ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX guide

CAUTION!

1.This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology. Please read “Untied Overclocking Technology” on page 36 for details.

2.This motherboard supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. Before you implement Dual Channel Memory Technology, make sure to read the installation guide of memory modules on page 16 for proper installation.

3.Whether 1866/1600MHz memory speed is supported depends on the AM3/AM3+ CPU you adopt. If you want to adopt DDR3 1866/1600 memory module on this motherboard, please refer to the memory support list on our website for the compatible memory modules.

ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

4.Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size may be less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage under Windows® 7 / VistaTM / XP. For Windows® OS with 64-bit CPU, there is no such limitation.

5.The maximum shared memory size is defined by the chipset vendor and is subject to change. Please check AMD website for the latest information.

6.Before installing SATAII hard disk to SATAII connector, please read the “SATAII Hard Disk Setup Guide” on page 27 to adjust your SATAII hard disk drive to SATAII mode. You can also connect SATA hard disk to SATAII connector directly.

7.It is a user-friendly ASRock overclocking tool which allows you to surveil your system by hardware monitor function and overclock your hardware devices to get the best system performance under Windows® environment. Please visit our website for the operation procedures of ASRock OC Tuner. ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com

8.Featuring an advanced proprietary hardware and software design, Intelligent Energy Saver is a revolutionary technology that delivers unparalleled power savings. The voltage regulator can reduce the num- ber of output phases to improve efficiency when the CPU cores are idle. In other words, it is able to provide exceptional power saving and im- prove power efficiency without sacrificing computing performance. To use Intelligent Energy Saver function, please enable Cool ‘n’ Quiet op- tion in the BIOS setup in advance. Please visit our website for the opera- tion procedures of Intelligent Energy Saver.

ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com

960GM/U3S3 FX specifications

The ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX is a micro ATX motherboard designed for users seeking a solid balance between performance and affordability, particularly for AMD processors. This motherboard is equipped with the AM3+ socket, which supports AMD FX, Phenom II, and Athlon II processors, making it a versatile choice for budget gamers and system builders.

One of the standout features of the ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX is its support for DDR3 memory, allowing for speeds of up to 2400 MHz (OC). This capability enables users to fully leverage the potential of modern RAM, enhancing performance in both gaming and multitasking scenarios. The board supports up to 32GB of system memory across two DIMM slots, providing adequate capacity for demanding applications and reducing latency.

This motherboard boasts a compact design, which is ideal for builds that prioritize space without compromising on features. Its four SATA3 ports allow for rapid data transfer rates, essential for SSDs and high-speed hard drives. Additionally, the ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX includes two USB 3.0 ports for high-speed peripheral connectivity, along with several USB 2.0 ports, ensuring comprehensive compatibility with a range of devices.

From a graphical standpoint, the motherboard incorporates integrated graphics support with AMD processors through its VGA, DVI, and HDMI outputs. This capability is particularly beneficial for users who want to build a budget-friendly system without the immediate expense of a dedicated GPU.

Moreover, the board supports ASRock’s XFast technology, which optimizes the performance of USB and internet speeds to enhance overall system responsiveness. The onboard audio powered by Realtek ALC662 codec delivers high-definition audio, catering to gamers and multimedia enthusiasts alike.

In terms of durability and reliability, the ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX features high-quality capacitors and a solid build that ensures long-term performance. The motherboard's easy-to-use BIOS setup makes overclocking accessible, allowing users to tweak settings to maximize their system's capabilities.

Overall, the ASRock 960GM/U3S3 FX stands out as an efficient motherboard choice, offering essential features like support for high-speed memory, multiple connectivity options, and an attractive price point, making it a popular option in the AMD motherboard market. Whether building a home office setup or a budget gaming rig, this motherboard delivers performance and versatility.