Advertisement
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
- Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. It includes descriptions of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard. - BIOS information
This chapter discusses changing system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.
- ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. - Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.
 |  / Information to prevent injury to yourself when completing a task. |
 |  Information to prevent damage to the components when completing a task |
 |  Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. |
 | NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task. |
Typography
| Bold text | Indicates a menu or an item to select. |
| Italics | Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. |
| <Key> | Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means that you must press the enclosed key. Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key. |
| <Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> | If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked with a plus sign (+). |
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
| Motherboard | ASUS A320M-C motherboard |
| Cables | 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables |
| Accessories | 1 x I/O Shield 1 x M.2 Screw Package |
| Application DVD | 1 x Support DVD |
| Documentation | 1 x User Manual |
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
A320M-C specifications summary
| CPU | AMD® Socket AM4 for AMD® A-series / Athlon™ series processors AMD® Turbo Core Technology 3.0 support Supports CPU up to 4 cores* * Due to CPU limitation, CPU cores supported vary by processor. ** Refer to www.asus.com for AMD® CPU support list. |
| Chipset | AMD® A320 Chipset |
| Memory | 2 x DIMMs, max. 32GB, DDR4 2133 MHz, non-ECC un-buffered memory Dual-channel memory architecture * Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. ** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List). *** Due to OS limitation, when installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32bit operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard. |
| Graphics | Integrated AMD® Radeon™ R Series Graphics in the A-Series APU Multi-VGA output support: HDMI, DVI-D and D-Sub ports
|
| Expansion slots | 1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot* 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots 1 x PCI slot * Due to CPU limitation, PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot supported varies by processor. |
| LAN | Realtek® 8111H Gigabit LAN Controller |
| Storage | 4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors 1 x M.2 socket 3 for M Key and type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices, support SATA & PCIe mode* * Due to CPU limitation, M.2 socket supported varies by processor. |
| Audio | Realtek® ALC 887-VD2 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC * Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support an 8-channel audio output. |
| USB | 6 x USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports (4 ports at the rear panel; 2 ports at mid-board) 6 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (2 ports at the rear panel; 4 ports at mid-board) |
| ASUS unique features | Dependable Stability
Superb performance
Easy PC DIY
Q-Design
UEFI BIOS EZ Mode- featuring friendly graphics user interface
Optimized Cooling
|
| Rear panel I/O ports | 1 x PS/2 keyboard (purple) 1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x HDMI port 1 x DVI-D port 1 x D-Sub port 1 x COM port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 3 x Audio jacks support 8-channel audio output |
| Internal connectors | 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports 1 x USB 3.0 connector support additional 2 USB 3.0 port 1 x M.2 socket 3 for M Key and type 2242/2260/2280 devices 4 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors 1 x 14-1 pin TPM connector 1 x COM connector 1 x Parallel connector 1 x CPU Fan connector 2 x Chassis Fan connector (Support DC & PWM mode) 1 x Front panel audio connector 1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector 1 x 2-pin Clear CMOS header 1 x System Panel connector 1 x Chassis intrusion connector 1 x Speaker connector |
| BIOS features | 128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modified log, F12 PrintScreen, ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information, F6 Qfan Control |
| Manageability | WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, PXE |
| Support DVD | Drivers ASUS utilities EZ Update Anti-virus software (OEM version) |
| OS support | Windows® 10* Windows® 7 * 64-bit supported only |
| Form factor | uATX form factor: 9.6 in. x 9.3 in. (24.4 cm x 23.6 cm) |
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Product introduction
Motherboard overview
- Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
- Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
- Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
- Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage to motherboard components.
Scan the QR code to get the detailed pin definitions.
- ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
Correctly orient the ATX power supply plugs into these connectors and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
![]()
- For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 300 W.
- If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
- CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2)
Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
![caution]()
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.
![]()
Only the 4-pin CPU fan supports the ASUS Fan Xpert feature. - AMD® AM4 CPU socket
Install AMD® CPU into this surface mount AM4 socket, which is designed for AMD® A-Series/ Athlon™ Series processors.
![]()
For more details, refer to Central Processing Unit (CPU). - DDR4 DIMM slots
Install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB, unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into these DIMM sockets.
![]()
For more details, refer to System memory. - Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM2)
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. - LPT connector (26-1 pin LPT)
The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT standardizes as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PCcompatible computers. - TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM)
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.
![]()
- M.2 socket 3
These sockets allow you to install M.2 (NGFF) SSD modules.
![]()
This socket supports type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices.
![]()
- Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC)
This header allows you to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data of the system setup information such as date, time, and system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
![]()
- Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
- Use a metal object such as a screwdriver to short the two pins.
- Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
- Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.
![]()
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and short the two pins again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery.
- Chassis intrusion header (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
![]()
The chassis intrusion detection feature is disabled by default. To enable it, set the Chassis Intrude Detect Support item in the BIOS to [On]. - Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~4)
These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. - System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. - Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. - USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)
Connect a USB 3.0 module to this connector for additional USB 3.0 front or rear panel ports. This connector complies with USB 3.0 specifications and provides faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps, faster charging time for USBchargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0. - USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB34, USB56)
Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specifications and support up to 480Mbps connection speed. - Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC'97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
![]()
- We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard's high-definition audio capability.
- If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD Audio]. If you want to connect an AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this connector is set to [HD Audio].
- PCI Express slot
The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. - PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications - PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express x16 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications.
![]()
Due to CPU limitation, PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot supported varies by processor.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | |
| PCIe x16 slot | – | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – |
| PCIe x1_1 slot | shared | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| PCIe x1_2 slot | – | shared | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| PCI slot | – | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – |
| Realtek LAN controller | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – | – |
| HD audio | – | – | – | – | – | – | shared | – |
| A320 Chipset SATA | – | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – |
| A320 Chipset XHCI | shared | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| M. M.2 Socket | – | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – |
| AM4 CPU XHCI | – | – | shared | – | – | – | – | – |
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support "Share IRQ" or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
Rear panel connectors
- PS/2 Mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.
- Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.
- Serial port. This 9-pin COM port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
- LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
LAN port LED indicationsActivity/Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description OFF No link OFF 10Mbps connection ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100Mbps connection BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1Gbps connection ![]()
- Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources.
- Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 2.1, 4.1, 5.1 and 7.1-channel configurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.
- Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.
![]()
Refer to the audio configuration table for the function of the audio ports in 2.1, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel configuration.
Audio 2.1, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel configuration
| Port | Headset 2.1-channel | 4.1-channel | 5.1-channel Rear Speaker | 7.1-channel Rear Speaker |
| Light Blue (Rear panel) | Line In | Rear Speaker Out Front Speaker | Rear Speaker Out Front Speaker | Rear Speaker Out Front Speaker |
| Lime (Rear panel) | Line Out | Front Speaker Out | Front Speaker Out | Front Speaker Out |
| Pink (Rear panel) | Mic In | Mic In | Bass/Center | Bass/Center |
| Lime (Front panel) | - | - | - | Side Speaker Out |
To configure a 7.1-channel audio output:
Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support a 7.1-channel audio output.
- USB 2.0 ports. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 2.0/1.1 devices.
- USB 3.0 ports. These 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 3.0/2.0 devices.
![]()
- Due to USB 3.0 controller limitations, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under a Windows® OS environment and after USB 3.0 driver installation.
- The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode, depending on the operating system's setting.
- USB 3.0 devices can only be used for data storage.
- We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster and better performance from your USB 3.0 devices.
- HDMI port. This port is for a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector, and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-Ray, and other protected content.
- DVI-D port. This port is for any DVI-D compatible device.
![]()
DVI-D can not be converted to output from RGB Signal to CRT and is not compatible with DVI-I. - PS/2 Keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with an AM4 socket designed for AMD A-Series/ Athlon™ Series processors.
| Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU. |
| The AM4 socket has a different pinout from the FM2+/FM2 socket. Ensure that 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 the pins and damaging the CPU! |
Installing the CPU
Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary.
System memory
Overview
This motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module.
DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.
- You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
- Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.
- Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the following:
- Use a maximum of 3 GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.
- Install a 64-bit Windows® OS if you want to install 4GB or more on the motherboard.
- For more details, refer to the Microsoft® support site at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605/en-us.
- This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.
Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com ; for the latest QVL.
Installing a DIMM
To remove a DIMM
BIOS information
- Scan the QR code to view the BIOS update guide.
![]()
- Before using the ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device into A320MC.CAP.
BIOS setup program
Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program.
Entering BIOS Setup at startup
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:
Press <Delete> or <F2> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete> or <F2>, POST continues with its routines.
Entering BIOS Setup after POST To enter BIOS Setup after POST:
- Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.
- Press the reset button on the system chassis.
- Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you failed to enter BIOS Setup using the first two options.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.
- The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
- Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard.
- If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey F5.
- If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and reset the motherboard to the default value. See section Motherboard overview for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
BIOS menu screen
The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode. Press <F7> to change between the two modes.
EZ Mode
By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode, fan profile and boot device priority. To access the Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press <F7>.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed.
- Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU voltage output, CPU/chassis fan speed, and SATA information
- Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program
- Displays the system properties of the selected mode. Click <Enter> to switch EZ System Tuning modes
- Displays the CPU Fan's speed. Click the button to manually tune the fans
- Loads optimized default settings
- Saves the changes and resets the system
- Shows the bootable devices
- Displays the Advanced mode menus
- Search on FAQs
- Selects the boot device priority
The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
Advanced Mode
The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations.
To access the EZ Mode, click EzMode(F7) or press <F7>.
Search on FAQ
Move your mouse over this button to show a QR code. Scan this QR code with your mobile device to connect to the ASUS BIOS FAQ web page. You can also scan the QR code below.
Exit menu
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Load Optimized Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to load the default values.
Save Changes & Reset
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to save changes and exit.
Discard Changes and Exit
This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you select this option or if you press <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to discard changes and exit.
Launch EFI Shell from USB drives
This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available USB devices.
Safety information
Electrical safety
- To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
- When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
- Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
- Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
- Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.
- If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
- Before installing the motherboard and adding components, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.
- Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
- To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
- Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may be exposed to moisture.
- Place the product on a stable surface.
- If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address 4F, No. 150, Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei 112, Taiwan
Telephone +886-2-2894-3447
Fax +886-2-2890-7798
Web site www.asus.com
Technical Support
Telephone +86-21-38429911
Fax +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101#
Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Telephone +1-510-739-3777
Fax +1-510-608-4555
Web site http://www.asus.com/us/
Technical Support
Support fax +1-812-284-0883
Telephone +1-812-282-2787
Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address Harkort Str. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany
Fax +49-2102-959931
Web site http://www.asus.com/de
Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales
Technical Support
Telephone +49-2102-5789555
Support Fax +49-2102-959911
Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv
Documents / Resources
References
![www.asus.com]()
ASUS Global![support.microsoft.com]()
The system memory that is reported in the System Information dialog box in Windows Vista is less than you expect if 4 GB of RAM is installed - Microsoft Support![www.asus.com]()
ASUS USA![www.asus.com]()
ASUS Deutschland
Download manual
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Advertisement
Thank you! Your question has been received!
Need Assistance?
Do you have a question about the A320M-C that isn't answered in the manual? Leave your question here.