Review and testing of the ASUS A88XM-A motherboard. Review of the ASUS A88XM-E motherboard BIOS of the Gigabyte GA-F2A88XM-D3H board
Budget solution with support for legacy interfaces
More recently, while studying the Asus Crossblade Ranger motherboard, we wrote that the most interesting models for the AMD FM2+ platform from a practical point of view are compact motherboards at the lower price level, which make it possible to fully realize such characteristic advantages as low price and the ability to create compact, but sufficiently productive (even for gaming use) computer systems. Our today's heroine illustrates this approach to the maximum extent: this is one of the cheapest motherboards (either from MSI or from other manufacturers), nevertheless based on a top-of-the-line chipset. Of course, in this case, everything that could increase the price went under the knife, but is it worth regretting? In other words, what is the modern lower level? Let's try to get to know him.
Board configuration and features
A summary table of the characteristics of the MSI A88XM-E35 board is given below, and further in the text we will look at all its features and functionality.
| Supported processors | Trinity, Richland, Kavery |
| CPU socket | |
| Chipset | |
| Memory | 2 × DDR3 (up to 32 GB) |
| Audio subsystem | |
| Network controller | Realtek RTL8111G |
| Expansion slots | 1 × PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 (version depends on processor model) |
| SATA connectors | 6 × SATA 6 Gb/s |
| USB ports | 4 × USB 3.0 |
| Rear Connectors | 1 x HDMI |
| Internal connectors | 24-pin ATX power connector |
| Form factor | microATX (226 × 216 mm) |
| Average price | |
| Retail offers | L-10564640-10 |
Form factor
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The MSI A88XM-E35 board is made in a “narrow” microATX form factor (226 × 216 mm) and can be installed in a case that supports boards with a microATX form factor or larger in size. There are six standard holes for mounting the board, and the “leading” edge will hang freely (this is a common problem with narrow boards).
Chipset and processor socket
The MSI A88XM-E35 board is based on AMD's top chipset - A88X, which differs from the earlier A85X only by supporting Kaveri family processors. Actually, errors in FCH are what forced the company to switch from FM2 to FM2+, and the updated platform supports both new processors and any models of previous families for FM2.
Memory
To install memory modules, the board has two DIMM slots, which allows you to install only one DDR3 module on each of the two memory channels with a maximum capacity of up to 32 GB (after the corresponding modules become available for sale). However, given the budget nature of the board and platform, you don’t have to expect anything - most entry-level configurations even now use only 8 GB of memory, which is easily achieved by installing two “common-size” 4 GB modules. The issue with frequencies is more complicated: only DDR3-1866 is officially supported, and 2133 MHz is formally achieved only with overclocking, although this frequency is standard for several models of AMD processors. It should be noted that with such a memory frequency we did not have any problems when using a variety of modules, while on the Asus Crossblade Ranger, despite the much more serious promises of the manufacturer, we were unable to select at least one pair of modules, reliably operating on 2133 MHz. In general, the simpler the more reliable :)
We also note that the board supports memory with XMP profiles, but it is almost impossible to extract anything practically useful from this: firstly, the list of supported frequencies is limited (and 2133 has long become a standard value for many modern modules, and XMP is not included here are needed), and secondly, there is no flexible regulation of the supply voltage of memory modules, so a workable value will most likely have to be selected manually and “with a reserve”, and there is no point in messing with “automation”.
Expansion slots
As we have already mentioned more than once, the rich expansion capabilities are unlikely to be in demand by users of this platform - a good (relatively) built-in video core is already present in AMD APUs, and other expansion cards are becoming less and less common in mass-market computers. However, there is a possibility that they will be needed. And the combination of an Athlon X4 (which does not have a video core) and a mid-level video card is also quite justified, so MSI installed three different expansion slots on the board: PCIe x16 (2.0 or 3.0 depending on the processor used), PCIe 2.0 x1 and regular PCI .
Video connectors
To connect monitors and other display devices, the rear panel of the board has HDMI 1.4 ports (maximum resolution 4096×2160@24 Hz or 1920×1200@60 Hz), DVI-D (Dual Link - with resolution up to 2560×1600@60 Hz) and VGA (D-Sub).
SATA ports
To connect storage devices or optical drives, the board has six SATA 6 Gb/s ports, which are implemented on the basis of a controller integrated into the chipset. Naturally, all six support the ability to create RAID arrays of levels 0, 1, 5, 10, but the total number of ports raises the question: after all, the chipset supports eight, not six. However, this question can easily be resolved if you consider that on the same RSV the company also produces the A78M-E35 board, based on the A78 chipset, which supports only six SATA ports. What else distinguishes these chipsets? Official support for “splitting” processor lines across PCIe slots, which is not used in any way on this board anyway. Thus, from the point of view of consumer characteristics, the A88XM-E35 and A78M-E35 are identical, and if suddenly the second one turns out to be cheaper to buy, it’s worth doing so.
USB, serial and parallel ports
To connect various peripheral devices, the board has four USB 3.0 ports and eight USB 2.0 ports, which is entirely within the capabilities of the chipset. As one would expect in this situation, exactly half of the ports (2+4, respectively) are located on the rear panel, and the rest are available in the form of combs on the PCB.
An interesting feature of the board, which may well please owners of outdated peripherals, is the presence of internal COM and LPT ports. Unfortunately, the kit for bringing them out is not included in the kit, but in general it costs a penny and may already be in stock. By the way, the board is equipped with not one, but two PS/2 ports, which allows you to connect both a mouse and a keyboard with this interface at the same time. In general, all together we get a good option, at least for repairing an old computer, to which all sorts of outdated peripherals are connected, which it would be a pity to throw away - the only thing missing is Parallel ATA support :)
Network interface
To connect to the local network segment, the board implements a gigabit network interface based on the Realtek RTL8111G controller - almost a de facto standard for inexpensive boards.
Power system
Like most inexpensive boards, this one has 24-pin and 4-pin connectors for connecting the power supply. The processor supply voltage regulator on the board is five-channel (three channels for powering the computing and graphics cores of the processor and two for the built-in north bridge). All components are inexpensive, but, nevertheless, MSI does not forget to mention the use of solid-state capacitors, black coils and other “Military Class” things, which have become commonplace.
Cooling system
As you would expect, the company limited itself to only a small heatsink on the chipset, and even that serves more of a decorative function. But apart from the chipset, nothing is cooled at all.
As for the fan connectors, there are three of them, which is somewhat more than is typical for motherboards of this class. However, it is worth considering that, firstly, the third connector is not only not controllable, but even viewing the number of revolutions is not provided for it. Secondly, the CPU fan header does not support fan control with a three-pin header. However, processor coolers now cost pennies, and we have no reason to assume that a lover of rare hundred-dollar coolers would want to install one on an inexpensive motherboard.
Audio subsystem
Again, as one would expect, support for analog audio is implemented on a “so-so” principle: the old Realtek ALC887 codec is used, which was not a standard for high-quality sound even during its lifetime. Formally, it supports 7.1 acoustics, but due to the presence of only three audio connectors on the rear panel, it can only be connected if both them and the front outputs of the case are used simultaneously. However, it seems to us that it is common for systems of this level to use a pair of inexpensive speakers, and nothing more, but if suddenly someone needs high-end acoustics, HDMI has long been successfully used to connect it.
Total
So, what can we say about MSI's budget solution? This is an absolute minimum, yes, but in general... In general, this is a sufficient minimum, not without some frills :) In any case, the board completely covers the needs of buyers of budget computers, while leaving some freedom for further modernization. You won't be able to get the performance of top processors, but this is a general limitation of the platform itself. But attempts to save a little more can already force you to abandon, for example, a full set of video outputs or even switch to much more “squeezed” systems, such as AM1 (what else, by the way, will not necessarily be possible to save on when assessing the cost of the entire system). It is clear that some buyers find it difficult to step on the throat of their own song and refuse beautiful and shiny heat pipes, multi-colored radiators, “advanced” network controllers and top-end audio codecs (however, part of the list is not completely useless), but they just need to buy another board. For example, the same MSI also sells the A88XM Gaming model for only twice as much as the A88XM-E35 - the price of all these improvements in bulk. But if you save on them, the difference will be enough, for example, to buy an A8-7600 instead of an A4-7300 - it seems to us that no extended comments are required here :)
And the second potential area of application where the board would be very useful was mentioned above - the use of equipment with outdated interfaces. The board is equipped with the latter quite generously: there is PCI, a pair of PS/2 ports, and even serial and parallel ports. At the same time, high performance of the platform in these segments is also, as a rule, not needed, but the price of the solution is very high - if it weren’t for this, it would be possible to replace the “antiques” with something more modern or, with a clear conscience, spend money on, for example , multicard with PCIe interface. But here is such a card as a third of our today’s heroine, which also does not need detailed comments.
The board was provided for testing by the manufacturer
Motherboard ASUS A88XM- A, as its name suggests, is based on the flagship AMD A88X chipset, the key features of which we have already introduced you to earlier. Thanks to the compact microATX format, as well as good equipment, in theory, this new product is perfect for assembling small-sized entry- and mid-level home systems with AMD Kaveri series processors or AMD Trinity / Richland line solutions. Separately, we note that its undeniable advantages include its very affordable price, which at the time of writing the review averages $70.
Since you can familiarize yourself with all the key features of the system logic set and supported processors using the links above, we suggest going directly to the review of the motherboard, studying in more detail all its advantages and disadvantages, if any.
All prices for Asus+A88XM-APackaging and equipment
The processor is powered using a 3+2-phase circuit for computing cores and additional nodes. The converter itself is based on an ASP1206 digital PWM controller with a built-in DIGI+ energy management subsystem. All components of the processor power supply are highly reliable: Japanese solid-state capacitors and chokes with a ferrite core are used. The main 24-pin and additional 4-pin connectors are used to supply power voltage.
Multi I/O capabilities are implemented using the ITE IT8603E chip, which controls system fans, COM and PS/2 ports, and also provides monitoring.
In accordance with the 5X PROTECTION concept, the interface panel of the ASUS A88XM-A is made of high-quality stainless steel with a chromium oxide coating, which makes it more wear-resistant. It includes the following ports:
- 1 x HDMI;
- 1 x DVI-D;
- 1 x D-Sub;
- 2 x PS/2 for connecting a mouse and keyboard;
- 1 x LAN (RJ45);
- 2 x USB 3.0;
- 2 x USB 2.0;
- 3 x audio ports.
This layout of the interface panel can be safely called quite worthy for affordable solutions: there is not only a good set of video outputs, but also modern USB 3.0 ports. Additionally, we note support for connecting peripherals with a PS/2 connector, as well as the ability to place a COM port on the PC interface panel using the corresponding connector on the printed circuit board. As features, we note the not-so-convenient connection of multi-channel acoustics, as well as our desire to see more USB ports.
The ASUS A88XM-A has very standard cooling capabilities inside the system case. There are two 4-pin fan connectors, one of which is used to cool the CPU, while the second is intended for the system fan.
UEFI BIOS
The ASUS A88XM-A motherboard uses a modern preloader based on the UEFI graphical interface, in which you can make settings using the mouse. The UEFI BIOS main screen displays temperature and voltage monitoring on the processor. Also in this section you can see the BIOS version, processor model and amount of installed RAM.
All system overclocking-related settings are located in the “Ai Tweaker” tab.
The memory frequency multiplier allows you to set the speed of connected modules in the range from 800 to 2400 MHz.
You can also access memory delay adjustments if necessary.
To increase stability during overclocking, the DIGI+ digital power subsystem control settings can be used.
The settings required for overclocking and optimizing the system are summarized in the table:
|
Parameter |
Menu name |
Range |
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System bus frequency |
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Chipset frequency |
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CPU multiplier |
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CPU Voltage Frequency |
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RAM frequency |
System Memory Multiplier |
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RAM timings |
CAS Latency, RAS to CAS Delay, RAS Pre Time, RAS ACT Time, COMMAND Mode, Row Cycle Time, READ to PRE Time, RAS to RAS Delay, WRITE to READ Delay, CAS Write Latency, WRITE Recovery Time, FOUR ACT WIN Time REF Cycle Time |
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Permissible deviation from the set voltage on the processor |
CPU Offset Voltage |
0,00625 - 0,50000 |
|
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VDDNB Offset Voltage |
0,35000 - 0,50000 |
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Voltage on RAM modules |
1,35000 - 1,65000 |
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Chipset voltage |
1,10000 - 1,22000 |
The “Monitor” section provides access to monitoring the temperature of the processor and chipset, as well as the rotation speed of installed fans. Additionally, in this section you can monitor the voltage on the processor core and on the +12V, +5V and +3.3V power lines.
Unfortunately, the ability to monitor the supply voltage of memory modules is not implemented.
Separately, it is worth noting the ability to take “screenshots” in the BIOS and support for the Russian language.
Overclocking options
In manual mode, by simply increasing the multiplier, it was possible to achieve stable operation of the system at AMD A10-5800K 4500 MHz APU frequency and 1.464 V voltage, which is a good result for a high-quality motherboard.
Despite the declared support for a frequency of 2400 MHz, even with the help of manually adjusting the timings, the speed of the RAM modules could only be increased to 2133 MHz. This may be due to the use of the AMD Trinity line of APUs, because the RAM controller in AMD Kaveri series solutions has been significantly improved.
Testing
To test the capabilities of the ASUS A88XM-A motherboard, the following equipment was used:
|
Scythe Mugen 3 Rev. B PCGH Edition |
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|
RAM |
2 x 4 GB DDR3-2400 TwinMOS TwiSTER 9DHCGN4B-HAWP |
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Video card |
AMD Radeon HD 7660D |
|
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Video capture device |
AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable |
|
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Hard drive |
Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 ST3500418AS, 500 GB, SATA-300, NCQ |
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Optical drive |
ASUS DRW-1814BLT SATA |
|
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power unit |
Seasonic X-560 Gold (SS-560KM Active PFC) |
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CODEGEN M603 MidiTower (2x 120 mm in/out fans) |
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Test results
During testing, ASUS A88XM-A showed performance on par with its competitors. Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that the board is of high quality, the selection of effective components and good optimization of BIOS settings.
Testing the audio path based on the Realtek ALC887 codec
Test report in RightMark Audio Analyzer
16-bit, 44.1 kHz
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Noise level, dB (A) |
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Dynamic range, dB (A) |
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Harmonic distortion, % |
Very good |
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Very good |
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Very good |
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Intermodulation at 10 kHz, % |
Very good |
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Overall rating |
Very good |
Operating mode 24-bit, 192 kHz
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Frequency response unevenness (in the range 40 Hz - 15 kHz), dB |
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Noise level, dB (A) |
Very good |
|
|
Dynamic range, dB (A) |
Very good |
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Harmonic distortion, % |
Very good |
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Harmonic distortion + noise, dB(A) |
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Intermodulation distortion + noise, % |
Very good |
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Interpenetration of channels, dB |
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Intermodulation at 10 kHz, % |
Very good |
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Overall rating |
Very good |
The capabilities of the pre-installed sound subsystem based on the Realtek ALC887 audio codec will be quite sufficient for everyday use, due to the high sound quality. If you want to install a discrete sound card, then it is worth remembering that if you have a video card with a dual-slot cooling system, you will only be able to use the PCI slot.
Conclusions
Summing up our acquaintance with the motherboard ASUS A88XM- A, a well-balanced solution with an affordable price of about $70, it can be noted that it is quite capable of competing for the attention of buyers. Such a conclusion is quite easy to justify by the presence of a large number of SATA 6 Gb/s ports, support for the modern USB 3.0 interface, compliance with the 5X PROTECTION concept, good capabilities for manual overclocking of the processor, as well as overall high quality of workmanship and support for a number of proprietary technologies and utilities.
However, it is quite obvious that affordable cost almost always goes hand in hand with a number of disadvantages and features. And if the first were not noticed in this case, then the second is the inconvenient connection of multi-channel acoustics, the lack of holes for mounting screws on the right side of the motherboard, as well as the availability of only one PCI connector in the case of installing a dual-slot video card.
As a result, the ASUS A88XM-A motherboard can be safely recommended for purchase due to its excellent price ratio and good equipment, which is complemented by the absence of critical flaws. In our opinion, this model may be most in demand in the segment of inexpensive multimedia centers and home PCs with one video card.
Advantages:
- reliable 5-phase digital power subsystem for the DIGI+ VRM processor;
- improved element base and compliance with the 5X PROTECTION concept for more reliable and stable operation of the motherboard;
- support for a large number of SATA 6 Gb/s ports;
- support for AMD Eyefinity and AMD Dual Graphics technologies;
- support for a number of useful proprietary technologies and utilities (AI Suite 3, Ai Charger, Network iControl, USB 3.0 Boost, Disk Unlocker, Fan Xpert and others);
- good overclocking potential;
- affordable price.
Peculiarities:
- lack of mounting holes in the corners of the right side of the printed circuit board;
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Enough time has passed since the announcement of the next generation of AMD Kaveri hybrid processors for users to appreciate all the advantages of the new products. As practice has shown, the best option is to use APUs in configurations without discrete video cards, namely as part of economical compact system units. As for the platform, these requirements are best met by microATX motherboards, which combine small size and sufficient functionality with an affordable price. Today we would like to introduce you to just such a product – the ASUS A88XM-PLUS motherboard.
This model is based on the older AMD A88X chipset and is equipped with a Socket FM2+ connector, which ensures compatibility with both the latest Kaveri APUs and Trinity and Richland hybrid processors. You will learn about all the key features of the ASUS A88XM-Plus from today's review, but for now, I suggest you familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the new product.
| Model | |
| Chipset | AMD A88X (Bolton D4) |
| CPU socket | Socket FM2+ |
| Processors | AMD Series A10, A8, A6, A4, Athlon |
| Memory | 4 DIMM DDR3 SDRAM 1333/1600/1866/2133/2200*/2400*/ (*—OC), 64 GB maximum |
| PCI-E slots | 1 x PCI Express 3.0 x16 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16@x4 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 |
| PCI slots | 1 |
| Built-in video core (in processor) | Radeon HD 7000/8000/R7 Series |
| Video connectors | D-Sub, DVI-D, HDMI |
| Number of connected fans | 3x 4pin |
| PS/2 ports | 2 |
| USB ports | 4 x 3.0 (2 connectors on the rear panel, AMD A88X) 10 x 2.0 (4 rear panel, AMD A88X) |
| Serial ATA | 8 x SATA 6 Gb/s (A88X) |
| RAID | 0, 1, 5, 10, JBOD (A88X) |
| Built-in sound | Realtek ALC887 (7.1, HDA) |
| S/PDIF | Optic |
| Networking capabilities | Realtek RTL8111G (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| FireWire | - |
| LPT | 1 (internal) |
| COM | 1 (internal) |
| BIOS/UEFI | AMI UEFI |
| Form factor | mATX |
| Dimensions, mm | 244 x 234 |
| Additional features | GPU Boost switch, MemOK! button, AMD CrossFireX |
Scope of delivery
The packaging in which the A88XM-Plus motherboard is supplied is designed in a recognizable corporate style, characteristic of most modern ASUS products.
The front surface of the box is not particularly informative, but its reverse side can tell you about the configuration of expansion slots and the specifications of the motherboard, as well as its key design solutions. For example, the new product is equipped with a function to increase the speed of the integrated video core GPU Boost, advanced software capabilities for controlling ASUS Fan Xpert 2 fans, as well as a number of features called 5X Protection, which increase the reliability of the motherboard.
The set of additional accessories offered with the ASUS A88XM-Plus is extremely modest:
- plug for the rear panel of I/O Shield;
- two SATA 6 Gb/s cables;
- DVD with drivers and software;
- user manual;
- Quick assembly instructions.
Design
The motherboard is made in the mATX form factor, but its dimensions differ from the standard, as a result of which the right edge will remain unfixed, so extra care is recommended when assembling it yourself. To install DDR3 memory modules, the new product has four DIMM slots, the total amount of RAM can reach 64 GB. In case of overclocking, the MemOK! function will come to the rescue, which, by pressing the button of the same name, will allow you to boot with safe UEFI settings.
There are no electronic components on the back side of the printed circuit board; a powerful reinforcement plate is used to secure the cooling system, capable of supporting the weight of massive coolers.
The motherboard's capabilities for organizing the graphics subsystem are quite wide: ASUS A88XM-Plus is equipped with a PCI Express 3.0 x16 connector and a PCI Express 2.0 x16@x4 slot connected to the system logic, so users can organize AMD CrossFireX configurations. To install expansion cards, the heroine of today’s review has one PCI-E 2.0 x1 and one PCI.
The storage subsystem is represented by eight SATA 6 Gb/s ports connected to the system logic. Three connectors are located perpendicular to the PCB, and the remaining five have a horizontal orientation. This ensures ease of connection of interface cables, regardless of the configuration of the system unit case.
On the rear panel of the A88XM-Plus there is room for:
- two PS/2 connectors;
- HDMI, D-Sub and DVI-D video outputs;
- four USB 2.0 ports and a pair of USB 3.0;
- RJ-45 network socket;
- three analog audio outputs.
The set of interfaces reveals the budget nature of the new product: there is no S/PDIF port, the number of audio outputs is limited to three, and the outdated Realtek ALC887 chip is used as an audio codec. Thanks to the presence of the Realtek RTL8111G network controller, the motherboard can operate in Gigabit Ethernet networks, while there is no Wi-Fi support, but for an inexpensive product the presence of the latter is an attribute of luxury.
Of all the design solutions aimed at optimizing the overclocking process, the A88XM-Plus only has a GPU Boost microswitch, which enables automatic overclocking of the built-in video core. Therefore, users who value the presence of hardware power and overload buttons, an LED indicator for POST codes, and so on, should take a closer look at older ASUS models.
The cooling system of the chippet consists of a compact flat radiator. It copes with its duties perfectly thanks to the low power consumption of the system logic.
The heat from the VRM power elements is removed by a small cooler; its efficiency is quite sufficient not only in normal mode, but also during moderate overclocking; however, we should not forget about organizing ventilation inside the system unit.
Individual parts of the cooling system are attached to the motherboard with spring-loaded plastic latches, which, alas, are not capable of providing strong, uniform pressure.
To connect fans, the ASUS A88XM-Plus is equipped with three four-pin connectors that support rotation speed control via PWM. The power supply subsystem of the new product is built according to a six-channel circuit; field-effect transistors with low open-channel resistance are used as power elements, and the VRM DIGI+ chip plays the role of a PWM controller.
Voltage is supplied to the power subsystem via a four-pin connector, which does not at all help to increase the safety margin. So, the new product is unlikely to be suitable for serious overclocking. UEFI Setup
The firmware of the A88XM-Plus motherboard is based on the UEFI control microcode developed by AMI. The setup menu has an original user interface, familiar from previous reviews of ASUS products. Immediately after entering the firmware, the My Favorites section opens, which users can fill at their discretion with the most popular UEFI items. It is worth noting the Quick Note function, which allows you to make “notes in the margins,” as well as the Last Modified option, which displays the history of recent changes.
The Main tab is used to set the date and time, configure security options, and also display brief information about installed components and the version of the control microcode.
The functions responsible for overclocking are concentrated in the Ai Tweaker menu. Here you can control the frequency of the reference oscillator, the multiplication factors of the computing modules and the built-in north bridge, as well as the operating modes of the integrated graphics accelerator and the RAM subsystem.
For memory modules, you can activate X.M.P. profiles; to do this, set the Ai Overclock Tuner parameter to D.O.C.P.
In manual configuration mode, frequencies up to 2400 MHz inclusive are available for RAM, and in the DRAM Timing Control tab there are numerous timing settings.
The new firmware has developed tools for automatic overclocking: enabling the OC Tuner option increases the performance of the computing cores, and GPU Boost, as the name suggests, allows you to increase the frequency of the built-in video core. For the latter, a mode for manually increasing productivity is provided.
Owners of the latest Kaveri APUs can take advantage of the TDP Configuration feature to limit heat dissipation.
UEFI Setup's power management capabilities are quite varied.
The list of voltages, their ranges and step of change are presented in the following table:
| Parameter | Adjustment range, V | Step, B |
| CPU Offset Voltage | -0,375…+0,375 | 0,00625 |
| VDDNB Offset Voltage | -0,4125…+0,4125 | 0,00625 |
| DRAM Voltage | 1,35-1,7 | 0,005 |
| SB 1.1V Voltage | 1,1-1,2 | 0,01 |
| 1.1VSB Voltage | 1,1-1,4 | 0,1 |
| APU1.2V Voltage | 1,05-1,25 | 0,01 |
| VDDA Voltage | 1,8-2,1 | 0,1 |
In principle, for moderate overclocking, the proposed tools will be enough, however, to set the voltages on the processor cores and the built-in server bridge, only one mode is provided - Offset, which allows you to specify an increase to the standard value. On the one hand, this allows you to maintain the operation of energy-saving technologies during overclocking, but it somewhat complicates the selection of the required voltage.
To control fine settings of the power supply subsystem, use the DIGI+ VRM block of the Ai Tweaker section, where there are options responsible for counteracting voltage drops, adjusting overcurrent protection, operating frequency of power elements and turning off unused phases.
Settings for numerous expansion options for the motherboard are concentrated in the Advanced tab, where users can configure the operation of peripherals, disk and network subsystems, as well as the built-in graphics accelerator.
For settings of processor functions of energy saving, hardware virtualization, virus protection and AMD Turbo Core technology, there is a separate CPU Configuration submenu.
System monitoring and fan control functions are located in the Monitor section. Here the readings of two temperature and three tachometer sensors are displayed, and the voltages on the processor and the main power buses are also displayed.
For three fans, it is possible to automatically adjust the rotation speed; to do this, simply select one of three preset profiles. Advanced users can adjust the operation of the impellers themselves depending on the temperature of the processor.
Among the additional features of the ASUS A88XM-Plus firmware are: the EZ Flash 2 control microcode update utility, the function of viewing information about RAM modules SPD Information, and in the O.C. Profile users can save up to eight sets of UEFI settings.
Finally, the setup menu has an EZ Mode graphics mode, which is useful for basic motherboard configurations. With it you can set the date and time, activate X.M.P. profiles. for RAM modules, adjust the operation of fans, select a performance mode, and also set the order of initialization of boot devices.
Bundled software
Together with the ASUS A88XM-Plus motherboard, customers receive a high-quality and multifunctional Ai Suite 3 product, designed for overclocking, system monitoring and additional features. At the bottom of the window interface there is an information panel, which displays the current operating mode of the processor and readings from system monitoring sensors.
The software allows you to control the digital power subsystem, configure the operation of energy-saving functions, set parameters for increased performance, and also activate automatic overclocking technologies.
To control fan rotation speeds, use the Fan Xpert 2 software module, which allows you to flexibly configure the operation of each fan, both in automatic and manual modes.
Among the additional features of Ai Suite 3 is the USB 3.0 Boost utility, which speeds up work with external drives by activating the UASP protocol, and the Network iControl subroutine, which allows you to manage the network connection bandwidth depending on the type of traffic.
Since ASUS A88XM-Plus is an inexpensive model, it would be naive to expect outstanding overclocking results from it. In practice, for our AMD A10-7850K hybrid processor, we managed to achieve stability only at a frequency of 4300 MHz, while the slightest excess of it led to the system freezing. To achieve such an overclock, the voltage on the computing cores and the built-in northbridge was increased by 0.075 V, and the Load Line Calibration options were set to High. The RAM modules operated at a frequency of 2400 MHz with delays of 10-12-12-31-1T in accordance with the X.M.P. profile.
An unpleasant feature of the overclocking process of the new product was the incorrect display of Vcore in most diagnostic utilities. The exception was the proprietary software product Ai Suite 3, which showed the true voltage value. However, judging by the acceptable temperature conditions, the factors holding back overclocking were firmware flaws or flaws in the design of the power subsystem of the motherboard. Let's hope that with the release of updated versions of UEFI the situation will change for the better.
As for overclocking the built-in video core, ASUS A88XM-Plus made it possible to increase the frequency to 1029 MHz. To do this, it was necessary to increase the APU1.2V Voltage, which is responsible for powering the integrated graphics accelerator, by 0.15 V.
In terms of increasing the reference frequency, the new product showed very modest results - only 15 MHz above the nominal. It seems that the whole point is in the use of the integrated video core, while with discrete graphics accelerators, motherboards for AMD hybrid processors a priori achieve much better values.
Beginners and users who do not want to understand the intricacies of overclocking will be interested in the automatic overclocking functions. Activating the OC Tuner option in the UEFI setup menu increased the frequency of the hybrid processor to 4100 MHz, while the RAM modules were set to 1600 MHz with latencies of 9-9-9-24-1T.
To speed up the built-in video core, you can use the GPU Boost function, which, when turned on, raises the clock frequency to 960 MHz. Together with automatic overclocking of computing modules, this will allow you to get a noticeable increase in performance in games and application programs.
Test stand
To test the performance of the ASUS A88XM-Plus motherboard, we assembled a stand with the following configuration:
- processor: AMD A10-7850K (3.7 GHz);
- cooler:
- ASUS A88XM-Plus UEFI Setup 1102 from 01/20/2014;
- ASUS A88X-Pro UEFI Setup 0802 from 01/29/2014;
- Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X UEFI Setup F8b from 02/06/2014;
- MSI A88X-G45 Gaming UEFI Setup V1.1B1 from 02/20/2014.
- AIDA64 4.20.2800 (Cache & Memory benchmark);
- Futuremark PCMark 8 v2.0.204 (OpenCL Accelerated);
- Futuremark 3DMark v1.2.250;
- Batman: Arkham City;
- F1 2012;
- Total War: Rome II.
Test results
In the Cache & Memory benchmark, the new product took second place in the reading test, losing only to ASUS A88X-Pro, and also showed the lowest latency among all participants. At the same time, when writing and copying data to RAM, the heroine of today's review was inferior to Gigabyte and MSI motherboards.
Results in the Futuremark PCMark 8 benchmark application show the level of performance when performing everyday application tasks. In the home use scenario, the ASUS A88XM-Plus had the second result; when creating digital content, the board was slightly behind its older sister, while in the subtest simulating work in office applications, the new product deserved victory.
Testing in computer games was carried out in Full HD resolution with high, but not maximum quality settings. In this mode, ASUS A88XM-Plus provided high performance, so the unsuccessful performance in semi-synthetic 3DMark can be attributed to a suboptimal firmware version.Energy consumption
To measure the power consumption of the test benches, a Basetech Cost Control 3000 device was used. It was used to estimate the peak values of power consumption during the Prime95 stress test and the 3DMark graphics benchmark, as well as the average power consumption of the test benches when idle.
The new product showed excellent energy efficiency when idle, and became the second most economical at maximum load on the computing modules, while in games its power consumption was higher than that of MSI and Gigabyte motherboards.Conclusions
During today's review, the ASUS A88XM-Plus motherboard showed itself on the most positive side. The new product demonstrated an excellent combination of functionality, performance and workmanship. Unexpectedly, the motherboard showed a good margin of safety, although the overclocking results turned out to be somewhat more modest than those of the best models for the Socket FM2+ platform. Traditionally, ASUS products have not the slightest complaints about the quality of control microcode and software. In a word, the A88XM-Plus looks great even compared to more expensive motherboards, but at the same time it has a very affordable price of about $90, thanks to which the new product has every reason to purchase an inexpensive but productive system unit based on the Kaveri APU.
Our laboratory has already reviewed motherboards based on the AMD A88X system logic set, but these were advanced solutions from manufacturers. It is clear that, for example, ASRock Fatal1ty F2A88X+ Killer and Biostar Hi-Fi A88W 3D will evoke different emotions and they are incomparable, but within the manufacturers’ product lines they are considered to be advanced. But with reviews of lower-level boards it is somewhat more difficult: their price is low and each individually is not in good demand; here the volumes are the sum of the number of models.
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Low demand for each of the models separately leads to the fact that vendors sometimes do not even bring samples and do not provide them for writing reviews. In addition, Russian representative offices of foreign manufacturers are often within certain quotas and “choose” these quotas by ordering flagship solutions. More often than not, it turns out that there are literally only two or three samples of budget-class models available, which are almost always being tested by some domestic company that assembles ready-made computers. Moreover, the samples very often refer to those models that are unlikely to arouse any interest at all for the average user interested in assembling their own computer.
The same low demand also explains the fact that various online publications are practically not interested in dealing with them: not only do vendors not have samples, the low demand for individual models also leads to low interest on the part of readers, which in turn leads to a small number transitions to reviews of specific models. But such a board can often be “obtained” by purchasing it at retail, then the author spends time testing, in the end, he needs to pay a fee for the written article, and the final “exhaust” in the form of increased reader interest and review traffic is not even close justifies the investment.
It turns out to be a vicious circle with a circular disadvantage of reviews, breakthroughs from which sometimes occur: in cases when the Russian representative office of a company receives an “order from above” for more active promotion and it is accompanied by a stack of samples for testing. This is where the work begins...
Among the reviews I received, I repeatedly came across requests to try to “fit” several motherboards from different manufacturers on one set of system logic and approximately the same cost within one review.
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Several models in one material also provide an opportunity to compare them directly and at once. At the same time, such a comprehensive review will also lead to an increase in the flow of “arrivals” from search engines, as a result, the situation with a small number of interested people becomes less acute. And thanks to cooperation with the Regard company, the problem of “mining” samples becomes less pressing.
Some lyrics
After some thought and analysis of price lists, I selected three AMD A88X motherboards belonging to the budget segment: ASUS A88XM-A, Gigabyte GA-F2A88XM-HD3 and MSI A88XM-E35.
Yes, the models are not the newest (ASUS and Gigabyte - August 2013; MSI - November 2013), but you can expect a cure from “childhood diseases” both at the microcode level and at the element base level.
The price for these motherboards in general is in the range of 2100-2200 rubles. In particular, in the price list of the Regard company (at the time they were issued to me), the first cost 2,150 rubles, the second – 2,140 rubles, and the third – a little over a hundred rubles cheaper – 2,020 rubles. In Yandex.Market, the price range was even smaller.
AMD A88X chipset codenamed “Bolton-D4”.
Although it is listed as new, there are almost no differences from, say, the A85X (“Hudson-D4”): the same eight SATA, the same number of USB (two 1.1, ten 2.0, four 3.0), the same four PCI-E 2.0 for additional expansion slots or connecting controllers. Even the technical process is the same: 65 nm. But AMD says there are still differences: it indicates the appearance of support for PCI-E 3.0.
However, the logic is actually strange: the processor, not the chipset, is responsible for PCI-E support in platforms for Socket FM2/FM2+. And the PCI-E lines supported by AMD A88X itself remained in the second version. It is quite obvious that in fact this is the same A85X with minor improvements that ordinary users will never notice (for example, USB 3.0 xHCI has grown from version 0.96 to 1.0). Minor optimizations and improvements to the crystal, a change of the “nameplate” and now we have a new product.
Specifications
To begin with, I will provide a table of technical characteristics, where differences in specifications will be highlighted in bold (photos in the table are clickable; clicking will open a full-size photo).