B450-A Pro Max - Motherboard MSI - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Motherboard
Brand	MSI
Model	B450-A Pro Max
Chipset	AMD B450
Socket	AM4
Form Factor	ATX
Dimensions	305mm x 244mm (12.0" x 9.6")
Weight	1.2 kg (2.65 lbs)
Power Requirements	ATX 24-pin + 8-pin CPU power
Supported CPU	AMD Ryzen 1st, 2nd, 3rd generation (with BIOS update)
Memory Slots	4 x DDR4 DIMM, dual channel
Max Memory Capacity	64 GB (unbuffered, non-ECC)
Memory Speed	Up to 3466 MHz (OC)
Storage Interfaces	1 x M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4 / SATA), 6 x SATA 6 Gb/s
Expansion Slots	1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 x PCIe 2.0 x16, 3 x PCIe 2.0 x1
Audio Codec	Realtek ALC892, 8-channel HD audio
LAN Controller	Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN
Rear I/O Ports	1 x PS/2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 4 x USB 2.0, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x VGA, 1 x RJ45, 3 x audio jacks
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
Maintenance	Clean with a dry soft cloth; avoid liquids and solvents
Safety Precautions	Keep away from moisture; handle with anti-static precautions; do not bend or drop
Spare Parts / Repairability	Non-user-serviceable; contact MSI authorized service for repairs
Warranty	3 years limited warranty

Frequently Asked Questions - B450-A Pro Max MSI

Which CPUs are compatible with the MSI B450-A Pro Max?

The motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation processors (including Ryzen 3000 series) with an AM4 socket. A BIOS update may be required for Ryzen 3000 series CPUs.

How many RAM slots does this motherboard have?

It has 4 DDR4 DIMM slots supporting dual-channel memory up to 64 GB total, with speeds up to 3466 MHz (overclocked).

Does the B450-A Pro Max have an M.2 slot?

Yes, it includes one M.2 slot supporting PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA modes for SSDs.

How do I update the BIOS on this motherboard?

You can update the BIOS using MSI Live Update within Windows or by using the M-Flash feature in the BIOS setup. Download the latest BIOS from MSI's website and follow the instructions.

What is the form factor and size of the B450-A Pro Max?

It is a standard ATX form factor measuring 305mm x 244mm (12.0" x 9.6").

Can I overclock my CPU on this motherboard?

Yes, the B450 chipset supports overclocking on unlocked AMD Ryzen CPUs. Use the BIOS settings or MSI's OC tools for tuning.

What is the maximum memory capacity?

The maximum memory capacity is 64 GB (4 x 16 GB DDR4 modules).

How do I connect the front panel connectors?

Refer to the motherboard manual for pin layout. Typically, you need to connect power switch, reset, HDD LED, and power LED cables from your case to the JFP1 header.

What is the warranty period for this motherboard?

MSI usually offers a 3-year limited warranty. Register your product on MSI's website for warranty service.

Does this motherboard support Windows 11?

Yes, with an appropriate CPU and TPM 2.0 enabled. The board has a TPM header for a discrete module if needed. Ensure your BIOS is updated.

USER MANUAL B450-A Pro Max MSI

Thank you for purchasing the MSI® B450-A PRO MAX motherboard. This Quick Start section provides demonstration diagrams about how to install your computer. Some of the installations also provide video demonstrations. Please link to the URL to watch it with the web browser on your phone or tablet. You may have even link to the URL by scanning the QR code

Preparing Tools and Components

Installing a Processor

https://youtu.be/Xv89nhFk1vc

Important

If you are installing the screw-type CPU heatsink, please follow the figure below to remove the retention module first and then install the heatsink.

Installing DDR4 memory

http://youtu.be/T03aDrJPyQs

Connecting the Front Panel Header

http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI

Installing the Motherboard

Installing SATA Drives

http://youtu.be/RZsMpqxythc

Installing a Graphics Card

http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting the Power Connectors

http://youtu.be/gkDYyR_83I4

Power On

Contents

Quick Start 1

Preparing Tools and Components.... 1

Installing a Processor....2

Installing DDR4 memory 4

Connecting the Front Panel Header....5

Installing the Motherboard....6

Installing SATA Drives....7

Installing a Graphics Card 8

Connecting Peripheral Devices 9

Connecting the Power Connectors.... 10

Power On....11

Safety Information.... 15

Specifications.... 16

Package contents 20

Block Diagram 21

Rear I/O Panel 22

LAN Port LED Status Table.... 22

Audio Ports Configuration 22

Realtek HD Audio Manager 23

Overview of Components 25

Processor Socket 27

DIMM Slots....28

PCI_E1\~6: PCIe Expansion Slots 29

M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M) 30

SATA1\~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors 31

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors 31

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1: Power Connectors 32

JAUD1: Front Audio Connector 32

JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors....33

JUSB3: USB 3.2 Gen1 Connector 33

CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1, SYS_FAN1~4: Fan Connectors....34

JCOM1: Serial Port Connector 34

JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector 35

JTPM1: TPM Module Connector 35

JLPT1: Parallel Port Connector 36

JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper 36

JRGB1: RGB LED connector 37

EZ Debug LEDs 37

BIOS Setup 38

Entering BIOS Setup....38

Resetting BIOS....39

Updating BIOS....39

EZ Mode 41

Advanced Mode 43

SETTINGS....44

Advanced....44

Boot....49

Security 50

Save & Exit....51

OC....53

M-FLASH 57

OC PROFILE 58

HARDWARE MONITOR....59

Software Description....60

Installing Windows 10....60

Installing Drivers 60

Installing Utilities 60

APP MANAGER 61

LIVE UPDATE 6....62

COMMAND CENTER 64

X-BOOST 68

MYSTIC LIGHT 70

MYSTIC LIGHT PARTY 74

SMART TOOL....78

RAMDISK....80

RAID Configuration....81

Using AMD RAID Controller BIOS Configuration Utility....81

Initialize Disks 83

Create Arrays....84

Delete Arrays 85

Swap Arrays 86

Manage Spares 87

Change the Controller Options....88

Booting the system from an array....88

Pausing the boot sequence for warning messages....88

Change the Staggered Spinup Count 89

Using UEFI to create a 2.2TB RAID 90

Installing RAID Driver....91

Troubleshooting 92

Regulatory Notices....93

Safety Information

- The components included in this package are prone to damage from electrostatic discharge (ESD). Please adhere to the following instructions to ensure successful computer assembly.

- Ensure that all components are securely connected. Loose connections may cause the computer to not recognize a component or fail to start.

- Hold the motherboard by the edges to avoid touching sensitive components.

- It is recommended to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling the motherboard to prevent electrostatic damage. If an ESD wrist strap is not available, discharge yourself of static electricity by touching another metal object before handling the motherboard.

- Store the motherboard in an electrostatic shielding container or on an anti-static pad whenever the motherboard is not installed.

- Before turning on the computer, ensure that there are no loose screws or metal components on the motherboard or anywhere within the computer case.

- Do not boot the computer before installation is completed. This could cause permanent damage to the components as well as injury to the user.

- If you need help during any installation step, please consult a certified computer technician.

- Always turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing any computer component.

- Keep this user guide for future reference.

- Keep this motherboard away from humidity.

- Make sure that your electrical outlet provides the same voltage as is indicated on the PSU, before connecting the PSU to the electrical outlet.

- Place the power cord such a way that people can not step on it. Do not place anything over the power cord.

- All cautions and warnings on the motherboard should be noted.

- If any of the following situations arises, get the motherboard checked by service personnel:

• Liquid has penetrated into the computer. ■ The motherboard has been exposed to moisture.

- The motherboard does not work well or you can not get it work according to user guide.

■ The motherboard has been dropped and damaged. ■ The motherboard has obvious sign of breakage.

- Do not leave this motherboard in an environment above 60°C (140°F), it may damage the motherboard.

Specifications

CPU	Supports 1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD RyzenTM/ RyzenTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics/ 2nd Gen AMD RyzenTM with RadeonTM Graphics/ AthlonTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics Desktop Processors for Socket AM4
Chipset AMD	® B450 Chipset
Memory	• 4x DDR4 memory slots, support up to 64GB* • Supports 1866/ 2133/ 2400/ 2667Mhz (by JEDEC) • Supports 2667/ 2800/ 2933/ 3000/ 3066/ 3200/ 3466 MHz (by A-XMP OC MODE) • Dual channel memory architecture • Supports non-ECC UDIMM memory • Supports ECC UDIMM memory (non-ECC mode) * Please refer www.msi.com for more information on compatible memory.
Expansion Slots	• 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (PCI_E1) • 1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD RyzenTM support x16 mode • RyzenTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD RyzenTM with RadeonTM Graphics support x8 mode • AthlonTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics support x4 mode • 1x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot (PCI_E4, supports x4 mode)* • 4x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots* * PCI_E4 will run x1 speed when installing devices in PCI_E2/ PCI_E3/ PCI_E5 slot.
Onboard Graphics	• 1x VGA port, support a maximum resolution of 2048x1280 @60Hz,1920x1200 @60Hz* • 1x DVI-D port, support a maximum resolution of 1920x1200 @60Hz* • 1x HDMI TM 1.4 port, supports a maximum resolution of 4096x2160 @30Hz, 2560x1600 @60Hz* * Only support when using RyzenTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD RyzenTM with RadeonTM Graphics/ AthlonTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics processors * Maximum shared memory of 2048 MB
Multi-GPU • Supports 2-Way AMD	® CrossFireTM Technology
LAN • 1x Realtek	® 8111H Gigabit LAN controller

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Audio	RealtelC892 Codec7.1-Channel High Definition Audio
Storage	AMD®CPU2x SATA 6Gb/s ports*1x M.2 slot (Key M)*Supports PCIe 3.0 x4 (1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD RyzenTM/ RyzenTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD RyzenTM with RadeonTM Graphics) or PCIe 3.0 x2 (AthlonTM with RadeonTM Vega Graphics) and SATA 6Gb/s standards 2242/ 2260/ 2280/ 22110 storage deviceAMD®B450 Chipset4x SATA 6Gb/s ports*SATA5 and SATA6 ports will be unavailable when installing a M.2 device in M.2 slot.
RAID	AMD®B450 ChipsetSupports RAID 0, RAID1 and RAID 10 for SATA storage devices
USB	AMEX450 Chipset2x USB 3.2 Gen2 (SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps) Type-A ports on the back panel2x USB 3.2 Gen1 (SuperSpeed USB) ports available through the internal USB 3.2 Gen1 connector6x USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) ports (2 Type-A ports on the back panel, 4 ports available through the internal USB 2.0 connectors)AMCPU2x USB 3.2 Gen1 (SuperSpeed USB) Type-A ports on the back panel

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Back PanelConnectors	1x Flash BIOS Button1x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse combo port2x USB 2.0 Type-A ports1x VGA port1x DVI-D port1x HD Port2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports1x LAN (RJ45) port2x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports6x audio jacks
Internal Connectors	1x 24-pin ATX main power connector1x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector6x SATA 6Gb/s connectors2x USB 2.0 connectors (support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports1x USB 3.2 Gen1 connectors (support additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen1 ports)1x 4-pin CPU fan connector1x 4-pin water-pump-fan connector4x 4-pin system fan connectors1x TPM module connector1x Front panel audio connector2x System panel connectors1x Serial port connector1x Parallel port connector1x Chassis Intrusion connector1x Clear CMOS jumper1x 5050 RGB LED strip 12V connector
I/O Controller NUVOTON NCT6797 Controller Chip
Hardware Monitor	CPU/System temperature detectionCPU/System fan speed detectionCPU/System fan speed control

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Form Factor	• ATX Form Factor• 12 in. x 9.6 in. (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
BIOS Features	• 1x 256 Mb flash• UEFI AMI BIOS• ACPI 6.1, SM BIOS 2.8• Multi-language
Software	• Drivers• APP MANAGER• SUPER CHARGER• COMMAND CENTER• LIVE UPDATE 6• SMART TOOL• RAMDISK• X-BOOST• MYSTIC LIGHT• Open Broadcaster Software (OBS)• CPU-Z MSI GAMING• Norton Internet Security Solution• Google Chrome: Google Toolbar, Google Drive
Special Features	• Audio• Audio Boost• Storage• Turbo M.2• StoreMI• Fan• Pump Fan• Smart Fan Control• LED• Mystic Light Extension (RGB)• Mystic light SYNC• EZ DEBUG LED

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Special Features

ProtectionPCIe Steel ArmorPCIe Steel SlotPerformanceMulti GPU-CrossFire TechnologyDDR4 BoostAMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2CORE BoostVRVR ReadyBIOSClick BIOS 5

Package contents

Please check the contents of your motherboard package. It should contain:

• Motherboard
• Driver DVD
• Quick Installation Guide • Case Stand-off Notification
• I/O Shielding
• SATA 6G Cable x2
• Case Badge • Product Registration card M.2 Screw x1

Important

If any of the above items are damaged or missing, please contact your retailer.

Block Diagram

Rear I/O Panel

• Flash BIOS Port/ Button - Please refer to page 40 for Updating BIOS with Flash BIOS Button.

LAN Port LED Status Table

Audio Ports Configuration

(●: connected, Blank: empty)

Realtek HD Audio Manager

After installing the Realtek HD Audio driver, the Realtek HD Audio Manager icon will appear in the system tray. Double click on the icon to launch.

• Device Selection - allows you to select an audio output source to change the related options. The check sign indicates the devices as default.
• Application Enhancement - the array of options will provide you a complete guidance of anticipated sound effect for both output and input device.
• Main Volume - controls the volume or balance the right/left side of the speakers that you plugged in front or rear panel by adjusting the bar.
• Jack Status - depicts all render and capture devices currently connected with your computer.

Auto popup dialog

When you plug into a device at an audio jack, a dialogue window will pop up asking you which device is current connected.

Each jack corresponds to its default setting as shown on the next page.

Important

The pictures above for reference only and may vary from the product you purchased.

Audio jacks to headphone and microphone diagram

Audio jacks to stereo speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 7.1-channel speakers diagram

Overview of Components

Component Contents

Port Name Port Type Page
CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1, SYS_FAN1~4 Fan Connectors 34
CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1 Power Connectors 32
DIMMA1, DIMMA2, DIMMB1, DIMMB2 DIMM Slots 28
JAUD1 Front Audio Connector 32
JBAT1 Clear CMOS Jumper 36
JCI1 Chassis Intrusion Connector 35
JCOM1	Serial Port Connector	34
JFP1, JFP2	Front Panel Connectors	31
JLPT1 Parallel Port Connector	36
JRGB1 RGB LED connectors	37
JTPM1 TPM Module Connector	35
JUSB1~2	USB 2.0 Connectors	33
JUSB3 USB 3.2 Gen1 Connector	33
M2_1	M.2 Slot (Key M)	30
PCI_E1~6	PCIe Expansion Slots 29
Processor Socket	AM4 socket	27
SATA1~6	SATA 6Gb/s Connectors	31

Processor Socket

Introduction to the AM4 CPU

The surface of the AM4 CPU has a yellow triangle to assist in correctly lining up the CPU for motherboard placement. The yellow triangle is the Pin 1 indicator.

Important

When changing the processor, the system configuration could be cleared and BIOS reset to default values, due to the AM4 processor's architecture.

Always unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the CPU.

When installing a CPU, always remember to install a CPU heatsink. A CPU heatsink is necessary to prevent overheating and maintain system stability.

Confirm that the CPU heatsink has formed a tight seal with the CPU before booting your system.

Overheating can seriously damage the CPU and motherboard. Always make sure the cooling fans work properly to protect the CPU from overheating. Be sure to apply an even layer of thermal paste (or thermal tape) between the CPU and the heatsink to enhance heat dissipation.

If you purchased a separate CPU and heatsink/cooler, please refer to the documentation in the heatsink/cooler package for more details about installation.

This motherboard is designed to support overclocking. Before attempting to overclock, please make sure that all other system components can tolerate overclocking. Any attempt to operate beyond product specifications is not recommended. MSI® does not guarantee the damages or risks caused by inadequate operation beyond product specifications.

DIMM Slots

Memory module installation recommendation

Important

Always insert memory modules in the DIMMA2 slot first.

Due to chipset resource usage, the available capacity of memory will be a little less than the amount of installed.

Based on processor specification, the Memory DIMM voltage below 1.35V is suggested to protect the processor.

Some memory modules may operate at a lower frequency than the marked value when overclocking due to the memory frequency operates dependent on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD). Go to BIOS and find the DRAM Frequency! to set the memory frequency if you want to operate the memory at the marked or at a higher frequency.

It is recommended to use a more efficient memory cooling system for full DIMMs installation or overclocking.

The stability and compatibility of installed memory modules depend on the installed CPU and devices when overclocking.

Due to the official specification limitations of the AM4 processor/memory controller, the frequency of memory modules may operate lower than the marked value under the default state. Please refer to www.msi.com for more information on compatible memory.

PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots

* For 1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ processors ** For Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics processors *** For Athlon™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics processor

Important

If you install a large and heavy graphics card, you need to use a tool such as MSI Gaming Series Graphics Card Bolster to support its weight to prevent deformation of the slot.

For a single PCIe x16 expansion card installation with optimum performance, using the PCI_E1 slot is recommended.

When adding or removing expansion cards, always turn off the power supply and unplug the power supply power cable from the power outlet. Read the expansion card's documentation to check for any necessary additional hardware or software changes.

PCI_E4 will run at x1 speed when installing devices in PCI_E2/PCI_E3/PCI_E5 slots.

PCIe bandwidth of Multiple graphics cards

Slot Single 2-Way
PCI_E1 (CPU)	@ 3.0 x16*or @ 3.0 x8**or @ 3.0 x4***				@ 3.0 x16*or @ 3.0 x8**or @ 3.0 x4***
PCI_E2 (PCH)	2.0 x1 2.0 x1 Empty Empty —
PCI_E3 (PCH)	2.0 x1 Empty 2.0 x1 Empty —
PCI_E4 (PCH)	2.0 x1 2.0 x1 2.0 x1 2.0 x1 @ 2.0 x4
PCI_E5 (PCH)	2.0 x1 Empty Empty 2.0 x1 —
PCI_E6 (PCH)	2.0 x1 2.0x1
M2_1 (CPU)	3.0 x4*/**or 3.0 x2***				3.0 x4*/**or 3.0 x2***

(—: unavailable, @: graphics card, *: for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen™ processors, **: for Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Graphics processors, ***: for Athlon™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics processor)

M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M)

Video Demonstration

Watch the video to learn how to install M.2 module.

http://youtu.be/JCTFABytrYA

Installing M.2 SSD

1. Loosen the M.2 riser screw from the motherboard.
2. Move and fasten the M.2 riser screw to the appropriate location for your M.2 SSD.
3. Insert your M.2 SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle.
4. Secure the M.2 SSD in place with the supplied M.2 screw.

Important

SATA5 and SATA6 ports will be unavailable when installing a M.2 device in M.2 slot.

SATA1~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors

These connectors are SATA 6Gb/s interface ports. Each connector can connect to one SATA device.

Important

Please do not fold the SATA cable at a 90-degree angle. Data loss may result during transmission otherwise.

SATA cables have identical plugs on either sides of the cable. However, it is recommended that the flat connector be connected to the motherboard for space saving purposes.

SATA5 and SATA6 ports will be unavailable when installing a M.2 device in M.2 slot.

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors

These connectors connect to the switches and LEDs on the front panel.

JFP2	1 Buzzer + 1 Speaker	1 Speaker - 2 Buzzer +
		3 Buzzer - 4 Speaker +

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1: Power Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect an ATX power supply.

8 5 CPU_PWR14 1
1 Ground 5	+12V
2 Ground 6	+12V
3 Ground 7	+12V
4 Ground 8	+12V

12 24ATX_PWR11 13	1 +3.3V 13 +3.3V
	2 +3.3V 14 -12V
	3 Ground 15 Ground
	4 +5V 16 PS-ON#
	5 Ground 17 Ground
	6 +5V 18 Ground
	7 Ground 19 Ground
	8 PWR OK 20 Res
	9 5V SB 21 +5V
	10 +12V 22 +5V
	11 +12V 23 +5V
	12 +3.3V 24 Ground

Important

Make sure that all the power cables are securely connected to a proper ATX power supply to ensure stable operation of the motherboard.

JAUD1: Front Audio Connector

This connector allows you to connect audio jacks on the front panel.

1 MIC L 2 Ground
3 MIC R	4	NC
5 Head Phone R	6	MIC Detection
7 SENSE_SEND	8 No Pin
9 Head Phone L	10	Head Phone Detection

JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect USB 2.0 ports on the front panel.

2 10
1 VCC 2 VCC
3 USB0-4 USB1-
5 USB0+6 USB1+
7 Ground 8 Ground
9 No Pin 10 NC

Important

Note that the VCC and Ground pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible damage.

In order to recharge your iPad, iPhone and iPod through USB ports, please install MSI® SUPER CHARGER utility.

JUSB3: USB 3.2 Gen1 Connector

This connector allows you to connect USB 3.2 Gen1 ports on the front panel.

1 Power 11 USB2.0+
2	USB3_RX_DN	12	USB2.0-
3	USB3_RX_DP	13	Ground
4 Ground	14 USB3_TX_C_DP
5	USB3_TX_C_DN	15	USB3_TX_C_DN
6	USB3_TX_C_DP	16	Ground
7 Ground	17	USB3_RX_DP
8 USB2.0-	18	USB3_RX_DN
9	USB2.0+	19	Power
10 NC 20	No Pin

Important

Note that the Power and Ground pins must be connected correctly to avoid possible damage.

CPU_FAN1, PUMP_FAN1, SYS_FAN1~4: Fan Connectors

Fan connectors can be classified as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Mode or DC Mode. PWM Mode fan connectors provide constant 12V output and adjust fan speed with speed control signal. DC Mode fan connectors control fan speed by changing voltage. When you plug a 3-pin (Non-PWM) fan to a fan connector in PWM mode, the fan speed will always maintain at 100%, which might create a lot of noise. You can follow the instruction below to adjust the fan connector to PWM or DC Mode. However, with auto-detection mode fan connectors, the system will auto detect the fan mode.

Default PWM Mode fan connectors CPU_FAN1

PUMP_FAN1

Default DC Mode fan connectors SYS_FAN1/ SYS_FAN2

SYS_FAN3/ SYS_FAN4

Pin definition of fan connectors

PWM Mode pin definition
1	Ground	2	+12V
3	Sense	4	Speed Control Signal

DC Mode pin definition
1	Ground	2	Voltage Control
3	Sense	4	NC

Important

• You can switch between PWM mode and DC mode and adjust fan speed in BIOS > HARDWARE MONITOR.
• Make sure fans are working properly after switching the PWM/DC mode.

JCOM1: Serial Port Connector

This connector allows you to connect the optional serial port with bracket.

1 DCD 2 SIN
3 SOUT 4 DTR
5 Ground 6 DSR
7 RTS 8 CTS
9 RI 10 No Pin

JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector

This connector allows you to connect the chassis intrusion switch cable.

Normal (default)

Trigger the chassis intrusion event

Using chassis intrusion detector

1. Connect the JCI1 connector to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis.
2. Close the chassis cover.
3. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Security > Chassis Intrusion Configuration.
4. Set Chassis Intrusion to Enabled.
5. Press F10 to save and exit and then press the Enter key to select Yes.
6. Once the chassis cover is opened again, a warning message will be displayed on screen when the computer is turned on.

Resetting the chassis intrusion warning

1. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Security > Chassis Intrusion Configuration.
2. Set Chassis Intrusion to Reset.
3. Press F10 to save and exit and then press the Enter key to select Yes.

JTPM1: TPM Module Connector

This connector is for TPM (Trusted Platform Module). Please refer to the TPM security platform manual for more details and usages.

1 LPC Clock 2 3V Standby power
3 LPC Reset 4 3.3V Power
5 LPC address & data pin0 6 Serial IRQ
7 LPC address & data pin1 8 5V Power
9 LPC address & data pin2 10		No Pin
11	LPC address & data pin3 12		Ground
13	LPC Frame	14	Ground

JLPT1: Parallel Port Connector

This connector allows you to connect the optional parallel port with bracket.

1 R	STB# 2 AFD# 3 PRND0
4 ERR# 5 PRND1 6 PINIT#
7 PRND2 8 LPT_SLIN# 9 PRND3
10 Ground 11 PRND4 12		Ground
13 PRND5 14 Ground 15		PRND6
16 Ground 17 PRND7 18		Ground
19 ACK# 20 Ground		21 BUSY
22 Ground 23	PE	24 Ground
25 SLCT 26 No Pin

JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper

There is CMOS memory onboard that is external powered from a battery located on the motherboard to save system configuration data. If you want to clear the system configuration, set the jumper to clear the CMOS memory.

Keep Data (default)

Clear CMOS/Reset BIOS

Resetting BIOS to default values

1. Power off the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Use a jumper cap to short JBAT1 for about 5-10 seconds.
3. Remove the jumper cap from JBAT1.
4. Plug the power cord and Power on the computer.

JRGB1: RGB LED connector

The JRGB1 connector allows you to connect the 5050 RGB LED strips 12V.

Important

The JRGB1 connector supports up to 2 meters continuous 5050 RGB LED strips (12V/G/R/B) with the maximum power rating of 3A (12V).

Always turn off the power supply and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the RGB LED strip.

Please use MSI's software to control the extended LED strip.

EZ Debug LEDs

These LEDs indicate the status of key components during the booting process. When an error occurs, the corresponding LED stays lit until the problem is solved.

☐ CPU - indicates CPU is not detected or fail. ☐ DRAM - indicates DRAM is not detected or fail. ☐ VGA - indicates GPU is not detected or fail. ☐ BOOT - indicates the booting device is not detected or fail.

BIOS Setup

The default settings offer the optimal performance for system stability in normal conditions. You should always keep the default settings to avoid possible system damage or failure booting unless you are familiar with BIOS.

Important

BIOS items are continuously updated for better system performance. Therefore, the description may be slightly different from the latest BIOS and should be for reference only. You could also refer to the HELP information panel for BIOS item description.

The pictures in this chapter are for reference only and may vary from the product you purchased.

The BIOS items will vary with the processor.

Entering BIOS Setup

Press the Delete key when the 'Press DEL key to enter Setup Menu, F11 to enter Boot Menu' message appears on the screen during the boot process.

Function key

F1: General Help list F2: Add/Remove a favorite item F3: Enter Favorites menu F4: Enter CPU Specifications menu F5: Enter Memory-Z menu F6: Load optimized defaults F7: Switch between Advanced mode and EZ mode F8: Load Overclocking Profile F9: Save Overclocking Profile F10: Save Change and Reset* F12: Take a screenshot and save it to USB flash drive (FAT/FAT32 format only).

Ctrl+F: Enter Search page

* When you press F10, a confirmation window appears and it provides the modification information. Select between Yes or No to confirm your choice.

Resetting BIOS

You might need to restore the default BIOS setting to solve certain problems. There are several ways to reset BIOS:

• Go to BIOS and press F6 to load optimized defaults.
• Short the Clear CMOS jumper on the motherboard.

Important

Be sure the computer is off before clearing CMOS data. Please refer to the Clear CMOS jumper section for resetting BIOS.

Updating BIOS

Updating BIOS with M-FLASH

Before updating:

Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website. And then save the BIOS file into the USB flash drive.

Updating BIOS:

1. Press Del key to enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
2. Insert the USB flash drive that contains the update file into the computer.
3. Select the M-FLASH tab and click on Yes to reboot the system and enter the flash mode.
4. Select a BIOS file to perform the BIOS update process.
5. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will reboot automatically.

Updating the BIOS with Live Update 6

Before updating:

Make sure the LAN driver is already installed and the internet connection is set properly.

Updating BIOS:

1. Install and launch MSI LIVE UPDATE 6.
2. Select BIOS Update.
3. Click on Scan button.
4. Click on Download icon to download and install the latest BIOS file.
5. Click Next and choose In Windows mode. And then click Next and Start to start updating BIOS.
6. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will restart automatically.

Updating BIOS with Flash BIOS Button

Before updating:

Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from the MSI® website and rename the BIOS file to MSI.ROM. Then, save the MSI.ROM file to the root of a USB flash drive.

Important

Only a FAT32 format USB flash drive supports updating BIOS via the Flash BIOS Button.

1. Connect the power supply to CPU_PWR1 and ATX_PWR1. (No other components are necessary, but the power supply is.)
2. Plug the USB flash drive containing the MSI.ROM file into the Flash BIOS Port on the rear I/O panel.
3. Press the Flash BIOS Button to flash the BIOS, and the LED next to the button will start flashing.
4. After the flashing BIOS process is 100% complete, the LED will turn off simultaneously.

EZ Mode

In EZ Mode, basic system information is provided and basic settings can be configured. To configure advanced BIOS settings, enter Advanced Mode by pressing the Setup Mode switch or the F7 function key.

- OC GENIE 4 switch - click on it to toggle OC GENIE 4 for overclocking.

Important

Please do not make any changes in the OC menu and do not load defaults to maintain optimal performance and system stability after activating the OC GENIE 4 function.

- A-XMP switch (optional) - click on the inner circle to enable/disable A-XMP. Switch the outer circle to select the memory profile if any. This switch will only be available if the installed processor and memory modules support the XMP function.

- Setup Mode switch - press this tab or the F7 key to switch between Advanced mode and EZ mode.

- Screenshot - click on this tab or press the F12 key to take a screenshot and save it to a USB flash drive (FAT/FAT32 format only).

- Search - click on this tab or press Ctrl+F keys, and the search page will appear. It allows you to search by BIOS item name; enter the item name to find the item listing. Move the mouse over a blank space and right-click to exit the search page.

Important

In the search page, only the F6, F10, and F12 function keys are available.

- Language - allows you to select the language of the BIOS setup.

- System information - shows the CPU/DDR speed, CPU/MB temperature, MB/CPU type, memory size, CPU/DDR voltage, BIOS version, and build date.

- Boot device priority bar - you can move the device icons to change the boot priority. The boot priority from high to low is left to right.

- Information display - click on the CPU, Memory, Storage, Fan Info, and Help buttons on the left side to display related information.

- Function buttons - enable or disable the LAN Option ROM, HD audio controller, AHCI/RAID, CPU Fan Fail Warning Control, Windows 10 WHQL support, and BIOS Log Review by clicking on their respective buttons.

- M-Flash - click on this button to display the M-Flash menu that provides a way to update the BIOS with a USB flash drive.

- Hardware Monitor - click on this button to display the Hardware Monitor menu that allows you to manually control the fan speed by percentage.

- Favorites menu - press the F3 key to enter the Favorites menu. It allows you to create a personal BIOS menu where you can save and access favorite/frequently-used BIOS setting items.

• Default HomePage - allows you to select a BIOS menu (e.g., SETTINGS, OC, etc.) as the BIOS home page.
• Favorite1~5 - allows you to add frequently-used/favorite BIOS setting items on one page.
• To add a BIOS item to a favorite page (Favorite 1~5)
• Move the mouse over a BIOS item not only on BIOS menu but also on search page.
• Right-click or press F2 key.
• Choose a favorite page and click on OK.

- To delete a BIOS item from favorite page

1. Move the mouse over a BIOS item on favorite page (Favorite 1~5)
2. Right-click or press F2 key.
3. Choose Delete and click on OK.

Advanced Mode

Press Setup Mode switch or F7 function key can switch between EZ Mode and Advanced Mode in BIOS setup.

- OC GENIE 4 switch/ Setup Mode switch/ Screenshot/ Language/ System information/ Boot device priority bar - please refer to the descriptions of EZ Mode Overview section.

- BIOS menu selection - the following options are available:

• SETTINGS - allows you to specify the parameters for chipset and boot devices.
• OC - allows you to adjust the frequency and voltage. Increasing the frequency may get better performance.
• M-FLASH - provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash drive.
• OC PROFILE - allows you to manage overclocking profiles.
• HARDWARE MONITOR - allows you to set the speeds of fans and monitor voltages of system.
• BOARD EXPLORER - provides the information of installed devices on this motherboard.

- Menu display - provides BIOS setting items and information to be configured.

SETTINGS

System Status

▶ System Date

Sets the system date. Use tab key to switch between date elements.

The format is .

Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by BIOS. Read-only.

The month from Jan. through Dec.

The date from 1 to 31 can be keyed by numeric function keys.

The year can be adjusted by users.

▶ System Time

Sets the system time. Use the tab key to switch between time elements.

The time format is .

▶ SATA PortX

Shows the information of the connected SATA device.

Important

If the connected SATA device is not displayed, turn off the computer and re-check the SATA cable and power cable connections of the device and motherboard.

▶ System Information

Shows detailed system information, including CPU type, BIOS version, and Memory (read only).

▶ DMI Information

Shows system information, desktop Board Information, and chassis Information. (Read only).

Advanced

PCI Subsystem Settings

Sets PCI, PCI express interface protocol and latency timer. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶Above 4G memory/ Crypto Currency mining [Disabled]

Enables or disables 64-bit capable devices to be decoded in above 4G address space. It is only available if the system supports 64-bit PCI decoding.

[Enabled] Allows you to utilize more than 4x GPUs.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ PCIe SlotX Lanes Configuration

PCIe lanes configuration is for MSI M.2 Xpander / MSI M.2 Xpander-Z / Other M.2 PCIe storage card. The options in this item will vary with the installed processor.

▶ ACPI Settings

Sets ACPI parameters of onboard power LED behaviors. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Power LED [Blinking]

Sets shining behaviors of the onboard Power LED.

[Dual Color] The power LED turns to another color to indicate the S3 state.

[Blinking] The power LED blinks to indicate the S3 state.

▶ Integrated Peripherals

Sets integrated peripherals' parameters, such as LAN, HDD, USB and audio. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Onboard LAN Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller.

▶ LAN Option ROM [Disabled]

Enables or disables the legacy network Boot Option ROM for detailed settings. This item will appear when Onboard LAN Controller is enabled.

[Enabled] Enables the onboard LAN Boot ROM.

[Disabled] Disables the onboard LAN Boot ROM.

▶ Network Stack [Disabled]

Sets UEFI network stack for optimizing IPv4 / IPv6 function. This item is available when Onboard LAN Controller is Enabled.

[Enabled] Enables UEFI network stack.

[Disabled] Disables UEFI network stack.

▶ IPv4 PXE Support [Enabled]

When Enabled, the system UEFI network stack will support IPv4 protocol. This item will appear when Network Stack is Enabled.

[Enabled] Enables the IPv4 PXE boot support.

[Disabled] Disables the IPv4 PXE boot support.

▶ IPv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

When Enabled, the system UEFI network stack will support IPv6 protocol. This item will appear when Network Stack is enabled.

[Enabled] Enables the IPv6 PXE boot support.

[Disabled] Disables the IPv6 PXE boot support.

▶ SATA Mode [AHCI Mode]

Sets the operation mode of the onboard SATA controller.

[AHCI Mode] Specify the AHCI mode for SATA storage devices. AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) offers some advanced features to enhance the speed and performance of SATA storage devices, such as Native Command Queuing (NCQ) and hot-plugging.

[RAID Mode] Enables RAID function for SATA storage devices.

▶ SATAx Hot Plug [Disabled]

Allows user to enable or disable the SATA hot plug support.

[Enabled] Enables hot plug support for the SATA ports.

[Disabled] Disables hot plug support for the SATA ports.

▶ HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard High Definition Audio controller.

▶ Integrated Graphics Configuration (optional)

Adjusts integrated graphics settings for optimum system. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG] (optional)

Selects a graphics device as the primary boot device.

[IGD] Integrated Graphics Display.

[PEG] PCI-Express Graphics Device.

▶ Integrated Graphics [Auto] (optional)

If set to Force, BIOS will enable the integrated graphics controller.

▶ UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto] (optional)

Selects a fixed amount of system memory allocated to the onboard graphics. This item will be available when Integrated Graphics is enabled.

USB Configuration

Sets the onboard USB controller and device function. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶XHCI Hand-off [Enabled]

Enables or disables XHCI hand-off support for the operating system without XHCI hand-off feature.

▶ Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

Sets Legacy USB function support.

[Auto] The system will automatically detect if any USB device is connected and enable the legacy USB support.

[Enabled] Enable the USB support under legacy mode.

[Disabled] The USB devices will be unavailable under legacy mode.

▶ Super IO Configuration

Sets system Super I/O chip parameters including LPT and COM ports. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Serial (COM) Port 0 Configuration

Sets detailed configuration of serial (COM) port 0. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Serial Port [Enabled]

Enables or disables serial port.

▶ Serial (COM) Port0 Settings [Auto]

Sets serial port 0. If set to Auto, BIOS will optimize the IRQ automatically or you can set it manually.

▶ Parallel (LPT) Port Configuration

Sets detailed configuration of parallel port (LPT/LPTE). Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Parallel (LPT) Port [Enabled]

Enables or disables parallel (LPT/LPTE) port.

▶ Parallel (LPT) Port Settings [Auto]

Sets parallel port (LPT). If set to Auto, BIOS will optimize the IRQ automatically or you can set it manually.

▶ Device Mode [STD Printer Mode]

Selects an operating mode for parallel port.

[STD Printer Mode] Printer port mode

[SPP] Standard Parallel Port mode

[EPP-1.9 and SPP Mode] Enhanced Parallel Port-1.9 mode + Standard Parallel Port mode.

▶ Power Management Setup

Sets system Power Management of ErP and AC Power Loss behaviors. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ErP Ready [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system power consumption according to ErP regulation.

[Enabled] Optimize the system power consumption according to ErP regulation. It will not support S4 & S5 wake up by USB, PCI and PCIe devices.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶Restore after AC Power Loss [Power Off]

Sets the system behaviors while encountering the AC power loss.

[Power Off] Leaves the system in power off state after restoring AC power.

[Power On] Boot up the system after restoring AC power.

[Last State] Restores the system to the previous state (power on/ power off) before AC power loss.

▶ System Power Fault Protection [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system booting up when abnormal voltage input is detected.

[Enabled] Protects the system from unexpected power operation and keeps it in the shutdown state.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Windows OS Configuration

Sets Windows detailed configuration and behaviors. Press Enter to enter the submenu.

▶ Windows 10 WHQL Support [Disabled]

Enables support for Windows 10 or disables it for other operating systems.

Before enabling this item, make sure all installed devices and utilities (hardware and software) meet Windows 10 requirements.

[Enabled] The system will switch to UEFI mode to meet Windows requirements.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Internal GOP Configuration

Manages the onboard Graphics Output Protocol (GOP). Press Enter to enter the submenu. This submenu appears when Windows 10 WHQL Support is enabled.

▶ Secure Boot

Sets Windows Secure Boot to prevent unauthorized access. Press Enter to enter the submenu. This submenu appears when Windows 10 WHQL Support is enabled.

▶ Wake Up Event Setup

Sets system wake up behaviors for different sleep modes. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Wake Up Event By [BIOS]

Selects the wake up event by BIOS or operating system.

[BIOS] Activates the following items, set wake up events of these items.

[OS] The wake up events will be defined by OS.

▶ Resume By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Disables or enables the system wake up by RTC Alarm.

[Enabled] Enables the system to boot up on a scheduled time/date.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Date (of month) Alarm/ Time (hh:mm:ss) Alarm

Sets RTC alarm date/ Time. If Resume By RTC Alarm is set to [Enabled], the system will automatically resume (boot up) on a specified date/hour/minute/second in these fields (using the + and - keys to select the date & time settings).

▶ Resume By PCI-E Device [Disabled]

Enables or disables the wake up function of installed PCI-E expansion cards, integrated LAN controllers or USB devices which are supported by third party integrated chips.

[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from the power saving modes when activity or input signal of PCIe device is detected.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Resume by USB Device [Disabled]

Disables or enables system wake up from S3/S4 by USB device.

[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from sleep state when activity of USB device is detected.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by PS/2 mouse.

[Enabled] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when activity of PS/2 mouse is detected.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

Enables or disables the system wake up by PS/2 keyboard.

[Any Key] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when activity of any key on PS/2 keyboard is detected.

[Hot Key] Enables the system to be awakened from S3/ S4/ S5 state when activity of hot key on PS/2 keyboard is detected.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

▶ Hot Key [Ctrl+Space]

Selects a combination of keys as a hot key to wake the system. This item appears when you set the Resume From S3/S4/S5 by PS/2 Keyboard to Hot Key.

▶ Secure Erase+

Enables or disables Secure Erase+ function. Secure Erase+ is the best way to effectively wipe all data from a SSD. Please note that data of SSD will be erased after enabling Secure Erase+.

▶ Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller

Shows driver information and configuration of the ethernet controller parameter.

Boot

Sets the sequence of system boot devices.

▶ Full Screen Logo Display [Enabled]

Enables or disables to show the full screen logo while system POST.

[Enabled] Shows the logo in full screen.

[Disabled] Shows the POST messages.

▶ Bootup NumLock State [On]

Select the keyboard NumLock state upon bootup.

▶ Info Block effect [Unlock]

Sets the state of Help information block.

[Unlock] Sliding effect.

[Lock] Fix the Help information block on the screen.

▶ POST Beep [Disabled]

Enables or disables POST beep.

▶ AUTO CLR_CMOS [Disabled]

Enables or disables the CMOS data to be resumed automatically when the system cannot boot to OS and reboot repeatedly.

▶ Boot Mode Select [LEGACY+UEFI]

Sets the system boot mode from legacy or UEFI architecture depending on OS installation requirement. This item will become un-selectable and will be configured automatically by BIOS when Windows 10 WHQL Support is enabled.

[UEFI] Enables UEFI BIOS boot mode support only.

[LEGACY+UEFI] Enables both Legacy BIOS boot mode and UEFI BIOS boot mode.

▶ FIXED BOOT ORDER Priorities/ UEFI USB Key Drive BBS Priorities/ USB Key Drive BBS Priorities

Sets device priority for system boot.

▶ Boot Option Priorities

These items are used to prioritize the installed boot devices.

Security

▶ Administrator Password

Sets administrator password for system security. User has full rights to change the BIOS items with administrator password. After setting the administrator password, the state of this item will show Installed.

▶ User Password

Sets User Password for system security. User has limited rights to change the BIOS items with user password. This item will be available when administrator password is set. After setting the user password, the state of this item will show Installed.

▶ Password Check [Setup]

Selects a condition that will request the password.

[Setup] A password will be requested for entering the BIOS Setup.

[Boot] A password will be requested for booting the system.

▶ Password Clear [Enabled]

Enables or disables the clear CMOS behavior to clear a set password.

[Enabled] The password will be erased after clear CMOS.

[Disabled] The password will always be kept.

Important

When selecting the Administrator / User Password items, a password box will appear on the screen. Type the password then press Enter. The password typed now will replace any previous set password from CMOS memory. You will be prompted to confirm the password. You may also press Esc key to abort the selection.

To clear a set password, press Enter when you are prompted to enter a new password. A message will confirm the password is being disabled. Once the password is disabled, you can enter the setup and OS without authorization.

▶ Trusted Computing

Sets TPM (Trusted Platform Module) function.

▶ Security Device Support [Disabled]

Enables or disables the TPM function to build the endorsement key for accessing the system.

▶AMD fTPM switch [AMD CPU fTPM]

Selects TPM device. This item will appear when Security Device Support is enabled.

[AMD CPU fTPM] Select it for AMD Firmware TPM.

[AMD CPU fTPM Disabled] Select it for Discrete TPM.

▶ Device Select [Auto]

Sets the version of the TPM device. The version must be identical with the device. Sets to Auto, system will detect the TPM 2.0 or TPM 1.2 model automatically.

▶ Chassis Intrusion Configuration

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Chassis Intrusion [Disabled]

Enables or disables recording messages while the chassis is opened. This function is ready for the chassis equips a chassis intrusion switch.

[Enabled] Once the chassis is opened, the system will record and issue a warning message.

[Reset] Clear the warning message. After clearing the message, please return to Enabled or Disabled.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Save & Exit

▶ Discard Changes and Exit

Exit BIOS setup without saving any change.

▶ Save Changes and Reboot

Save all changes and reboot the system.

▶ Save Changes

Save current changes.

▶ Discard Changes

Discard all changes and restore to the previous values.

▶ Restore Defaults

Restore or load all default values.

▶ Boot Override

The installed boot-able devices will appear on this menu, you can select one of them to be the boot device.

Important

Overclocking your PC manually is only recommended for advanced users.

Overclocking is not guaranteed, and if done improperly, it could void your warranty or severely damage your hardware.

If you are unfamiliar with overclocking, we advise you to use OC GENIE 4 function for easy overclocking.

The BIOS items in OC menu will vary with the processor.

▶ OC Explore Mode [Normal]

Enables or disables to show the normal or expert version of OC settings.

[Normal] Provides the regular OC settings in BIOS setup.

[Expert] Provides the advanced OC settings for OC expert to configure in BIOS setup.

Note: We use * as the symbol for the OC settings of Expert mode.

▶ CPU Ratio [Auto]

Sets the CPU ratio that is used to determine CPU clock speed. This item can only be changed if the processor supports this function.

▶ Core Performance Boost [Auto]

Enables or disables the Core Performance Boost (CPB). This item appears when the installed CPU supports this function.

▶ Downcore Control [Auto] (optional)

Sets the number of processor cores to be used. This item appears when the installed CPU supports this function.

▶ A-XMP [Disabled]

Please enable A-XMP or select a profile of memory module for overclocking the memory. This item will be available when the installed processor, memory modules and motherboard support this function.

▶ DRAM Frequency [Auto]

Sets the DRAM frequency. Please note the overclocking behavior is not guaranteed.

▶ Adjusted DRAM Frequency

Shows the adjusted DRAM frequency. Read-only.

▶ Memory Try It ! [Disabled]

It can improve memory compatibility or performance by choosing optimized memory preset.

▶ Memory Retry Count [5]

Sets the count of memory retry. When memory retry fails reach the count, the memory will go back to the last available setting.

▶ Advanced DRAM Configuration

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. User can set the memory timing for each/all memory channel. The system may become unstable or unbootable after changing memory timing. If it occurs, please clear the CMOS data and restore the default settings. (Refer to the Clear CMOS jumper section to clear the CMOS data, and enter the BIOS to load the default settings.)

▶ DigitALL Power

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. Controls the digital powers related to CPU PWM.

▶ CPU Loadline Calibration Control [Auto]

The CPU voltage will decrease proportionally according to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance, but increase the temperature of the CPU and VRM. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically.

▶ CPU NB Loadline Calibration Control [Auto]

The CPU-NB voltage will decrease proportionally according to CPU-NB loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance, but increase the temperature. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically.

▶ CPU Over Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU over-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and may damage the system.

▶ CPU Under Voltage Protection [Auto]

Sets the voltage limit for CPU under-voltage protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically. Higher voltage provides less protection and may damage the system.

▶ CPU Over Current Protection [Auto]

Sets the current limit for CPU over-current protection. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically.

[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Enhanced] Extends the current range for over-current protection.

▶ VR 12VIN OCP Expander [Auto]

Expands the limitation of VR Over Current Protection with 12V input voltage. The higher expanding value indicates less protection. Therefore, please adjust the current carefully if needed, or it may damage the CPU/VR MOS. If set to "Auto", BIOS will configure this setting automatically.

▶ CPU Voltages control [Auto]

These options allow you to set the voltages related to the CPU. If set to Auto, the BIOS will set these voltages automatically, or you can set them manually.

▶ DRAM Voltages control [Auto]

These options allow you to set the voltages related to memory. If set to Auto, the BIOS will set these voltages automatically, or you can set them manually.

▶ Memory Changed Detect [Enabled]*

Enables or disables the system to issue a warning message during boot when the memory has been replaced.

[Enabled] The system will issue a warning message during boot, and then you have to load the default settings for new devices.

[Disabled] Disables this function and keeps the current BIOS settings.

▶ CPU Specifications

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu displays the information of the installed CPU. You can also access this information menu at any time by pressing [F4]. Read only.

▶ CPU Technology Support

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu shows the key features of the installed CPU. Read only.

▶ MEMORY-Z

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. This sub-menu displays all the settings and timings of the installed memory. You can also access this information menu at any time by pressing [F5].

▶ DIMMx Memory SPD

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu. The sub-menu displays the information of installed memory. Read only.

▶ CPU Features

Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Global C-state Control [Enabled] (optional)

Enables/disables IO based C-state generation and DF C-states.

▶ Simultaneous Multi-Threading [Enabled] (optional)

Enables/disables the AMD Simultaneous Multi-Threading. This item appears when the installed CPU supports this technology.

▶ Opcache Control [Auto] (optional)

Enables/disables Opcache. Opcache stores recent decode instructions to save decoding time when the instruction is repeated. It may increase CPU performance and reduce power consumption slightly.

▶ IOMMU Mode (optional)

Enables/disables the IOMMU (I/O Memory Management Unit) for I/O Virtualization.

▶ Spread Spectrum (optional)

This function reduces the EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) generated by modulating clock generator pulses.

[Enabled] Enables the spread spectrum function to reduce the EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) problem.

[Disabled] Enhances the overclocking ability of CPU Base clock.

Important

If you do not have any EMI problem, leave the setting at [Disabled] for optimal system stability and performance. But if you are plagued by EMI, select the value of Spread Spectrum for EMI reduction.

The greater the Spread Spectrum value is, the greater the EMI is reduced, and the system will become less stable. For the most suitable Spread Spectrum value, please consult your local EMI regulation.

Remember to disable Spread Spectrum if you are overclocking because even a slight jitter can introduce a temporary boost in clock speed which may just cause your overclocked processor to lock up.

▶Relaxed EDC throttling [Auto] (optional)

Relaxed EDC throttling reduces the amount of time the processor will throttle the cores.

[Auto] AMD's recommendation

[Enabled] Reduce the amount of time the processor will throttle.

[Disabled] Part-specific EDC throttling protection enabled.

▶ SVM Mode [Enabled]

Enables/ disables the AMD SVM (Secure Virtual Machine) Mode.

▶ BIOS PSP Support [Enabled] (optional)

Enables/disables the BIOS PSP support. It manages PSP sub-items including all C2P/P2C mailbox, Secure S3, fTPM support.

▶ Power Supply Idle Control [Auto] (optional)

It allows you to select the power-saving control mode for the CPU when all cores are in a non-CO state. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure these settings.

CPU VDD_SoC Current Optimization [Auto] (optional)

Sets the currents of CPU VDD and SoC. If set to Auto, BIOS will configure this setting automatically.

[Auto] This setting will be configured automatically by BIOS.

[Custom Setting] Allows you to set the currents manually.

M-FLASH

M-FLASH provides the way to update BIOS with a USB flash drive. Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from MSI website, save the BIOS file into your USB flash drive. And then follow the steps below to update BIOS.

1. Insert the USB flash drive that contains the update file into the computer.
2. Click on M-FLASH tab, a demand message will be prompted. Click on Yes to reboot and enter the flash mode.

1. The system will enter the flash mode and a file selection menu will appear after rebooting.

1. Select a BIOS file to perform the BIOS update process.
2. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will reboot automatically.

OC PROFILE

▶ Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6

Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6 management. Press Enter to enter the sub-menu.

▶ Set Name for Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6

Name the current overclocking profile.

▶ Save Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6

Save the current overclocking profile.

▶ Load Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6

Load the current overclocking profile.

▶ Clear Overclocking Profile 1/2/3/4/5/6

Clear the current overclocking profile.

▶ OC Profile Load from ROM

Load OC profile from BIOS ROM.

▶ OC Profile Save to USB

Save OC profile to the USB flash drive. The USB flash drive should be FAT/ FAT32 format only.

▶ OC Profile Load from USB

Load OC profile from the USB flash drive. The USB flash drive should be FAT/ FAT32 format only.

HARDWARE MONITOR

▶ Temperature & Speed

Shows the current CPU temperature, system temperature and fans' speeds.

▶ Fan Manage

• PWM - allows you to select the PWM mode for fan operation.
• DC - allows you to select the DC mode for fan operation.
• Fan step up/ down time - allows you to set the period of fan step up/ down.
• Smart Fan Mode field - allows you to drag the gradient points to configure the fan target values for Smart Fan mode. Smart Fan can control the fan speed automatically depending on the CPU temperature to keep it within a specific range. If the current CPU temperature reaches the target value, the Smart Fan function will be activated.

Important

The changes will take effect after you save the changes and reboot the system.

Make sure fans are working properly after switching the PWM/DC mode.

▶ Settings Buttons

- All Full Speed - configures all fans to run at full operating speed.

- All Set Default - configures all fans to run at default operating speed.

- All Set Cancel - discards current changes and restores previous operating fan speeds.

▶ Temperature/ Voltage display

Shows CPU/system temperature and the current voltages of CPU, system, and memory.

Software Description

Please download and update the latest utilities and drivers at www.msi.com

Installing Windows 10

1. Power on the computer.
2. Insert the Windows 10 disc into your optical drive.
3. Press the Restart button on the computer case.
4. Press F11 key during the computer POST (Power-On Self Test) to get into Boot Menu.
5. Select your optical drive from the Boot Menu.
6. Press any key when screen shows Press any key to boot from CD or DVD... message.
7. Follow the instructions on the screen to install Windows 10.

Installing Drivers

1. Start up your computer in Windows 10.
2. Insert MSI Driver Disc into your optical drive.
3. The installer will automatically appear and it will find and list all necessary drivers.
4. Click Install button.
5. The software installation will then be in progress, after it has finished it will prompt you to restart.
6. Click OK button to finish.
7. Restart your computer.

Installing Utilities

Before you install utilities, you must complete drivers installation.

1. Insert MSI ^® Driver Disc into your optical drive.
2. The installer will automatically appear.
3. Click Utilities tab.
4. Select the utilities you want to install.
5. Click Install button.
6. The utilities installation will then be in progress, after it has finished it will prompt you to restart.
7. Click OK button to finish.
8. Restart your computer.

APP MANAGER

APP MANAGER is a handy management application for integration of MSI applications and software interface. Providing easy shortcut entrance and real-time update information of all the MSI software and applications.

- APP list - shows all the applications and software supported by this motherboard. An icon represents an entrance to the application.

• Colorful icon - a colorful icon means that the application has been installed successfully and is available. Double click on the desired icon to access the application. A refresh icon shows to inform you that the application has an updated version.
• Gray icon - the icon with gray painting means that the application is not available and you have to install it if necessary. Double click on the gray icon and the update information will show. Click on the INSTALL button to install the application.
• Motherboard Information - shows the model name of the motherboard.
• Total Install/Update - click on this tab to update/install all the applications.

Important

Please note that, once you uninstall the APP MANAGER, all the MSI applications and software will be uninstalled simultaneously.

LIVE UPDATE 6

LIVE UPDATE 6 is an application for the MSI® system to scan and download the latest drivers, BIOS and utilities. With LIVE UPDATE 6, you don’t need to search the drivers on websites, and don’t need to know the models of motherboard and graphics cards. LIVE UPDATE 6 will download the appropriate drivers automatically.

There are Live Update, History, Setting and System Information tabs at the top. You can click the tab to switch the control panel.

• Live Update - When you launch LIVE UPDATE 6, you will see the Live Update tab at first. This tab allows you to select files to download. You can also read the relevant information by clicking the information icon on the right of the item listed. • History - shows the downloading history.
• Setting - allows you to specify the frequency that LIVE UPDATE 6 reminds you to update.
• System Information - displays the information of the system. • FAQ - shows Frequently Asked Questions. • Online Help - shows Online Help information.

Updating The System

This section describes how to update your system with LIVE UPDATE 6. Please follow the steps below:

1. Select the Live Update tab.
2. Choose Automatic scan, and the system will automatically scan all items and search for the latest update files. Alternatively, you can choose Manual scan and select the items you wish to scan.
3. Click the Scan button at the bottom. It may take a few moments to complete the process.
4. When the download list appears, select the items you intend to update.
5. Click the Download button at the bottom.
6. When the Save Path prompt appears, you can specify a download directory.

1. While downloading, you will see the screen below. It may take a few moments to complete the process.

1. To install the applications, simply unpack the packages and install them.

Total Installer

Total Installer is a convenient feature that simplifies the frequent installation procedure. To use Total Installer:

1. Scan for updates in the Live Update tab.
2. Check the Select All check-box for the items you intend to update.
3. Click the Total Installer button. LIVE UPDATE 6 will automatically install them.
4. When prompted, click OK to complete the Total Installer procedure.
5. Reboot your system.

COMMAND CENTER

COMMAND CENTER is a user-friendly software exclusively developed by MSI, helping users to adjust system settings and monitor status under OS. With the help of COMMAND CENTER, it is possible to achieve easier and more efficient monitoring and adjustments than under BIOS. In addition, the COMMAND CENTER can serve as a server for mobile remote control applications.

Profile Buttons

- Default - load the default values for the current feature.

• Apply - apply your changes.

- Save - store values in a file with a specific file extension.

- Load - load the values from the file.

Important

Every time you shut down the system, the configured settings will be restored to the factory defaults. If you want to use the saved settings, you have to load them every time by clicking the Load and Apply buttons.

CPU Frequency

The CPU Frequency control panel allows you to change the CPU Ratio and Base clock. You can see the current frequency of each CPU core at the top of the panel.

CPU Fan

The CPU Fan control panel provides Smart Mode and Manual Mode. You can switch the control mode by clicking the Smart Mode and Manual Mode buttons at the top of the CPU Fan control panel.

• Manual Mode - allows you to manually control the CPU fan speed by percentage.
• Smart Mode - a linear fan speed control feature. The control panel contains 4 dots that you can drag to adjust the Smart Speed slopes. The fan speed will change along these lines with CPU temperature. The white dot will create a strip chart in real time.
• System Fan Button - to open the system fan control panel in a new window.
• Fan Tune Button - to automatically optimize the smart fan setting.

CPU Voltage

CPU Voltage control panel allows you to control the CPU voltage.

Manual Mode

Smart Mode

DRAM Frequency & DRAM Voltage

• DRAM Frequency - Shows the DRAM clock, ratio, and frequency.
• DRAM Voltage - Allows you to adjust the DRAM voltage. The risky values are displayed in red.

IGP Frequency & GT Voltage

• IGP Frequency - Allows you to adjust the IGP ratio, and shows the IGP clock, ratio, and frequency.
• GT Voltage - Allows you to adjust the GT voltage. The risky values are displayed in red.

OC GENIE 4

OC GENIE 4 provides a specified CPU frequency for overclocking the CPU.

- Voltage - allows you to adjust advanced voltage values of CPU and chipset.

Fan - allows you to control the system fans speed.

DRAM - shows the current Advanced DRAM parameters, and allows you to change the settings by selecting values from the drop-down menu on the right hand side.

Sensor - allows you to monitor your motherboard temperature and fan speed with the virtual thermal image. You can drag and drop the fan icons to new locations. When you press the Cooling button, all fans will run at full speed.

Option Buttons - Setting

Mobile Control icons will

- Record - allows you to monitor the status of voltage, fan speed and temperature in real time.

- To filter record charts, select the check box next to the items.

- When click the Play button, the chart pane will start to show the recording chart. If you want to check the value of a specific spot on chart, please move the orange vertical line to the spot.

■ History Record stores the data and names with date and time.

- To make a history record: Select items and click the Record button. When finished, click the Record button again. The data will be stored in the drop-down menu.

- To load a record, click the drop-down menu and select one from the list.

- To delete a record, select the record that you want to delete, and click the Trash Can icon.

- Warning - contains fields of threshold values. When syst message will pop-up.

erature for you to set the r settings, a warning

- Mobile Control - is only available for the motherboard with the built-in WiFi module. It allows you to enable/disable the COMMAND CENTER Remote Server. Please refer to the instruction on the Mobile Control control panel.

• To start remote control: (optional)

1. Download and install MSI® COMMAND CENTER APP to your mobile device.
2. Enable COMMAND CENTER Remote Server on the Mobile Control panel.
3. Enable SoftAP Management.
4. Enter SSID and Password, and then click the Apply button.
5. Activate Wi-Fi® on your mobile device and connect to SoftAP with the SSID.
6. Run MSI® COMMAND CENTER APP on your mobile device.
7. Find the IP address on the SoftAP Management Setting area, and enter the IP address on your MSI® COMMAND CENTER APP to link your system.
8. Press Refresh on the MSI® COMMAND CENTER APP to verify that monitoring and OC functions are working properly.

Option Buttons - Information

You can click the icons to open the related information.

Gadget Mode

COMMAND CENTER provides a gadget mode to monitor the system status. You can switch between gadget mode and full mode by clicking the arrow icon on the top left.

• To arrange gadgets:

1. Click the Spanner icon 📋 on the Gadget mode, a configuration panel will slide out.
2. Select the check box next to the items.
3. Click the Close button.

X-BOOST

The MSI X-BOOST allows you to select the system performance mode to meet your current system environment or support faster storage access speed for your external storage or memory cards.

Easy

In Easy page, you can select one system performance mode to meet the current system environment.

- Performance mode - moves over the mouse to any one of performance mode and click on the ON button to enable it.

Important

The Customize mode is the default of system performance.

• Performance information - displays the system performance diagram of enabled mode.
• Setting - enables or disables Run X-BOOST when windows starts.

Advance

In Advance page, you can enable the USB SPEED UP, the STORAGE BOOST and VR BOOST.

• Device information - displays the information and current transfer rates/ access speeds of USB/ storage devices.
• Setting - enables or disables Run X-BOOST when Windows starts.
• USB SPEED UP - supports faster data transfer rates of the USB storage devices.
• STORAGE BOOST - supports faster access speed of storage device.

Important

Please note that you can only select one mode at a time from Easy or Advance page as MSI X-BOOST function.

The improved transfer rate/ access speed will vary with the USB/ storage device.

MYSTIC LIGHT

MYSTIC LIGHT is an application that allows you to control LED lights of MSI products. For some earlier products, you can go to the product download page to download the applicable LED control software.

Main Screen

The Main screen is used to configure what devices need to be synchronized and LED light effect options.

- ON/OFF ALL LED - By toggling Off/On here, you disable/enable all the LED on supported gaming gear, memory, graphics card and motherboard etc.

- SYNC PROFILE - In this section, you may apply different LED settings to your device.

- All Sync - Default: All the Sync device bubble would appear red.

To change the LED color & effect, use the panel on the right hand side to switch to different settings.

Please note that for light effect, the option would be more or less depending on the devices you have, it will only list the light effects which are available for all included devices.

For the color section, you can always select a different color, but it won't apply to the device that does not have such color.

You can also change settings for a single device. To do that, you have to click the sync bubble twice and make it turn gray as shown below.

Then go to DEVICE SETTING and click SETTING.

After that, the computer will open a different window and you can modify the LED there individually.

Note: The motherboard picture and name may vary according to different models. You can save the current settings by clicking Save.

- Individual - Default: All the Sync device bubbles would appear black.

To change the color for an individual device, use the device setting panel below to lock on any device and click SETTING to customize the LED color/effect on it.

If you wish to customize multiple devices at the same time, click the bubble until it turns red as shown below.

Use the LIGHT EFFECT & COLOR section on the main menu to make changes.

Note:

Currently only GTX 1080 Ti Lightning -/X/Z and GTX 1080 Ti Gaming -/X Trio support Light Speed/Brightness, and no device supports Direction.

■ Profile01~03 - Save Sync profile settings.

- Save Button - saves sync device settings and lighting effect settings to the current Sync Profile.

Motherboard Screen

The motherboard screen is used to configure the LED light effect of the motherboard.

Note: The motherboard picture and name may vary according to different models.

• Return Button - returns to the main screen.
• ON/OFF ALL LED - allows you to turn ON/OFF all LED lights of the motherboard.
• SYNC ALL - allows you to synchronize all LED light effects of the motherboard.
• Motherboard Name - shows the name of the motherboard.

- Live Preview - gives you the full experience of your configuration's look and feel while you are editing it.

- Light Effect Options - allow you to customize lighting effects of the sync devices.

• LIGHT EFFECT - allows you to change LED light effect.
• LIGHT SPEED - allows you to change LED light speed. ■ BRIGHTNESS - allows you to change LED light brightness.

Note:

Currently only Z370 GODLIKE GAMING, H370 GAMING PRO CARBON and B360 GAMING PRO CARBON support Light Speed/Brightness.

- COLOR - allows you to select the color for single light effects (Stack, Breathing, Flashing etc.).

- Apply Button - applies lighting effect settings.

- PROFILE - manages sets of motherboard LED light effect settings.

- Save Button - saves sync device settings and lighting effect settings to the current profile.

- LED AREA - switches to the other LED area on the motherboard.

MYSTIC LIGHT PARTY

This section allows you to control LED across different platforms. The prerequisite is that the platforms should all be connected within the same local network. Refer to the device support list web page: https://www.msi.com/Landing/Mystic-Light-Party.

Upon clicking PARTY, this window will pop out. On your master platform, click + to create a host group.

Enter the group name (3~15 characters) and group array (13~30 columns, 5~30 rows) and click the CREATE button.

The group has been created. The other computers in the same local network are able to join the group with MYSTIC LIGHT software.

• DELETE Group Button - deletes the group.
• Control Group Button - enters the group control panel.
• Invitation Status Indicator - appears when receiving an invitation to a group.
• Group In/Out Status - shows Group In/Out status.

Joining Group

On your slave platform, click PARTY to open the MYSTIC LIGHT PARTY interface and click In to join the network.

Group Control Panel

If everything is set up properly, you can see your slave platform on the master platform's MYSTIC LIGHT PARTY window.

At the panel below, you may apply different LED settings and colors to the selected platform.

Please be aware of certain limitations on the devices, such as if you apply green color to a red-only device, the LED will stay off since it has no such color, or if you apply rainbow to a no-rainbow mode device, the LED will stay on constantly.

- Group Member Icons - displays members status, and you can select a member to delete it in the DELETE pop-up window.

- Invite Button - enters the INVITE screen.

- Light Effect Options - allow you to customize lighting effect.

Off

Flash

Marquee

Always on

Double flash

Rainbow Sound b

Breathe

Random

• Color Selection - allows you to change color.

Inviting Member

Click the Invite button in the Group Control Panel to enter the INVITE screen. Select the device you want to invite and click the INVITE button.

SMART TOOL

SMART TOOL is a convenient tool that can help you create your Windows installation USB flash drive, and it can also create a super RAID.

Main menu

After installing and activating SMART TOOL, it will display a main menu for you to choose Smart Tool or SUPER RAID. Note that SUPER RAID is only available when your system is equipped with at least 3 hard-disk drives (1 system disk and 2 data disks).

SMART TOOL

Before you can create your Windows installation USB flash drive, you'll need to have your Windows Installation DVD or ISO file, and also have a minimum of an 8GB USB flash drive to create your installer. Be sure to backup files on the USB drive, as this process will erase it.

To create the Windows installation USB drive:

Step 1. Choose source folder

• In the Source folder box, click the Browse button and select the file from the dialog box. (This option will copy all Windows installation files.)
• The 'Add USB drivers to USB pen drive' option allows you to add USB drivers to the USB pen drive. This option appears depending on the motherboard you purchased.

Step 2. Choose Storage device

• Choose USB storage and select your USB flash drive in the drop-down list. If the USB flash drive is not listed, click the Refresh Drive button.
• If you want to install Windows on the RAID drive, select the RAID driver version from the drop-down menu.
• If you want to add NVMe driver for your NVMe SSD drive, check the 'Add NVMe driver' checkbox.

You can also create an installer ISO image file by selecting the ISO destination in Step 2, and then burn it onto a DVD. However, this method does not support RAID drivers.

Step 3. Click the Start button.

SUPER RAID

This utility allows you to create a super RAID in Windows system.

To create a super RAID:

1. Use checkboxes to select the disks you want included in your RAID.
2. Choose Speed Up or Backup for RAID type.
3. Speed Up = RAID0
4. Backup = RAID1
5. Click Start.
6. When prompt Finish!, click OK.

Important

SUPER RAID cannot include the system disk.

RAMDISK

RAMDISK creates a virtual RAM drive using the available memory in your computer. The performance of the RAMDISK is faster than an SSD and hard drive. RAMDISK allows you to store any temporary information on it. Furthermore, using the RAMDISK will extend your SSD's life by sparing it from excessive reading and writing.

Creating a RAM Disk

When RAMDISK is started, it will create a default RAM disk. If you want to change settings, refer to the following instructions.

• Setting - specify Letter, Name, Size, and Format of the RAM disk.
• Option - select browser temporary files to save/load on the RAM disk. You can also add software files to improve reading speed.
• Backup - specify backup and restore settings to prevent data loss. All files will be lost each time the RAMDISK is stopped if you do not backup.
• Browse Button - set the path to the image file.
• Backup Right Now Button - manually backup files.
• Restore On Boot - check this box to have the image file loaded automatically when RAMDISK starts.
• Auto Backup - check this box to backup automatically over a period of time.

- Apply Button - allows you to apply changes.

- Management - shows RAMDISK information and allows you to delete files.

RAID Configuration

Below are the different types of RAID.

RAID 0 breaks data into blocks which are written to separate hard drives. Spreading the hard drive I/O load across independent channels greatly improves I/O performance.

RAID 1 provides data redundancy by mirroring data between the hard drives and provides enhanced read performance.

RAID 10 uses four hard drives to create a combination of RAID 0 and 1 by forming a RAID 0 array from two RAID 1 arrays.

RAID level comparison

	RAID 0 RAID 1 RAID 10
Minimum # drives 2 2 4
Data protection None Excellent Excellent
Read performance Excellent OK OK
Write performance Excellent Good Good
Capacity utilization 100%	50%	50%

Important

All the information/volumes/pictures listed in your system might differ from the illustrations in this appendix.

Using AMD RAID Controller BIOS Configuration Utility

Enter BIOS and change the SATA Mode setting to RAID Mode, press F10 to save the change, and then reboot. When booting the system, press Ctrl+R when the BIOS banner displays. After entering AMD RAID Controller BIOS Configuration Utility, the following screen is displayed.

Using the utility to accomplish the procedures

• Initialize Disk(s) - To initialize a new disk drive for data storage.
• Create Array - Create arrays at different RAID levels (depending on the license level for the system)
• Delete Array(s) - Delete an array.
• Swap Two Arrays - Change the array order, especially for the AMD-RAID bootable array.
• Manage Hot Spare(s) - Allows selection of global and dedicated hot spares.
• View Disk Details - View information about each disk.
• View Array Details - View information about each array.
• Rescan All Channels - Rescan all channels to detect new or removed disks and arrays.
• Controller Options - Change INT13 boot support, turn off Critical arrays or warning for Offline arrays while booting, or change the number of disks that can be spun-up when the system is powered-on.
• Continue to Boot - Exit the BIOS Configuration Utility and continue booting the system.

Understanding the Colour Code

Colour codes indicate the type or status of information at the BIOS Configuration Utility.

• White text - Indicates an available option or informational text.
• Black text, yellow highlighting - Indicates an option or device for which action might be taken.
• Yellow text - Indicates information about the yellow-highlighted option.
• Green text - Indicates an item that has been selected. • Light blue text - Indicates that the item cannot be selected.
• Magenta text - Indicates items that are related to spares or boot options.
• Red text - Indicates a failed virtual or physical disk or a warning. For example, informational text might be red if an option is not available.

Initialize Disks

New disks and legacy disks must be initialized before they can be used to create an AMD-RAID array. Initialization writes AMD-RAID configuration information (metadata) to a disk.

Important

If a disk is part of an AMD-RAID array, the disk cannot be selected for initialization. To initialize the disk anyway, delete the AMD-RAID array. Data on the disk is deleted during initialization so ensure the correct disks are chosen to initialize.

A legacy disk can contain valid data. When a legacy disk is initialized, all data on the disk is lost.

To initialize disks

1. At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Initialize Disk(s).

1. Press Enter to select Initialize Disk(s).
2. Select the disks to initialize by pressing Insert key.
3. Press Enter to initialize the selected disks.
4. Press the C key to confirm the initialization.

Create Arrays

Arrays can be created after the disks are initialized.

Important

For redundant arrays, the Create process is not finished until after the operating system and AMD-RAID OS drivers have been installed and the system has booted to the operating system. However, the arrays are immediately available to use for either a bootable array or a data array.

The system is booted from an AMD-RAID bootable array, the first array in the Arrays section must be the bootable array. The system boots only from the first array in the Arrays section. As necessary, use the Swap Two Arrays feature to swap arrays and place the bootable array in the first position.

To create an array

1. At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Create Array and press Enter.
2. Select the disks with which to create the array by pressing Insert key.

1. Press Enter to include the selected disks in the array.
2. In the User Input section, use the arrow keys to select an array type. Only array types that can be created with the selected disks are available.
3. Press Enter.
4. Select an array size.
5. Press Enter when either the desired size or the maximum available size is reached.
6. Select a caching level using the arrow keys and press Enter.
7. Press C to confirm the array settings.

Delete Arrays

Deleting an array permanently destroys all data that is on the array. This action cannot be undone and it is very unlikely the data can be recovered.

To delete an array

1. At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Delete Array and press Enter.

1. Select the arrays to delete by pressing the Insert key.
2. Press Enter to delete the selected arrays.
3. Press C to confirm the deletion.

Swap Arrays

Use the Swap Two Arrays option to arrange arrays in a different order.

Important

If more than one array is created, install the operating system to any of them.

However, a small amount of boot information is always written to a disk(s) in the first array (Array 1) of the Array section, regardless of which array the operating system is installed on.

If anything happens to a disk in Array 1, the system might not be able to boot. It is recommended that the user install the operating system on an AMD-RAID bootable array at a redundant RAID level such as RAID1 or RAID5 and swap the array into the first position, if it is not already Array 1.

To swap arrays

1. At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Swap Two Array and press Enter.

1. Select the arrays to swap by pressing the Insert key.
2. Press Enter to swap the arrays.

Manage Spares

This option allows the user to assign or unassign global or dedicated spares.

At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Manage Host Spare(s) and press Enter to enter the submenu.

To assign global spares:

1. At the Manage Host Spare(s) submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Assign Global Hot Spare(s) and press Enter.
2. Select the disks to assign as global spares by pressing the Insert key.
3. Press Enter to assign the selected disks as global spares.

To assign dedicated spares:

1. At the Manage Host Spare(s) submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Assign Dedicated Hot Spare(s) and press Enter.
2. Select the disks to assign as dedicated spares by pressing the Insert key.
3. Press Enter to assign dedicated spares.
4. Press C to continue.

To unassign spares:

1. At the Manage Host Spare(s) submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Unassign Hot Spare(s) and press Enter.
2. Select the disks to unassign as spares by pressing the Insert key.
3. Press Enter to unassign the selected disks.
4. Press C to continue.

Change the Controller Options

Controller Options allows the user to configure options for the boot sequence.

At the Main Menu, use the arrow keys to highlight Controller Options and press Enter to enter the submenu.

Booting the system from an array

This option allows the user to enable boot support.

It is recommended that this option be disabled only if the system is booted from another device.

1. At the Controller Options submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Toggle INT13 Boot Support.
2. Press Enter to toggle between On and Off.

Pausing the boot sequence for warning messages

When the Pause feature is enabled and an array goes critical, offline, or there is another problem with the system, the boot process stops and an error message is displayed on the screen. The user must press Enter to continue booting.

If the Pause feature is disabled, error messages are displayed briefly, but the system continues to boot.

1. At the Controller Options submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Toggle Pause if Critical and press Enter.
2. Set pauses to the boot sequence for critical/offline warnings. Use the arrow keys to highlight Toggle Pause if Critical/ Toggle Pause if Offline.
3. Press Enter to toggle between On and Off.

Change the Staggered Spinup Count

Depending on a system's power supply load-rating, you might want to limit the number of disks that are spun-up together when a system is powered on.

1. At the Controller Options submenu, use the arrow keys to highlight Set Staggered Spinup Count and press Enter. The number within the brackets changes colour to indicate it is selected.
2. Use the arrow keys to change the number within the brackets. The minimum is 1 and the maximum is 8.
3. Press Enter to save the setting.

Using UEFI to create a 2.2TB RAID

If you plan to create a RAID volume greater than 2.2TB, you can only manually create the RAID array in UEFI mode. The steps are described below.

WARNING

Create raid array will erase all the data stored on hard drives! Make sure to back up your files! There is no way to reverse the process!

1. Power on and press Delete key to enter BIOS Setup menu.
2. Press F7 to switch to Advanced mode from EZ mode.
3. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Advanced > Integrated Peripherals > SATA Mode and change setting to RAID Mode.
4. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Advanced > Windows OS Configuration > Windows 10 WHQL Support and change setting to Enabled.
5. Press F10 to save configuration and exit, and then reboot and press Delete key to enter BIOS Setup menu.
6. Go to BIOS > SETTINGS > Advanced > RAIDXpert2 Configuration Utility > Array Management > Create Array sub-menu.

1. Select RAID Level for disk arrays.
2. Enter the Select Physical Disks sub-menu, select member disks by changing the Physical Disk setting to Enabled.

1. Select Apply Changes to apply and go back to the previous sub-menu.
2. Select Create Array to create the RAID volume.

Installing RAID Driver

New Operating System Installation

The following details the installation of the drivers while installing the operating system.

1. During the operating system installation, after selecting the location to install Windows, click the Load driver button to install a third-party RAID driver.
2. When prompted, insert the USB flash drive with AMD RAID Drivers and then click Browse.
3. To make an AMD RAID Drivers USB flash drive: Insert the MSI Driver Disc into the optical drive. Copy all the contents in \Chipset\Packages\Drivers\SBDrv\RAID_AM4
4. Navigate to the directory containing the saved AMD RAID drivers, then click OK.
5. Select the (rcbottom.inf) driver, click Next.
6. When prompted, click OK.
7. Click Browse and navigate to the directory containing the saved AMD RAID drivers again, then click OK.
8. Select the (rcraid.inf) driver, click Next.
9. You have successfully installed the RAID driver, and Windows setup should continue.
10. Leave the disk/USB drive in the computer until the system reboots itself. Windows setup will need to copy the files after the RAID volume is formatted, and Windows setup starts copying files.

Existing Windows Driver Installation

1. Insert the MSI Driver Disc into the optical drive.
2. The Disc will auto-run and the setup screen will appear.
3. Under the Driver tab, click on AMD chipset drivers by your need. The AMD chipset drivers includes RAID Driver.
4. The drivers will be automatically installed.

Confirming Windows Driver Installation

1. From Windows, open the Control Panel from My Computer followed by the System icon.
2. Choose the Hardware tab, then click the Device Manager tab.
3. Click the + in front of the RAID Controllers hardware type. The driver AMD RAID Controller should appear.

Troubleshooting

Before sending the motherboard for RMA repair, try to go over troubleshooting guide first to see if your got similar symptoms as mentioned below.

The power is not on.

• Connect the AC power cord to an electrical outlet securely.
• Check if all ATX power connectors like ATX_PWR1, CPU_PWR1 are connected from the power supply to the motherboard?
• Some power supply units have a power button on the rear side, make sure the button is turned on.
• Check if the power switch cable is connected to JFP1 pin header properly.
• Verify the Clear CMOS jumper JBAT1 is set to Keep DATA.
• Test with another known working power supply of equal or greater wattage.

The power is on, but no signal to monitor

• Connect the monitor power cord to an electrical outlet securely. • Make sure the monitor is turned on.
• Select different inputs on the monitor.
• If 3 long beeps are heard, remove all memory modules and try to install only one memory module in the DIMMA2 slot first and then restart the computer.
• If 1 long 2 short beeps are heard, remove and reinstall the graphics card and then restart the computer.
• Test with another known working graphics card.

The computer does not boot after updating the BIOS

• Clear the CMOS.
• Use the secondary BIOS to bootup the system (Only for motherboard with Dual BIOS)

Lost BIOS password

Clear the CMOS, but that will cause you to lose all customized settings in the BIOS.

There is no audio

• Adjust the volume.
• Connect the speakers/headphones to audio ports on the motherboard rear panel.
• Remove secondary speakers/headphones, HDMI cables, USB audio devices.
• Test with another known working speaker or headphone.

There is no network

• Make sure the network chipset driver has been installed.
• Verify if the network cable is properly connected and make sure the LAN port LEDs are properly illuminated.
• Verify your TCP/IP settings.
• Restart or reset your router.
• Test with another known working LAN cable.

The USB device is not working

• Make sure your USB drive driver has been installed.
• Verify if USB device is listed in Windows® Device Manager.
• Connect the USB device to other USB port on the motherboard rear panel.

Regulatory Notices

FCC Compliance Statement

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. - Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. - Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. - Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Tested to comply with FCC standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CE Conformity

Products bearing the CE marking comply with one or more of the following EU Directives as may be applicable:

RED 2014/53/EU; Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU; EMC Directive 2014/30/EU; RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. Compliance with these directives is assessed using applicable European Harmonized Standards. The point of contact for regulatory matters is MSI, MSI-NL Eindhoven 5706 5692 ER Son.

Class B equipment (home broadcasting communication equipment)

Batteries, battery packs, and accumulators should not be disposed of as unsorted household waste. Please use the public collection system to return, recycle, or treat them in compliance with the local regulations.

Taiwan:

Recycle waste batteries.

For better environmental protection, waste batteries should be collected separately for recycling or special disposal.

California, USA:

The button cell battery may contain perchlorate material and requires special handling when recycled or disposed of in California.

For further information please visit: http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate/

CAUTION: There is a risk of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.

Chemical Substances Information

In compliance with chemical substances regulations, such as the EU REACH Regulation (Regulation EC No. 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and the Council), MSI provides the information of chemical substances in products at: http://www.msi.com/html/popup/csr/evmtprtt_pcm.html

Environmental Policy

• The product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling and should not be thrown away at its end of life.
• Users should contact the local authorized point of collection for recycling and disposing of their e
• Visit the MSI website and locate a nearby distributor for further recycling information.
• Users may also reach us at [e-mail] for information regarding proper Disposal, Take-back, Recycling, and Disassembly of MSI products.

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement

ENGLISH

To protect the global environment and as an environmentalist, MSI must remind you that...

Under the European Union ("EU") Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Directive 2002/96/EC, which takes effect on August 13, 2005, products of "electrical and electronic equipment" cannot be discarded as municipal wastes anymore, and manufacturers of covered electronic equipment will be obligated to take back such products at the end of their useful life. MSI will comply with the product take back requirements at the end of life of MSI-branded products that are sold into the EU. You can return these products to local collection points.

DEUTSCH

This product complies with the "India E-waste (Management and Handling) Rule 2011" and prohibits use of lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls or polybrominated diphenyl ethers in concentrations exceeding 0.1 weight % and 0.01 weight % for cadmium, except for the exemptions set in Schedule 2 of the Rule.

Copyright © 2019 All rights reserved.

The MSI logo used is a registered trademark of Micro-Star Int'l Co., Ltd. All other marks and names mentioned may be trademarks of their respective owners. No warranty as to accuracy or completeness is expressed or implied. MSI reserves the right to make changes to this document without prior notice.

Technical Support

If a problem arises with your system and no solution can be obtained from the user guide, please contact your place of purchase or local distributor. Alternatively, please try the following help resources for further guidance.

- Visit the MSI website for technical guide, BIOS updates, driver updates, and other information: http://www.msi.com

- Register your product at: http://register.msi.com

Revision History

Version 4.0, 20190/05, First release.