ASUS M5A97 R2.0 User Manual

ASUS M5A97 R2.0 Motherboard manual cover
Pages 152
Year 2012
Language(s)
English en

ASUS M5A97 R2.0 Motherboard Specification

The ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard is a versatile and robust platform designed for AMD processors, specifically supporting the AM3+ socket compatible with AMD FX, Phenom II, Athlon II, and Sempron 100 series CPUs. It is built around the AMD 970 chipset paired with the SB950 southbridge, offering a solid foundation for both gaming and productivity tasks. The motherboard supports up to 32GB of DDR3 memory across four DIMM slots, with speeds of up to 2133 MHz when overclocked, ensuring ample performance for memory-intensive applications.

The M5A97 R2.0 features a comprehensive set of expansion options, including two PCIe 2.0 x16 slots, one running at x16 and the other at x4, allowing for flexible multi-GPU configurations using AMD CrossFireX technology. Additionally, it includes two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots and two legacy PCI slots for various peripheral cards. Storage capabilities are robust with six SATA 6Gb/s ports, supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations to enhance data redundancy and performance.

Connectivity is well-catered for with an array of USB ports, including two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and twelve USB 2.0 ports, facilitating high-speed data transfer and peripheral connectivity. The onboard Realtek ALC887 audio codec delivers 8-channel HD audio, satisfying the needs of both gamers and multimedia enthusiasts. Networking is handled by a Realtek 8111E Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring reliable and speedy internet connectivity. The ASUS M5A97 R2.0 also incorporates ASUS-exclusive features such as the EPU for enhanced power efficiency and the AI Suite II for system monitoring and tuning, offering a balanced blend of performance, connectivity, and user-friendly features.

ASUS M5A97 R2.0 Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Use the ASUS EZ Flash utility in the BIOS setup to perform the update. Ensure you have a stable power source during the update process.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS M5A97 R2.0?

The ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard supports a maximum of 32GB of DDR3 RAM across four DIMM slots, with each slot supporting up to 8GB.

How can I troubleshoot boot issues with the ASUS M5A97 R2.0?

Check all cable connections, ensure RAM and GPU are seated properly, and verify PSU functionality. Clear the CMOS to reset BIOS settings as a troubleshooting step.

Does the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 support overclocking?

Yes, the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 supports overclocking. Use the BIOS to adjust CPU multiplier and voltage settings. Ensure adequate cooling is in place to handle increased power and heat.

What type of CPU socket does the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 use?

The ASUS M5A97 R2.0 uses the AM3+ CPU socket, compatible with AMD FX, Phenom II, Athlon II, and Sempron 100 series processors.

How do I enable virtualization on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard?

To enable virtualization, enter the BIOS setup, navigate to the 'Advanced' tab, and enable 'AMD-V' or 'Secure Virtual Machine Mode' under CPU Configuration.

What should I do if my ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard is not detecting the hard drive?

Check SATA connections, ensure the drive is powered, and verify BIOS settings for the correct SATA mode (AHCI/IDE). Try using a different SATA port or cable.

Can I use an SSD with the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard?

Yes, you can use an SSD with the ASUS M5A97 R2.0. Connect the SSD using a SATA cable and set the SATA mode to AHCI in the BIOS for optimal performance.

How do I reset the BIOS settings on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard?

To reset the BIOS, turn off the PC, unplug the power, and remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes. Alternatively, use the CLR_CMOS jumper on the motherboard.

What is the function of the TPU switch on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard?

The TPU (Turbo Processing Unit) switch on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 allows for automatic overclocking of the CPU to enhance performance. Flip the switch to enable this feature.