MSI A320M-A Pro Quick Start Guide

MSI A320M-A Pro manual cover
Pages 148
Year 2019
Language(s)
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MSI A320M-A Pro Specification

The MSI A320M-A Pro is a micro-ATX motherboard designed to support AMD Ryzen processors, including the Ryzen 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation chips with an AM4 socket. It is built on the AMD A320 chipset, providing a reliable platform for budget-friendly computing solutions. The motherboard supports dual-channel DDR4 memory with speeds up to 3200 MHz (OC) and a maximum capacity of 32GB across two DIMM slots, catering to basic multitasking and general usage needs.

Integrated with one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, the A320M-A Pro allows for the installation of a discrete graphics card, enhancing its capabilities for gaming or graphic-intensive applications. Additionally, it includes two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots, providing further expansion options for peripherals. Storage solutions are supported through four SATA 6Gb/s ports, allowing for multiple hard drives or SSDs, although M.2 slots are absent, which might limit high-speed storage upgrades.

Connectivity features include a range of USB ports, with two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and six USB 2.0 ports for peripherals and devices. The onboard Realtek ALC887 audio codec delivers 7.1-channel high-definition audio, ensuring decent sound quality for media consumption. Network connectivity is provided by a Realtek 8111H Gigabit LAN controller, supporting reliable and fast wired internet connections.

The MSI A320M-A Pro is equipped with essential I/O ports, including HDMI and VGA for display output, making it suitable for dual-monitor setups. It also features MSI's Click BIOS 5, offering a user-friendly interface for system settings and configurations. This motherboard is ideal for users seeking a cost-effective solution for basic computing tasks, office work, or entry-level gaming without sacrificing essential features.

MSI A320M-A Pro F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the MSI A320M-A Pro?

To update the BIOS on the MSI A320M-A Pro, download the latest BIOS version from the MSI official website. Extract the files to a USB drive, reboot the computer, enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'DEL' key during startup, and use the M-FLASH utility to update the BIOS.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the MSI A320M-A Pro?

The MSI A320M-A Pro supports a maximum of 32GB of DDR4 RAM across two DIMM slots, with speeds up to 3200 MHz (OC).

Can I use an NVMe SSD with the MSI A320M-A Pro motherboard?

The MSI A320M-A Pro does not have an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs. However, you can use SATA SSDs for storage expansion.

How can I troubleshoot boot issues on the MSI A320M-A Pro?

First, check all cable connections and ensure RAM and GPU are seated correctly. Clear the CMOS to reset BIOS settings. If problems persist, test with minimal hardware components to isolate the issue.

What are the compatible CPUs for the MSI A320M-A Pro?

The MSI A320M-A Pro supports AMD Ryzen CPUs from the 1st, 2nd, and some 3rd generation processors, as well as Athlon processors, depending on BIOS version. Check the MSI CPU compatibility list for specifics.

How do I enable XMP on the MSI A320M-A Pro motherboard?

To enable XMP, enter the BIOS by pressing the 'DEL' key during boot. Navigate to the 'OC' section and set the 'A-XMP' option to 'Profile 1' or 'Profile 2', then save and exit.

What should I do if my MSI A320M-A Pro is not detecting a hard drive?

Ensure that the SATA cable is securely connected to both the motherboard and the hard drive. Check the BIOS to verify if the drive is recognized. If not, try a different SATA port or cable.

How can I connect additional fans to the MSI A320M-A Pro?

The MSI A320M-A Pro has a limited number of fan headers. Use a fan splitter or a dedicated fan controller to connect additional fans if needed.

What graphics cards are compatible with the MSI A320M-A Pro?

The MSI A320M-A Pro has a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, compatible with most modern graphics cards. Ensure your power supply can handle the power requirements of the chosen GPU.

How do I reset the CMOS on the MSI A320M-A Pro?

To reset the CMOS, turn off the computer and unplug it. Remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes, or use the JBAT1 jumper to clear CMOS, then replace the battery or jumper and power the system back on.