Contents

Notices
About this guide
Safety information
M2A74-AM specifications summary
Chapter 1
Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Special features
  - 1.3.1 Product highlights
  - 1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features
- 1.4 Before you proceed
- 1.5 Motherboard overview
  - 1.5.1 Placement direction
  - 1.5.2 Screw holes
  - 1.5.3 Motherboard layout
  - 1.5.4 Layout contents
- 1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 1.6.1 Installing the CPU
  - 1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan
- 1.7 System memory
  - 1.7.1 Overview
  - 1.7.2 Memory configurations
  - 1.7.3 Installing a DIMM
  - 1.7.4 Removing a DIMM
- 1.8 Expansion slots
  - 1.8.1 Installing an expansion card
  - 1.8.2 Configuring an expansion card
  - 1.8.3 PCI slots
  - 1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot
  - 1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot
- 1.9 Jumpers
- 1.10 Connectors
  - 1.10.1 Rear panel ports
  - 1.10.2 Internal connectors
- 1.11 Software support
  - 1.11.1 Installing an operating system
  - 1.11.2 Support DVD information
Chapter 2
BIOS information
- 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
  - 2.1.1 ASUS Update utility
  - 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
  - 2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
- 2.2 BIOS setup program
  - 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen
  - 2.2.2 Menu bar
  - 2.2.3 Navigation keys
  - 2.2.4 Menu items
  - 2.2.5 Submenu items
  - 2.2.6 Configuration fields
  - 2.2.7 Pop-up window
  - 2.2.8 Scroll bar
  - 2.2.9 General help
- 2.3 Main menu
  - 2.3.1 System Time
  - 2.3.2 System Date
  - 2.3.3 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA 1/2/3/4
  - 2.3.4 SATA Configuration
  - 2.3.5 System Information
- 2.4 Advanced menu
  - 2.4.1 JumperFree Configuration
  - 2.4.2 CPU Configuration
  - 2.4.3 Chipset
  - 2.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration
  - 2.4.5 PCI PnP
  - 2.4.6 USB Configuration
- 2.5 Power menu
  - 2.5.1 Suspend Mode
  - 2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support
  - 2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support
  - 2.5.4 APM Configuration
  - 2.5.5 HW Monitor Configuration
- 2.6 Boot menu
  - 2.6.1 Boot Device Priority
  - 2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration
  - 2.6.3 Security
- 2.7 Tools menu
  - 2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
  - 2.7.2 AI NET 2
- 2.8 Exit menu

ASUS M2A74-AM User Manual

Pages 58

Year 2009

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of 58

ASUS M2A74-AM Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M2A74-AM is a versatile micro-ATX motherboard designed to support AMD processors, specifically those compatible with the AM2+ socket. It integrates the AMD 740G chipset, which, combined with the SB700 southbridge, offers a reliable platform for both everyday computing and lightweight gaming. The motherboard supports dual-channel DDR2 memory up to a maximum of 8GB, providing sufficient bandwidth for multitasking and moderate performance applications. For graphics output, it features an integrated ATI Radeon 2100 GPU, which is suitable for basic visual tasks, although it includes a PCI Express x16 slot for users looking to upgrade to a discrete graphics card for enhanced performance.

Storage capabilities are robust, with four SATA 3Gb/s ports allowing for multiple hard drives or SSD connections, facilitating efficient data management and RAID configurations. The M2A74-AM includes a single IDE connector, accommodating legacy optical or storage drives. For peripheral connectivity, it comes equipped with up to ten USB 2.0 ports, ensuring ample options for external devices. The onboard Realtek ALC662 audio codec delivers 6-channel high-definition audio, enhancing the multimedia experience, while the Realtek RTL8102EL LAN controller provides 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connectivity for network access.

Expansion is supported by one PCIe x16 slot, two PCIe x1 slots, and one PCI slot, allowing for additional cards to be installed, catering to users who require more specialized configurations. The ASUS M2A74-AM emphasizes reliability and performance for users seeking a cost-effective solution for a variety of computing tasks, making it a practical choice for both home and office environments.

ASUS M2A74-AM Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website, extract it to a USB drive, restart your computer, and access the BIOS setup. Use the EZ Flash utility within the BIOS to update it using the file on the USB drive.

What should I do if my ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard doesn't power on?

Ensure that all power cables are securely connected, check that the power supply is functioning, and verify that the power button on the case is working. If the issue persists, try resetting the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes.

How can I troubleshoot RAM issues on the ASUS M2A74-AM?

First, ensure that the RAM modules are properly seated in their slots. Test each module individually in each slot to identify faulty modules or slots. Also, check compatibility with the motherboard's specifications.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

The ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard supports a maximum of 16GB of DDR2 RAM across two DIMM slots.

How do I reset the BIOS settings on my ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

To reset the BIOS settings, enter the BIOS setup during boot, navigate to the 'Exit' tab, and select 'Load Setup Defaults'. Alternatively, you can reset the CMOS by removing the battery from the motherboard for a few minutes.

What should I do if my CPU is overheating on the ASUS M2A74-AM?

Ensure that the CPU cooler is properly installed and that thermal paste is applied correctly. Check that the fans are operational and clean any dust from the heatsink and fan. Consider improving case ventilation.

Which CPUs are compatible with the ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

The ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard supports AMD Athlon II, Phenom II, and Sempron processors with an AM3/AM2+/AM2 socket.

How do I enable virtualization on the ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup during boot and navigate to the 'Advanced' tab. Look for the 'CPU Configuration' section and enable 'SVM Mode' to turn on virtualization.

What should I do if my ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard is not detecting my hard drive?

Check that the SATA cables are properly connected to both the motherboard and the hard drive. Enter the BIOS setup to ensure the drive is detected and set to the correct boot priority. If not, try different SATA ports or cables.

How can I optimize the performance of my ASUS M2A74-AM motherboard?

Ensure all drivers and BIOS are up to date, enable XMP or memory overclocking profiles in the BIOS if supported, and make sure your cooling system is efficient to prevent thermal throttling.