ASUS M5A78L-USB3 User Manual

ASUS M5A78L-USB3 Motherboard manual cover
Pages 66
Year 2013
Language(s)
English en

ASUS M5A78L-USB3 Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M5A78L-USB3 Motherboard is designed to cater to the needs of users seeking a balance between performance and affordability. It supports AMD AM3+ multi-core processors with unique L3 cache and better overclocking capability, enhancing performance for demanding applications. The motherboard is built on the AMD 760G/SB710 chipset, providing robust support for DirectX 10, delivering a rich, visual experience. It accommodates up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM across four DIMM slots, supporting dual-channel memory architecture for faster data access.

The M5A78L-USB3 features integrated ATI Radeon HD 3000 graphics, which, while not suited for high-end gaming, offers sufficient performance for everyday tasks and media consumption. Expansion capabilities are well-served with one PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 2.0 x1 slot, and two PCI slots. Storage options include six SATA 3Gb/s ports, facilitating multiple hard drive and SSD configurations.

For connectivity, the motherboard is equipped with USB 3.0 support, providing faster data transfer speeds for compatible devices, alongside six USB 2.0 ports for standard peripherals. Networking is managed through a Realtek 8111E Gigabit LAN controller, ensuring reliable and fast internet connectivity. Audio is handled by the Realtek ALC887 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC, delivering quality sound reproduction for an immersive audio experience.

The ASUS M5A78L-USB3 also incorporates ASUS-exclusive features such as EPU for energy efficiency and ASUS Anti-Surge Protection to guard against voltage spikes. Its Micro ATX form factor ensures compatibility with a wide range of cases, making it a versatile choice for custom builds.

ASUS M5A78L-USB3 Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS version from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB drive, reboot your computer, and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key during startup. Use the EZ Flash utility within the BIOS to select the file from your USB drive and update.

What should I do if my ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard is not detecting my RAM?

Ensure the RAM is properly seated in the correct slot. Check the motherboard's manual for the recommended RAM configuration. If the issue persists, try using a single RAM stick or different RAM modules to test for compatibility issues.

How can I enable virtualization on my ASUS M5A78L-USB3?

Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key. Navigate to the 'Advanced' tab, find 'CPU Configuration', and enable 'SVM Mode'. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

What could be causing my ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard not to power on?

Check the power supply connections to the motherboard. Ensure the power switch on the PSU is on. Inspect all cables and components for proper connection. If the problem continues, test with a different power supply.

How can I reset the CMOS on the ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard?

To reset the CMOS, power off your system and unplug it. Locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard and remove it for about 5 minutes. Reinsert the battery, plug in your system, and power it on.

My ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard makes a beeping sound on startup. What does it mean?

The beeping sound is a BIOS error code. Refer to the motherboard's manual for the beep code interpretation. Common causes include RAM issues, graphics card errors, or CPU problems.

Can I use an SSD with the ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard?

Yes, you can use an SSD with the ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard. Connect it to the SATA port for improved performance over traditional hard drives. Ensure AHCI mode is enabled in the BIOS for better SSD performance.

How do I configure RAID on the ASUS M5A78L-USB3?

Enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key during startup. Navigate to the 'Advanced' tab, then 'SATA Configuration'. Set SATA Mode to 'RAID'. Save changes, exit, and use the RAID configuration utility during boot to set up your RAID array.

What should I check if my USB 3.0 ports are not working on the ASUS M5A78L-USB3?

Ensure that USB 3.0 drivers are installed. Check the BIOS to make sure USB 3.0 is enabled. Inspect the internal USB connections to the motherboard. If issues persist, try updating your BIOS.

How can I improve the cooling performance of my ASUS M5A78L-USB3 motherboard?

Ensure that your case has good airflow with sufficient intake and exhaust fans. Consider upgrading to a more efficient CPU cooler and ensure that the thermal paste is applied correctly. Clean dust from fans and heatsinks regularly.