Asus M4A88TD-M/USB3 User Manual
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Asus M4A88TD-M/USB3 User Manual

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  • Page 1 M4A88TD-M/USB3...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Notices........................vii Safety information ....................viii About this guide ......................ix M4A88TD-M/USB3 specifications summary ............xi Chapter 1: Product introduction Welcome! ....................1-1 Package contents..................1-1 Special features..................1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights................ 1-2 1.3.2 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid Processor* ......... 1-3 1.3.3...
  • Page 4 BIOS setup Knowing BIOS .................... 3-1 Updating BIOS .................... 3-1 3.2.1 ASUS Update utility..............3-2 3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ............... 3-4 3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility........... 3-5 3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ..............3-6 BIOS setup program .................. 3-9 3.3.1...
  • Page 5 Boot Device Priority..............3-32 3.8.2 Boot Settings Configuration ............3-33 3.8.3 Security ..................3-34 Tools menu ....................3-36 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ..............3-36 3.9.2 Express Gate ................3-36 3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Profile ..............3-37 3.9.4 AI NET 2 ..................3-38 3.10...
  • Page 6 ASUS GPU Boost ..............4-10 ASUS Unique Overclocking Utility—TurboV EVO ......... 4-11 4.4.1 Using ASUS TurboV ..............4-11 4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode ........4-12 4.4.3 Using CPU Level UP ..............4-13 4.4.4 Using ASUS Turbo Key ............. 4-13 RAID configurations ................

  • Page 7: Notices

    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.

  • Page 8: Safety Information

    Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

  • Page 9: About This Guide

    Where to find more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.

  • Page 10: Conventions Used In This Guide

    Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

  • Page 11: M4A88Td-M/Usb3 Specifications Summary

    GB. We recommend using a maximum of 3 GB system memory if you are using a Windows 32-bit OS. ® *** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists). VGA output Integrated ATI Radeon™ HD 4250 GPU ®...
  • Page 12 - ASUS Anti-Surge Protection - ASUS EPU ASUS Exclusive Features - MemOK! ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions - ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish heatsink solution - ASUS Fan Xpert - ASUS Stack Cool 3 ASUS EZ DIY - ASUS O.C. Profile - ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 - ASUS EZ Flash 2 - ASUS MyLogo 2™...
  • Page 13 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector BIOS features 16 Mb Flash ROM, SPI, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE...

  • Page 15: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    ® 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.

  • Page 16: Special Features

    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.

  • Page 17: Asus Xtreme Design-Hybrid Processor

    * The actual overclocking result depends on the system configuration. 1.3.4 ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid OS ASUS Express Gate Express Gate is an ASUS exclusive OS that provides you with quick access to the Internet and key applications before entering the Windows ® 1.3.5...

  • Page 18: Asus Quiet Thermal Solutions

    BIOS file. This protection eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. ASUS EZ-Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Precision Tweaker 2 Allows you to fine-tune the VCore / VDDNB voltage in 0.003125V steps and DRAM...

  • Page 19: Chapter 2: Hardware Information

    Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...

  • Page 20: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout USB3.0 Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 21: Layout Contents

    Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 2-36 USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112, USB1314) 2-30 Core Unlocker LED (O2LED1) 2-37 Core Unlocker switch 2-22 Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-32 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-31 ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...

  • Page 22: Placement Direction

    2.2.3 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. 2.2.4 Screw holes Place eight screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

  • Page 23: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Press the lever sideways to unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90º angle. Socket lever Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90º angle. Otherwise, the CPU will not fit in completely. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...
  • Page 24 Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Gold triangle Small triangle When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU.

  • Page 25: Installing The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    Retention module base 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. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...
  • Page 26 Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket...
  • Page 27 CPU_FAN. • Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. • This connector is backward compatible with old 3-pin CPU fan. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...

  • Page 28: System Memory

    System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.

  • Page 29: Memory Configurations (Am3, 2-Channel)

    Due to CPU spec., AMD ® 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz. • When overclocking, some AMD CPUs may not support DDR3 1600MHz or higher frequency DIMMs.
  • Page 30 M4A88TD-M/USB3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2000 (O.C.) MHz capability DIMM support Chip Vendor Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Timing Voltage 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM KINGSTON KHX2000C8D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS 1.65V • KINGSTON KHX2000C9D3T1K3/3GX(XMP) 3072MB(kit of 3) SS 1.65V...
  • Page 31 • • • G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBPK 1024MB G.SKILL • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL9T-3GBNQ 3072MB(Kit of 3) SS 9-9-9-24 1.5~1.6V • • • (continued on the next page) ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-13...
  • Page 32 DDR3 1333MHz capability DIMM support Chip Vendor Part No. Size Chip NO. Timing Voltage Brand 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-2GBNQ 1024MB G.SKILL • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D- 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS 8-8-8-24 1.35V(low • • 4GBECO(XMP) voltage) G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D- 4096MB(Kit of 2) DS...
  • Page 33 Due to CPU spec., AMD 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. ® With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz. • When overclocking, some AMD CPU models may not support DDR3 1600 MHz or higher frequency DIMMs.

  • Page 34: Installing A Dimm

    2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. DIMM notch Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward.

  • Page 35: Expansion Slots

    When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-17...

  • Page 36: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Priority Standard function System Timer Keyboard Controller – Redirect to IRQ#9 Communications Port (COM1)* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Reserved System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Numeric Data Processor...

  • Page 37: Pci Slot

    This motherboard has a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express 2.0 x16 graphics cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot PCIe 2.0 x16 slot PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot PCI slot ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-19...

  • Page 38: Jumper

    Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin 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.

  • Page 39: Onboard Switches

    BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-21...

  • Page 40: Core Unlocker Switch

    Enable. Refer to section 2.9 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the O2LED1 LED. If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the ASUS Core Unlocker item • in the BIOS menu follows the current setting of the Core Unlocker switch.

  • Page 41: Connectors

    USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 Audio I/O ports** *and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port and audio port definitions. ***: Refer to the notes and troubleshooting on HDTV overscaling or underscaling on the next pages. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-23...

  • Page 42: Lan Port Led Indications

    * LAN port LED indications ACT/LINK SPEED Activity Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description No link 10 Mbps connection ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection LAN port BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection ** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Headset Port 4-channel...
  • Page 43 DFP resolution check box. The Scaling Options function of the DTV (HDMI™) 1 item in the ATI CATALYST Control Center is adjustable only when you are using an HDTV compliance resolution such as 480i, 720i, or 1080i. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-25...

  • Page 44: Audio I/O Connections

    2.8.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo / 2.1-channel Speakers 2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 45 Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-27...

  • Page 46: Internal Connectors

    2.8.3 Internal connectors IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.
  • Page 47 BIOS. See section 3.4.2 SATA Configuration for details. LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT) The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT is standardized as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PC-compatible computers. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-29...
  • Page 48 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
  • Page 49 Front Panel Select item in the BIOS setup to [HD Audio]; if you want to connect an AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC 97]. By default, this connector is set to [HD]. Refer to 3.6.3 Onboard Devices Configuration for details. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-31...
  • Page 50 These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power. • Only the 4-pin CPU_FAN connector supports the ASUS Fan Xpert feature. 2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 51 The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support. asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 2-33...

  • Page 52: System Panel Connector

    System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

  • Page 53: Asus Q-Connector (System Panel)

    2.8.4. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. To install the ASUS Q-Connector: Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, and then match them to their respective front panel cable labels.

  • Page 54: Onboard Leds

    Onboard LEDs Standby Power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED 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.
  • Page 55 Core Unlocker LED The Core Unlocker LED lights when the Core Unclocker switch is turned to Enable. The Core Unlocker LED keeps on lighting even though the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu is set to [Disabled]. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...

  • Page 56: Starting Up For The First Time

    2.10 Starting up for the first time After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: Monitor External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

  • Page 57: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility.

  • Page 58: Asus Update Utility

    3.2.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: ® • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet •...
  • Page 59 Auto Select. Click Next. Next. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file...

  • Page 60: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

  • Page 61: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file.

  • Page 62: Asus Bios Updater

    3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process.
  • Page 63 ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.00b [09/06/22] Current ROM Update ROM BOARD: M4A88TD-M/USB3 BOARD: Unknown VER: 0205 (H:00 B:08) VER: Unknown DATE: 03/31/2010 DATE: Unknown PATH: BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue. Note Saving BIOS: ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...
  • Page 64 At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>. D:\>bupdater /pc /g The BIOS Updater screen appears as below. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.00b [09/06/22] Current ROM Update ROM BOARD: Unknown BOARD: M4A88TD-M/USB3 VER: Unknown VER: 0205 (H:00 B:08) DATE: 03/31/2010 DATE: Unknown PATH: M4A88TDU.ROM...

  • Page 65: Bios Setup Program

    If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 2.6 Jumper for details. 3.3.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields General help M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools...

  • Page 66: Navigation Keys

    3.3.3 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. The navigation keys may differ from one screen to another. 3.3.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu.

  • Page 67: Main Menu

    Select an item and press <Enter> to display the submenu. Refer to section 3.3.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main Ai Tweaker...
  • Page 68 Type [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device installed. [Not Installed] Select this option if no device is installed. [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the appropriate device type. [CDROM] Select this option if you are specifically configuring a CD-ROM drive. [ARMD] Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.

  • Page 69: Sata Configuration

    3.4.2 SATA Configuration The SATA Configuration menu allows you to configure your storage devices. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main Options SATA Configuration OnChip SATA Speed [Auto] Disabled OnChip SATA Channel...

  • Page 70: System Information

    3.4.3 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the BIOS information, CPU specification, and system memory in this menu. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main BIOS Information Version : 0205...

  • Page 71: Ai Tweaker Menu

    Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. The configuration options for this chapter vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you installed on the motherboard. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main Ai Tweaker...

  • Page 72: Cpu Overclocking

    3.5.2 CPU OverClocking [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. Allows you to select a DRAM O.C.

  • Page 73: Cpu Ratio

    Enhanced iGPU SpeedStep item to [Manual]. Allows you to set the GPU Engine Clock. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200MHz to 2000MHz. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 3-17...

  • Page 74: Oc Tuner Utility

    GPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the GPU Booster item to [Enabled]. [Enabled] Select [Enabled] to reduce the iGPU power consumption when the system is idle. [Disabled] Disables this function. 3.5.8 OC Tuner Utility OC Tuner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM.

  • Page 75: Dram Driving Configuration

    Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 3-19...

  • Page 76: Cpu & Nb Voltage Mode

    3.5.11 CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset] Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB Voltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item setting. Configuration options: [Offset] [Manual] CPU Offset Voltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage.

  • Page 77: Cpu Load-Line Calibration

    The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Main Ai Tweaker...
  • Page 78 Enhanced Halt Sate. [Disabled] Disables this function. ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor. [Disabled] Disables this function. CPU Core Activation [Auto] Allows you to set the active CPU cores. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following items appear only when you set CPU Core Activation to [Manual].

  • Page 79: Chipset

    3.6.2 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu. Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Advanced Chipset Configuration Memory Options & Information NorthBridge Configuration Internal Graphics NorthBridge Chipset Configuration...

  • Page 80: Ecc Configuration

    Power Down Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DDR power down mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ECC Configuration Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Advanced ECC Configuration Set the level of ECC protection. Note: The ECC Mode [Disabled] ‘Super’ ECC mode...

  • Page 81: Onboard Devices Configuration

    Allows you to select the FB Location. Configuration options: [Below 4G] [Above 4G] AMD HDMI Audio [Enabled] Allows you to disable or enable the AMD HDMI Audio. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.6.3 Onboard Devices Configuration M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Advanced Onboard Devices Configuration Allows BIOS to select Serial Port1 Base...

  • Page 82: Pcipnp

    Enables the onboard USB 3.0 controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. 3.6.4 PCIPnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Advanced NO: lets the BIOS Advanced PCI/PnP Settings configure all the WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections devices in the system.

  • Page 83: Usb Configuration

    3.6.5 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. Select an item and press <Enter> to display the configuration options. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Advanced USB Configuration Options Module Version - 2.24.5-13.4 Disabled...

  • Page 84: Power Menu

    [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM] Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power...

  • Page 85: Apm Configuration

    3.7.4 APM Configuration M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Power APM Configuration Options Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power On From S5 By PME# [Disabled] Power Off Power On From S5 By Ring [Disabled] Power On Power On By PS/2 Keyboard...

  • Page 86: Hw Monitor Configuration

    3.7.5 HW Monitor Configuration M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Power Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature [35ºC/95ºF] MB Temperature [34ºC/93ºF] CPU Fan Speed [3590RPM] Chassis Fan Speed [N/A] VCORE Voltage [ 1.040V] 3.3V Voltage [ 3.008V] Voltage [ 4.776V] Voltage [11.648V]...

  • Page 87: Anti Surge Support

    Disables the Anti Surge support. 3.7.7 NB Thermal Protect [Enabled] When this item is enabled, the system will automatically shut down when the Northbridge temperature is over 95ºC to avoid any damage to the Northbridge chipset. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 3-31...

  • Page 88: Boot Menu

    Configuration 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>...

  • Page 89: Boot Settings Configuration

    Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] [Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot sequence.

  • Page 90: Security

    3.8.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item and press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Boot Security Settings <Enter> to change password. Supervisor Password : Not Installed <Enter>...
  • Page 91 Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Password Check [Setup] [Setup] BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. [Always] BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 3-35...

  • Page 92: Tools Menu

    (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 93: Asus O.c. Profile

    The first time wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate environment after clearing its settings. 3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Tools O.C. PROFILE Configuration Typing your profile name, [0-9][a-z][A-Z] O.C.

  • Page 94: Ai Net 2

    We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU configuration and BIOS version. • Only the CMO file can be loaded. 3.9.4 AI NET 2 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Version 0205 Tools AI NET 2 Check Realtek LAN Pair...

  • Page 95: Exit Menu

    Exit menu 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. Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power...
  • Page 96 3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup...

  • Page 97: Chapter 4: Software Support

    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. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD into the optical drive.

  • Page 98: Obtaining The Software Manuals

    The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files. ® Click the Manual tab. Click ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide from the manual list on the left. The Manual folder of the support DVD appears. Double-click the folder of your selected software.

  • Page 99: Software Information

    Launching PC Probe II Install PC Probe II from the motherboard support DVD. Launch PC Probe II by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window appears.

  • Page 100: Cool 'N' Quiet!™ Technology

    Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software Install Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software from the motherboard support DVD. Click Start > All Programs > ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet. The Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology screen appears and displays the current CPU Frequency and CPU Voltage.

  • Page 101: Asus Ai Suite

    Launching AI Suite Install AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD. Launch AI Suite by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx. xx. The AI Suite main window appears. The AI Suite icon appears in the Windows notification area.

  • Page 102: Asus Fan Xpert

    4.3.4 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust the CPU fan speed according to different ambient temperature and your PC’s system loading. The various fan profiles offer flexible controls of CPU fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool system environment.

  • Page 103: Asus Epu

    4.3.5 ASUS EPU ASUS EPU is an energy-efficient tool that provides you with a total system power-saving solution. It detects the current computer loading and intelligently adjusts the power in real-time. With auto phase switching for components, the EPU automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent acceleration and overclocking.

  • Page 104: Asus Express Gate

    4.3.6 ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an ASUS exclusive OS that provides you with quick access to the Internet and key applications before entering the Windows ® Notices about ASUS Express Gate • Install ASUS Express Gate from the motherboard support DVD before use.

  • Page 105: Audio Configurations

    Device advanced Configuration settings option tabs Connector settings Analog and digital Control connector settings status window Information button Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP Exit button Configuration options Minimize button Control settings window Information button ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...

  • Page 106: Asus Gpu Boost

    DVD. • For system stability, all changes made in ASUS GPU Boost will not be saved to BIOS settings and will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Profile function to save your customized overclocking settings and manually load the profile after Windows starts.

  • Page 107: Asus Unique Overclocking Utility-Turbov Evo

    TurboV EVO ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV, CPU Level UP and Turbo Key—three powerful tools that allow you to overclock your system effectively. Install ASUS TurboV EVO from the support DVD that came with the motherboard package. If the TurboV EVO is correctly installed, you will find the TurboV EVO icon on the Windows notification area.

  • Page 108: Using Asus Turbov Auto Tuning Mode

    4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode The Auto Tuning Mode allows smart auto-overclocking. Follow the instructions below to let TurboV EVO detect and overclock your system. Click the Auto Tuning tab and then click Start. You can also click More...

  • Page 109: Using Cpu Level Up

    4.4.4 Using ASUS Turbo Key ASUS Turbo Key allows the user to set a group of hotkeys into physical overclocking buttons. After the easy setup, Turbo Key can boost performances without interrupting ongoing work or games—with just one touch! Configuring ASUS Turbo Key Click the Turbo Key tab.

  • Page 110: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the AMD SB850 chipset that allows you to configure ® Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID configurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10. •...

  • Page 111: Installing Serial Ata Hard Disks

    Go to the Main menu > SATA Configuration, and then press <Enter>. Set the type of the SATA connectors to [RAID]. Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup. See section 3.4.2 SATA Configuration for details. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 4-15...

  • Page 112: Amd ® Option Rom Utility

    4.5.4 Option ROM Utility ® To enter the AMD Option ROM utility: ® Boot up your computer. During POST, press <Ctrl> + <F> to display the utility main menu. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ Main Menu ] View Drive Assignments ..[ 1 ] LD View / LD Define Menu...

  • Page 113: Creating A Raid Volume

    <Press Ctrl-Y Key if you are sure to erase it> <Press any other key to ignore this option> Press <Ctrl> + <Y> to enter the screen to modify the array capacity, or press any key to use the maximum capacity. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 4-17...

  • Page 114: Deleting A Raid Configuration

    Deleting a RAID configuration Take caution when deleting a RAID volume. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID volume. To delete a RAID volume: In the Main Menu, press <3> to enter the Delete LD function. Select the RAID item you want to delete and press <Del>...

  • Page 115: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver. Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 4-19...

  • Page 116: Using A Usb Floppy Disk Drive

    When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. To install the RAID driver for Windows Vista or later OS ® During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver.
  • Page 117 “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106”,”ahcix86” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104”,”ahcix86” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104”,”ahcix64” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106”,”ahcix64” id= “PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104”,”ahcix64” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” Add the same line to both sections. The VID and PID vary with different vendors. Save and exit the file. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3 4-21...
  • Page 118 4-22 Chapter 4: Software support...

  • Page 119: System Requirements

    Press <Del> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) to enter the BIOS Setup utility. Go to Advanced > Chipset > Internal Graphics, set UMA Frame Buffer Size to [256M] or above, and set Surround View to [Enabled]. Version 0205 M4A88TD-M/USB3 BIOS Setup Advanced Internal Graphics Options...

  • Page 120: Chapter 5: Ati ® Hybrid Crossfirex™ Technology Support

    Installing AMD Chipset Driver To install the driver that supports Hybrid CrossFireX technology: Insert the Support DVD that comes with your motherboard into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Highlights menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer. If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder.
  • Page 121 Click OK. The onboard graphics card is set to be the main monitor. If you are using both an add-on and the on-board graphics cards at same time and want to set the onboard graphics card as your main monitor, follow the instructions on the next page. ASUS M4A88TD-M/USB3...
  • Page 122 Follow steps 1 to 3 on Using the onboard graphics card. From the ATI CATALYST(R) Control Center screen, click Display Manager > Graphics Adapter. Select ATI Radeon HD 4250 Graphics [Gabbs, G HW173]. Click OK, and then Yes from the confirmation window.

  • Page 123: Asus Contact Information

    +1-510-739-3777 +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 +49-2102-959911 Web site www.asus.de Online contact www.asus.de/sales Technical Support Telephone (Component) +49-1805-010923*...

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