ASUS M5A97 PLUS User Manual

ASUS M5A97 PLUS Motherboard manual cover

Pages 66

Year 2014

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of 66

ASUS M5A97 PLUS Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M5A97 PLUS is a high-performance ATX motherboard designed to support AMD processors and offers robust features for both gaming and multimedia enthusiasts. It is built around the AMD 970 chipset with an AM3+ CPU socket, providing compatibility with a wide range of AMD FX, Phenom II, Athlon II, and Sempron 100 series processors. The motherboard supports up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM across its four DIMM slots, facilitating effective multitasking and speedy data access.

For graphics, it includes a PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, allowing for the installation of high-performance graphics cards, alongside additional PCIe slots for other expansion needs. The ASUS M5A97 PLUS is equipped with six SATA 6Gb/s ports, enabling fast data transfer rates and efficient connectivity with a variety of storage devices. It also supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations, ensuring data redundancy and improved storage performance.

Connectivity options are abundant, with integrated Realtek 8111F Gigabit LAN for high-speed internet access and multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0, for versatile peripheral connections. The onboard Realtek ALC887 audio codec delivers high-definition sound quality, enhancing the multimedia experience. ASUS has incorporated several of its exclusive technologies into the M5A97 PLUS, such as Network iControl for optimized bandwidth management and ASUS EPU for improved energy efficiency.

Overall, the ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard offers a balance of performance, connectivity, and expandability, making it a suitable choice for users looking to build or upgrade their AMD-based systems.

ASUS M5A97 PLUS Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB drive, reboot your system, and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key during startup. Navigate to the 'Tools' menu and select 'EZ Flash Utility'. Choose the BIOS file from your USB and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

What should I do if my ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard is not detecting RAM?

Ensure the RAM is properly seated in the DIMM slots. Try reseating the RAM or testing each stick individually. Check the motherboard's compatibility with the RAM in use. Update the BIOS to the latest version, as it may contain fixes for memory compatibility issues.

How can I configure RAID on the ASUS M5A97 PLUS?

Enter the BIOS setup and navigate to the 'Advanced' tab. Select 'SATA Configuration', and change the 'SATA Mode' to 'RAID'. Save the changes and reboot. During boot, enter the RAID configuration utility by pressing 'Ctrl + F'. Follow the prompts to create and manage RAID arrays.

What is the maximum supported RAM for the ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard?

The ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard supports a maximum of 32GB of RAM, using four 8GB DDR3 DIMMs. Ensure the RAM is compatible with the motherboard specifications.

How do I troubleshoot a no-boot issue on my ASUS M5A97 PLUS?

First, check all power connections and ensure the power supply is functional. Verify that the CPU, RAM, and GPU are properly seated. Disconnect all peripherals and try booting with only essential components. Reset the BIOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes. If the issue persists, test each component in a different system if possible.

Can I use an M.2 SSD with the ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard?

The ASUS M5A97 PLUS does not have an M.2 slot. To use an M.2 SSD, you'll need an M.2 to PCIe adapter. Install the adapter in one of the PCIe slots and ensure it's properly configured in the BIOS.

How do I enable virtualization on the ASUS M5A97 PLUS?

Enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'Del' during startup. Navigate to the 'Advanced' tab, then select 'CPU Configuration'. Enable 'SVM Mode' to turn on virtualization support. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

What are the symptoms of a failing ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard?

Symptoms may include random system crashes, failure to boot, components not being recognized, and frequent blue screen errors. If these issues persist after troubleshooting other components, the motherboard might be failing.

How can I improve the cooling performance of my ASUS M5A97 PLUS system?

Ensure that your case has adequate airflow by using a balanced number of intake and exhaust fans. Consider upgrading the CPU cooler for better thermal performance. Reapply thermal paste on the CPU if necessary, and keep the system free from dust buildup.

Is it possible to overclock the CPU on the ASUS M5A97 PLUS motherboard?

Yes, the ASUS M5A97 PLUS supports CPU overclocking. Enter the BIOS setup and navigate to the 'AI Tweaker' section. Adjust the CPU multiplier and voltage settings to achieve the desired overclock. Monitor temperatures to ensure the system remains stable and cool.