ASUS M5A88-M EVO User Manual

ASUS M5A88-M EVO Motherboard manual cover
Pages 80
Year 2011
Language(s)
English en

ASUS M5A88-M EVO Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M5A88-M EVO is a micro-ATX motherboard designed to support AMD's AM3+ multi-core processors, providing substantial computing power for a variety of applications. It features the AMD 880G/SB850 chipset, ensuring reliable performance and efficient energy management. The motherboard supports up to 16GB of DDR3 memory across four DIMM slots, with speeds up to 2000(O.C.) MHz, providing ample bandwidth for multitasking and resource-intensive applications. For graphics, it integrates ATI Radeon HD 4250, which supports DirectX 10.1 and offers Hybrid CrossFireX for improved visual performance when paired with a compatible graphics card.

The M5A88-M EVO offers extensive connectivity options, including six SATA 6Gb/s ports that support RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations for enhanced data redundancy and performance. It features a Realtek ALC892 audio codec delivering 8-channel HD audio, ensuring high-quality sound output. Networking is facilitated by a Realtek 8111E Gigabit Ethernet controller, providing fast and stable internet connectivity. The motherboard includes multiple USB ports, with two USB 3.0 ports for rapid data transfer rates and several USB 2.0 ports for peripheral connectivity.

ASUS incorporates several exclusive technologies into the M5A88-M EVO, such as the TurboV Processing Unit (TPU) and Energy Processing Unit (EPU), which optimize system performance and energy efficiency. The motherboard also supports ASUS's AI Suite II, offering a user-friendly interface for system monitoring and tuning. Additionally, the ASUS UEFI BIOS provides an intuitive graphical interface for easy system configuration. Overall, the ASUS M5A88-M EVO delivers a balanced mix of performance, connectivity, and innovative features, making it a suitable choice for both home and office computing environments.

ASUS M5A88-M EVO Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard?

To update the BIOS, first download the latest BIOS version from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB drive. Reboot your computer and enter the BIOS by pressing the 'Del' key during startup. Navigate to the 'EZ Flash' utility under the 'Tools' menu, select the BIOS file from your USB drive, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

What should I do if my ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard is not booting?

First, ensure all cables and components are securely connected. Check if there are any POST error beeps, which can indicate hardware issues. Try clearing the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes and then reinserting it. If the problem persists, test with different RAM or a different power supply.

How can I enable virtualization on the ASUS M5A88-M EVO?

To enable virtualization, reboot your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key. Go to the 'Advanced' tab, select 'CPU Configuration', and enable 'SVM' (Secure Virtual Machine). Save your changes and exit the BIOS.

What is the maximum RAM supported by the ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard?

The ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard supports a maximum of 16GB of DDR3 RAM across its four DIMM slots.

How do I troubleshoot USB port issues on the ASUS M5A88-M EVO?

First, check if the USB ports are enabled in the BIOS under the 'Advanced' settings. Ensure drivers are installed and updated in the operating system. Test with different USB devices and cables. If the issue persists, consider updating the BIOS or checking the motherboard for physical damage.

Can the ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard support an SSD?

Yes, the ASUS M5A88-M EVO can support SSDs through its SATA ports. Ensure the SATA mode is set to AHCI in the BIOS for optimal performance.

How do I reset the BIOS settings to default on the ASUS M5A88-M EVO?

To reset the BIOS to default settings, enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key during boot. Navigate to the 'Exit' tab and select 'Load Setup Defaults'. Confirm the action, then save and exit the BIOS.

What does the ASUS M5A88-M EVO Q-Connector do?

The Q-Connector simplifies the process of connecting front panel cables to the motherboard. It allows you to plug in all front panel cables into a single connector, which can then be easily plugged into the motherboard.

How can I improve cooling on my ASUS M5A88-M EVO system?

To improve cooling, ensure your case has good airflow by organizing cables and adding additional fans if possible. Consider using a higher quality CPU cooler and applying new thermal paste. Regularly clean dust from the system to prevent overheating.

Is the ASUS M5A88-M EVO motherboard compatible with Linux?

Yes, the ASUS M5A88-M EVO is compatible with Linux. Most distributions will work out of the box, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific driver requirements or kernel updates needed for full functionality.