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:
- Ensure the chassis is suitable for the motherboard.
- Do not remove or break motherboard S/N or warranty stickers; they are required for warranty validation.
- Always remove AC power by unplugging the power cord before installing or removing components.
- Connect hardware components tightly and securely to internal connectors.
- Avoid touching metal leads or connectors on the motherboard.
- Wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic components. If unavailable, keep hands dry and touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.
- Place the motherboard on an antistatic pad or within an electrostatic shielding container prior to installation.
- Ensure the power supply is turned off before connecting or unplugging its cable from the motherboard.
- Verify power supply voltage is set according to local standards before turning on power.
- Ensure all cables and power connectors are properly connected before using the product.
- Do not allow screws to contact motherboard circuits or components to prevent damage.
- Ensure no leftover screws or metal components are inside the computer casing.
- Avoid placing the computer system on an uneven, high-temperature, or wet surface.
- Turning on power during installation can damage components and harm the user.
- Consult a certified computer technician if uncertain about installation steps or product use.
- If using an adapter, extension power cable, or power strip, consult its installation and grounding instructions.
1-2 Product Specifications
Component | Details |
---|
CPU | AMD 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.) |
Chipset | AMD A520 |
Memory | 2 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 Graphics | Integrated 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. |
Audio | Realtek® 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). |
LAN | Realtek® GbE LAN chip (1000 Mbit/100 Mbit). |
Expansion Slots | CPU: 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIe 3.0, running at x16). Chipset: 2 x PCI Express x1 slots (PCIe 3.0). |
Storage Interface | CPU: 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. |
USB | CPU: 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 Connectors | 1 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 Connectors | 1 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 Controller | ITE® I/O Controller Chip. |
Hardware Monitor | Voltage detection, Temperature detection, Fan speed detection, Overheating warning, Fan fail warning, Fan speed control (functionality depends on fan installed). |
BIOS | 1 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 Features | Support 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 Software | Norton® Internet Security (OEM version), Realtek® 8118 Gaming LAN Bandwidth Control Utility. |
Operating System | Support for Windows 10 64-bit. |
Form Factor | Micro 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:
- A520M S2H motherboard
- Motherboard driver disc
- User's Manual
- Two SATA cables
- I/O Shield
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:
- Channel A: DDR4_A1
- Channel B: DDR4_B1
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:
- ATX_12V/ATX (2x4 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector): Supply stable power to components. Ensure power supply is off before connecting. 12V connector primarily powers CPU. A 500W or greater power supply is recommended for expansion.
- CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2 (Fan Headers): 4-pin headers for CPU and system fans. Connect correctly (black wire is ground). Speed control requires compatible fans. Connect fan cables to prevent overheating. These are not jumper blocks.
- D_LED1 (Addressable LED Strip Header): For standard 5050 addressable LED strips (5V, max 5A, 1000 LEDs). Connect power pin (triangle on plug) to Pin 1. Incorrect connection can damage the LED strip.
- LED_C (RGB LED Strip Header): For standard 5050 RGB LED strips (12V/G/R/B, max 2A, 2m length). Connect power pin (triangle on plug) to Pin 1. Incorrect connection can damage the LED strip.
- SATA3 0/1/2/3 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors): Compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and 1.5Gb/s. Each supports a single SATA device. Supports RAID 0, 1, and 10.
- M2A_CPU (M.2 Socket 3 Connector): Supports M.2 SATA SSDs or M.2 PCIe SSDs and RAID. (Note: M.2 PCIe SSDs cannot be used for RAID with SATA hard drives.) To install an M.2 SSD: unfasten screw/standoff, locate mounting hole, screw standoff, slide SSD into connector at angle, press down and secure with screw.
- F_PANEL (Front Panel Header): Connects power switch, reset switch, and system status indicators (Power LED, Hard Drive Activity LED). Power LED is on when system is operating, off in sleep/shutdown. HD LED is on during read/write. Reset switch restarts computer.
- F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header): Supports High Definition audio. Connect chassis front panel audio module. Ensure wire assignments match to prevent damage.
- F_U32 (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header): Provides two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. For optional 3.5" front panel.
- F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers): Each provides two USB 2.0/1.1 ports via optional USB bracket. Do not plug IEEE 1394 bracket into this header.
- TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header): For connecting a TPM.
- COM (Serial Port Header): Provides one serial port via optional COM port cable.
- SPEAKER (Speaker Header): Connects to chassis front panel speaker. System reports startup status via beep codes (single short beep for no problems).
- CI (Chassis Intrusion Header): For chassis detection feature (detects if cover removed).
- CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper): Clears BIOS configuration and resets CMOS values to factory defaults. Short the two pins with a metal object for a few seconds. Always turn off computer before clearing CMOS. After restart, load factory defaults or manually configure BIOS.
- BAT (Battery): Powers CMOS to retain BIOS configurations, date, and time. Replace when voltage is low or values are inaccurate. To clear CMOS by removing battery: turn off computer, unplug power cord, gently remove battery for one minute (or short positive/negative terminals for 5 seconds), replace battery, plug in power cord, restart. Always turn off computer before replacing. Replace with equivalent model. Note positive/negative orientation. Dispose of used batteries according to environmental regulations.
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:
- <←><→>: Move selection bar to select setup menu.
- <↑><↓>: Move selection bar to select configuration item.
- <Enter>/Double Click: Execute command or enter menu.
- <+>/<Page Up>: Increase numeric value or make changes.
- <->/<Page Down>: Decrease numeric value or make changes.
- <F1>: Show descriptions of function keys.
- <F2>: Switch to Easy Mode.
- <F3>: Save current BIOS settings to a profile.
- <F4>: Load BIOS settings from a previously created profile.
- <F5>: Restore previous BIOS settings for current submenus.
- <F6>: Display Smart Fan 5 screen.
- <F7>: Load Optimized BIOS default settings for current submenus.
- <F8>: Access Q-Flash utility.
- <F10>: Save all changes and exit BIOS Setup program.
- <F11>: Switch to Favorites submenu.
- <F12>: Capture current screen as image to USB drive.
- <Insert>: Add or remove a favorite option.
- <Ctrl>+<S>: Display information on installed memory.
- <Esc>: Exit BIOS Setup program (Main Menu) or current submenu.
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:
- CPU Clock Control: Manually set CPU base clock (Default: Auto).
- Spread Spectrum Control: Enable/disable CPU/PCIe Spread Spectrum (Default: Auto).
- CPU Ratio Mode: Set core ratio for all or individual CPU cores (Default: All cores).
- CCDO CCX0/1 Ratio: Manually set core ratio for CPU CCX0, 1 cores (configurable when CPU Ratio Mode is Per CCX).
- CPU Clock Ratio: Alter clock ratio for installed CPU.
- Advanced CPU Settings: Includes Core Performance Boost (CPB) technology (Default: Auto), SVM Mode (Virtualization, Default: Disabled), AMD Cool&Quiet function (dynamically adjusts CPU clock/VID to reduce heat/power consumption, Default: Enabled).
- PPC Adjustment: Fix CPU PState (Default: PState 0).
- Global C-state Control: Allow CPU to enter C states to reduce power consumption (Default: Auto).
- Power Supply Idle Control: Enable/disable Package C6 State (Default: Auto).
- CCD Control: Set number of CCDs to be used (Default: Auto).
- Downcore Control: Select number of CPU cores to enable.
- SMT Mode: Enable/disable CPU Simultaneous Multi-Threading (Default: Auto).
- CPPC/CPPC Preferred Cores: Enable/disable CPPC features.
- Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.): Read SPD data on XMP memory modules for enhanced performance (Default: Disabled).
- XMP High Frequency Support: Select compatibility level for high-frequency memory (configurable when X.M.P. is Profile1 or Profile2).
- System Memory Multiplier: Set system memory multiplier (Auto: sets based on SPD data).
- Advanced Memory Settings: Submenus for Standard Timing Control, Advanced Timing Control, CAD Bus Setup Timing, CAD Bus Drive Strength, Data Bus Configuration. (Note: Incorrect settings can cause instability; reset to defaults if issues occur.)
- SPD Info: Displays information on installed memory.
- CPU Vcore/Dynamic Vcore/VCORE SOC/DRAM Voltage/DDRVPP Voltage/DRAM Termination: Adjust CPU Vcore and memory voltages.
- CPU/VRM Settings: Configure Load-Line Calibration level.
2-5 Settings
The Settings menu provides various system configuration options:
- Platform Power:
- AC BACK: Determines system state after AC power loss (Memory: last awake state, Always On, Always Off - Default).
- Power On By Keyboard: Allows system power-on via PS/2 keyboard wake-up event (Disabled - Default, Password, Keyboard 98, Any key). Requires ATX power supply with at least 1A on +5VSB lead.
- Power On Password: Set password for Power On By Keyboard.
- Power On By Mouse: Allows system power-on via PS/2 mouse wake-up event (Disabled - Default, Move, Double Click). Requires ATX power supply with at least 1A on +5VSB lead.
- ErP: Determines if system consumes least power in S5 (shutdown) state (Default: Disabled). Enabling ErP disables Resume by Alarm, power on by mouse/keyboard, and wake on LAN.
- Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN: Configures power button behavior in MS-DOS mode (Instant-Off - Default, Delay 4 Sec.).
- Power Loading: Enable/disable dummy load to prevent shutdown at low power supply load (Default: Auto).
- Resume by Alarm: Determines if system powers on at a desired time (Default: Disabled). Set wake-up day/hour/minute/second.
- Wake on LAN: Enable/disable Wake on LAN function (Default: Enabled).
- High Precision Event Timer: Enable/disable HPET in OS (Default: Enabled).
- CEC 2019 Ready: Allow system to adjust power consumption in shutdown/idle/standby states to comply with CEC 2019 Standards (Default: Disabled).
- IO Ports:
- Initial Display Output: Specifies first monitor display from installed PCI Express graphics card or onboard graphics (IGD Video, PCIe 1 Slot - Default).
- Integrated Graphics: Enable/disable onboard graphics (Auto - Default, Forces, Disabled).
- UMA Mode: Specify UMA mode (Auto - Default, UMA Specified, UMA Auto, UMA Game Optimized).
- UMA Frame Buffer Size: Total system memory allocated for onboard graphics controller (Auto - Default, 64M~2G).
- Display Resolution: Set display resolution (Auto - Default, 1920x1080 and below, 2560x1600, 3840x2160).
- HD Audio Controller: Enable/disable onboard audio (Default: Enabled).
- PCIEX16 Bifurcation: Determine bandwidth division of PCIEX16 slot (Auto - Default, PCIE 2x8, PCIE 1x8/2x4, PCIE 2x4/1x8, PCIE 4x4).
- Above 4G Decoding: Enable/disable 64-bit capable devices decoding in above 4 GB address space (Default: Disabled).
- Onboard LAN Controller: Enable/disable onboard LAN (Default: Enabled).
- Super IO Configuration:
- Serial Port 1: Enable/disable onboard serial port (Default: Enabled).
- USB Configuration:
- Legacy USB Support: Allow USB keyboard/mouse in MS-DOS (Default: Enabled).
- XHCI Hand-off: Enable XHCI Hand-off for OS without native support (Default: Enabled).
- USB Mass Storage Driver Support: Enable/disable support for USB storage devices (Default: Enabled).
- Port 60/64 Emulation: Enable/disable emulation of I/O ports 64h and 60h for full legacy support (Default: Disabled).
- Mass Storage Devices: Displays connected USB mass storage devices.
- NVMe Configuration: Displays information on M.2 NVME PCIe SSDs.
- SATA Configuration:
- SATA Mode: Enable/disable RAID for SATA controllers or configure to AHCI mode (RAID, AHCI - Default).
- NVMe RAID mode: Determine whether to use M.2 NVMe PCIe SSDs for RAID (Default: Disabled).
- Chipset SATA Port Enable: Enable/disable integrated SATA controllers (Default: Enabled).
- Chipset SATA Port 0/1/2/3: Displays information of connected SATA devices.
- Network Stack Configuration:
- Network Stack: Disable/enable booting from network for GPT format OS installation (Default: Disabled).
- IPv4 PXE Support/IPv4 HTTP Support/IPv6 PXE Support/IPv6 HTTP Support: Enable/disable respective boot supports (configurable when Network Stack is enabled).
- PXE boot wait time: Configure wait time before aborting PXE boot (Default: 0).
- Media detect count: Set number of times to check media presence (Default: 1).
- Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller: Sub-menu for LAN configuration.
- Miscellaneous:
- LEDs in System Power On State: Enable/disable motherboard LED lighting when system is on (Off, On - Default).
- LEDs in Sleep, Hibernation, and Soft Off States: Set lighting mode for S3/S4/S5 states (Off - Default, On).
- PCIe Slot Configuration: Set operation mode of PCI Express slots (Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3, Auto - Default).
- 3DMark01 Enhancement: Enhance legacy benchmark performance (Default: Disabled).
- IOMMU: Enable/disable AMD IOMMU support (Default: Auto).
- AMD CPU FTPM: Enable/disable TPM 2.0 function integrated in AMD CPU (Default: Disabled).
- Trusted Computing: Enable/disable Trusted Platform Module (TPM).
- AMD CBS: Sub-menu for AMD CBS-related configuration.
- PC Health:
- Reset Case Open Status: Keep/clear record of previous chassis intrusion (Default).
- Case Open: Displays detection status of chassis intrusion device.
- CPU Vcore/CPU VDDP/DRAM Channel A/B Voltage/ +3.3V/+5V/+12V/VCORE SOC: Displays current system voltages.
- Smart Fan 5:
- Monitor: Select target to monitor and adjust (Default: CPU FAN).
- Fan Speed Control: Enable/disable fan speed control (Normal - Default, Silent, Manual, Full Speed).
- Fan Control Use Temperature Input: Select reference temperature for fan speed control.
- Temperature Interval: Set temperature interval for fan speed change.
- Fan Control mode: Auto-detects fan type and sets optimal control (Auto - Default, Voltage, PWM).
- Fan Stop: Enable/disable fan stop function (Default: Disabled).
- Temperature: Displays current temperature of selected target area.
- Fan Speed: Displays current fan speeds.
- Temperature Warning Control: Sets warning threshold for temperature (Default: Disabled, 60°C/140°F, 70°C/158°F, 80°C/176°F, 90°C/194°F).
- Fan Fail Warning: System emits warning sound if fan is not connected or fails (Default: Disabled).
- System Info: Provides motherboard model and BIOS version. Select default BIOS language and set system time.
- System Language: Selects default BIOS language.
- System Date/Time: Sets system date and time.
- Access Level: Displays current access level (Administrator/User).
- Plug in Devices Info: Displays information on SATA, PCI Express, and M.2 devices.
- Q-Flash: Access Q-Flash utility to update/back up BIOS.
- Boot:
- Boot Option Priorities: Specifies overall boot order. UEFI-prefixed devices for GPT partitioning.
- Bootup NumLock State: Enable/disable Numlock on numeric keypad after POST (Default: On).
- Security Option: Password required for system boot or BIOS Setup (Setup, System - Default).
- Full Screen LOGO Show: Display GIGABYTE Logo at startup (Default: Enabled).
- Fast Boot: Enable/disable Fast Boot to shorten OS boot process (Ultra Fast for fastest speed, Default: Disabled).
- SATA Support: SATA devices enabled before OS boot (Last Boot SATA Devices Only - Default, All SATA Devices).
- NVMe Support: Enable/disable NVMe devices (Default: Enabled).
- VGA Support: Select OS boot type (Auto, EFI Driver - Default).
- USB Support: USB devices enabled before OS boot (Disabled, Full Initial - Default, Partial Initial).
- PS2 Devices Support: PS/2 devices enabled before OS boot (Disabled, Enabled - Default).
- NetWork Stack Driver Support: Disable/enable booting from network (Disabled - Default, Enabled).
- CSM Support: Enable/disable UEFI CSM for legacy PC boot (Disabled, Enabled - Default).
- LAN PXE Boot Option ROM: Enable/disable legacy option ROM for LAN controller (Default: Disabled).
- Storage Boot Option Control: Enable/disable UEFI or legacy option ROM for storage device controller (Disabled, UEFI Only - Default, Legacy Only).
- Other PCI Device ROM Priority: Enable/disable UEFI or Legacy option ROM for other PCI device controllers (Disabled, UEFI Only - Default, Legacy Only).
- Administrator Password/User Password: Configure passwords for BIOS Setup and system startup.
- Secure Boot: Enable/disable Secure Boot (configurable when CSM Support is Disabled).
- Preferred Operating Mode: Select Easy or Advanced mode after entering BIOS Setup (Auto - Default).
- Save & Exit:
- Save & Exit Setup: Save changes and exit.
- Exit Without Saving: Exit without saving changes.
- Load Optimized Defaults: Load optimal BIOS default settings.
- Boot Override: Select device to boot immediately.
- Save Profiles: Save current BIOS settings to a profile (up to 8 profiles or to storage device).
- Load Profiles: Load BIOS settings from a saved profile (from 8 profiles or storage device).
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 Level | Minimum Number of Hard Drives | Array Capacity | Fault Tolerance |
---|
RAID 0 | ≥2 | Number of hard drives × Size of the smallest drive | No |
RAID 1 | 2 | Size of the smallest drive | Yes |
RAID 10 | 4 | (Number of hard drives/2) × Size of the smallest drive | Yes |
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:
- Install SATA hard drive(s): Connect hard drives/SSDs to SATA/M.2 connectors and power supply.
- 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.)
- UEFI RAID Configuration:
- In BIOS Setup, go to Boot and set CSM Support to Disabled. Save and exit.
- After reboot, re-enter BIOS Setup. Go to Settings\IO Ports\RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility.
- On RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility screen, select Array Management, then Create Array.
- Select RAID level (RAID 0, 1, or 10) and then Select Physical Disks.
- Select hard drives to include in the RAID array and set to Enabled. Apply Changes.
- Return to previous screen, set Select CacheTagSize, Read Cache Policy, and Write Cache Policy.
- Move to Create Array and press <Enter>.
- 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