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Asus M4A88TD-V EVO User Manual

Asus M4A88TD-V EVO
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Motherboard
M4A88TD-V EVO
E5889_M4A88TD-V EVO_Contents V2.1 1 5/26/10 4:03:13 PM

Table of Contents

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Asus M4A88TD-V EVO Specifications

General IconGeneral
SocketAM3
ChipsetAMD 880G
Memory Slots4
Memory TypeDDR3
Max Memory16GB
Memory StandardDDR3 2000(O.C.)/1333/1066
PCI Express x162
PCI Express x11
PCI Slots2
SATA 3Gb/s5
SATA 6Gb/s1
USB 2.0 Ports12
USB 3.0 Ports2
Form FactorATX
Onboard VideoATI Radeon HD 4250
Onboard LANRealtek 8111E Gigabit LAN
CrossFire SupportYes
Onboard AudioRealtek ALC892
RAID SupportRAID 0, 1, 10

Summary

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

FCC compliance statement for the device, outlining operational conditions and interference rules.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

Canadian compliance statement for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus.

REACH

Environmental and chemical compliance information, including disposal guidelines for electronic waste.

Safety information

Electrical safety

Precautions for safe electrical handling and operation of the system and motherboard.

Operation safety

Guidelines for safe operation, handling, and environmental considerations for the motherboard.

About this guide

How this guide is organized

Explains the structure and content of the user guide for installing and configuring the motherboard.

Where to find more information

Lists sources for additional product and software updates, including ASUS websites.

Conventions used in this guide

Typography

Explains text formatting conventions like bold text, italics, and key notation used in the manual.

M4A88TD-V EVO specifications summary

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Welcomes the user and introduces the ASUS M4A88TD-V EVO motherboard.

1.2 Package contents

Lists all items included in the motherboard package to check for completeness.

1.3.1 Product highlights

Details the main features like CPU support, chipset, and memory capabilities.

1.3.2 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid Processor*

Describes the ASUS Xtreme Design features, including TurboV EVO for overclocking.

1.3.3 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid Switches*

Details ASUS Xtreme Design features such as Turbo Key II and Core Unlocker.

1.3.4 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid OS

Explains the ASUS Xtreme Design with Hybrid OS (Express Gate) for quick system access.

1.3.5 ASUS unique features

Lists unique ASUS features like Power Solutions, EPU, and MemOK!.

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed

Important precautions before installing components or changing motherboard settings.

2.2 Motherboard overview

Provides an overview of the motherboard layout and its main components.

2.2.1 Motherboard layout

Shows a diagram of the motherboard with labels for all key components and connectors.

2.2.2 Layout contents

Lists and describes the connectors, jumpers, and slots found on the motherboard.

2.2.3 Placement direction

Instructions on how to orient the motherboard correctly when installing it into a chassis.

2.2.4 Screw holes

Indicates the locations for securing the motherboard to the chassis using screws.

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Information about the CPU socket and the process of installing a CPU.

2.3.1 Installing the CPU

Step-by-step guide for correctly installing a CPU into the motherboard socket.

2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan

Instructions for securely installing the CPU heatsink and fan assembly.

2.4 System memory

Details about the motherboard's DDR3 DIMM sockets and memory installation.

2.4.1 Overview

Overview of the DDR3 DIMM sockets and their recommended configurations.

2.4.2 Memory configurations

Guidance on installing memory modules for optimal compatibility and performance.

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM

Step-by-step guide for installing a memory module into a DIMM socket correctly.

2.4.4 Removing a DIMM

Step-by-step guide for safely removing a memory module from a DIMM socket.

2.5 Expansion slots

Information on various expansion slots like PCI and PCI Express.

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card

Steps for installing an expansion card into an available slot on the motherboard.

2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card

How to adjust software settings and drivers after installing an expansion card.

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments

Details IRQ assignments for motherboard devices and expansion slots.

2.5.4 PCI slots

Describes the function and usage of standard PCI slots for add-on cards.

2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

Details the PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot for high-speed network or other cards.

2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots

Describes the PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots, typically used for graphics cards.

2.6 Jumper

Explains the function and usage of the Clear RTC RAM jumper for CMOS reset.

2.7 Onboard switches

Describes the function of onboard switches for performance tuning and system control.

1. Turbo Key II switch

Details the Turbo Key II switch for auto-tuning CPU performance.

2. MemOK! switch

Explains the MemOK! switch for automatic memory compatibility tuning.

3. Core Unlocker switch

Details the Core Unlocker switch for activating additional CPU cores.

2.8 Connectors

Overview of various connectors on the motherboard for system components.

2.8.1 Rear panel connectors

Identifies and describes the rear panel I/O ports for external connectivity.

2.8.2 Audio I/O connections

Explains how to connect audio devices to the motherboard's audio ports.

2.8.3 Internal connectors

Details internal connectors for system components like IDE, SATA, and USB headers.

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

Describes the serial port connector for connecting legacy COM devices.

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

Describes the IEEE 1394a port connector for high-speed data transfer devices.

5. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78; USB910; USB1112; USB1314)

Details the USB 2.0 connectors and their pin assignments for front panel connections.

6. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors

Explains the motherboard's fan connectors for CPU, chassis, and power supply.

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

Describes the digital audio connector for S/PDIF output.

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

Describes the front panel audio connector for HD Audio or AC'97 standards.

9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)

Details the ATX power connectors and recommended PSU requirements.

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

Explains the system panel connector for chassis functions like power and HDD LEDs.

2.8.4. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)

Introduces the ASUS Q-Connector for simplifying front panel cable connections.

2.9 Onboard LEDs

Explains the function of onboard LEDs for indicating system status.

1. Standby Power LED

Describes the standby power LED status indication.

2. DRAM LED

Describes the DRAM LED for diagnosing memory-related boot issues.

3. Turbo Key II LED

Describes the Turbo Key II LED status indicator.

4. Core Unlocker LED

Describes the Core Unlocker LED status indicator.

2.10 Starting up for the first time

Guide for the initial system startup process and power-on self-tests (POST).

2.11 Turning off the computer

Instructions on how to properly shut down the computer from the system.

Chapter 3: BIOS setup

3.1 Knowing BIOS

Basic introduction to BIOS, its role in system configuration, and when to change defaults.

3.2 Updating BIOS

Explains the importance and methods of updating the motherboard BIOS for enhancements.

3.2.1 ASUS Update utility

Details the ASUS Update utility for managing, saving, and updating the BIOS in Windows.

3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility

Guide for updating the BIOS using the ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility via USB flash drive.

3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

Explains how to restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or USB drive.

3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater

Details the ASUS BIOS Updater utility for updating and backing up BIOS in DOS environment.

3.3 BIOS setup program

Overview of entering and navigating the BIOS setup utility for item modification.

3.3.1 BIOS menu screen

Shows the typical layout of the BIOS menu screen with its components.

3.3.2 Menu bar

Explains the main menu items available in the BIOS setup utility.

3.3.3 Navigation keys

Describes the keys used for navigating within the BIOS setup screens.

3.3.4 Menu items

Explains how menu items are displayed and selected in the BIOS.

3.3.5 Submenu items

Describes how submenu items are indicated with a triangle and accessed.

3.3.6 Configuration fields

Explains user-configurable fields in the BIOS and how to change values.

3.3.7 Pop-up window

Describes pop-up windows used for selecting configuration options within the BIOS.

3.3.8 Scroll bar

Explains the use of scroll bars in BIOS screens for navigating content.

3.3.9 General help

Indicates where to find general help information for selected items in the BIOS.

3.4 Main menu

Overview of the main BIOS screen, displaying basic system information.

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

Configuration for SATA and E-SATA devices, showing detected device information.

3.4.2 SATA Configuration

Detailed settings for configuring SATA storage devices, including RAID and AHCI modes.

3.4.3 System Information

Displays detailed system specifications like CPU, BIOS, and memory info.

3.5 Ai Tweaker menu

Menu for configuring overclocking-related items, including CPU and DRAM settings.

3.5.1 CPU Level UP [Auto]

Feature to easily overclock the CPU by selecting a predefined performance level.

3.5.2 CPU OverClocking [Auto]

Options for manual and automatic CPU overclocking, including frequency and voltage.

3.5.3 CPU Ratio [Auto]

Setting the CPU multiplier (ratio) for adjusting CPU core clock speed.

3.5.4 DRAM Frequency [Auto]

Adjusting the DDR3 memory frequency for optimizing system performance.

3.5.5 CPU/NB Frequency [Auto]

Setting the frequency for the CPU/NB (Northbridge) link.

3.5.6 HT Link Speed [Auto]

Configuring the HyperTransport link speed for better system connectivity.

3.5.7 GPU Booster [Enabled]

Feature for overclocking the integrated GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

3.5.8 OC Tuner Utility

Utility for automatic overclocking of CPU and DRAM frequencies and voltages.

3.5.9 DRAM Timing Configuration

Advanced settings for fine-tuning DRAM timings for performance optimization.

3.5.10 DRAM Driving Configuration

Settings for adjusting DRAM drive strength parameters.

3.5.11 CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset]

Configuring CPU and Northbridge voltage modes (Offset or Manual).

3.5.12 CPU VDDA Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the CPU VDDA voltage for system stability.

3.5.13 DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the DRAM voltage for overclocking or stability.

3.5.14 HT Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the HyperTransport voltage for system stability.

3.5.15 NB 1.2V Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the Northbridge 1.2V voltage for system stability.

3.5.16 NB 1.1V Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the Northbridge 1.1V voltage for system stability.

3.5.17 NB 1.8V Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the Northbridge 1.8V voltage for system stability.

3.5.18 SB Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the Southbridge voltage for system stability.

3.5.19 SidePort Memory Voltage [Auto]

Adjusting the SidePort memory voltage for system stability.

3.5.20 CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Calibrating CPU Load-Line for voltage stability during overclocking.

3.5.21 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Calibrating CPU/NB Load-Line for voltage stability.

3.5.22 PCI/PCIe CLK Status [Enabled]

Enabling or disabling clock signals for PCI and PCIe slots.

3.6 Advanced menu

Menu for changing advanced system settings related to CPU and devices.

3.6.1 CPU Configuration

Displays and configures CPU-related settings automatically detected by BIOS.

3.6.2 Chipset

Advanced settings for configuring the motherboard chipset and its features.

3.6.3 Onboard Devices Configuration

Settings for configuring onboard devices like LAN controller, HD Audio, and serial ports.

3.6.4 PCIPnP

Advanced settings for PCI and Plug and Play device configuration.

3.6.5 USB Configuration

Settings for configuring USB ports, including legacy support and controller mode.

3.7 Power menu

Menu for changing Advanced Power Management (APM) settings.

3.7.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]

Selects the ACPI state for system suspend, such as S1 or S3.

3.7.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables the system's support for ACPI 2.0 specifications.

3.7.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

Enables or disables ACPI APIC support within the interrupt controller.

3.7.4 APM Configuration

Detailed configuration options for Advanced Power Management features.

3.7.5 Hardware Monitor

Displays system hardware monitoring information like temperatures, voltages, and fan speeds.

CPU Q-Fan Mode [Standard]

Controls CPU fan speed based on temperature or manual settings for cooling.

Chassis Q-Fan Mode [Standard]

Controls chassis fan speed based on temperature or manual settings.

3.7.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

Enables protection against power surges to prevent component damage.

3.7.7 NB Thermal Protect

Enables Northbridge thermal protection, shutting down the system if overheated.

3.8 Boot menu

Menu for changing system boot options, device priority, and security settings.

3.8.1 Boot Device Priority

Sets the sequence of devices from which the system attempts to boot.

3.8.2 Boot Settings Configuration

Configures boot-related settings like Quick Boot, logo display, and error handling.

3.8.3 Security

Settings for system security, including supervisor and user passwords.

3.9 Tools menu

Access to special function tools like BIOS updater, O.C. profile, and Express Gate.

3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

Utility for flashing the BIOS without needing an OS or floppy drive.

3.9.2 Express Gate [Auto]

Enables or disables the ASUS Express Gate feature for quick system access.

3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Profile

Allows saving and loading multiple BIOS overclocking profiles.

3.9.4 AI NET 2

Utility for checking the Realtek LAN cable status during system boot.

3.10 Exit menu

Options for saving/discarding changes, and loading default BIOS settings.

Chapter 4: Software support

4.1 Installing an operating system

Information on installing supported operating systems on the motherboard.

4.2 Support DVD information

Details about the contents of the motherboard support DVD, including drivers and utilities.

4.2.1 Running the support DVD

How to launch and navigate the motherboard support DVD to install software.

4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals

Instructions on how to access software manuals provided on the support DVD.

4.3 Software information

Overview of software applications included on the support DVD and their installation.

4.3.1 ASUS PC Probe II

Describes the ASUS PC Probe II utility for monitoring system components and health.

4.3.2 ASUS AI Suite

Introduction to the ASUS AI Suite for launching and managing various ASUS utilities.

4.3.3 ASUS Fan Xpert

Utility for adjusting CPU and chassis fan speeds based on temperature and system loading.

4.3.4 ASUS EPU

Explains the ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) for intelligent system power saving.

4.3.5 ASUS Express Gate

Describes ASUS Express Gate, an exclusive OS for quick access to internet and applications.

4.3.6 Audio configurations

Details the Realtek audio codec and manager for sound configurations and connections.

4.3.7 ASUS GPU Boost

Utility for overclocking the integrated GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) in Windows.

4.4 ASUS Unique Overclocking Utility—TurboV EVO

Introduction to the TurboV EVO utility for overclocking CPU, voltage, and GPU.

4.4.1 Using ASUS TurboV

Guide on using ASUS TurboV for overclocking CPU frequency, voltage, and GPU.

4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode

Explains the Auto Tuning Mode for smart, automated system overclocking.

4.4.3 Using CPU Level UP

Feature to upgrade CPU performance by selecting a predefined overclocking level.

4.4.4 Using ASUS Turbo Key

Allows setting hotkeys for physical overclocking buttons for performance boosts.

4.5 RAID configurations

Information on configuring Serial ATA hard disk drives into RAID sets.

4.5.1 RAID definitions

Explains different RAID levels (0, 1, 5, 10) and their benefits for data storage.

4.5.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks

Steps for installing SATA hard disks into drive bays for RAID configuration.

4.5.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS

How to enable RAID functionality in BIOS Setup before creating RAID volumes.

4.5.4 AMD® Option ROM Utility

Utility for configuring AMD RAID options and managing RAID volumes.

Creating a RAID volume

Step-by-step guide on how to create a RAID volume using the Option ROM Utility.

Deleting a RAID configuration

Instructions on how to delete a RAID volume and its associated data.

4.6 Creating a RAID driver disk

How to create a RAID driver disk required for OS installation.

4.6.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS

Steps to create a RAID driver disk before installing the operating system.

4.6.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®

Steps to create a RAID driver disk from within the Windows environment.

4.6.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows® OS installation

How to install the RAID driver during the OS setup process.

4.6.4 Using a USB floppy disk drive

Troubleshooting guide for using USB floppy drives with RAID drivers for OS installation.

Chapter 5: ATI® CrossFireX™ technology support

5.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology

Overview of ATI CrossFireX technology for installing multi-GPU graphics cards.

5.1.1 Requirements

System requirements for using ATI CrossFireX technology.

5.1.2 Before you begin

Steps to prepare the system by uninstalling existing graphics card drivers.

5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards

Step-by-step guide for installing multiple graphics cards into PCIEX16 slots.

5.1.4 Installing the device drivers

How to install the necessary graphics card drivers that support ATI CrossFireX.

5.1.5 Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology

Steps to enable CrossFireX technology through the ATI Catalyst Control Center.

5.2 ATI® Hybrid CrossFireX™ technology

Information on ATI Hybrid CrossFireX technology for integrated and discrete graphics.

5.2.1 System requirements

Basic system requirements for using ATI Hybrid CrossFireX technology.

5.2.2 Before you proceed

BIOS configuration steps required to support ATI Hybrid CrossFireX.

5.2.3 Installing AMD Chipset Driver

Guide to install the AMD Chipset Driver for Hybrid CrossFireX technology.

5.2.4 Using the ATI® CATALYST® Control Center

How to use the ATI Catalyst Control Center for graphics settings and CrossFireX.

ASUS contact information

EC Declaration of Conformity

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