GIGABYTE A520M S2H Motherboard User's Manual

Copyright

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

Disclaimer

Information in this manual is protected by GIGABYTE copyright. Specifications and features may change without prior notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced without GIGABYTE's prior written permission. Users should carefully read this manual for product use and check GIGABYTE's website for product-related information.

Identifying Your Motherboard Revision

The motherboard revision number appears as "REV: X.X." (e.g., "REV: 1.0"). Check this revision before updating BIOS, drivers, or seeking technical information.

Chapter 1: Hardware Installation

1-1 Installation Precautions

• Ensure chassis suitability for the motherboard.
• Do not remove or break motherboard S/N or warranty stickers for warranty validation.
• Always unplug AC power before installing or removing components.
• Ensure hardware components are tightly and securely connected to internal connectors.
• Avoid touching metal leads or connectors when handling the motherboard.
• Wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap or touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.
• Place the motherboard on an antistatic pad or in an electrostatic shielding container prior to installation.
• Turn off the power supply before connecting/unplugging its cable from the motherboard.
• Set power supply voltage according to local standards before turning on.
• Verify all cables and power connectors are connected before using the product.
• Prevent screws from contacting motherboard circuits or components.
• Ensure no leftover screws or metal components are on the motherboard or in the casing.
• Do not place the system on an uneven, high-temperature, or wet surface.
• Turning on power during installation can damage components and cause physical harm.
• Consult a certified computer technician if uncertain about installation steps or product use.
• Consult installation/grounding instructions for adapters, extension power cables, or power strips.

1-2 Product Specifications

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

For support lists (CPU, memory, SSDs, M.2) and latest apps, visit GIGABYTE's website.

1-3 Installing the CPU

Read these guidelines before CPU installation:

• Ensure motherboard supports the CPU. (Check GIGABYTE's website for latest CPU support list.)
• Always turn off computer and unplug power cord.
• Locate pin one (small triangle) on CPU socket and CPU for correct orientation.
• Apply an even, thin layer of thermal grease on the CPU surface.
• Do not turn on computer without CPU cooler installed to prevent overheating.
• Set CPU host frequency according to CPU specifications; avoid setting beyond hardware specifications.

To install the CPU, align the small triangle on the CPU with the small triangle marking pin one on the CPU socket (AM4 Socket).

1-4 Installing the Memory

Read these guidelines before memory installation:

• Ensure motherboard supports the memory. Recommended to use memory of same capacity, brand, speed, and chips. (Check GIGABYTE's website for latest supported memory speeds/modules.)
• Always turn off computer and unplug power cord.
• Memory modules have a foolproof design; install in one direction. If unable to insert, switch direction.

Dual Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard has two memory sockets supporting Dual Channel Technology. Enabling Dual Channel mode doubles memory bandwidth. The two memory sockets are divided into Channel A (DDR4_A1) and Channel B (DDR4_B1).

Due to CPU limitations for Dual Channel mode:

1. Cannot be enabled with only one memory module.
2. With two modules, use memory of same capacity, brand, speed, and chips.

Visit GIGABYTE's website for hardware installation details.

1-5 Installing an Expansion Card

Read these guidelines before expansion card installation:

• Ensure motherboard supports the expansion card. Read the expansion card's manual.
• Always turn off computer and unplug power cord.

1-6 Back Panel Connectors

The back panel features various ports:

• USB 2.0/1.1 Port: For USB devices.
• PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port: For PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
• D-Sub Port (Note 1): 15-pin D-Sub connector, max 1920x1200@60 Hz.
• DVI-D Port (Note 1, Note 2): DVI-D specification, max 1920x1200@60 Hz.
• HDMI Port (Note 1): HDCP 2.3 compliant, supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio, up to 192KHz/24bit 7.1-channel LPCM audio. Max 4096x2160@60 Hz.

To set up a triple-display configuration, motherboard drivers must be installed in the OS. After HDMI device installation, set default sound playback to HDMI.

Triple-Display Configurations for the Onboard Graphics:

Supported after motherboard drivers are installed in OS. Only single display available during BIOS Setup or POST.

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

1-7 Internal Connectors

The motherboard has various internal connectors:

• ATX_12V (2x4 12V Power Connector)
• ATX (2x12 Main Power Connector)
• CPU_FAN
• SYS_FAN1/2
• D_LED1 (Addressable LED Strip Header)
• LED_C (RGB LED Strip Header)
• SATA3 0/1/2/3 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)
• M2A_CPU (M.2 Socket 3 Connector)
• F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)
• F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)
• F_U32 (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header)
• F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)
• TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header)
• COM (Serial Port Header)
• SPEAKER (Speaker Header)
• CI (Chassis Intrusion Header)
• CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)
• BAT (Battery)

Read these guidelines before connecting external devices:

• Ensure devices are compliant with connectors.
• Turn off devices and computer, unplug power cord.
• Ensure device cable is securely attached before turning on.

1/2) ATX_12V/ATX (2x4 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector)

These connectors provide stable power to motherboard components. Ensure power supply is off and devices are installed before connecting. The 12V connector primarily powers the CPU; system will not start if disconnected.

A power supply of 500W or greater is recommended for high power consumption to prevent unstable or unbootable systems.

3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2 (Fan Headers)

All 4-pin fan headers have a foolproof design. Connect fan cables in correct orientation (black wire is ground). Speed control requires a fan with speed control design. System fan installation in chassis is recommended for optimum heat dissipation.

Connect fan cables to prevent CPU/system overheating, which can cause damage or system hangs. These are not jumper blocks; do not place jumper caps.

5) D_LED1 (Addressable LED Strip Header)

Connects standard 5050 addressable LED strips (5A, 5V, max 1000 LEDs). Power pin (triangle on plug) must connect to Pin 1. Incorrect connection may damage the LED strip.

6) LED_C (RGB LED Strip Header)

Connects standard 5050 RGB LED strips (12V/G/R/B, 2A, max 2m). Power pin (triangle on plug) must connect to Pin 1. Incorrect connection may damage the LED strip.

For LED strip light control, visit GIGABYTE's "Unique Features" webpage.

Turn off devices and computer, unplug power cord before installing devices.

7) SATA3 0/1/2/3 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)

SATA 6Gb/s standard compliant, compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and 1.5Gb/s. Each connector supports one SATA device. Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10. Refer to Chapter 3 for RAID array configuration.

8) M2A_CPU (M.2 Socket 3 Connector)

Supports M.2 SATA SSDs or M.2 PCIe SSDs and RAID configuration. Note: M.2 PCIe SSDs cannot be used to create a RAID set with a SATA hard drive. Refer to Chapter 3 for RAID array configuration.

To install an M.2 SSD:

1. Unfasten screw and standoff from motherboard. Screw standoff into proper mounting hole.
2. Slide M.2 SSD into connector at an angle.
3. Press M.2 SSD down and secure with screw.

Select the proper hole for the M.2 SSD and refasten the screw and standoff.

9) F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)

Connect power switch, reset switch, and system status indicator to this header according to pin assignments. Note positive and negative pins.

• PLED (Power LED): Indicates system operating status (On for operating, Off for S3/S4 sleep or powered off).
• PW (Power Switch): Connects to chassis power switch. Configurable for system shutdown (refer to BIOS Setup > Settings > Platform Power).
• HD (Hard Drive Activity LED): Indicates hard drive reading/writing data.
• RES (Reset Switch): Connects to chassis reset switch. Restarts computer if frozen.
• NC: No connection.

Front panel design may vary by chassis. Ensure wire assignments match pin assignments when connecting.

10) F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)

Supports High Definition audio (HD). Connect chassis front panel audio module. Ensure wire assignments match to prevent device malfunction or damage.

Some chassis have separated connectors for front panel audio. Contact chassis manufacturer for wire assignment information.

11) F_U32 (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header)

Conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specifications, provides two USB ports. For optional 3.5" front panel, contact local dealer.

12) F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)

Conforms to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each header provides two USB ports via an optional USB bracket. For optional USB bracket, contact local dealer.

Do not plug IEEE 1394 bracket (2x5-pin) cable into USB 2.0/1.1 header. Turn off computer and unplug power cord before installing USB bracket.

13) TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header)

Connects a Trusted Platform Module (TPM).

14) COM (Serial Port Header)

Provides one serial port via an optional COM port cable. For optional cable, contact local dealer.

15) SPEAKER (Speaker Header)

Connects to chassis front panel speaker. Reports system startup status via beep codes. A single short beep indicates no problem at startup.

16) CI (Chassis Intrusion Header)

Detects if chassis cover has been removed. Requires a chassis with intrusion detection design.

17) CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)

Clears BIOS configuration and resets CMOS values to factory defaults. Touch the two pins with a metal object for a few seconds.

Always turn off computer before clearing CMOS. After restart, load factory defaults (Load Optimized Defaults) or manually configure BIOS settings.

18) BAT (Battery)

Provides power to keep BIOS configurations, date, and time when computer is off. Replace battery if voltage is low or CMOS values are inaccurate/lost.

To clear CMOS values by removing battery:

1. Turn off computer and unplug power cord.
2. Gently remove battery and wait one minute (or short positive/negative terminals for 5 seconds).
3. Replace battery.
4. Plug in power cord and restart computer.

Always turn off computer and unplug power cord before replacing battery. Replace with an equivalent model to prevent damage. Contact purchase location if unable to replace or uncertain about model. Note positive (+) and negative (-) orientation. Dispose of used batteries according to environmental regulations.

Chapter 2: BIOS Setup

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) records hardware parameters, conducts Power-On Self-Test (POST), saves system parameters, and loads the operating system. The BIOS Setup program allows modification of basic system configurations and activation of features. The motherboard battery powers CMOS when off. Access BIOS Setup by pressing <Delete> during POST. Upgrade BIOS using GIGABYTE Q-Flash or @BIOS utility.

• Q-Flash: Quickly upgrade or back up BIOS without entering OS.
• @BIOS: Windows-based utility to search and download latest BIOS from Internet.

BIOS flashing is risky; do not flash if current BIOS version works fine. Inadequate flashing can cause system malfunction. Avoid altering default settings unless necessary to prevent instability or unexpected results. If issues occur, clear CMOS values and reset to defaults.

2-1 Startup Screen

The GIGABYTE startup logo screen appears on boot. Function keys are displayed (e.g., DEL: BIOS SETUP, F9: SYSTEM INFORMATION, F12: BOOT MENU, END: Q-FLASH).

Two BIOS modes: Easy Mode (quick view/adjustments) and Advanced Mode (detailed settings). Use <F2> to switch. In Easy Mode, use mouse. In Advanced Mode, use arrow keys and <Enter> or mouse.

If system is unstable, select Load Optimized Defaults. BIOS Setup menus may vary by BIOS version.

2-2 The Main Menu

The main menu displays setup menus (Favorites, Tweaker, Settings, System Info, Boot, Save & Exit), configuration items, current settings, and hardware information (CPU frequency, temperature, BCLK, voltages, memory frequency, size, voltage). The Quick Access Bar allows quick navigation to Help, Easy Mode, Smart Fan 5, or Q-Flash.

Advanced Mode Function Keys

2-3 Favorites (F11)

Set frequently used options as favorites. Press <F11> to quickly switch to the favorites page. Add/remove favorites by pressing <Insert> on the option; a star sign indicates a favorite.

2-4 Tweaker

Overclock/overvoltage settings depend on system configurations. Incorrect settings can damage CPU, chipset, or memory and reduce component life. This page is for advanced users; avoid altering defaults to prevent instability.

• CPU Clock Control: Manually set CPU base clock (Default: Auto). Recommended to set according to CPU specifications.
• Spread Spectrum Control: Enables/disables CPU/PCIe Spread Spectrum (Default: Auto).
• CPU Ratio Mode (Note): Sets core ratio for all or individual CPU cores (Default: All cores).
• CCDO CCX0/1 Ratio (Note): Manually sets core ratio for CPU CCX0, 1 cores (configurable when CPU Ratio Mode is Per CCX).
• CPU Clock Ratio: Alters clock ratio for installed CPU (adjustable range depends on CPU).
• Advanced CPU Settings:
• Core Performance Boost (Note): Enables/disables CPU performance-boost technology (Default: Auto).
• SVM Mode: Enables virtualization for running multiple OS and applications in independent partitions (Default: Disabled).
• AMD Cool&Quiet function: Dynamically adjusts CPU clock and VID to reduce heat/power consumption (Default: Enabled).
• PPC Adjustment (Note 1): Fixes CPU PState (Default: PState 0).
• Global C-state Control (Note 1): Determines if CPU enters C states to reduce power consumption (Default: Auto).
• Power Supply Idle Control (Note 1): Enables/disables Package C6 State (Default: Auto).
• CCD Control (Note 1): Sets number of CCDs to be used (Default: Auto).
• Downcore Control: Selects number of CPU cores to enable (varies by CPU).
• SMT Mode: Enables/disables CPU Simultaneous Multi-Threading technology (Default: Auto).
• CPPC (Note 1): Enables/disables CPPC feature (Default: Auto).
• CPPC Preferred Cores (Note 1): Enables/disables CPPC Preferred Cores feature (Default: Auto).
• Extreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) (Note 2): Allows BIOS to read SPD data on XMP memory module(s) for enhanced performance (Default: Disabled).
• XMP High Frequency Support (Note 2): Selects compatibility level for high-frequency memory (configurable when X.M.P. is Profile1 or Profile2).
• System Memory Multiplier: Sets system memory multiplier (Auto sets based on SPD data).
• Advanced Memory Settings:
• Memory Subtimings: Includes Standard Timing Control, Advanced Timing Control, CAD Bus Setup Timing, CAD Bus Drive Strength, Data Bus Configuration. These sections provide memory timing settings. Note: System may become unstable or fail to boot after changes. Reset to defaults by loading optimized defaults or clearing CMOS if this occurs.
• SPD Info: Displays information on installed memory.
• CPU Vcore/Dynamic Vcore(DVID)/VCORE SOC/Dynamic VCORE SOC(DVID)/CPU VDD18/CPU VDDP/A_VDD18S5/DRAM Voltage (CH A/B)/DDRVPP Voltage (CH A/B)/DRAM Termination (CH A/B): Adjusts CPU Vcore and memory voltages.
• CPU/VRM Settings: Configures Load-Line Calibration level.

(Note 1) Item present only with supporting CPU. (Note 2) Item present only with supporting CPU and memory module.

Chapter 3: Appendix

3-1 Configuring a RAID Set

RAID Levels

Before you begin, prepare:

• At least two SATA hard drives or SSDs (identical model/capacity recommended for optimal performance).
• Windows setup disc.
• Motherboard driver disc.
• USB thumb drive.

Configuring the Onboard SATA Controller

A. Installing SATA hard drive(s) in your computer

Install hard drives/SSDs in SATA/M.2 connectors on motherboard. Connect power connectors from power supply.

B. Configuring SATA controller mode in BIOS Setup

Configure SATA controller mode in system BIOS Setup:

1. Turn on computer, press <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup during POST.
2. Under Settings IO Ports, set SATA Configuration SATA Mode to RAID.
3. Save settings and restart. (For NVMe PCIe SSDs RAID, set NVMe RAID mode to Enabled.)

BIOS Setup menus may differ based on motherboard and BIOS version.

C. UEFI RAID Configuration

1. In BIOS Setup, go to Boot and set CSM Support to Disabled. Save changes and exit.
2. After reboot, re-enter BIOS Setup. Enter Settings IO Ports RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility.
3. On RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility screen, press <Enter> on Array Management to enter Create Array screen. Select RAID level (0, 1, or 10). Press <Enter> on Select Physical Disks.
4. On Select Physical Disks screen, select hard drives for RAID array and set to Enabled. Move to Apply Changes and press <Enter>. Return to previous screen and set Select CacheTagSize, Read Cache Policy and Write Cache Policy.
5. Move to Create Array and press <Enter>.
6. After completing, Array Management screen shows new RAID volume, level, name, capacity.

(Note) An M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to set up a RAID set with a SATA hard drive.

3-2 Drivers Installation

• Install operating system first.
• After OS installation, insert motherboard driver disc. Click "Tap to choose what happens with this disc" or go to My Computer and run Run.exe.

"Xpress Install" scans system and lists recommended drivers. Click "Xpress Install" button to install all selected drivers, or click arrow icon to install individually.

Visit GIGABYTE's website for more software information and troubleshooting information.

Regulatory Notices

United States of America, Federal Communications Commission Statement

Supplier's Declaration of Conformity

47 CFR § 2.1077 Compliance Information

• Product Name: Motherboard
• Trade Name: GIGABYTE
• Model Number: A520M S2H

Responsible Party - U.S. Contact Information: G.B.T. Inc., 17358 Railroad street, City Of Industry, CA91748. Tel: 1-626-854-9338. Internet contact: https://www.gigabyte.com

FCC Compliance Statement:

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, including undesired operation.

This equipment complies with Class B digital device limits per Part 15 of FCC Rules. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed per instructions, it may cause harmful interference. No guarantee interference will not occur in a particular installation. If interference occurs, try: reorienting/relocating receiving antenna, increasing separation, connecting to different circuit outlet, or consulting dealer/technician.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus complies with Class B limits for radio noise emissions per Canadian Radio Interference Regulations (ICES-003).

Avis de conformité à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

European Union (EU) CE Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, Low-voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, RoHS directive (recast) 2011/65/EU & 2015/863 Statement. Product tested and found compliant with essential requirements of Directives.

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

GIGABYTE products are not intended to add hazardous substances (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr+6, PBDE, PBB, DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP). Parts and components are selected to meet RoHS requirements. GIGABYTE continues efforts to develop products without internationally banned toxic chemicals.

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

GIGABYTE fulfills national laws interpreting 2012/19/EU WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) (recast) directive. WEEE Directive specifies treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal of electric/electronic devices. Used equipment must be marked, collected separately, and disposed of properly.

WEEE Symbol Statement

The WEEE symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) on product/packaging indicates product must not be disposed of with other waste. Device should be taken to waste collection centers for treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal.

For recycling information, contact local government, household waste disposal service, or product vendor.

End of Life Directives-Recycling

The symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) indicates product must not be disposed of with other waste. Device should be taken to waste collection centers for treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal.

Déclaration de Conformité aux Directives de l'Union européenne (UE)

Cet appareil portant la marque CE est conforme aux directives de l'UE suivantes: directive Compatibilité Electromagnétique 2014/30/UE, directive Basse Tension 2014/35/UE et directive RoHS II 2011/65/UE. La conformité à ces directives est évaluée sur la base des normes européennes harmonisées applicables.

European Union (EU) CE-Konformitätserklärung

Dieses Produkte mit CE-Kennzeichnung erfüllen folgenden EU-Richtlinien: EMV-Richtlinie 2014/30/EU, Niederspannungsrichtlinie 2014/30/EU und RoHS-Richtlinie 2011/65/EU erfüllt. Die Konformität mit diesen Richtlinien wird unter Verwendung der entsprechenden Standards zur Europäischen Normierung beurteilt.

CE declaração de conformidade

Este produto com a marcação CE estão em conformidade com das seguintes Diretivas UE: Diretiva Baixa Tensão 2014/35/EU; Diretiva CEM 2014/30/EU; Diretiva RSP 2011/65/UE. A conformidade com estas diretivas é verificada utilizando as normas europeias harmonizadas.

CE Declaración de conformidad

Este producto que llevan la marca CE cumplen con las siguientes Directivas de la Unión Europea: Directiva EMC (2014/30/EU), Directiva de bajo voltaje (2014/35/EU), Directiva RoHS (recast) (2011/65/EU). El cumplimiento de estas directivas se evalúa mediante las normas europeas armonizadas.

Dichiarazione di conformità CE

Questo prodotto è conforme alle seguenti direttive: Direttiva sulla compatibilità elettromagnetica 2014/30/UE, Direttiva sulla bassa tensione 2014/35/UE, Direttiva RoHS (rifusione) 2011/65/UE. Questo prodotto è stato testato e trovato conforme a tutti i requisiti essenziali delle Direttive.

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Address: No.6, Baoqiang Rd., Xindian Dist., New Taipei City 231, Taiwan
TEL: +886-2-8912-4000, FAX: +886-2-8912-4005
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