ASUS TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS Motherboard User Manual

Brand: ASUS

Product Type: Motherboard

Introduction and Safety Information

About This Guide

This user guide contains the information needed for installing and configuring the ASUS TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS motherboard.

How This Guide Is Organized

This guide is divided into the following parts:

Where to Find More Information

Conventions Used in This Guide

The following symbols are used throughout this manual:

Safety Information

Electrical Safety

Operation Safety

Package Contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items:

Item Quantity
Motherboard1 x TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS motherboard
Cables2 x SATA 6Gb/s cables
Miscellaneous1 x I/O Shield, 1 x M.2 SSD screw package, 1 x M.2 Key E screw package, 1 x TUF Gaming sticker
Application DVD1 x Support DVD
Documentation1 x TUF Certification card, 1 x User manual

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS Specifications Summary

CategorySpecification
CPUAMD Socket AM4 for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Processors* (*Refer to www.asus.com for CPU support list.)
ChipsetAMD A520 Chipset
Memory4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR4 4800(O.C.)/4600(O.C.)/4400(O.C.)/4266(O.C.)/4133(O.C.)/4000(O.C.)/3866(O.C.)/3733(O.C.)/3600(O.C.)/3466(O.C.)/3333(O.C.)/3200/3000/2800/2666/2400/2133 MHz, Un-buffered Memory*
*ECC Memory (ECC mode) support varies by CPU.
**Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
Dual Channel Memory Architecture
Graphics1 x D-Sub, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI™ 2.1 (4K@60Hz)
Expansion Slots3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Processors: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (supports x16 mode)
AMD A520 Chipset: 2 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots
StorageTotal supports 1 x M.2 slot and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Processors: M.2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280/22110 (supports PCIe 3.0 x4 & SATA modes)
AMD A520 Chipset: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports, Supports RAID 0, 1, 10
Ethernet1 x Realtek L8200A 1Gb Ethernet
WirelessM.2 slot (Key E) (Wi-Fi module is sold separately)
USBRear USB (Total 7 ports): 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 port (Type-A), 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (Type-A), 2 x USB 2.0 ports (Type-A)
Front USB (Total 5 ports): 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports), 2 x USB 2.0 headers (support additional 3 USB 2.0 ports)
AudioRealtek ALC 887 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC*
Supports Jack detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking, Supports up to 24-Bit/192 kHz playback
Audio Features: Audio Shielding, Premium Japanese audio capacitors, Dedicated audio PCB layers
*A chassis with an HD audio module in the front panel is required to support 7.1 Surround Sound audio output.
Back Panel I/O Ports1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 port (Type-A), 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (Type-A), 2 x USB 2.0 ports (Type-A), 1 x D-Sub port, 1 x DVI-D port, 1 x HDMI™ port, 1 x Realtek L8200A 1Gb Ethernet port, 3 x Audio jacks, 1 x PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port
Internal I/O ConnectorsFan and cooling related: 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan header, 2 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers
Power related: 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector, 1 x 8-pin +12V Power connector
Storage related: 1 x M.2 slot (Key M), 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
USB: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports), 2 x USB 2.0 headers (support additional 3 USB 2.0 ports)
Miscellaneous: 1 x AURA RGB header, 1 x Clear CMOS header, 1 x COM Port header, 1 x Front Panel Audio header (AAFP), 1 x M.2 slot (Key E)
Additional headers: 1 x S/PDIF out header, 1 x SPI TPM header (14-1pin), 1 x 20-5 pin System Panel header
Special FeaturesASUS TUF PROTECTION (ASUS DIGI+ VRM, ASUS ESD Guards, TUF LANGuard, ASUS Overvoltage Protection, ASUS SafeSlot Core+, ASUS Stainless-Steel Back I/O)
ASUS Q-Design (ASUS Q-DIMM, ASUS Q-Slot)
ASUS Thermal Solution (Aluminum heatsink design)
AURA Sync (Aura RGB header)
Software FeaturesASUS Exclusive Software (Armoury Crate, Aura Creator, Aura Sync, AI Suite 3, Performance And Power Saving Utility, TurboV EVO, EPU, Digi+ VRM, Fan Xpert 2+, PC Cleaner, EZ Update, System Information, TUF GAMING CPU-Z, AI Charger, ASUS Turbo LAN)
Norton Anti-virus software (Free Trial for 60 days)
WinRAR
UEFI BIOSASUS EZ DIY, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, ASUS EZ Flash 3, ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode
BIOS256 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS
ManageabilityWOL by PME, PXE
Operating SystemWindows 10 - 64 bit
Form FactormATX Form Factor, 9.6 inch x 9.6 inch (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications.

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Before You Proceed

Take note of the following precautions before installing motherboard components or changing any motherboard settings:

1.2 Motherboard Overview

Diagram showing the layout of the ASUS TUF GAMING A520M-PLUS motherboard with numbered components including CPU socket, DIMM slots, expansion slots, power connectors, M.2 slots, SATA ports, rear I/O ports, and internal headers. The motherboard dimensions are 24.4cm x 24.4cm (9.6in x 9.6in).

Key components indicated in the overview diagram:

⚠️ Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.2.1 Layout Contents

1. CPU Socket

The motherboard features an AMD Socket AM4 designed for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Processors. For more details, refer to Central Processing Unit (CPU).

2. DDR4 DIMM Slots

The motherboard has four Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) slots designed for DDR4 memory modules. For more details, refer to System memory.

3. Expansion Slots

Supports one PCIe x16 graphics card and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for network cards, SCSI cards, and other PCI Express compliant cards.

4. Fan Headers

Fan headers allow connection of system fans for cooling. Pinout: FAN_PWM, FAN_IN, FAN_PWR, GND.

5. Power Connectors

Connectors for the power supply unit (PSU). Ensure proper orientation and firm insertion. An 8-pin power plug connection is recommended. For a fully configured system, a PSU compliant with ATX 12V Specification 2.0 (or later) providing a minimum of 350W is recommended. Higher power output is advised for power-consuming devices. Consult online resources for PSU wattage calculators if uncertain.

6. M.2 Slot (Key M)

Allows installation of an M.2 device such as an M.2 SSD module. Supports PCIe 3.0 x4 mode and SATA mode M Key design for type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices.

7. SATA 6Gb/s Ports

Ports for connecting SATA devices like optical drives and hard disk drives via a SATA cable.

8. USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header

Connects a USB 3.2 Gen 1 module for additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, providing data transfer speeds up to 5 Gb/s. The module is purchased separately.

9. USB 2.0 Headers

Two USB 2.0 headers allow connection of USB modules for up to three additional USB 2.0 ports, providing data transfer speeds up to 480 Mb/s. ⚠️ DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to USB connectors, as this will damage the motherboard. The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

10. Aura RGB Header

Connects a RGB LED strip (supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strip, 12V/G/R/B, max 3A (12V), up to 3m). ⚠️ Ensure the ATX power supply is switched off or detached before installing/removing components. Actual lighting and color depend on the LED strip. Check connections if the strip does not light up. The LED strip only lights up when the system is powered on. The LED strip is purchased separately.

11. Clear CMOS Header

Clears CMOS RTC RAM data (date, time, system passwords). To erase RTC RAM: Turn off PC, unplug power. Short the two pins with a metal object. Plug in power and turn on PC. Hold key during boot to enter BIOS setup. If issues persist, remove the onboard battery, short pins again, then reinstall the battery.

12. COM Port Header

For a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable and install the module to a chassis slot opening.

13. Front Panel Audio Header

For a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module supporting HD audio. Connect one end of the cable. A high-definition front panel audio module is recommended. Set Front Panel Type in BIOS setup to [HD Audio] if needed.

14. M.2 Slot (E Key)

Allows installation of a Wi-Fi module.

15. S/PDIF Out Header

For an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable and install the module to a chassis slot opening.

16. SPI TPM Header

Supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system with Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for secure key storage, digital certificates, passwords, and data, enhancing network security and platform integrity.

17. 20-5 pin System Panel Header

Supports chassis-mounted functions:

1.2.2 Rear Panel Connectors

Diagram showing rear panel connectors:

Ethernet Port LED Indications

Activity/Link LED StatusDescriptionSpeed LED StatusDescription
OffNo linkOff10Mbps connection
OrangeLinkedOrange100Mbps connection
Orange (Blinking)Data activityGreen1Gbps connection
Orange (Blinking then steady)Ready to wake up from S5 mode

Audio 2, 4, 5.1 or 7.1-channel configuration

PortHeadset 2-channel4-channel5.1-channel7.1-channel
Light Blue (Rear panel)Line InRear Speaker OutRear Speaker OutRear Speaker Out
Lime (Rear panel)Line OutFront Speaker OutFront Speaker OutFront Speaker Out
Pink (Rear panel)Mic InMic InBass/CenterBass/Center
Lime (Front panel)--Side Speaker Out-

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

This motherboard comes with an AMD Socket AM4 designed for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics Processors.

⚠️ Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU.

The AM4 socket has a specific pinout. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM4 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending connectors and damaging the CPU.

Installing the CPU

Step 1: Open the CPU socket retention lever.

Step 2: Align the CPU's triangle mark with the socket's triangle mark and carefully place the CPU into the socket.

Step 3: Close the CPU socket retention lever.

Step 4: Apply Thermal Interface Material (TIM) to the CPU heatsink and CPU if necessary before installing the heatsink and fan.

1.4 System Memory

This motherboard features four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. The figure illustrates the location of the DDR4 DIMM sockets.

ChannelSockets
Channel ADIMM_A1 & DIMM_A2*
Channel BDIMM_B1 & DIMM_B2*

Recommended Memory Configurations

Diagrams show recommended dual-channel memory configurations using DIMM slots A1/A2 and B1/B2.

Installing a DIMM

Step 1: Open the DIMM slot retention clips.

Step 2: Align the DIMM's notch with the slot key and press down firmly on both ends until the clips snap into place.

To Remove a DIMM

Gently push down the retention clips on both ends of the DIMM slot and pull the DIMM straight up.

Chapter 2: BIOS and RAID Support

2.1 Knowing BIOS

The ASUS UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface with flexible keyboard and mouse input. The term "BIOS" in this manual refers to "UEFI BIOS" unless specified otherwise.

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings (storage configuration, overclocking, power management, boot device configuration) needed for system startup. Default BIOS settings ensure optimal performance under normal circumstances. DO NOT change default BIOS settings unless necessary:

⚠️ Inappropriate BIOS settings can lead to instability or boot failure. It is strongly recommended to change BIOS settings only with the help of trained service personnel.

For more information on BIOS configurations, refer to www.asus.com/support or scan the QR code for the BIOS manual.

2.2 BIOS Setup Program

Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The screen includes navigation keys and onscreen help.

Entering BIOS at Startup

Press Delete or F2 during the Power-On Self Test (POST).

Entering BIOS Setup After POST

Perform one of the following:

After any of these options, press Delete to enter BIOS.

BIOS Menu Screen

The BIOS Setup can be used in two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode. Switch modes from 'Setup Mode' in the Boot menu or by pressing the F7 hotkey.

2.3 ASUS EZ Flash 3

ASUS EZ Flash 3 allows BIOS updates without an OS-based utility.

? Ensure to load BIOS default settings to guarantee system compatibility and stability. Select 'Load Optimized Defaults' under the Exit menu or press F5.

To update the BIOS by USB:

  1. Insert the USB flash disk containing the latest BIOS file into a USB port.
  2. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the 'Tool' menu and select 'ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility', then press Enter.
  3. Select 'via Storage Device(s)'.
  4. Press Tab to switch to the 'Drive' field.
  5. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk with the BIOS file, then press Enter.
  6. Press Tab to switch to the 'Folder' field.
  7. Use the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, then press Enter to start the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when done.

2.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that restores the BIOS file if it fails or gets corrupted during an update. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using a USB flash drive containing the BIOS file.

? If you need the latest BIOS file, download it from www.asus.com/support and save it to a USB flash drive.

To recover the BIOS:

  1. Turn on the system.
  2. Insert the USB flash drive containing the BIOS file into a USB port.
  3. The utility automatically checks devices for the BIOS file. Upon finding it, the utility reads the file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 3 automatically.
  4. The system prompts you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings. For system compatibility and stability, press F5 to load default BIOS values.

⚠️ DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure!

2.5 RAID Configurations

The motherboard includes the RaidXpert2 Configuration Utility supporting RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 configurations.

? For more information on configuring RAID sets, refer to the RAID Configuration Guide available at www.asus.com/support or by scanning the QR code.

RAID Definitions

Appendix

Notices

FCC Compliance Information

Responsible Party: Asus Computer International

Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA

Phone / Fax No: (510)739-3777 / (510)608-4555

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Compliance Statement of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)

This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B)

(Also available in French: Déclaration de conformité de Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada (ISED))

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement

Class B ITE. This device is intended for home environments but may cause interference to radio or television receivers when used nearby. Please follow instructions in the manual for correct operation.

(Original text in Japanese)

KC: Korea Warning Statement

Class B equipment (home broadcast and communication equipment). This device is intended for home use and can be used in all regions.

(Original text in Korean)

Google™ License Terms

Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0. Full license text available at: http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0. Software is distributed "AS IS" without warranties.

Declaration of compliance for product environmental regulation

ASUS follows green design concepts and complies with global environmental regulations. Information is disclosed based on regulation requirements.

Please refer to http://csr.asus.com/Compliance.htm for information disclosure.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services

ASUS is committed to environmental protection through recycling and takeback programs. For detailed recycling information, visit http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm.

?️❌ DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product is designed for reuse and recycling. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol indicates it should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

?️❌ DO NOT throw mercury-containing button cell batteries in municipal waste. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol indicates the battery should not be placed in municipal waste.

Regional notice for California

⚠️ WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Declarations of Conformity

This device is compliant with various regional directives and regulations. Full text of declarations in multiple languages (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, and others) are available on the ASUS website at www.asus.com/support.

ASUS Contact Information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Taiwan)

Address: 1F., No. 15, Lide Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City 112, Taiwan

Telephone: +886-2-2894-3447

Fax: +886-2-2890-7798

Web site: https://www.asus.com

Technical Support Telephone: +86-21-38429911

Online support: https://qr.asus.com/techserv

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA

Telephone: +1-510-739-3777

Fax: +1-510-608-4555

Web site: https://www.asus.com/us/

Technical Support Telephone: +1-812-282-2787

Online support: https://qr.asus.com/techserv

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address: Harkortstrasse 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany

Web site: https://www.asus.com/de

Online contact: https://www.asus.com/support/Product/ContactUs/Services/questionform/?lang=de-de

Technical Support Telephone (DE): +49-2102-5789557

Technical Support Telephone (AT): +43-1360-2775461

Online support: https://www.asus.com/de/support

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