M4A88T-M/USB3
Motherboard
E5893
Second Edition V2
May 2010
Copyright © 2010 ASUSTeK Computer Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”)
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ii
Contents
Notices ......................................................................................................... vi
Safety information ..................................................................................... vii
About this guide ........................................................................................ vii
M4A88T-M/USB3 specications summary ............................................... ix
Chapter 1 Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-1
1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-1
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ............................................... 1-3
1.4 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-5
1.5 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-6
1.5.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 1-6
1.5.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 1-6
1.5.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-7
1.5.4 Layout contents ............................................................... 1-7
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-8
1.6.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 1-8
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ...................................... 1-10
1.7 System memory ......................................................................... 1-11
1.7.1 Overview ........................................................................1-11
1.7.2 Memory congurations .................................................. 1-12
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-16
1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-16
1.8 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 1-17
1.8.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-17
1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 1-17
1.8.3 PCI slot ......................................................................... 1-17
1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 1-17
1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot ..................................................... 1-17
1.9 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 1-18
1.10 Connectors ................................................................................. 1-19
1.10.1 Rear panel ports ........................................................... 1-19
1.10.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-21
iii
Contents
1.11 Onboard switches ...................................................................... 1-28
1.12 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................ 1-29
1.13 Software support ........................................................................ 1-30
1.13.1 Installing an operating system ...................................... 1-30
1.13.2 Support DVD information .............................................. 1-30
Chapter 2 BIOS information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1
2.1.1 ASUS Update .................................................................. 2-1
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............................................................ 2-2
2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ................................................ 2-3
2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 2-4
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 2-5
2.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 2-5
2.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 2-5
2.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 2-6
2.2.5 Submenu items ............................................................... 2-6
2.2.6 Conguration elds ......................................................... 2-6
2.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 2-6
2.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 2-6
2.2.9 General help ................................................................... 2-6
2.3 Main menu .................................................................................... 2-7
2.3.1 System Time ................................................................... 2-7
2.3.2 System Date ................................................................... 2-7
2.3.3 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA 1~6 ............................. 2-7
2.3.4 SATA Conguration ......................................................... 2-8
2.3.5 System Information ......................................................... 2-9
2.4 Advanced menu ........................................................................... 2-9
2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration .............................................. 2-9
2.4.2 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 2-12
2.4.3 Chipset .......................................................................... 2-14
2.4.4 Onboard Device Conguration ...................................... 2-15
2.4.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 2-16
2.4.6 USB Conguration ........................................................ 2-16
iv
Contents
2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-17
2.5.1 Suspend Mode .............................................................. 2-17
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 2-17
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 2-17
2.5.4 APM Conguration ........................................................ 2-17
2.5.5 HW Monitor Conguration ............................................. 2-18
2.5.6 Anti Surge Support ........................................................ 2-18
2.6 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-19
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-19
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 2-19
2.6.3 Security ......................................................................... 2-20
2.7 Tools menu ................................................................................. 2-21
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 2-21
2.7.2 Express Gate ................................................................ 2-22
2.7.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 2-22
2.7.4 AI NET 2........................................................................ 2-23
2.8 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-24
v
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference, and
• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://green.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
vi
Safety information
Electrical safety
•
To prevent 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 qualied 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 qualied service
technician or your retailer.
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring 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 toInformation to prevent injury to yourself when trying to
complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying toInformation 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.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
Bol d te xt Indicates a menu or an item to select.Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means
that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1>+<Key2>+<Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<D>
viii
M4A88T-M/USB3 specications summary
CPU AMD® Socket AM3 for AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /
Chipset AMD® 880G / SB710
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 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 connector
Audio VIA® VT1708S 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC
Sempron™ 100 series processors
Supports 45nm CPU
Supports CPU up to 140W
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 1866(O.C.)/1333/1066MHz
memory modules
* AMD AM3 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to
DDR3 1066MHz.
** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL
(Qualied Vendors List).
*** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more, Windows®
32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3GB.
Use a Windows® 64-bit operating system if you want to install
a total memory of 4GB or more on this motherboard.
Supports Dual-link DVI-D with maximum resolution up to
2560 x1600 @60Hz
Supports HDMI™ with maximum resolution up to 1920 x 1080
Supports D-Sub with maximum resolution up to
2048x1536 @85Hz
Supports dual independent displays
– D-Sub & HDMI
– D-Sub & DVI-D
Supports Microsoft® DirectX 10.1, OpenGL 2.0,
Shader Model 4.1, Universal Video Decoder (UVD) 2.0,
Hardware Decode Acceleration for H.264, VC-1, and MPEG-2
Maximum shared memory up to 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
6 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors support RAID 0, RAID 1,
RAID 10, and JBOD congurations
Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel
Jack-Retasking technologies (HD mode only)
Optical S/PDIF_OUT port at the back panel
(continued on the next page)
ix
M4A88T-M/USB3 specications summary
USB 2 x USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports (blue, at the back panel)
LAN Realtek® RTL8111E Gigabit LAN controller featuring AI NET 2
ASUS unique
features
ASUS overclocking
features
Other features 100% All High Quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors
10 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 4 ports at the
back panel)
ASUS Green Design
ASUS EPU-4 Engine
ASUS Hybrid OS
ASUS Express Gate
ASUS Exclusive Features
ASUS MemOK!
ASUS Core Unlocker
ASUS Anti-Surge Protection
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions
ASUS Fanless Design: Heatsink Solution
ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS O.C. Prole
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2
Intelligent overclocking tools
ASUS GPU NOS (not working in Hybrid CrossFireX mode)
ASUS TurboV
ASUS Turbo Key
ASUS Auto Tuning (Fast Mode only)
Precision Tweaker 2
vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.003125V increment
vChipset (N.B.): Adjustable chipset voltage at 0.01V increment
vDIMM: Adjustable DRAM voltage at 0.0150V increment
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)
HT frequency tuning from 200MHz to 550MHz at 1MHz
increment
PCIe frequency tuning from 100MHz to 150MHz at 1MHz
increment
Overclocking Protection:
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
(continued on the next page)
x
M4A88T-M/USB3 specications summary
Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port
Internal I/O connectors 3 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 connectors support additional
BIOS 16Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0,
Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE
Accessories 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 cable
Support DVD Drivers
Form factor MicroATX form factor: 9.6 in x 9.6 in (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)
1 x Optical S/PDIF_OUT port
1 x HDMI port
1 x DVI-D port
1 x D-Sub port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
2 x USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports (blue)
4 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports
8-channel audio I/O ports
6 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports
1 x IDE connector
1 x COM connector
1 x LPT connector
6 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x System panel connector
1 x S/PDIF_OUT connector
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Chassis fan connector
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
1 x MemOK! button
SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, ASUS EZ Flash 2,
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
2 x Serial ATA cables
1 x I/O shield
1 x User Manual
ASUS Utilities
Anti-Virus software (OEM version)
* Specications are subject to change without notice.
xi
xii
Chapter 1
Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M4A88T-M/USB3 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 M4A88T-M/USB3 motherboard
Cables 2 x Serial ATA cables
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 cable
Accessories 1 x I/O shield
Application DVD ASUS motherboard Support DVD
Documentation 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® AM3 Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 series
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-1
CPU 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 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.
HyperTransport™ 3.0 support
HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth
than HT1.0 that radically improves system efciency for a smoother and
faster computing environment.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology
This motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology which
monitors system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and
frequency for a cool and quiet operating environment.
DDR3 1866 (O.C.) support
The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer
rates of 1866 (O.C.)/1333/1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth
requirements of the latest operation system, 3D graphics, multimedia,
and Internet applications.
PCI Express 2.0 support
This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 devices for double speed
and bandwidth which enhances system performance.
S/PDIF digital sound ready
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home
theater audio systems via S/PDIF_OUT (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface)
jacks. The S/PDIF transfers digital audio without converting it to analog
format and keeps the best signal quality.
USB 3.0 support
Experience ultra-fast data transfer at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0 - the latest
connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next-generation
components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10x faster and is
also backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices.
Hybrid CrossFireX™ support
ATI Hybrid CrossFireX™ technology greatly boosts graphics performance
with an onboard GPU and a discrete GPU.
• Hybrid CrossFireX™ is supported by Windows® Vista / 7 OS only.
• Refer to www.amd.com for the discrete GPUs which support Hybrid CrossFireX™.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-2
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology and RAID support
This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA)
3Gb/s storage specications, delivering enhanced salability and doubling
the bus bandwidth for high-speed data saving and retrieval. It also
supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 0+1 congurations for Serial ATA
hard drives.
8-channel high denition audio
The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Denition Audio, previously
codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio
output and jack-detect feature that automatically detects and identies
what types of peripherals are plugged into the audio I/O jacks and noties
users of inappropriate connection, which means there will be no more
confusion of Line-in, Line-out, and Mic jacks.
HDMI support
HDMI (High-Denition 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.
HDMI/DVI/RGB support
This motherboard supports multiple digital and analog display output
interfaces - HDMI, DVI, and D-Sub. With such diversity of display outputs,
you are able to choose and upgrade display devices freely.
100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors
This motherboard uses high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for
durability, improved lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features
ASUS Express Gate
ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick
access to the Internet. Five seconds after powering on your computer,
you can instantly surf the Internet without entering the 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 conguration.
• ASUS Express Gate supports le uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and USB
drives. It supports le downloading to USB drives only.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
1 2
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 EZ Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 allows you to update the BIOS from a USB ash disk
before entering the OS.
ASUS EPU
ASUS EPU is a unique power saving technology that detects the current
system loadings and adjusts the power consumption in real time.
ASUS Core Unlocker
ASUS Core Unlocker simplies the activation of a latent AMD CPU with
just a simple click.
ASUS TurboV
Feel the adrenalin rush of real-time OC --- now a reality with the ASUS
TurboV. This easy OC tool allows you to overclock without exiting or
rebooting the OS, and its user-friendly interface makes overclocking easy
with just a few clicks away. The ASUS OC proles in TurboV provides the
best O.C. settings in different scenarios.
ASUS Auto Tuning
ASUS Auto Tuning is an intelligent tool that automates overclocking to
achieve a total system level up.
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.
ASUS Anti-Surge Protection
This special design prevents expensive devices and the motherboard
from damage caused by power surges from switching power supply
(PSU).
ASUS GPU NOS
ASUS GPU NOS technology intelligently detects graphics loading
and automatically boosts performance for the most demanding tasks.
It provides you with a faster reaction time for an excellent graphics
performance.
ASUS GPU NOS does not work in Hybrid CrossFireX mode.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-4
ASUS MyLogo 2™
Turn your favorite photos into 256-color boot logos to personalize your
system.
ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS Q-Fan technology intelligently adjusts CPU fan speeds according
to system loading to ensure a quiet, cool, and efcient operation.
ASUS AI NET 2
ASUS AI NET 2 remotely detects the cable connection immediately after
you turn on the system and any faulty cable connections are reported
back up to 100 meters at 1 meter accuracy.
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.
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.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-5
M4A88T-M/USB3
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
M4A88T-M/USB3
PCIEX16
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX1_2
PCI1
PRI_IDE
USB1112USB910USB78
AAFP
ATX12V
EATXPWR
CPU_FAN
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
Super
I/O
ICS
482A
KB_USB56
SPDIFO_
HDMI
16Mb
BIOS
SB_PWR
CLRTC
24.4cm(9.6in)
24.4cm(9.6in)
AMD
®
880G
AMD
®
SB710
DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
SOCKET AM3
DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)
AUDIO
LAN1_USB12
CHA_FAN
PANEL
SPDIF_OUT
LPT
COM1
MemOK!
DRAM_LED
SATA4
SATA5 SATA6
SATA1
SATA2 SATA3
3 51 12 4
14 12131516
6
2
8
7
9
10
11
DVI
VGA
VIA
VT1708S
RTL
8111E
NEC
USB 3.0
USB34
1.5.4 Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page
1. CPU and chassis fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN and 3-pin CHA_FAN)
2. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR,
4-pin ATX12V)
1-27 9. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) 1-23
1-22 10. Onboard power LED (SB_PWR) 1-29
3. AM3 CPU Socket 1-8 11. SATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) 1-24
4. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-11 12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-25
5. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 1-26 13. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-18
6. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT) 1-27 14. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910,
7. MemOK! button 1-28 15. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-24
8. DRAM LED 1-29 16. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-21
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-7
USB1112)
1-26
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 CPU Socket AM3
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, 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!
Socket lever
Small triangle
Gold triangle
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-8
5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket
CPU_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 CPU fan connector
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 M4A88T-M/USB3 1-9
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan
1
3
4
5
2
Ensure that you use only AMD-certied 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
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
DIMM_A2
DIMM_B2
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 M4A88T-M/USB3 1-11
1.7.2 Memory congurations
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 conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
• AMD AM3 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066 MHz.
• When overclocking, some AMD CPUs may not support DDR3 1600 or higher frequency
DIMMs.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- Install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit WindowsInstall a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows
OS.
- Use a 64-bit WindowsWindows® 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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3 1866 (O.C.) MHz capability
®
Vendor Part No. Size
Kingston KHX14900D3K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-27 • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. CL
A* B* C*
• Install the DDR3 1600 or higher frequency DIMMs on the blue slots for better
overclocking performance.
• When overclocking, some AMD CPUs may not support DDR3 1600 or higher frequency
DIMMs.
DDR3 1800 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendor Part No. Size SS/DSChip
Corsair CM3X2G1800C8D 2048MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package N/A • •
Kingston KHX14400D3K2/2G 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • •
Kingston KHX14400D3K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-27 • •
Kingston KHX14400D3K2/2GN(EPP) 4096MB(kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 •
Chip NO. CL DIMM support
Brand
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-12
A* B* C*
DIMM support
DDR3 1600 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendor Part No. Size
A-Data AD31600X002GMU 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-20 •
Corsair CM3X1G1600C9DHX 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-24 • • •
CRUCIAL BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
CRUCIAL BL12864BE2009.8SFB3(EPP) 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-28 • • •
Crucial BL25664TB1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 •
Crucial BL25664TG1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
Crucial BL25664TR1608.K16SF(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-24 • • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL8T-6GBHK 2048MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-21 • • •
G.SKILL F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-24 • • •
kingmax FLGD45F-B8KG9 1024MB SS kingmax KFB8FNGXF-ANX-12A N/A • • •
kingmax FLGE85F-B8KG9 2048MB DS kingmax KFB8FNGXF-ANX-12A N/A • • •
Kingston KHX12800D3LLK3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
Kingston KHX12800D3K2/4G 4096MB(kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-27 • • •
Kingston KHX12800D3LLK3/6GX(XMP) 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. CL
DIMM support
A* B* C*
DDR3 1333MHz capability
Vendor Part No. Size
A-Data AD31333001GOU 1024MB SS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0906 N/A • •
A-Data AD31333002GOU 2048MB DS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0903 N/A • •
Apacer 78.01GC6.9L0 1024MB SS Apacer AM5D5808AEWSBG0914E 9 • • •
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2048MB DS Apacer AM5D5808AEWSBG0908D 9 • • •
Corsair CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package N/A • •
Corsair CM3X1024-1333C9 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9 • • •
Corsair CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1024MB DS Corsair Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
CRUCIAL BL12864TA1336.8SFB1 2048MB(Kit of 2) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 6-6-6-20 • • •
Crucial MT8JTF12864AY-1G4D1 3072MB(Kit of 3) DS Micron 9FD22D9JNM 9 • • •
Crucial BL25664ABA1336.16SFB1 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 6-6-6-20 • • •
Crucial MT16JTF25664AY-1G4D1 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS Micron 8UD22D9JMN 9 • • •
G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK 1024MB SS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBPK 1024MB SS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
G.SkiLL F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-18 • • •
G.SkiLL F3-10666CL9T-3GBNQ 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-24 • • •
G.SKILL F3-10600CL7D-2GBPI 1024MB DS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ 1024MB DS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL9D-4GBPK 2048MB DS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
G.SkiLL F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-18 • • •
G.SKILL F3-1066CL9T-6GBNQ 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9-9-9-24 • • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. CL
DIMM support
A* B* C*
(continued on the next page)
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-13
DDR3 1333MHz capability
Vendor Part No. Size
GEIL DDR3-1333 CL9-9-9-24 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9 • • •
GEIL GV34GB1333C7DC 2048MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-24 • • •
GEIL DDR3-1333 CL9-9-9-24 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9 • • •
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/1G 1024MB SS elpida J1108BABG-DJ-E 9 • • •
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2048MB DS elpida J1108BABG-DJ-E 9 • • •
Micron MT8JTF12864AY-1G4D1 1024MB SS Micron 8LD22D9JNM N/A • • •
Micron MT16JTF25664AY-1G1D1 2048MB DS Micron 8LD22 D9JNM N/A • • •
Micron MT8JTF12864AY-1G4D1 3072MB(Kit of 3) DS Micron 9FD22D9JNM 9 • • •
Micron MT16JTF25664AY-1G4D1 6144MB(Kit of 3) DS Micron 8UD22D9JMN 9 • • •
OCZ OCZ3P13334GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-20 • • •
OCZ OCZ3P13334GK 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-20 • •
Samsung M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 N/A • •
SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS SAMSUNG
Samsung M378B2873EH1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung
Samsung M391B2873DZ1-CH9 1024MB SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 N/A • • •
Samsung M378B5673DZ1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 N/A • • •
Samsung M378B5673EH1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung
Samsung M391B5673DZ1-CH9 2048MB DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9 N/A • • •
Super Talent W1333X2GB8 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
Transcend
Transcend TS128MLK72V3U 1024MB SS N/A K4B1G0846D(ECC) N/A • • •
Transcend SEC816HCH9K4B1G0846D 2048MB DS N/A TS256MLK64V3U N/A • • •
Adata AD31333G002GMU 2048MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
ASint SLY3128M8-EDJ 1024MB SS ASint DDRII1208-DJ 0844 N/A • • •
ASint SLY3128M8-EDJ 2048MB DS ASint DDRII1208-DJ 0844 N/A • •
CENTURY
Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-10666 2048MB DS Samsung
Kingtiger KTG2G1333PG3 2048MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package N/A •
PATRIOT PSD31G13332H 1024MB DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 9 • • •
Patriot PSD31G13332 1024MB DS Patriot PM64M8D38U-15 N/A • •
Takems TMS1GB364D081-107EY 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-20 • • •
Takems TMS1GB364D081-138EY 1024MB SS N/A Heat-Sink Package 8-8-8-24 • • •
SEC 813HCH9
K4B1G0846D
PC3-10600 DDR3-1333
9-9-9
1024MB SS N/A TS128MLK64V3U N/A • • •
1024MB SS Micron 8FD22D9JNM N/A •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. CL
SEC 846 HCH9
K4B1G08460
SEC 913 HCH9
K4B1G0846E
SEC 913 HCH9
K4B1G0846E
SEC 904 HCH9
K4B1G0846D
DIMM support
A* B* C*
N/A • • •
N/A • • •
N/A • • •
N/A •
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-14
DDR3 1066MHz capability
Vendor Part No. Size
Elpida EBJ51UD8BAFA-AC-E 512MB SS elpida J5308BASE-AC-E N/A • • •
Elpida EBJ51UD8BAFA-AE-E 512MB SS elpida J5308BASE-AC-E N/A • • •
G.SKILL F3-8500CL6D-2GBHK 1024MB SS G.SKILL Heat-Sink Package N/A • • •
Kingston KVR1066D3N7/1G 1024MB SS elpida J1108BABG-DJ-E 7 • • •
Kingston KVR1066D3N7/1G 1024MB SS elpida J5308BASE-AE-E S 7 • • •
Kingston KVR1066D3N7/2G 2048MB DS elpida J1108BABG-DJ-E 7 • • •
Micron MT8JTF12864AY-1G1D1 1024MB SS Micron 8ED22D9JNL N/A • • •
Micron MT16JTF25664AY-1G1D1 2048MB DS Micron 8LD22D9JNL N/A • • •
OCZ OCZ3SOE10662GK 2048MB(Kit of 2) DS N/A Heat-Sink Package 7-7-7-16 • • •
Samsung M378B2873CZ0-CF8 1024MB SS Samsung K4B1G0846C-ZCF8 N/A • • •
Samsung M378B2873CZ0-CG8 1024MB SS Samsung K4B1G0846C-ZCG8 N/A • • •
Samsung M378B2873EH1-CF8 1024MB SS Samsung SEC 901 HCF8 K4B1G0846E N/A • • •
SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CF8 4096MB DS SAMSUNG 846 K4B2G0846B-HCF8 N/A • • •
Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-8500 2048MB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83AFP G7C N/A • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. CL
DIMM support
A* B* C*
SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided
DIMM support:
• A*: Supports one module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory conguration.
• B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as
one pair of Dual-channel memory conguration.
• C*: Supports two pairs of modules inserted into both the blue and the black slots as two
pairs of Dual-channel memory conguration.
Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-15
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.
To install a DIMM:
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.
2
DIMM notch
1
1
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. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends, then
insert the DIMM vertically into the socket.
Apply force to both ends of the DIMM
simultaneously until the retaining clip
snaps back into place, and the DIMM
cannot be pushed in any further to ensure
proper sitting of the DIMM.
Locked Retaining Clip
Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALLY to prevent DIMM notch damage.
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.
DIMM slot key
3
2
1
1
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-16
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 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure 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, conicts will arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
1.8.3 PCI slot
The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that
comply with PCI specications.
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 specications.
1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot
This motherboard supports a PCI Express x16 graphics card that complies with the PCI
Express specications.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-17
1.9 Jumpers
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 Clear RTC RAM
1 2 2 3
Normal
(Default)
Clear RTC
CLRTC
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 <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to reenter
data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
• 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-18
1.10 Connectors
5 6 7 8
910
1
15
2 3
14
4
1113
12
1.10.1 Rear panel ports
1. PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port. This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or mouse.
2. Optical S/PDIF_OUT port. This port connects to an external audio output device via
an optical S/PDIF cable.
3. VGA port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.
4. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)
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
ACT/LINK
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
5. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects to the center/subwoofer
speakers.
6. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects to the rear speakers in the
4, 6, and 8-channel audio congurations.
7. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other
audio sources.
8. Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4, 6 and
8-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.
9. Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects to the side speakers in the
8-channel audio conguration.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-19
Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in the 2, 4, 6,
or 8-channel conguration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration
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
4-channel 6-channel 8-channel
Ensure the audio device of sound playback is VIA High Denition Audio (the name may
be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices
> Sound Playback to congure the settings.
11. USB 2.0 ports. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 2.0
devices.
12. USB 3.0 ports. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 3.0
devices.
13. 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.
14. HDMI port. This port is for a High-Denition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector,
and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-ray, and other protected
content.
Dual display output support
Dual display outputs Supported Not supported
DVI + D-Sub •
DVI + HDMI •
HDMI + D-Sub •
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-20
Playback of Blu-ray discs
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 Front panel audio connector
AAFP
PIN 1
GND
PRESENCE#
SENSE1_RETUR
SENSE2_RETUR
PORT1 L
PORT1 R
PORT2 R
SENSE_SEND
PORT2 L
HD-audio-compliant
pin definition
PIN 1
AGNDNCNC
NC
MIC2
MICPWR
Line out_R
NC
Line out_L
Legacy AC’97
compliant definition
• For better playback quality, we recommend that you follow the system requirements
listed below.
Suggested list
CPU AMD® Phenom™ II x4 955
DIMM DDR3 1333
BIOS setup Frame Buffer Size – 256MB or higher
Playback software CyberLink® PowerDVD 9
File format
Non-protected clips 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p
Blu-ray 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p 1920 x 1080p
Windows® XP Windows® Vista Windows® 7
• To play Blu-ray discs, ensure to use HDCP compliant devices and software.
Best resolution
15. USB 2.0 ports. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 2.0
devices.
1.10.2 Internal connectors
1. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either High Denition 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-denition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard high-denition audio capability.
• If you want to connect a high denition front panel audio module to this connector, set
the Front Panel Select item in the BIOS to [HD Audio]. See section 2.4.4 Onboard
Device Conguration for details.
• The front panel audio I/O module is purchased separately.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-21
2. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 ATX power connectors
EATXPWR
PIN 1
GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND
-12 Volts
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts
+5V Standby
Power OK
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
ATX12V
PIN 1
+12V DC
+12V DC
GND
GND
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 Specication 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 conguring 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-22
3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)
M4A88T-M/USB3
PRI_IDE
NOTE:Orient the red markings
on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1.
PIN1
M4A88T-M/USB3 IDE connector
The onboard IDE connector is for Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable. There are three
connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect
the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following
modes to congure 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 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
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-23
4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6)
SATA5
GND
RSATA_TXP5
RSATA_TXN5
GND
RSATA_RXP5
RSATA_RXN5
GND
SATA6
GND
RSATA_TXP6
RSATA_TXN6
GND
RSATA_RXP6
RSATA_RXN6
GND
SATA4
GND
RSATA_TXP4
RSATA_TXN4
GND
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXN4
GND
SATA2
GND
RSATA_RXN2
RSATA_RXP2
GND
RSATA_TXN2
RSATA_TXP2
GND
SATA3
GND
RSATA_RXN3
RSATA_RXP3
GND
RSATA_TXN3
RSATA_TXP3
GND
SATA1
GND
RSATA_RXN1
RSATA_RXP1
GND
RSATA_TXN1
RSATA_TXP1
GND
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 SATA connectors
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 Digital audio connector
SPDIF_OUT
+5V
SPDIFOUT
GND
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk
and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA
1.5Gb/s specication. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the
standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133). If you install Serial ATA hard disk
drives, you can create RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, and JBOD congurations.
• Install the Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before using Serial ATA.
• If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA
Port1-Port4 and SATA Port5-Port6 items in the BIOS to [RAID]. See 2.3.4 SATA
Conguration for details.
• The motherboard does not provide a oppy disk drive connector. You could use a USB
oppy disk drive when installing Windows® XP operating system on a hard disk drive
included in a RAID/AHCI set.
• Due to Windows® XP limitation, Windows® XP may not recognize the USB oppy disk
drive.
• For more details on RAID/AHCI, refer to the RAID/AHCI Supplementary Guide included
in the folder named Manual in the support DVD.
5. 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 VIA High Denition Audio (the name
may be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio
Devices > Sound Playback to congure the setting.
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-24
6. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
M4A88T-M/USB3
PIN 1
* Requires an ATX power supply
PLED SPEAKER
PLED+
PLED-
+5V
Ground
Ground
Speaker
IDE_LED+
IDE_LED-
PWR
Ground
Reset
Ground
PANEL
IDE_LED PWRSW RESET
M4A88T-M/USB3 System panel connector
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.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 1-25
7. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112)
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 Serial port (COM1) connector
PIN 1
COM1
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 USB2.0 connectors
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P10-
USB_P10+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P9-
USB_P9+
GND
USB910
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P12-
USB_P12+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P11-
USB_P11+
GND
USB1112
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P8-
USB_P8+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
USB78
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 specication 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.
8. 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-26
9. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN and 3-pin CHA_FAN)
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 fan connectors
Rotation
+12V
GND
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 Parallel Port Connecto
r
PIN 1
LPT
SLCT
PE
BUSY
ACK#
PD7
PD6
PD5
PD4
PD3
PD2
PD1
PD0
STB#
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
SLIN#
INIT#
ERR#
AFD
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. Insufcient 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 supports the ASUS Q-Fan feature.
10. 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 M4A88T-M/USB3 1-27
1.11 Onboard switches
M4A88T-M/USB3
M4A88T-M/USB3 MemOK! 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. 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 (Qualied 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-28
1.12 Onboard LEDs
M4A88T-M/USB3
SB_PWR
ON
Standby Power Powered Off
OFF
M4A88T-M/USB3 Onboard Power LED
M4A88T-M/USB3
DRAM_LED
M4A88T-M/USB3 DRAM LED
1. Standby Power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the
system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should
shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any
motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard
power 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 M4A88T-M/USB3 1-29
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® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista
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 on your computer, the
DVD automatically displays the Specials screen which contains the unique feature of ASUS
motherboards. Click Drivers, Utilities, Make Disk, Manuals, Contact, and Specials tabs to
display their respective menus.
The following screen is for reference only.
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.
Click an icon to
display Support DVD/
motherboard information
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-30
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
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 Drivers menu appears.
2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS Update.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS
To update the BIOS:
1. From the Windows® desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUS Update >
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 trafc, or click Auto
Select then click Next.
c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you want to download then click
Next.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-1
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 <Alt> + <F2> during POST.
• Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and
press <Enter> to enable it.
Press <Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS le is found.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14
Current ROM
BOARD: M4A88T-M/USB3
VER: 0306 (H:00 B:05)
DATE: 05/06/2010
PATH: C:\
C:
Note
[ Ente r] Sel ect o r Lo ad [ Tab ] Sw itc h [V ] Dr ive In fo
[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 3
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS le
when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS
le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the BIOS le.
• Before using this utility, rename the BIOS le in the USB ash drive into
M4A88TMU.ROM.
• Download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB ash drive that contains the
BIOS le to the USB port.
3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS le and 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 2.8 Exit menu for
details.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-3
2.2 BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you
can update using the provided utility described in section 2.1 Managing and updating your
BIOS.
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconguring your
system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to congure your system
using this utility.
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the conguration of
your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or
change the power management settings. This requires you to recongure your system using
the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them
in the CMOS RAM of the SPI chip.
The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the computer,
the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the
Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test
routines.
Entering BIOS Setup at startup
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:
• Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,
POST continues with its routines.
Entering BIOS Setup after POST
To enter BIOS Setup after POST:
• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.
• Press the reset button on the system chassis.
• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you
failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force
reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We
recommend 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 2.8 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 www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this
motherboard.
2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen
Menu items
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Main Settings
System Time [19:34:30]
System Date [Thu 01/10/2002]
Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA5 :[Not Detected]
SATA6 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
Menu bar
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
Conguration elds
General help
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system
Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
Change Field
+-
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Submenu items
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 conguration
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conguration
Boot For changing the system boot conguration
Tools For conguring 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.
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.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-5
2.2.4 Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (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 Conguration elds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- congurable, you can
change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-congurable.
A congurable 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
conguration 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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Advanced
CPU Conguration
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 Conguration [Disabled]
Advanced Clock Calibration [Disabled]
Options
Disabled
Enabled
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
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
2-6 Chapter 2: BIOS information
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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Main Settings
System Time [19:34:30]
System Date [Thu 01/10/2002]
Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA5 :[Not Detected]
SATA6 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system
Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
Change Field
+-
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
2.3.3 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA 1~6
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE/SATA devices.
There is a separate submenu for each IDE/SATA device. Select a device item then press
<Enter> to display the IDE/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-congurable. These items show Not Detected if no IDE/SATA device is
installed in the system.
Type [Auto]
Selects the type of IDE/SATA drive. Setting this item to [Auto] allows automatic selection of
the appropriate IDE/SATA device type. Select [CDROM] if you are specically conguring a
CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a
ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive. Conguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]
This item only appears in the Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA5/6 menus.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-7
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. Conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.3.4 SATA Conguration
The SATA Conguration menu allows you to congure your storage devices. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]
Enables or disables OnChip SATA Channel. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following two items only appear when you set OnChip SATA Channel to [Enabled].
SATA Port1-Port4 [IDE]
Sets the SATA 1~4 type. Conguration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]
When this item is set to [IDE], SATA 5~6 can only be set to [IDE].
SATA Port5-Port6 [IDE]
Set the SATA 5~6 type. Conguration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]
When this item is set to [AHCI], SATA 5~6 can only be used under OS with AHCI driver
installed. Set this item to [IDE] to use SATA 5~6 before entering OS.
2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.3.5 System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS
automatically detects the items in this menu.
BIOS Information
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specication.
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory.
2.4 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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Advanced Settings
JumperFree Conguration
CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Conguration
PCIPnP
USB Conguration
Adjust System
Frequency/Voltage etc.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration
The items and conguration options in this menu may vary depending on the AMD CPU
type.
CPU OverClocking [Auto]
Selects the CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency.
Conguration options: [Manual] [Auto] [Overclock Prole] [Test Mode][Manual] [Auto] [Overclock Prole] [Test Mode][Auto] [Overclock Prole] [Test Mode]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-9
The following item only appears when you set CPU OverClocking to [Manual].
CPU/HT Reference Clock (MHz) [200]
Sets the CPU/HT Reference Clock. Conguration options: [Min.=200] [Max.=550]
The following item only appears when you set CPU Overclocking to [Overclock Prole].
Overclock Options [Auto]
Selects the overclocking prole. Conguration options: [Auto] [Overclock 2%]
[Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%] [Overclock 10%]
GPU OverClocking [Auto]
Sets the GPU overclocking. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item only appears when you set GPU OverClocking to [Manual].
GPU Engine Clock [700]
Sets the GPU Engine Clock. Conguration options: [Min.=200] [Max.=2000]
PCIE Overclocking [Auto]
Sets the PCIE overclocking. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item only appears when you set PCIE Overclocking to [Manual].
PCIE Clock [100]
Sets the PCIE Clock. Conguration options: [Min.=100] [Max.=150]
Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]
Sets the processor frequency multiplier. Conguration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800MHz]
[x4.5 900MHz] [x5.0 1000MHz] ~ [x15.0 3000MHz]
CPU/NB Frequency [Auto]
Sets CPU/NB frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [4.00x] [5.00x] ~ [10.00x]
CPU Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the CPU over voltage. The value range depends on the CPU installed. Key in the value
directly or use +/- to adjust the voltage. Conguration options: [Auto]
VDDNB Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the VDDNB over voltage. The value range depends on the CPU installed. Key in the
value directly or use +/- to adjust the voltage. Conguration options: [Auto]
LoadLine Calibration [Auto]
Sets LoadLine. The value ranges from 0% to 100% with a 3.225% increment. Use the <+> /
<-> keys to adjust the value. Conguration options: [Auto] [Max. = 100%] [Min. = 0%]
2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS information
HT Link Frequency [Auto]
Sets the HyperTransport link speed. Conguration options: [200MHz] [400MHz] [600MHz] ~
[2000MHz] [Auto]
HT Link Width [Auto]
Sets the HyperTransport link width. Conguration options: [Auto] [8 Bit] [16 Bit]
HT Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the HT over voltage. The value ranges from 1.20000V to 1.40000V with a 0.01000V
increment. Key in the value directly or use +/- to adjust the voltage.
DRAM Frequency [Auto]
Sets the DRAM frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [800MHz] [1067MHz] [1333MHz]
[1600MHz]
DRAM Timing Mode [Manual]
Sets the DRAM timing mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following sub-items appear only when you set the DRAM Timing Mode item to
[Manual].
TCL [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
TRCD [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
TRP [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
tRTP [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] ~ [7 CLK]
TRAS [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [15 CLK] ~ [30 CLK]
TRC [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [11 CLK] ~ [41 CLK]
tWR [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [12 CLK]
TRRD [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] ~ [7 CLK]
tRWTTO [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [17 CLK]
tWRRD [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
tWTR [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] ~ [7 CLK]
tWRWR [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-11
tRDRD [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [10 CLK]
tRFC0/1/2/3 [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [90ns] [110ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns]
Memory Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the memory over voltage. The value ranges from 1.2000V to 2.4450V with a 0.0150V
increment. Use the <+> / <-> keys to adjust the value.
Chipset Over Voltage [Auto]
Sets the chipset over voltage. The values range from 1.10000V to 1.73000V with a 0.01000V
increment. Use the <+> / <-> keys to adjust the value.
2.4.2 CPU Conguration
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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Enables or disables Microcode Updation. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM) Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]
Enables or disables the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology. Conguration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
C1E Support [Enabled]
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.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Advanced Clock Calibration [Disabled]
Adjusts the processor’s overclocking capability. Select [Auto] to allow the BIOS automatically
adjusts this function. Select [All Cores] to congure all the processor cores as a whole.
Select [Per Core] to congure each processor core separately. Conguration options:
[Disabled] [Auto] [All Cores] [Per Core]
The following items only appear when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [Auto],
[All Cores], or [Per Core].
Unleashing Mode [Disabled]
Enable the Unleashing Mode to get full computing power of the processor. However,
this might make your system unstable depending on your processor’s overclocking
capability. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Active CPU Cores [Auto]
Allows you to manually turn ON/OFF a process core. Conguration options: [Auto]
[Manual]
2nd / 3rd / 4th Core [On]
These items only appear when you set Active CPU Cores to [Manual].
Conguration options: [On] [Off]
Value (All Cores) [-2%]
This item only appears when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [All Cores]. It
allows you to set the overclocking percentage for all the processor cores as a whole.
Conguration options: [0%] [+2%] [+4%] [+6%] [+8%] [+10%] [+12%] [-2%] [-4%][-2%] [-4%]
[-6%] [-8%] [-10%] [-12%]
Value (Core 0) / (Core 1) / (Core 2) / (Core 3) [-2%]
These items only appear when you set Advanced Clock Calibration to [Per Core]
and allow you to set the overclocking percentage for each process core separately.
Conguration options: [0%] [+2%] [+4%] [+6%] [+8%] [+10%] [+12%] [-2%] [-4%]
[-6%] [-8%] [-10%] [-12%]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-13
2.4.3 Chipset
NorthBridge Conguration
Memory Conguration
Bank Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Auto]
Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]]
Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving.
Conguration 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.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Enables or disables MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Enables or disables memory remapping around memory hole.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
DCT Unganged Mode [Always]
Enables or disables the unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width).
Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]
Power Down Enable [Disabled]
Enables or disables the DDR power down mode. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
ECC Conguration
ECC Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct
memory errors automatically. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Basic] [Good] [Super]
[Max] [User]
Internal Graphics
Primary Video Controller [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI]
Allows you to set the primary video controller. Conguration options: [GFX0-GPP-IGFX-PCI]
[GPP-GFX0-IGFX-PCI] [PCI-GFX0-GPP-IGFX] [IGFX-GFX0-GPP-PCI]
GFX0: primary video controller on a PCIe x16 slot
GPP: primary video controller on a PCIe x1 slot
IGFX: onboard VGA port
PCI: primary video controller on a PCI slot
Internal Graphics Mode [UMA]
Selects the internal graphics mode. Conguration options: [Disabled] [UMA]
UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto]
Conguration options: [Auto] [32MB] [64MB] [128MB] [256MB] [512MB]
2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Surround View [Auto]
This item is not user-congurable.
This item becomes user-congurable when you install an ATI graphics card into the
PCIe x16 slot.
Frame Buffer Location [Above 4G]
Conguration options: [Below 4G] [Above 4G]
AMD 880 HDMI Audio [Enabled]
Enables or disables AMD 880 HD audio. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
2.4.4 Onboard Device Conguration
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Selects the Serial Port1 base address. Conguration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4]
[2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
Parallel Port Address [378]
Selects the Parallel Port base addresses. Conguration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]
Selects the Parallel Port mode. Conguration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]
Allows BIOS to select the Parallel Port IRQ. Conguration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]
HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the high denition audio controller. Conguration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
Selects the front panel type. Conguration options: [HD Audio] [AC97]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Enables or disables the Onboard LAN Boot ROM. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
USB3.0 Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the USB 3.0 controller. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-15
2.4.5 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 congures 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
congures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conguration options: [No] [Yes]
2.4.6 USB Conguration
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the USB 2.0 controller. Conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
Congures the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480Mbps) mode or FullSpeed (12Mbps)
mode. Conguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]
The following items only appear when a USB storage device is plugged in.
USB Mass Storage Device Conguration
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]
Sets the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to initialize.
Conguration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]
Emulation Type [Auto]
Allows you to set the emulation type. Conguration options: [Auto] [Floppy]
[Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]
2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.5 Power menu
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Conguration and
Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Power Settings
Suspend Mode [Auto]
ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ACPI APIC support [Enabled]
APM Conguration
HW Monitor Conguration
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
Selecta the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system
suspend. Conguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0 support.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.4 APM Conguration
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
When this item set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
When this item set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss.
Conguration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]
Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Enables or disables PME wake from sleep states. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Enables or disables ring to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-17
Power on From S5 By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
Enables or disables PS/2 keyboard to generate a wake event.
Conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.5 HW Monitor Conguration
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/Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / Chassis 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.
Smart Q-FAN Function [Enabled]
Enables or disables the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the CPU fan speed for
more efcient system operation. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage [5.0V]
Allows you to set the CPU fan’s starting voltage. Conguration options: [4.0V] [4.5V] [5.0V]
[5.5V] [6.0V]
Fan Auto Mode Start Speed Temp [25ºC]
Allows you to set the CPU temperature threshold at which the CPU fan starts to run.
Conguration options: [25ºC] [26ºC] [27ºC] ~ [47ºC] [48ºC]
Fan Auto Mode Full Speed Temp [55ºC]
Allows you to set the CPU temperature threshold at which the CPU fan starts to run at full
speed. Conguration options: [51ºC] [52ºC] [53ºC] ~ [74ºC] [75ºC]
2.5.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Anti Surge function. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.6 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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Boot Settings
Boot Device Priority
Boot Settings Conguration
Security
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.6.1 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. Conguration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive]
[ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]
• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.
• To access Windows® OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:
• Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.
• Press <F8> after POST.
Species 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.
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration
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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
Enables or disables the full screen logo display feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-19
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Selects the power-on state for the NumLock. Conguration 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. Conguration 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.6.3 Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the conguration 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 Change Supervisor 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. Conrm the password when prompted.
The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.
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. Conguration 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.
2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS information
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. Conrm 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. Conguration options: [Setup] [Always]
2.7 Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
ASUS EZ Flash 2
Express Gate [Auto]
Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]
Reset User Data [No]
ASUS O.C. Prole
AI NET2
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)
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
conrm your choice.
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-21
2.7.2 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.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [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. Conguration 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. Conguration 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.
2.7.3 ASUS O.C. Prole
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
Tools
O.C. PROFILE Conguration
O.C. Prole 1 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 2 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 3 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 4 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 5 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 6 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 7 Status : Not Installed
O.C. Prole 8 Status : Not Installed
Status:
Add Your CMOS Prole.
Name: [Default-Prole]
Save To: [Uninstalled]
Load CMOS Proles.
Load From: [Blank]
Start O.C. Prole
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
Typing your prole
name, [0-9][a-z][A-Z]
are acceptable.
←→ Select Screen
↑↓ Select Item
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Add Your CMOS Prole
Allows you to save the current BIOS le to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, key in
your prole name and press <Enter>, and then choose a prole number to save your CMOS
settings in the Save to sub-item.
Load CMOS Proles.
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to
load the le.
2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Start O.C. Prole
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility.
ASUSTek O.C. Prole Utility V2.14
Current CMOS
BOARD: M4A88T-M/USB3
VER: 0306 (H:00 B:05)
DATE: 05/06/2010
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit
Restore CMOS
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
• This function can support devices such as a USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and
single partition only.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system
boot failure!
• We recommend that you update the BIOS le only coming from the same memory/CPU
conguration and BIOS version.
• Only the CMO le can be loaded.
2.7.4 AI NET 2
Check Realtek LAN cable [Disabled]
Enables or disables checking of the Realtek LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test
(POST). Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS M4A88T-M/USB3 2-23
2.8 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.
M4A88T-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0306
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.
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 conrmation 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 conrmation 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 conrmation 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 conrmation 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.
Exit system setup
after saving the
changes.
F10 key can be used
for this operation.
2-24 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.
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 : Apr. 21, 2010
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 : M4A88T-M/USB3
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 62311:2008
EN 50385:2002
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)
EN 301 357-2 V1.3.1(2006-05)
2006/95/EC-LVD Directive
EN 60950-1:2001+A11:2004
EN 60950-1:2006
EN60065:2002+A1:2006
EN 60950-1:2006+A11:2009
2009/125/EC-ErP Directive
Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008
EN 62301:2005
Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009
EN 62301:2005
Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009
EN 62301:2005
CE marking
Declaration Date: Apr. 21, 2010
Year to begin affixing CE marking:2010
Position : CEO
Name : Jerry Shen
Signature : __________
(
EC conformit
y
markin
g)
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