1.6Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with an AM2+ / AM2 socket designed for AMD® Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor.

The AM2+/AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron processor. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM2+/AM2 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!

1.6.1Installing the CPU

To install a CPU.

1.Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

M3A78-EM

M3A78-EM CPU Socket AM2+

2.Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle.

Socket lever

Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely.

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Chapter 1: Product introduction