GIGABYTE A520M S2H Motherboard User's Manual

Rev. 1001

Introduction

This document serves as the user's manual for the GIGABYTE A520M S2H motherboard. It provides detailed information on hardware installation, product specifications, BIOS setup, and other essential configurations to ensure optimal system performance and stability.

For more product details, please visit GIGABYTE's website: https://www.gigabyte.com

GIGABYTE is committed to environmental protection. The packaging materials for this product are recyclable and reusable to reduce impacts on global warming.

Copyright & Disclaimer

©2020 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved. Trademarks mentioned are legally registered to their respective owners.

Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE. Specifications and features may change without prior notice. Reproduction of any part of this manual without GIGABYTE's written permission is prohibited.

To assist in the use of this product, carefully read this User's Manual. For product-related information, check the GIGABYTE website.

Identifying Your Motherboard Revision

The revision number on the motherboard appears as "REV: X.X." (e.g., "REV: 1.0"). Check this revision before updating BIOS, drivers, or seeking technical information. The revision number is typically located near the AUDIO header on the motherboard.

Chapter 1: Hardware Installation

1-1 Installation Precautions

The motherboard contains delicate electronic circuits susceptible to electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Read and follow these procedures carefully before installation:

1-2 Product Specifications

ComponentDetails
CPUAMD Socket AM4, supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ processors/3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics processors. (Refer to GIGABYTE's website for latest CPU support list.)
ChipsetAMD A520
Memory2 x DDR4 DIMM sockets supporting up to 64 GB (32 GB single DIMM capacity) of system memory. Supports DDR4 3200/2933/2667/2400/2133 MHz modules. Dual channel memory architecture. Supports ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8, non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16, and Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) modules. (Refer to GIGABYTE's website for supported memory speeds and modules.)
Onboard GraphicsIntegrated in 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics processors: 1 x D-Sub port (max. 1920x1200@60 Hz), 1 x DVI-D port (max. 1920x1200@60 Hz - does not support D-Sub connection by adapter), 1 x HDMI port (max. 4096x2160@60 Hz, supports HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3, HDR). Supports up to 3 displays simultaneously. Max shared memory: 16 GB.
AudioRealtek® ALC887 codec. High Definition Audio. 2/4/5.1/7.1-channel audio. (7.1-channel audio requires configuring audio software: Device advanced settings > Playback Device).
LANRealtek® GbE LAN chip (1000 Mbit/100 Mbit).
Expansion SlotsCPU: 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIe 3.0, running at x16). Chipset: 2 x PCI Express x1 slots (PCIe 3.0).
Storage InterfaceCPU: 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 2242/2260/2280 SATA and PCIe 3.0 x4/x2 SSD support). Chipset: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors. Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10.
USBCPU: 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports on the back panel. Chipset: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports via internal USB header, 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (2 on back panel, 4 via internal USB headers).
Internal Connectors1 x 24-pin ATX main power, 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power, 1 x CPU fan, 2 x system fan, 1 x addressable LED strip, 1 x RGB LED strip, 1 x M.2 Socket 3, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s, 1 x front panel, 1 x front panel audio, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0/1.1, 1 x Trusted Platform Module (TPM) (2x6 pin, for GC-TPM2.0_S module only), 1 x serial port, 1 x speaker, 1 x chassis intrusion, 1 x Clear CMOS jumper.
Back Panel Connectors1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse, 1 x D-Sub, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB 2.0/1.1, 1 x RJ-45, 1 x Q-Flash Plus button, 3 x audio jacks.
I/O ControllerITE® I/O Controller Chip.
Hardware MonitorVoltage detection, Temperature detection, Fan speed detection, Overheating warning, Fan fail warning, Fan speed control (functionality depends on fan installed).
BIOS1 x 128 Mbit flash. Licensed AMI UEFI BIOS. PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0.
Unique FeaturesSupport for APP Center (@BIOS, EasyTune, Fast Boot, Game Boost, ON/OFF Charge, RGB Fusion, Smart Backup, System Information Viewer). Support for Q-Flash Plus, Q-Flash, Xpress Install.
Bundled SoftwareNorton® Internet Security (OEM version), Realtek® 8118 Gaming LAN Bandwidth Control Utility.
Operating SystemSupport for Windows 10 64-bit.
Form FactorMicro ATX Form Factor; 24.4cm x 20.5cm.

GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to product specifications and related information without prior notice.

Box Contents

The retail package typically includes:

Actual items may vary depending on the product package obtained and are subject to change without notice.

1-3 Installing the CPU

Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before installing the CPU to prevent hardware damage. Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, as this will cause overheating and damage.

Before installation, ensure the motherboard supports the CPU (check GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list). Locate pin one (marked by a small triangle) on both the CPU socket and the CPU. The CPU can only be inserted in one orientation. Apply a thin, even layer of thermal grease to the CPU surface.

Set the CPU host frequency according to specifications. Setting it beyond hardware specifications is not recommended as it may not meet peripheral requirements.

1-4 Installing the Memory

Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before installing memory to prevent hardware damage.

Ensure the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended to use memory modules of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips (check GIGABYTE's website for supported memory speeds and modules). Memory modules have a foolproof design and can only be installed in one direction. If insertion is difficult, switch the direction.

Dual Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard has two memory sockets supporting Dual Channel Technology. The BIOS automatically detects memory specifications and capacity after installation. Enabling Dual Channel mode doubles memory bandwidth. The sockets are divided into two channels:

Dual Channel mode requires at least two memory modules. For optimal performance with two modules, use memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips.

For more details on hardware installation, visit GIGABYTE's website.

1-5 Installing an Expansion Card

Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord before installing an expansion card to prevent hardware damage.

Ensure the motherboard supports the expansion card and refer to the expansion card's manual.

1-6 Back Panel Connectors

The back panel features various ports for external devices:

When removing cables from back panel connectors, first remove from the device, then from the motherboard. Pull straight out to prevent electrical shorts.

1-7 Internal Connectors

Ensure devices are compliant with connectors. Turn off devices and computer, unplug power cord before installation. Securely attach device cables to motherboard connectors before turning on the computer.

The motherboard features various internal headers and connectors:

Chapter 2: BIOS Setup

The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores hardware parameters in the CMOS. It performs Power-On Self-Test (POST) during startup, saves system parameters, and loads the operating system. The BIOS Setup program allows modification of basic system configuration settings.

To access BIOS Setup, press the <Delete> key during POST. To upgrade BIOS, use GIGABYTE Q-Flash or @BIOS utility.

BIOS flashing is risky. Only flash if necessary and with caution, as inadequate flashing can cause system malfunction. It is recommended not to alter default settings unless needed, as incorrect changes can lead to system instability or boot failure. If this occurs, clear CMOS values and reset to defaults.

2-1 Startup Screen

The GIGABYTE logo screen appears on boot. There are two BIOS modes: Easy Mode (quick view, basic adjustments) and Advanced Mode (detailed settings). Use <F2> to switch modes. In Advanced Mode, use arrow keys and <Enter> to navigate.

If the system is unstable, select "Load Optimized Defaults" to restore default settings. BIOS Setup menus may vary by BIOS version.

2-2 The Main Menu (Advanced Mode Function Keys)

The BIOS main menu provides various setup menus and configuration items. A Quick Access Bar allows quick navigation to General Help, Easy Mode, Smart Fan 5, or Q-Flash screen.

Key functions include:

2-3 Favorites (F11)

The Favorites submenu allows users to quickly access frequently used options. Options can be added or removed by pressing <Insert> on their original page; a star sign indicates a favorite.

2-4 Tweaker

This section is for advanced users only. Incorrect overclocking/overvoltage settings can damage CPU, chipset, or memory and reduce component lifespan. Inadequate alterations may cause system instability or boot failure. If this occurs, clear CMOS values and reset to defaults.

The Tweaker menu allows for advanced performance adjustments, including:

2-5 Settings

The Settings menu provides various system configuration options:

Chapter 3: Appendix

3-1 Configuring a RAID Set

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) combines multiple hard drives into a single logical unit for data redundancy or performance improvement. This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10.

RAID LevelMinimum Number of Hard DrivesArray CapacityFault Tolerance
RAID 0≥2Number of hard drives × Size of the smallest driveNo
RAID 12Size of the smallest driveYes
RAID 104(Number of hard drives/2) × Size of the smallest driveYes

For optimal performance, use two hard drives with identical model and capacity. An M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to set up a RAID set with a SATA hard drive.

Steps to Configure RAID:

  1. Install SATA hard drive(s): Connect hard drives/SSDs to SATA/M.2 connectors and power supply.
  2. Configure SATA controller mode in BIOS Setup: Enter BIOS Setup (<Delete>), go to Settings\IO Ports, set SATA Configuration\SATA Mode to RAID. Save and restart. (For NVMe PCIe SSDs, set NVMe RAID mode to Enabled.)
  3. UEFI RAID Configuration:
    1. In BIOS Setup, go to Boot and set CSM Support to Disabled. Save and exit.
    2. After reboot, re-enter BIOS Setup. Go to Settings\IO Ports\RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility.
    3. On RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility screen, select Array Management, then Create Array.
    4. Select RAID level (RAID 0, 1, or 10) and then Select Physical Disks.
    5. Select hard drives to include in the RAID array and set to Enabled. Apply Changes.
    6. Return to previous screen, set Select CacheTagSize, Read Cache Policy, and Write Cache Policy.
    7. Move to Create Array and press <Enter>.
    8. After completion, the Array Management screen will show the new RAID volume details.

3-2 Drivers Installation

Install the operating system first. After OS installation, insert the motherboard driver disc. Click "Tap to choose what happens with this disc" or double-click "Run.exe" from My Computer.

"Xpress Install" will scan your system and list recommended drivers. Click "Xpress Install" to install all selected drivers, or click the arrow icon to install drivers individually.

For more software information and troubleshooting information, visit GIGABYTE's website.

Regulatory Notices

This section outlines compliance with various regulatory standards.

United States of America, Federal Communications Commission Statement

Product: Motherboard, Trade Name: GIGABYTE, Model Number: A520M S2H.

This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) device must accept any interference received. If interference occurs, reorient/relocate antenna, increase separation, connect to different circuit, or consult technician.

WEEE Symbol Statement

The WEEE symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) indicates that the product must not be disposed of with other waste. It should be taken to waste collection centers for treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal. For recycling information, contact local government or waste disposal service.

End of Life Directives-Recycling

Similar to WEEE, the product should be recycled and not disposed of with general waste.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 Class B limits for radio noise emissions.

European Union (EU) CE Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, Low-voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, and RoHS directive (recast) 2011/65/EU & 2015/863 Statement. Compliance is assessed based on harmonized European standards.

European Union (EU) RoHS (recast) Directive 2011/65/EU & the European Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2015/863 Statement

GIGABYTE products are designed to be free from hazardous substances (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr+6, PBDE, PBB, DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP). Components are selected to meet RoHS requirements, and GIGABYTE continues efforts to avoid internationally banned toxic chemicals.

European Union (EU) Community Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive Statement

GIGABYTE adheres to national laws derived from the 2012/19/EU WEEE directive, which mandates proper treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal of electric and electronic devices. Used equipment must be marked, collected separately, and disposed of properly.

Contact Us

GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

To submit a technical or non-technical question, please link to GIGABYTE eSupport: https://esupport.gigabyte.com

Models: A520M S2H Motherboard, A520M S2H, Motherboard

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