 connector for up to 2 PATA devices

(continued on the next page)

M4A88TD-M EVO specications summary

Audio Realtek® ALC892 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC

IEEE 1394 VIA® VT6315N controller supports 2 IEEE 1394a ports

USB Supports up to 14 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (8 ports at mid-board,

LAN Realtek® 8111E Gigabit LAN controller featuring AI NET2

ASUS special features

ASUS overclocking features

- BD Audio Layer Content Protection

- Supports 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound

- Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel Jack-Retasking technologies

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

(one at mid-board, the other at the back panel)

6 ports at the back panel)

ASUS Xtreme Design ASUS Hybrid Processor - TurboV EVO

- Auto Tuning, TurboV, CPU Level UP, and GPU Boost ASUS Hybrid Switch

- Core Unlocker

- Turbo Key II ASUS Hybrid OS - Express Gate ASUS Power Solutions

4 + 1 Phase Power Design ASUS Anti-Surge Protection ASUS EPU

ASUS Exclusive Feature MemOK!

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions ASUS Fanless Design: Heat sink solution ASUS FanXpert

ASUS EZ DIY ASUS Q-Shield ASUS O.C. Prole ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS MyLogo 2 Multi-language BIOS

Precision Tweaker 2 – vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.003125V increment – vDIMM: 64-step DRAM voltage control – vChipset (NB): 64-step Chipset voltage control Stepless Frequency Solution (SFS)

– HT frequency tuning from 100MHz to 550MHz at 1MHz

increment

– PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz to 150MHz

at 1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection – ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

(continued on the next page)

M4A88TD-M EVO specications summary

Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port

Internal I/O connectors 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional

BIOS 16Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,

Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE

Support DVD Drivers

Form factor MicroATX form factor: 9.6 in x 9.6 in (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)

1 x HDMI port 1 x DVI-D port 1 x D-Sub port 1 x Optical S/PDIF Output port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x eSATA port (6Gb/s ready) 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 8-channel audio ports

8 USB 2.0/1.1 ports 1 x IDE connector

5 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors 1 x CPU / 1 x Power / 1 x Chassis fan connectors 1 x IEEE1394a connector 1 x S/PDIF Out connector 1 x Core Unlocker Switch 1 x Turbo Key II Switch 1 x MemOK! button

1 x Clear CMOS jumper 1 x Front panel audio connector 1 x COM connector 1 x LPT connector 1 x 24-pin EATX power connector 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector 1 x System panel connector

ACPI2.0a, SM BIOS 2.5

ASUS Utilities ASUS Update Anti-virus software (OEM version)

* Specications are subject to change without notice.

xii

Chapter 1 Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M4A88TD-M 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 M4A88TD-M EVO motherboard Cables 2 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s cables

1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable Accessories 1 x Q-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® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 series CPU

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-1

support

This motherboard supports AMD® Socket 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 HyperTransport™ 3.0-based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing process.

AMD® 880G Chipset

The AMD® 880G 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 multi-core CPUs to

provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities.

DDR3 2000(O.C.)/1333/1066 support

This motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer

rates of 2000(O.C.)/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth

requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture enlarges the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.

SidePort Memory

This motherboard features SidePort Memory, an individual onboard DDR3 memory serving as memory buffer for integrated graphics. With low CPU usage, the SidePort Memory provides integrated graphics acceleration and effectively boosts graphics performance.

Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s technology

The AMD® SB850 chipset natively supports the next generation SATA

6.0 Gb/s data transfer rate, enhances scalability, provides faster data retrieval, and doubles the bandwidth of the current bus systems.

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

jack-sensing feature, retasking functions, and multi-streaming technology.

HDMI/DVI/RGB output

This motherboard supports dual display output on digital HDMI, DVI, and analog D-Sub. DVI (Digital Visual Interface) provides high quality visuals for digital display devices like LCD monitors.

HDMI support

HDMI (High-Denition Multimedia Interface) is a set of digital video

standards that deliver multi-channel digital audio and uncompressed digital video for full HD 1080p visuals through a single cable. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD DVD and Blu-ray discs, HDMI provides you with the highest-quality home theater experience.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-2

Hybrid CrossFireX™ support

1 2

ATI Hybrid CrossFireX™ technology greatly boosts graphics performance with an onboard GPU and a discrete graphics GPU.

• Hybrid CrossFireX™ is supported by Windows® 7/Vista OS only.

• Refer to

www.amd.com for the discrete GPUs which support Hybrid CrossFireX™.

S/PDIF digital sound ready

This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio systems via the coaxial and optical S/PDIF_OUT (SONYPHILIPS Digital Interface) interface. The S/PDIF transfers digital audio without converting it to analog format and keeps the best signal quality.

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS 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.

Turbo Key II

Enjoy superb performance by auto-tuning your processor to an extreme yet stable state. Simply activate a dedicated switch on the motherboard to unleash extra processing capabilities.

GPU Boost

GPU Boost overclocks the integrated GPU in real time for the best

graphics performance. User-friendly UI facilitates exible frequency and voltage adjustments. Its ability to deliver multiple overclocking proles

also provides rapid and stable system-level upgrades.

TurboV EVO

The ultimate O.C. processor satises every level of overclockers—from

die-hard enthusiasts to beginners. Auto tuning intelligently pushes the system to the fastest clock speeds while maintaining stability. Turbo Key

boosts performance with just one touch; while TurboV offers more options

to advanced overclockers to achieve world O.C. record. Moreover, upgrade your CPU at no additional cost with CPU Level UP!

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!

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-3

ASUS Turbo Key

ASUS Turbo Key allows you to turn the PC power button into an overclocking button. After the easy setup, Turbo Key boosts performances without interrupting ongoing work or games, simply through pressing the button.

MemOK!

MemOK! guickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory rescue tool requires a mere push of the 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 Express Gate

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

• ASUS Express Gate supports installation on SATA HDDs, USB HDDs and ash

drives with at least 1.2GB free disk space. When installing it on USB HDDs or

ash drives, connect the drives to the motherboard USB port before turning on the

computer.

• The actual boot time depends on the system conguration.

• ASUS Express Gate supports le uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and USB drives. It supports le downloading to USB drives only.

ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

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

ASUS EPU

ASUS EPU is a unique power saving technology that detects the current system loadings and adjusts the power consumption in real time.

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and your

PC’s loading. The built-in variety of useful proles offer exible controls of

fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-4

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the

BIOS without using a bootable oppy disk or an OS-based utility.

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 a USB ash disk that contains the BIOS le.

ASUS O.C. Prole

The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Prole that allows you to

conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can

be stored in the CMOS or a separate le, giving you the freedom to share

and distribute your favorite settings.

ASUS Q-Shield

The specially-designed ASUS Q-Shield is convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).

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.

Green ASUS

This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s

Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line

with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable

products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the

impact on the environment.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-5

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 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.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-6

1.5.3 Motherboard layout

1.5.4 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

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

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

3. Turbo Key II switch (TURBO_KEY_II)

4. Turbo Key II LED (02LED2)

5. AM3 CPU socket

6. DDR3 DIMM slots

7. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)

8. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)

9. DRAM LED (DRAM_LED)

10. MemOK! switch

11. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-7

1-29 12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-26

1-23 13. SATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2,

SATA3, SATA5, SATA6)

1-32 14. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-19

1-34 15. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 1-33

1-8 16. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910,

USB1112, USB1314)

1-11 17. Core Unlocker LED (02LED1) 1-34

1-27 18. Core Unlocker switch (CORE_UNLOCKER) 1-30

1-25 19. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin

IE1394_1)

1-33 20. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-28

1-31 21. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-28

1-24 22. PCIe x16 / PCIe x1 / PCI slots 1-18

1-25

1-27

1-29

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

This motherboard comes with an AM3 socket designed for Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 series processors.

The AM3 socket has a different pinout from the AM2+/AM2 socket. Ensure that you use a

CPU designed for the AM3 socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT

force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!

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 lever

socket, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle.

Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 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!

Small triangle

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-8

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 comes with the heatsink package. You can also refer to section 1.6.2 Installing 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.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-9

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, ensuring 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

Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.

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

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-10

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.

1.7 System memory

1.7.1 Overview

This 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

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-11

1.7.2 Memory congurations

You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB unbuffered ECC and 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.

• 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 optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.

• AMD AM3 100 and 200 Series CPU support up to DDR3 1066 MHz.

• When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 MHz or

higher frequency DIMMs.

• 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 256 megabits (Mb) chips or less.

• 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 3.5 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.

OS, when you install 4GB

M4A88TD-M EVO Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR3-2000(O.C.)MHz capability

Chip

Vendor Part No. Size SS/DS

KINGSTON KHX2000C8D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS - - - 1.65V • KINGSTON KHX2000C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS - - - 1.65V • KINGSTON KHX2000C8D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - - 1.65V • Transcend TX2000KLU-4GK(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V •

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing Voltage

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-12

DIMM socket support (Optional)

A* B* C*

DDR3-1866(O.C.)MHz capability

Vendor Part No. Size

CORSAIR CMG6GX3M3A1866C7(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 7-8-7-20 1.65V • KINGSTON KHX1866C9D3T1K3/6GX(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - - 1.65V • OCZ OCZ3P1866LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-27 1.65V • OCZ OCZ3P1866C9LV6GK 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-28 1.65V •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO.

Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support (Optional)

A* B* C*

DDR3-1800(O.C.)MHz capability

DIMM socket support

Vendor Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage

OCZ OCZ3P18004GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 8-8-8-27 1.9V • OCZ QCZ3P18004GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 8-8-8-27 1.9V •

(Optional) A* B* C*

DDR3-1600(O.C.)MHz capability

1.35V(low voltage)

DIMM socket support (Optional)

A* B* C*

• • •

Vendor Part No. Size SS/DS

A-Data AD31600E001GM(O)U3K 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V-1.85V • • • A-Data AD31600X002GMU(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85V • • • CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C8D(XMP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • • CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • • CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • • • CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8 G(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - - - • • • CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C9 G(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • • • CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D G(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • • CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8192MB(Kit of 4) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65V • • • Crucial BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.8V • • • Crucial BL12864BE2009.8SFB3(EPP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 9-9-9-28 2.0V • • • Crucial BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - - - • • Crucial BL25664TB1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 - • • • Crucial BL25664TG1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 - • • • Crucial BL25664TR1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 - • • • G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ(XMP) 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBECO(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-8-7-24

G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.60V • • •

G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBECO(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24

G.SkiLL F3-12800CL8T-6GBPI(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.6-1.65V • G.SKILL F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V • • •

Kingmax FLGD45F-B8KG9(XMP) 1024MB SS Kingmax

Kingmax FLGD45F-B8MF7 MAEH(XMP) 1024MB SS - - 7 - • • •

Kingmax FLGE85F-B8KG9(XMP) 2048MB DS Kingmax

Kingmax FLGE85F-B8MF7 MEEH(XMP) 2048MB DS - - 7 - • • KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - - 1.65V • • •

KHX1600C8D3T1K2/

KINGSTON

4GX(XMP) KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4G 4096MB(kit of 2) DS - - - 1.7-1.9V • • • KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - - 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3G1600LV3GK 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3BE1600LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V • • OCZ OCZ3OB1600LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - - 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3P1600LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3G1600LV6GK 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65V • • • Super

WA160UX6G9 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9 - • • • Talent

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-DG(XMP) 2048MB DS - - - - • • • Kingtiger KTG2G1600PG3 2048MB DS - - - - • • • Mushkin 996657(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.95V • • • Mushkin 998659(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5~1.6V • • Mushkin 998659(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-24 - • • • PATRIOT PGS34G1600LLKA 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7V • • •

4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - - 1.65V • • •

Chip

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

Brand

KFB8FNGXFANX-12A

- - • • •

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-13

DDR3-1333MHz capability

DIMM socket

1.35V(low voltage)

1.3V(low voltage)

support (Optional)

A* B* C*

• • •

• •

• • •

Vendor Part No. Size

A-Data AD31333001GOU 1024MB SS A-Data

A-Data AD31333G001GOU 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V • • •

A-Data AD31333002GOU 2048MB DS A-Data

A-Data AD31333G002GMU 2048MB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V • • • Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2048MB DS APACER AM5D5808DEWSBG - - • • • CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1024MB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • • CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9 1024MB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • • • CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 G 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • • CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 G 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • • CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 9 1.5V • • • CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1024MB DS Corsair - - - • • CORSAIR CM3X2048-1333C9DHX 2048MB DS - - - - • • CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9 G 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • • CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8192MB(Kit of 4) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • • Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1024MB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • • • Crucial CT12872BA1339.9FF 1024MB SS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • • • Crucial BL12864TA1336.8SFB1 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS - - 6-6-6-20 1.8V • • • Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2048MB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • • • Crucial CT25672BA1339.18FF 2048MB DS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • • • Crucial BL25664ABA1336.16SFB1 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 6-6-6-20 1.8V • • Crucial BL25664BA1336.16SFB1 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 6-6-6-20 1.8V • •

BL25664BN1337.16FF

Crucial

(XMP)

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1024MB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2048MB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -

F3-10600CL7D-

G.SKILL

2GBPI(XMP) G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK 1024MB SS G.SKILL - - - • • • G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBPK 1024MB SS G.SKILL - - - • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL9T-3GBNQ 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5~1.6V • • • G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ 1024MB DS G.SKILL - - - • • •

F3-10666CL8DG.SKILL

4GBECO(XMP)

F3-10666CL8DG.SKILL

4GBHK(XMP)

F3-10666CL7TG.SKILL

6GBPK(XMP) G.SKILL F3-10666CL9T-6GBNQ 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V~1.6V • • GEIL GV32GB1333C9DC 1024MB SS - - 9 - • • • GEIL GV34GB1333C7DC 2048MB DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5V • •

GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24

GEIL GV32GB1333C9SC 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9 1.5V • • • Kingmax FLFD45F-B8MF9 1024MB SS Micron 8HD22D9JNM - - • • Kingmax FLFD45F-B8MH9 MAES 1024MB SS Micron 9CF22D9KPT - - • • • Kingmax FLFE85F-B8MH9 MEES 2048MB DS Micron 9GF27D9KPT - - • • • KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/1G 1024MB SS KTC D1288JELDPGD9U - - • • • KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G 2048MB DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C-13H - 1.5V • • • KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G 4096MB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - - • • • Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1024MB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • • • Micron MT9JSF 12872AZ-1G4F1 1024MB SS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • • • Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2048MB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • • • Micron MT18JSF25672AZ-1G4F1 2048MB DS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • • • OCZ OCZ3X1333LV3GK(XMP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS - - - 1.6V • • • OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • • OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3RPX1333EB4GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 6-5-5-20 1.85V • • OCZ OCZ3X13334GK(XMP) 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75V • • • OCZ OCZ3G1333LV6GK 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • • • OCZ OCZ3P1333LV6GK 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • • OCZ OCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 8-8-8-20 1.60V • • • PSC AL7F8G73D-DG1 1024MB SS PSC A3P1GF3DGF928M9B05 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • •

6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V • • •

1024MB SS G.SKILL - - - • • •

4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - -

4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6V • •

6144MB(Kit of 3) DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • • •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

AD30908C8D-151C E0906

AD30908C8D-151C E0903

- - • • •

8-8-88-24

(continued on the next page)

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-14

DDR3-1333MHz capability

DIMM socket

Vendor Part No. Size

PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2048MB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF928M9B05 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • • SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 - - • •

SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung

SAMSUNG M391B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung

SAMSUNG M378B5673DZ1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5673EH1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung

SAMSUNG M391B5673DZ1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung

Super

W1333X2GB8(XMP) 1024MB SS - - - - • • •

Talent Transcend TS256MLK64V3U 2048MB DS Micron 9GF27D9KPT - - • • • ASINT SLY3128M8-EDJ 1024MB SS ASINT DDRII1208-DJ 0844 - - • • • ASINT SLY3128M8-EDJE 1024MB SS ELPIDA J1108BASE-DJ-E - - • • • ASINT SLY3128M8-EDJ 2048MB DS ASINT DDRII1208-DJ 0844 - - • • • ASINT SLZ3128M8-EDJE 2048MB DS ELPIDA J1108BASE-DJ-E - - • • • BUFFALO FSX1333D3G-K2G 1024MB SS - - 7-7-7-20 - • • • BUFFALO FSX1333D3G-2G 2048MB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • • •

PC3-10600 DDR3-1333

Century

9-9-9 PC3-10600 DDR3-1333

Century

9-9-9 Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-CG 2048MB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • • • Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-CG 2048MB DS Elixir - - - • • •

Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-10666 2048MB DS Samsung

Kingtiger KTG2G1333PG3 2048MB DS - - - - • • • PATRIOT PSD31G13332H 1024MB DS - - 9 - • • • PATRIOT PSD31G13332 1024MB DS Patriot PM64M8D38U-15 - - • • • PATRIOT PSD32G13332H 2048MB DS - - - - • • • PATRIOT PDC34G1333ELK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • SILICON

SP001GBLTU133S01 1024MB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG 9 - • • • POWER

SILICON

SP001GBLTU133S02 1024MB SS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • • • POWER

SILICON

SP002GBLTU133S02 2048MB DS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • • • POWER

TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-107EY 1024MB SS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • • • TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-138EY 1024MB SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • • TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-107EY 2048MB DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • • • TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-138EY 2048MB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • • TAKEMS TMS2GB364D082-138EW 2048MB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • • UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2048MB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - - • • •

1024MB SS Micron 8FD22D9JNM - - • •

2048MB DS Micron 8DD22D9JNM - - • •

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

SEC 846 HCH9 K4B1G08460

SEC 913 HCH9 K4B1G0846E

K4B1G0846DHCH9(ECC)

SEC 913 HCH9 K4B1G0846E

K4B1G0846DHCH9(ECC)

SEC 904 HCH9 K4B1G0846D

- - • • •

support (Optional)

A* B* C*

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-15

DDR3-1066MHz capability

1.35V(low voltage)

DIMM socket support (Optional)

A* B* C*

• • •

Vendor Part No. Size

Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1024MB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • • • Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1024MB SS Micron 9HF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • • Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2048MB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • • • Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF 2048MB DS Micron 9GF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • • ELPIDA EBJ51UD8BAFA-AC-E 512MB SS Elpida J5308BASE-AC-E - - • • • ELPIDA EBJ51UD8BAFA-AE-E 512MB SS Elpida J5308BASE-AC-E - - • • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2048MB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1024MB SS Kingston D1288JEKAPGA7U 7 1.5V • • • KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2048MB DS Kingston D1288JEKAPGA7U 7 1.5V • • • Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1024MB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • • • Micron MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1 1024MB SS Micron 9HF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • • Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2048MB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • • • Micron MT18JSF25672AZ-1G1F1 2048MB DS Micron 9GF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CF8 1024MB SS Samsung

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2048MB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - • • • Elixir M2Y2G64CBHA9N-BE 2048MB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • • • Elixir M2Y2G64CBHC9N-BE 2048MB DS Elixir - - - • • •

Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-8500 2048MB DS Hynix

SS/DSChip

Brand

Chip NO. Timing Voltage

SEC 901 HCF8 K4B1G0846E

H5TQ1G83AFP G7C

- - • • •

- - • •

• AMD AM3 100 and 200 Series CPU support up to DDR3 1066 MHz.

• When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 MHz or

higher frequency DIMMs.

SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided DIMM support:

• A*: Supports one module inserted into any slot as single-channel memory conguration.

• B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as

one pair of dual-channel memory conguration.

• C*: Supports two pairs of modules inserted into both the blue slots and the black slots as

two pairs of dual-channel memory conguration.

Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-16

1.7.3 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.

Locked Retaining Clip

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:

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

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.

DIMM notch

DIMM slot key

DIMM notch

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-17

1.8 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.

1.8.1 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.

1.8.2 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.

1.8.3 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.

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots

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

comply with the PCI Express specications.

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard supports a PCI Express x16 graphics card that complies with the PCI

Express specications.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-18

1.9 Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (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 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 reenter

• 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 so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-19

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel ports

1. PS/2 Keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

2. Optical S/PDIF_OUT port.

an optical S/PDIF cable.

3. VGA port.

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

4. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4

2.0 devices.

5. LAN (RJ-45) port.

through a network hub.

LAN port LED indications

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

This port connects to an external audio output device via

. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB

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

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

SPEED

LED

6. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects to the center/subwoofer

speakers.

7. Rear Speaker Out port (black).

This port connects to the rear speakers in the

4, 6, and 8-channel audio congurations.

8. Line In port (light blue).

This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other

audio sources.

9. Line Out port (lime).

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

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

10. Microphone port (pink)

11. Side Speaker Out port (gray).

. This port connects to a microphone.

This port connects to the side speakers in the

8-channel audio conguration.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-20

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

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

Port

Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In

Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

Headset

2-channel

Ensure the audio device of sound playback is Realtek High Denition Audio (the name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio

Devices > Sound Playback to congure the settings.

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

12. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for

USB 2.0 devices.

13. IEEE 1394a port.

This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for

audio/video devices, storage peripherals, or portable devices.

14. eSATA port.

This port connects to an external Serial ATA hard disk drive.

To use hot-plug, set the type of this eSATA connector in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section

2.3.4 SATA Conguration for details.

15. DVI-D port. This port is for any DVI-D compatible device and is HDCP compliant

allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-ray, and other protected content.

16. HDMI port.

This port is for a High-Denition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector,

and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-ray, and other protected content.

Dual display output support

• This table indicates that whether the following dual display outputs are supported on

your motherboard:

Dual display outputs Supported Not supported

DVI + D-Sub •

DVI + HDMI •

• During POST, only the monitor connected to the D-Sub port has display. The dual

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-21

HDMI + D-Sub •

display function works only under Windows.

Playback of Blu-ray discs

• For better playback quality, we recommend that you follow the system requirements listed below.

Suggested list

CPU AMD® Phenom™ II x4 805

DIMM DDR3 1333 2G x 2

BIOS setup Frame Buffer Size – 256MB or higher

File format

Non-protected clips 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p

Blu-ray 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p

Windows® XP Windows® Vista

Best resolution

17. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for

USB 2.0 devices.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-22

1.10.2 Internal connectors

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

These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are

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

•

We recommend that you use an ATX 12V Specication 2.0-compliant power supply unit

(PSU) with a minimum of 300W power rating. This PSU type has 24-pin and 4-pin power plugs.

•

If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, ensure that the 20-pin power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 V and that the PSU has a minimum power rating of 300W. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

•

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 or when you intend to install additional 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.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-23

2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)

The onboard IDE connector is for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following

modes to congure your devices:

Drive jumper setting Mode of device(s) Cable connector

Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black

Cable-Select

Two devices

Master Master

Slave Slave

• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable.

• Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.

If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select”, ensure that all other device jumpers have the same setting.

Master Black

Slave Gray

Black or gray

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-24

3. AMD® SB850 Serial ATA Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA 1, SATA 2, SATA 3, SATA 5, SATA 6)

These connectors are for the Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can

create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 conguration through the onboard AMD®

SB850 controller.

• These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE 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 2.3.4 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 SP2 or later version.

• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the type of the SATA connectors in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section 2.3.4 SATA Conguration for details.

XP Service Pack 2 or later version before using Serial

4. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)

The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT is

standardized as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PC-compatible

computers.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-25

5. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

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 IDE_LED)

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.

• System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

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

• ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)

This connector is for the system power button.

• Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-26

6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112, USB1314)

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

480Mbps connection speed.

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

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

7. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)

The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

The serial port module is purchased separately.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-27

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

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port.

Ensure that the audio device of Sound playback is Realtek High Denition Audio (the

name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices > Sound Playback to congure the setting.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

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

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports

either High Denition Audio or 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 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 Select item in the BIOS to [HD Audio]. See section 2.5.3 Onboard Devices Conguration for details.

• The front panel audio I/O module is purchased separately.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-28

10. Power, CPU, and chassis fan connectors (3-pin PWR_FAN, 4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin 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.

Only the 4-pin CPU fan and chassis fan supports the ASUS FanXpert feature.

11. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1)

This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the motherboard.

The IEEE 1394a module is purchased separately.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-29

1.11 Onboard switch

Onboard switches allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case

system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance.

1. Core Unlocker switch

This switch allows you to unlock the extra cores of your CPU.

To ensure system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off.

• The O2LED1 LED near the Core Unlocker switch lights when the switch setting is turned

to Enable. Refer to section 1.12 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the O2LED1 LED.

• You may also press <4> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) or enable the

Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu to activate the Core Unlocker function.

• The system will use the last setting you have made.

• If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the in the BIOS menu follows the current setting of the Core Unlocker switch.

ASUS Core Unlocker item

ASUS

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-30

2. MemOK! switch

Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

• Refer to section 1.12 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.

• The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.

• The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows® OS environment.

• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed of the DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.

• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones recommended in the

Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.

• If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot and load BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.

• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-31

3. Turbo Key II switch

This switch allows you to auto-tune your CPU to enhance the system performance.

To ensure system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off.

• The O2LED2 LED near the Turbo Key II switch lights when the switch setting is turned

to Enable. Refer to section 1.12 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the O2LED2 LED.

• If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the related overclocking items in the BIOS menu follow the current setting of the Turbo Key II switch.

• If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the Turbo Key II function will be activated after the next system bootup.

• You may use the TurboV Auto Tuning, overclock in the BIOS setup program, and enable the Turbo Key II function at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-32

1.12 Onboard LEDs

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. DRAM LED

DRAM LED checks the DRAM in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found , the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 1-33

3. Turbo Key II LED

The Turbo Key II LED lights when the Turbo Key II switch is turned to Enable.

4. Core Unlocker LED

The Core Unlocker LED lights when the Core Unclocker switch is turned to Enable.

The Core Unlocker LED keeps on lighting even though the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu is set to [Disabled].

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-34

1.13 Software support

1.13.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® XP/Vista/7 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 Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.

1.13.2 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® Vista

Click an icon to display Support DVD/motherboard information

Click an item to install

If Autorun is NOT enabled on 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 M4A88TD-M EVO 1-35

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-36

Chapter 2 BIOS information

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 into the optical drive. The

2. Click the

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

Utilities tab, then click ASUS Update.

Drivers 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

ASUS Update to launch the ASUS Update utility.

2. From the dropdown list, select either of the following methods:

Updating from the Internet

a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.

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

Select

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

Next.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-1

desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUS Update >

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 Update BIOS from a le, then click Next.

b. Locate the BIOS le from the

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, then launch

EZ Flash 2 in either of these two ways:

• Press

• Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the

press <Enter> to enable it.

Press

<Alt> + <F2> during POST.

Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and

<Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS le is found.

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14

Current ROM

BOARD: M4A88TD-M EVO VER: 0303 (H:00 B:06) DATE: 02/23/2010

PATH: C:\

Note

[Ent er ] Sel ec t or Lo ad [T ab] S wi tch [V ] Dri ve I nfo [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [ESC] Exit

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

2. When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process

and automatically reboots the system when done.

2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS information

• 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!

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 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 removable device that contains the updated BIOS le.

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

M4A88TDM.ROM.

• 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.

• The removable devices that ASUS CrashFree BIOS support vary with motherboard

models. For motherboards without the oppy connector, prepare a USB ash disk before

using this utility.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the removable device that contains the

BIOS le to the USB port or to the oppy disk drive, if supported.

3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted BIOS le.

4. Turn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and turn on again.

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

Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.9 Exit menu for details.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 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.

• Do not save the BIOS le to a oppy disk due to low disk capacity.

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.

BIOS

Please select boot device:

SATA:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

CDROM:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

USB:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Network:XXXXXXXXXXXXX

↑ and ↓ to move selection

ENTER to select boot device

ESC to boot using defaults

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).

Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!

C:\>d:

D:\>

2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS information

Backing up the current BIOS

To backup the current BIOS le using the BIOS Updater

Ensure that the USB ash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save the le.

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[lename] and press <Enter>.

D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom

Filename Extension

The [lename] is any user-assigned lename with no more than eight alphanumeric

characters for the lename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.

2. The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.12 [09/11/19]

Current ROM

BOARD: M4A88TD-M EVO VER: 0303 (H:00 B:06) DATE: 02/23/2010

PATH: A:\

BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.

Note

Saving BIOS:

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-5

Updating the BIOS le

To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type

D:\>bupdater /pc /g

2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.12 [09/11/19]

bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.

Current ROM

BOARD: M4A88TD-M EVO VER: 0303 (H:00 B:06) DATE: 02/23/2010

PATH: A:\

Note

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit

M4A88TDM.ROM 2097152 2010-01-11 17:30:48

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

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.

Are you sure to update BIOS?

Yes No

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 1.04 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 Setup Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 2.9 Exit Menu.

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

disconnected them.

2-6 Chapter 2: BIOS information

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

• 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

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

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 that you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply to most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.9 Exit Menu.

• The BIOS setup screens in this chapter are for reference only. They may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

• Visit the ASUS website at motherboard.

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

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-7

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

Menu items

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Main Settings

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Tue 01/01/2002]

SATA1 :[Not Detected] SATA2 :[Not Detected] SATA3 :[Not Detected] E-SATA :[Not Detected] SATA5 :[Not Detected] SATA6 :[Not Detected]

SATA Conguration

System Information

Submenu items

Menu bar

Conguration elds

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

General help

Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to

select a eld.

Use [+] or [-] to

congure system

Time.

Select Screen

Select Item

Change Field

Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

Navigation keys

2.2.2 Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Ai Tweaker

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conguration

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tools For conguring options for special functions

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings.

To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted.

For changing the overclocking settings

2.2.3 Navigation keys

At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.

Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.

2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.2.4 Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,

selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Power, Boot, Tools, and Exit) on the menu bar have

their respective menu items.

2.2.5 Submenu items

A solid triangle before each item on a menu screen means that the item has a submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.

2.2.6 Conguration elds

These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- congurable, you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not user-congurable.

A congurable eld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 2.2.7 Pop-up

window.

2.2.7 Pop-up window

Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the

conguration options for that item.

2.2.8 Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that

do not t on the screen. Press the <Up> / <Down> arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page Down> keys to display the other items on

the screen.

Advanced

CPU Conguration

Module Version: 13.55 AGESA Version: 3.5.2.0

AMD Phenom(tm) II X4 945 Processor Revision: C2 Cache L1: 512KB Cache L2: 2048KB Cache L3: 6MB Speed : 3000MHz, NB Cl Able to Change Freq.: Yes uCode Patch Level: 0x1

GART Error Reporting [Disabled]

Microcode Updation [Enabled] Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled] Cool ‘n‘ Quiet [Enalbed]

C1E Conguration [Disabled]

Advanced Clock Calibration [Disabled]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Options Disabled

Enabled

Pop-up window

This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer may enable it for testing purpose.

Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

Scroll bar

2.2.9 General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.

Select Screen

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-9

2.3 Main menu

When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information.

Refer to section 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Main Settings

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Tue 01/01/2002]

SATA1 :[Not Detected] SATA2 :[Not Detected] SATA3 :[Not Detected] E-SATA :[Not Detected] SATA5 :[Not Detected] SATA6 :[Not Detected]

SATA Conguration

System Information

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to

select a eld.

Use [+] or [-] to

congure system

Time.

Select Screen

Select Item

Change Field

Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

Allows you to set the system time.

2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

Allows you to set the system date.

2.3.3 SATA 1/2/3/5/6, E-SATA,

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There is a separate submenu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.

The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor,

Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-congurable. These items show Not Detected if no SATA device is

installed in the system.

Type [Auto]

Selects the type of SATA drive. Setting this item to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the appropriate SATA device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specically conguring a CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120,

or MO drive. Conguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]

This item only appears in the SATA5/6 menus.

2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS information

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]

Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting this item to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode

disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]

Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When this item is set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multisector transfer feature. When this item is set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the

device occurs one sector at a time. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]

Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]

Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.

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

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.3.4 SATA Conguration

The SATA Conguration menu allows you to congure your storage devices. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]

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

The following two items only appear when you set OnChip SATA Channel to [Enabled].

SATA Port1 - Port4 [IDE]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

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

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

(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.

• When this item is set to [AHCI], the information of the SATA connectors 1–6 can be seen only under the OS environment or during POST.

• For Windows SATA connectors 1–6 in AHCI mode under the OS environment.

XP OS, you have to install the AHCI driver, so that you could use the

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-11

SATA Port5 - Port6 [IDE]

Setting this item to [IDE] instead of [RAID] or [AHCI] allows the system to recognize the

optical dirves connected to the SATA connectors 5 or 6 when installing OS.

If you use a SATA optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical dirve to the SATA connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode.

2.3.5 System Information

This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS

automatically detects the items in this menu.

BIOS Information

Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.

Processor

Displays the auto-detected CPU specication.

System Memory

Displays the auto-detected system memory.

2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS information

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 chapter vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Congure System Performance Settings

Target CPU Frequency: 3000MHz Target DRAM Frequency: 1333MHz

CPU Level UP [Auto]

-------------------------------------------------

CPU OverClocking [Auto] CPU Ratio [Auto] DRAM Frequency [Auto] CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] HT Link Speed [Auto] GPU OverClocking [Auto] OC Tuner Utility

DRAM Timing Conguration DRAM Driving Conguration

******* Please key in numbers directly! *******

CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset] CPU Offset Voltage 1.350 [Auto] CPU/NB Offset Voltage 1.100 [Auto]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Warning: this function belongs to overclocking, and it may cause instability. Select a CPU level, and the rest will be auto-adjusted. If you want to adjust more, set Ai Overclock Tuner to Manual after you select a CPU level.

←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item

+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

Scroll down to display the following items:

CPU VDDA Voltage 2.500 [Auto] DRAM Voltage 1.545 [Auto] HT Voltage 1.200 [Auto] NB Voltage 1.100 [Auto] NB 1.8V Voltage 1.800 [Auto] SB Voltage 1.100 [Auto] SidePort Memory Voltage 1.500 [Auto]

***********************************************

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

PCI/PCIe CLK Status [Enabled]

←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item

+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

2.4.1 CPU Level UP [Auto]

Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted

according to the selected CPU level. If you want to manually congure the settings in detail,

set CPU Overclocking to [Manual] after selecting a CPU level.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Phenom II-955] [Phenom II-3.4G] [Phenom II-3.6G]

• The conguration options vary depending on the CPU model you install on the

motherboard.

• The CPU Level UP function support depends on CPU types.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-13

2.4.2 CPU OverClocking [Auto]

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

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

Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system.

D.O.C.P

CPU Level UP

Overclock Prole Allows you to select an overclocking prole.

TestMode Allows you to set the overclocking parameter to 5%.

The conguration options for the following sub-items vary depending on the CPU/DIMMs

you install on the motherboard.

OC From CPU Level UP [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and allows you to select a CPU level. The related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level.

CPU/HT Reference Clcok (MHz) [XXX]

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the CPU Bus frequency. You can also key in the desired frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 550.

PCIE Frequency [XXX]

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and allows you to set the PCI Express frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the PCIE frequency. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 150.

DRAM O.C. Prole [DDR3-1600MHz]

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [D.O.C.P.] and allows

you to select a DRAM O.C. prole, which applies different settings to DRAM frequency, DRAM timing and DRAM voltage. Conguration options: [DDR3-1600MHz] [DDR3-1800MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3-2000MHz]

Prole Info : xxxxMHz–x-x-x-xx

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [D.O.C.P.] and displays

the current DRAM prole information. The prole information varies according to the DRAM

O.C. Prole you’ve selected.

Overclock Options [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [Overclock Prole] and allows you to select an overclocking prole. Conguration options: [Auto] [Overclock 2%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%] [Overclock 10%]

Allows you to select a DRAM O.C. prole, and the related parameters will be

adjusted automatically.

Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically.

2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.4.3 CPU Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.

2.4.4 DRAM Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency. The conguration options vary with the CPU Bus Frequency item settings.

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

2.4.5 CPU/NB Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU/NB frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz]

2.4.6 HT Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to select the HyperTransport link speed. Conguration options: [Auto] [200MHz] [400MHz] [600MHz] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz]

2.4.7 GPU OverClocking [Auto]

Allows you to congure the GPU overclocking settings. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

GPU Engine Clock [560]

This item appears only when you set the GPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and allows you to set the GPU Engine Clock. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 150 to 2000.

2.4.8 OC Tuner Utility

OC Tuner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM.

Press <Enter> to start auto tuning. It takes around ve minutes, and the system will reboot for

several times until auto tuning is completed.

2.4.9 DRAM Timing Conguration

The conguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs

you install on the motherboard.

DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] – [12 CLK]

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] – [12 CLK]

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-15

DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] – [12 CLK]

DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [15 CLK] – [30 CLK]

DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]

DRAM Row Cycle Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [11 CLK] – [41 CLK]

DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK]

DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]

DRAM READ to WRITE Delay [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] – [17 CLK]

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] – [10 CLK]

DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SD) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK]

DRAM WRITE to WRITE Timing [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] – [10 CLK]

DRAM READ to READ Timing [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] – [10 CLK]

DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [90ns] [110ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns]

DRAM Refresh Rate [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [Every 7.8ms] [Every 3.9ms]

DRAM Command Rate [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]

2.4.10 DRAM Driving Conguration

The conguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs

you install on the motherboard.

CKE drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x]

CS/ODT drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x]

2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS information

ADDR/CMD drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x]

MEMCLK drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x]

Data drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x]

DQS drive strength [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x]

Processor ODT [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [240 ohms +/- 20%] [120 ohms +/- 20%] [60 ohms +/- 20%]

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

2.4.11 CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset]

Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB Voltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item setting. Conguration options: [Offset] [Manual]

CPU Offset Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.500000V with a 0.006250V interval.

CPU/NB Offset Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU/NB Offset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to

0.500000V with a 0.006250V interval.

CPU Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Manual] and

allows you to set a xed CPU voltage.

CPU/NB Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Manual] and

allows you to set a xed CPU/NB voltage.

2.4.12 CPU VDDA Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU VDDA voltage. The values range from 2.50V to 2.80V with a 0.10V interval.

2.4.13 DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20000V to 2.44500V with a

0.01500V interval.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-17

2.4.14 HT Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the HyperTransport voltage. The values range from 1.20000V to 1.40000V with a 0.01000V interval.

2.4.15 NB Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Northbridge voltage. The values range from 1.10000V to 1.50000V with a 0.01000V interval.

2.4.16 NB 1.8V Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Northbridge 1.8V voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 1.90V with a

0.10V interval.

2.4.17 SB Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Southbridge voltage. The values range from 1.10V to 1.40V with a

0.10V interval.

2.4.18 SidePort Memory Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the SidePort memory voltage. The values range from 1.50V to 1.80V with a

0.10V interval.

• Setting the above voltages to a high level may damage the CPU, memory module, and chipset permanently. Proceed with caution.

• The system may require a better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.

2.4.19 CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU Load-Line mode.

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

2.4.20 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU/NB Load-Line mode.

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

2.4.21 PCI/PCIe CLK Status [Enabled]

Allows you to enable and disable clock for PCI/PCIe slot.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.5 Advanced menu

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

Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld

values can cause the system to malfunction.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Advanced Settings

CPU Conguration

Chipset

Onboard Devices Conguration

PCIPnP

USB Conguration

2.5.1 CPU Conguration

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

GART Error Reporting [Disabled]

This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer may

enable it for testing purpose. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Microcode Updation [Enabled]

Enables or disables Microcode Updation. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled]

Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM) Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]

Enables or disables the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology. Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

ACPI SRAT Table [Enabled]

Enables or disables the building of ACPI SRAT table. Conguration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled]

Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor. Select

[Disabled] to disable this function. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Congure CPU.

Select Screen

Select Item +- Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-19

C1E Conguration [Disabled]

Enables or disables the CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving function in system halt state. When this item is enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be reduced during the system halt state to decrease power consumption.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.2 Chipset

NorthBridge Conguration

DRAM Controller Conguration

Bank Interleaving [Auto]

Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Auto]

Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bit]

Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]]

Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]

Enables unused Clocks to DIMMs even though memory slots are not populated.

Conguraiton options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable memory remapping around memory hole.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DCT Unganged Mode [Auto]

Allows you to select the unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width).

Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]

Power Down Enable [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable DDR power down mode.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ECC Conguration

ECC Mode [Disabled]

Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct

memory errors automatically. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Basic] [Good] [Super]

[Max] [User]

Internal Graphics

Primary Video Controller [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI]

Allows you to set the primary display adapter. Conguration options: [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI]

[GPP-GFX0-IGFX-PCI] [PCI-GFX0-GPP-IGFX] [IGFX-GFX0-GPP-PCI]

2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS information

Internal Graphics Mode [UMA+SidePort]

Selects the internal graphics mode. Conguration options: [Disabled] [UMA] [SidePort]

[UMA+SidePort]

UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the Internal Graphics Mode item to [UMA] or

[UMA+SIDEPORT]. Conguration options: [Auto] [32MB] [64MB] [128MB] [256MB]

[512MB]

SidePort Clock Speed [DDR3-1333MHz]

This item appears only when you set the Internal Graphics Mode item to [SIDEPORT]

or [UMA+SIDEPORT]. Conguration options: [DDR3-1333MHz] [DDR3-1400MHz] [DDR3-1430MHz] [DDR3-1460MHz] ~ [DDR3-2000MHz]

UMA-SP Interleave Mode [Auto]

This item appears only when you set the Internal Graphics Mode item to [UMA+SIDEPORT].

Conguration options: [Auto] [Coarse] [Fine]

Surround View [Auto]

If you set the PCI Express device as the primary display and enable this item, you may use the internal graphics as the secondary display. This item appears only when you set the Internal Graphics Mode item to [UMA], [SIDEPORT], or [UMA+SIDEPORT].

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

When set to [Auto], only the primary display could be activated.

Frame Buffer Location [Above 4G]

Allows you to select the FB Location. Conguration options: [Below 4G] [Above 4G]

AMD HDMI Audio [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the AMD 880 HD Audio.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.3 Onboard Devices Conguration

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]

Selects the Serial Port1 base address. Conguration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]

Parallel Port Address [378]

Selects the Parallel Port base addresses. Conguration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]

Parallel Port Mode [Normal]

Selects the Parallel Port mode. Conguration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP + ECP]

Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]

Allows BIOS to select the Parallel Port IRQ. Conguration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]

HDAudio Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the high denition audio controller. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-21

Front Panel Select [HD Audio]

Selects the front panel type. Conguration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]

OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Enables or disables the Onboard LAN Boot ROM. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

OnBoard IDE Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard IDE controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

1394 Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard 1394 controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.4 PCIPnP

The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA

devices and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.

Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect eld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

Plug And Play O/S [No]

When this item is set to [No], BIOS congures all the devices in the system. When this item is set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system

congures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conguration options: [No] [Yes]

2.5.5 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

USB Functions [Enabled]

Enables or disables the USB functions. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Legacy USB Support [Auto]

Enables or disables support for Legacy USB storage devices including USB ash drives and

USB hard drives. Setting this item to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device

is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

[Auto]

USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]

Congures the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480Mbps) mode or FullSpeed (12Mbps) mode. Conguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]

2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS information

The following items only appear when a USB storage device is plugged in.

USB Mass Storage Device Conguration

USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]

Sets the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to initialize. Conguration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]

Emulation Type [Auto]

Allows you to set the emulation type. Conguration options: [Auto] [Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]

2.6 Power menu

The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Conguration and

Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Power Settings

Suspend Mode [Auto]

ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ACPI APIC support [Enabled]

APM Conguration HW Monitor Conguration

Anti Surge Support [Enabled] EuP Ready [Disabled]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.

Select Screen

Select Item +- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

2.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]

Selecta the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system suspend. Conguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]

2.6.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0 support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the

Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When this item is set to [Enabled], the

ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-23

2.6.4 APM Conguration

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]

When this item set to [Always Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When this item set to [Always On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When this item set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss.

Conguration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]

Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]

Enables or disables PME wake from sleep states. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]

Enables or disables ring to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Power on By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

Enables or disables PS/2 Keyboard to generate a wake event.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Power Key] [Ctrl - Esc]

Power on From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Enables or disables RTC to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

2.6.5 HW Monitor Conguration

CPU / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not want the detected temperatures to be displayed.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / Chassis / Power fan speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the

eld shows N/A. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xx.xxxV] or [Ignored]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want the detected voltage to be displayed.

CPU Q-Fan Function [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

2-24 Chapter 2: BIOS information

The following item appears only when you set CPU Q-Fan Function to [Enabled].

CPU Q-Fan Mode [Optimal]

[Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on

the CPU temperature.

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

Chassis Q-Fan Function [Disabled]

Enables or disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set Chassis Q-Fan Function to [Enabled].

Chassis Q-Fan Mode [Optimal]

[Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending on

the chassis temperature.

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

2.6.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Anti Surge support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.7 EuP Ready [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Energy Using Products (EuP) Ready function. [Enabled] Allows BIOS to switch off some power at S5 state to get system ready for

the EuP requirement. When set to [Enabled], power for WOL, WO_USB, audio and onboard LEDs will be switched off at S5 state.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-25

2.7 Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Boot Settings

Boot Device Priority

Boot Settings Conguration

Security

2.7.1 Boot Device Priority

1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx Drive]

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. Conguration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]

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

• To access Windows

• Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.

• Press <F8> after POST.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Species the Boot

Device Priority sequence.

A virtual oppy disk

drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the

rst boot device.

Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:

Select Screen

Select Item

2.7.2 Boot Settings Conguration

Quick Boot [Enabled]

Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When this item is set to [Disabled], BIOS

performs all the POST items. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

Enables or disables the full screen logo display feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.

AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]

Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]

2-26 Chapter 2: BIOS information

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Selects the power-on state for the NumLock. Conguration options: [Off] [On]

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]

Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]

When this item is set to [Enabled], the system displays the message Press DEL to run Setup during POST. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.7.3 Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

Change Supervisor Password

Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a Supervisor Password:

1. Select the

2. In the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters or numbers, or

both, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.

To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a supervisor password.

To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press

<Enter> twice. The message Password uninstalled appears.

Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.

If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 1.9 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.

User Access Level [Full Access]

This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Conguration options:

[No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]

No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility. View Only allows access but does not allow change to any eld. Limited allows changes only to selected elds, such as Date and Time. Full Access allows viewing and changing all the elds in the Setup utility.

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-27

Change User Password

Select this item to set or change the user password. 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

Change User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. In the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters or numbers, or

both, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password successfully.

To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.

Clear User Password

Select this item to clear the user password.

Password Check [Setup]

When this item is set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When this item is set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when

accessing Setup and booting the system. Conguration options: [Setup] [Always]

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.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Tools Settings

ASUS EZ Flash 2

Express Gate [Auto] Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds] Reset User Data [No]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility supports:

1.FAT 12/16/32 (r/w)

2.NTFS (read only)

3.CD-DISC (read only)

AI NET2

Select Screen

Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to

conrm your choice.

2-28 Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.8.2 Express Gate [Auto]

Enables or disables the ASUS Express Gate feature. ASUS Express Gate is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet and Skype.

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

Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]

Sets countdown duration that the system waits at the Express Gate’s rst screen before starting Windows or other installed OS. Choose [Prompt User] to stay at the rst screen of Express Gate for user action. Conguration options: [Prompt User]

[1 second] [3 seconds] [5 seconds] [10 seconds] [15 seconds] [20 seconds] [30 seconds]

Reset User Data [No]

Allows you to clear Express Gate’s user data. Conguration options: [No] [Reset]

When setting this item to [Reset], ensure to save the setting to the BIOS so that the user data will be cleared the next time you enter the Express Gate. User data includes the Express Gate’s settings as well as any personal information stored by the web browser (bookmarks, cookies, browsing history, etc.). This is useful in the rare case where corrupt settings prevent the Express Gate environment from launching properly.

The rst time wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate environment after

clearing its settings.

2.8.3 AI NET 2

Check Realtek LAN cable [Disabled]

Enables or disables checking of the Realtek LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test

(POST). Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO 2-29

2.9 Exit menu

Exit system setup after saving the changes.

F10 key can be used for this operation.

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Exit Options

Exit & Save Changes

Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes

Load Setup Defaults

Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Exit system setup after saving the changes.

F10 key can be used for this operation.

Exit & Save Changes

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

ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this

option, a conrmation window appears. Select OK to save changes and exit.

Exit & Discard Changes

Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup

program. If you made changes to elds other than System Date, System Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conrmation before exiting.

Discard Changes

This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conrmation appears. Select OK to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.

Load Setup Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation window appears. Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.

2-30 Chapter 2: BIOS information

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 Telephone +886-2-2894-3447 Fax +886-2-2890-7798

E-mail info@asus.com.tw

Web site www.asus.com.tw

Technical Support

Telephone +86-21-38429911 Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA Telephone +1-510-739-3777 Fax +1-510-608-4555 Web site usa.asus.com

Technical Support

Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany Fax +49-2102-959911 Web site www.asus.de Online contact www.asus.de/sales

Technical Support

Telephone (Component) +49-1805-010923 Telephone (System/Notebook/Eee/LCD) +49-1805-010920 Support Fax +49-2102-9599-11 Online support support.asus.com

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

* *

EC Declaration of Conformity

We, the undersigned,

Manufacturer:

ASUSTek COMPUTER INC.

Address, City:

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 : M4A88TD-M EVO

conform with the essential requirements of the following directives:

2004/108/EC-EMC Directive

EN 55022:2006+A1:2007

EN 61000-3-2:2006

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

EN 55024:1998+A1:2001+A2:2003

EN 61000-3-3:1995+A1:2001+A2:2005

EN 55020:2007

1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive

EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-05)

EN 300 440-1 V1.4.1(2008-05)

EN 300 440-2 V1.2.1(2008-03)

EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03)

EN 301 908-1 V3.2.1(2007-05)

EN 301 908-2 V3.2.1(2007-05)

EN 301 893 V1.4.1(2005-03)

EN 50360:2001

EN 50371:2002

EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1(2008-04)

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

EN 301 489-4 V1.3.1(2002-08)

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

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

EN 301 489-17 V1.3.2(2008-04)

EN 301 489-24 V1.4.1(2007-09)

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

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

2006/95/EC-LVD Directive

EN 60950-1:2001+A11:2004

EN 60950-1:2006

EN60065:2002+A1:2006

2005/32/EC-EuP Directive

Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008

EN 62301:2005

Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009

EN 62301:2005

CE marking

Declaration Date: Mar. 04, 2010

Year to begin affixing CE marking:2010

Position : CEO

Name : Jerry Shen

Signature : __________

(EC conformity marking)

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a)

Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont

, CA 94539.

hereby declares that the product

Product Name : Motherboard

Conforms to the following specifications:

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators

FCC Part 15, Subpart C, Intentional Radiators

FCC Part 15, Subpart E, Intentional 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.

Signature :

Date : Mar. 04, 2010

ASUS M4A88TD-M EVO USB3 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Notices

Safety information

About this guide

Chapter 1

Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

1.2 Package contents

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

1.4 Before you proceed

1.5 Motherboard overview

1.5.1 Placement direction

1.5.2 Screw holes

1.5.3 Motherboard layout

1.5.4 Layout contents

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan

1.7 System memory

1.7.1 Overview

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

1.8 Expansion slots

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card

1.8.3 PCI slot

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot

1.9 Jumpers

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel ports

1.10.2 Internal connectors

1.11 Onboard switch

1.12 Onboard LEDs

1.13 Software support

1.13.1 Installing an operating system

1.13.2 Support DVD information

Chapter 2

BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater

2.2 BIOS setup program

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

2.2.2 Menu bar

2.2.3 Navigation keys

2.2.4 Menu items

2.2.5 Submenu items

2.2.7 Pop-up window

2.2.8 Scroll bar

2.2.9 General help

2.3 Main menu

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Tue 01/01/2002]

2.3.3 SATA 1/2/3/5/6, E-SATA,

2.3.5 System Information

2.4 Ai Tweaker menu

This item appears only when you set the CPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and allows you to select a CPU level. The related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level.

This item appears only when you set the GPU OverClocking item to [Manual] and allows you to set the GPU Engine Clock. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 150 to 2000.

2.4.8 OC Tuner Utility

Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB Voltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item setting. Conguration options: [Offset] [Manual]

2.5 Advanced menu

2.5.2 Chipset

2.5.4 PCIPnP

2.6 Power menu

ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ACPI APIC support [Enabled]

2.7 Boot menu

2.7.1 Boot Device Priority

2.7.3 Security

2.8 Tools menu

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

2.8.3 AI NET 2

2.9 Exit menu