Motherboard AO Code Fix

A motherboard plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth processing and working of the computer. It is also known as the printed circuit board (PCB) and it is the biggest circuit in the computer system. It serves as the backbone of communication from the CPU to all other hardware components and vice versa. So basically, it offers main connectivity points for all PC components including the peripherals. In addition, the motherboard also controls the power distribution to the hardware.

It can be said without doubt that the motherboard plays one of the most important roles in a computer system. Therefore, you must have adequate knowledge about the working of the motherboard, its connection headers, and status/error codes. If you don’t have basic knowledge about the working and components of the motherboard, you will have a hard time troubleshooting or optimizing your PC. Also, keep in mind that you can’t build a PC unless you understand the features, pins, and codes of the motherboard. 

This is why I have put together this blog to help you understand one of the important diagnostic codes of the motherboard called the “AO” code. Keep in mind that it is not an error code but rather a status code. It is displayed on the monitor screen and signals the condition of the hardware. Read ahead to learn more about this code.

What is the AO Code in Motherboard?

The AO code is a status code that indicates the hardware of your PC is working at optimum condition. You should never confuse it with an error code as it showcases that everything is fine. AO code stands for “All OK” or “Assured Operation”. When this code is displayed on your screen, it means that the BIOS has completed its tasks successfully and Windows is running seamlessly.

But remember that the meaning of AO code can vary slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer or model to model. So it is better to consult the motherboard manual or motherboard support, to know for sure what the AO code communicates. However keep in mind that if instead of an AO code, your LED displays an 0d code then you should definitely be alarmed. The 0d error code indicates that there is an issue with the hardware of your system. Usually, the issue is related to memory but you can troubleshoot your PC to fix the error.

How to Fix the 0d Error Code?

As established earlier, the 0d error code means there is something wrong with the RAM. This error can occur because of numerous issues i.e. defective RAM modules or incorrect installation of RAM. You can take the following steps to fix the issue:

1) Inspect your RAM:

You need to inspect your RAM modules and check if they are installed properly. Also, see if the RAM modules are seated correctly in their slots. You can check the motherboard manual to find tips on how to examine the RAM module.

2) Remove and Reinsert the RAM Modules:

Even if you think your RAM modules are properly installed. We suggest that you remove and reinsert them. This often fixes the issue. So turn off your computer, unplug the power, and remove the RAM modules. Then, reinsert them as per the instructions in the manual and turn the computer on.

3) Test Your RAM Modules:

Use the built-in memory diagnostic tool to test your RAM module for issues. This step will most likely identify the errors and resolve them for you.

4) Replace Defected RAM Module:

Consider replacing your RAM module, if none of the steps work. You can also take RAM to a professional to get it checked out. However, if the issue persists, you should invest in a new RAM module. 

What to do if the AO Code is not Displayed on the Monitor?

Many people complain that they see the AO code on the motherboard but not on the display. Follow the steps discussed below to fix this issue:

1. Find out if all the cables are connected properly, especially those that connect your monitor to your motherboard.

2. Make sure that the monitor is turned on and receiving power.

3. Ensure that your graphic card is seated correctly in its slot.

4. If none of these steps fix the issue, I suggest you connect to another monitor and see if you can view the error on the screen.

What AO Code Means In Different Motherboards

AO code can communicate different things depending on the model and manufacturer. Here I will discuss what AO code means in motherboards of well-reputed manufacturers:

Asus Motherboards: 

Typically an AO error code on an Asus motherboard demonstrates that the system has completed the boot process successfully, passed the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) and Windows is ready to work.  The “AO” code for Asus stands for “All OK”.

If you see the AO code on the Asus motherboard but not on display, then we suggest you follow the steps I discussed above.

Gigabyte Motherboard: 

The AO error on the Gigabyte motherboard means that IDE initialization has started and the operating system is ready to take control of the hardware. In other words, everything is okay and the hardware is working as intended. 

Asrock Motherboard:

The AO code on the Asrock motherboard indicates the system has run all the tests and everything is working just fine. You can contently do your work and start the operating system.

MSI Motherboard:

The AO code indicates that the RAM is working at optimum condition and BIOS has completed the task successfully. So basically if you ever see this code on an MSI motherboard, don’t panic because everything is working perfectly well.

Summing Up

Now you are familiar with the AO code and what it means. The AO code is not an error code, it is a status code. However, the 0d code is definitely an error code that you should worry about. Remove, examine, and reinstall your RAM module to fix the 0d error.

Sometimes, the AO code is not displayed on the screen. You can fix these issues by ensuring the connections between your monitor and motherboard are working correctly. Let me know in the comments if you have questions.

Sajid Ali