MSI B550 GAMING GEN3 - Motherboard Manual

MSI B550 GAMING GEN3 - Motherboard Manual

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Table of Contents
Contents
MSI B550 GAMING GEN3 - Motherboard Manual

Quick Start

Thank you for purchasing a new motherboard from MSI®. 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

Case stand-off notification

To prevent damage to the motherboard, any unnecessary mounting stand-off between the motherboard circuits and the computer case is prohibited. The Case standoff keep out zone signs will be marked on the backside of motherboard (as shown below) to serve as a warning to user.

Avoid collision notification

Protective paint is printed around each screw hole to prevent parts from being scratched.
Avoid collision notification

Installing a Processor


https://youtu.be/Xv89nhFk1vc

Installing a Processor - Part 1


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 a Processor - Part 2

Installing DDR4 memory


http://youtu.be/T03aDrJPyQs

Installing DDR4 memory

Connecting the Front Panel Header


http://youtu.be/DPELIdVNZUI

Connecting the Front Panel Header

Installing the Motherboard


https://youtu.be/wWI6Qt51Wnc

Installing the Motherboard

Connecting the Power Connectors


http://youtu.be/gkDYyR_83I4

Connecting the Power Connectors

Installing SATA Drives


http://youtu.be/RZsMpqxythc

Installing SATA Drives

Installing a Graphics Card


http://youtu.be/mG0GZpr9w_A

Installing a Graphics Card

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Power On

Power On

Specifications

CPU
  • Supports AMD Ryzen™ 5000 Series, 5000 G-Series, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series processors
  • Supports Socket AM4
* Please go to www.msi.com to get the newest support status as new processors are released.
Chipset AMD® B550 Chipset
Memory
  • 4x DDR4 memory slots, supporting up to 128GB*
  • Supports DDR4 1866/ 2133/ 2400/ 2667/ 2800/ 2933/ 3000/ 3066/ 3200 MHz by JEDEC
  • Supports DDR4 2667/ 2800/ 2933/ 3000/ 3066/ 3200/ 3466/ 3600/ 3733/ 3866/ 4000/ 4133/ 4266/ 4400+ MHz by A-XMP OC MODE
    • 1DPC 1R max speed 4400 MHz
    • 1DPC 2R max speed 3733 MHz
    • 2DPC 1R max speed 3866 MHz
    • 2DPC 2R max speed 3466 MHz
  • Dual channel memory architecture
  • Supports non-ECC UDIMM memory
  • Supports ECC UDIMM memory (non-ECC mode)
  • Supports un-buffered memory
* Please go to www.msi.com for more information on compatible memory.
Expansion Slots
  • 2x PCIe x16 slots
    • PCI_E1 slot (From CPU)
      • Supports PCIe 3.0 x16
    • PCI_E4* (From B550 chipset)
      • Supports PCIe 3.0 x4
  • 4x PCIe x1 slots
    • PCI_E2, E3, E5 and E6 slots (From B550 chipset)
    • Supports PCIe 2.0 x1
* PCI_E4 will run 2.0 x1 speed when any one of PCI_E2, PCI_E3, and PCI_E5 slots was be installed.
Multi-GPU
  • Supports AMD CrossFire™ Technology
Onboard Graphics
  • 1x DVI-D port, support a maximum resolution of 1920x1200 @60Hz*
  • 1x HDMI™ 2.0b port, supports a maximum resolution of 4096x2160 @30Hz, 2560x1600 @60Hz*/**
* Available only on processors featuring integrated graphics.
** Graphics specifications may vary depending on the CPU installed.
SATA Ports
  • 6x SATA 6Gb/s ports (From B550 chipset)
M.2 SSD Slots
  • 1x M.2 slot (Key M)
    • M2_1 slot (From CPU)
      • Supports PCIe 3.0 x4
      • Supports SATA 6Gb/s
      • Supports 2260/ 2280/ 22110 storage devices
RAID
  • Supports RAID 0, RAID 1 and RAID 10 for SATA storage devices
Audio Realtek® ALC897 Codec
  • 7.1-Channel High Definition Audio
LAN
  • 1x Realtek® RTL8111H LAN controller
Power Connectors
  • 1x 24-pin ATX main power connector
  • 1x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
Internal USB Connectors
  • 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps connector (From B550 chipset)
    • Supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps ports
  • 2x USB 2.0 connectors (From B550 chipset)
    • Supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports
Fan Connectors
  • 1x 4-pin CPU fan connector
  • 1x 4-pin water-pump fan connector
  • 4x 4-pin system fan connectors
System Connectors
  • 1x Front panel audio connector
  • 2x System panel connectors
  • 1x Chassis Intrusion connector
  • 1x TPM module connector
  • 1x Serial port connector
  • 1x Parallel port connector
Jumpers
  • 1x Clear CMOS jumper
LED Features
  • 2x 4-pin RGB LED connectors
  • 4x EZ Debug LED
Back Panel Connectors
  • 1x Flash BIOS button
  • 1x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse port
  • 2x USB 2.0 Type-A ports
  • 1x DVI-D port
  • 1x HDMI™ port
  • 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 5Gbps Type-A ports
  • 1x LAN (RJ45) port
  • 2x USB 3.2 Gen2 10Gbps Type-A ports
  • 6x audio jacks
I/O Controller NUVOTON NCT6797 Controller Chip
Hardware Monitor
  • CPU/ System/ Chipset temperature detection
  • CPU/ System/ Pump fan speed detection
  • CPU/ System/ Pump fan speed control
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, SMBIOS 2.8
  • Multi-language
Software
  • MSI Center
  • CPU-Z MSI GAMING
  • Google Chrome™, Google Toolbar, Google Drive
  • Norton™ Internet Security Solution

Special Features

MSI Center

  • User Scenario
  • True Color
  • Live Update
  • Hardware Monitoring
  • Super Charger
  • Speed Up
  • Smart Image Finder
  • MSI Companion

Audio

  • Audio Boost

Network

  • LAN Manager

Cooling

  • Extended Heatsink Design
  • Smart Fan Control

LED

  • Mystic Light Extension (RGB)
  • Mystic Light
  • EZ DEBUG LED

Performance

  • DDR4 Boost
  • Core Boost
  • GAME Boost

Protection

  • PCI-E Steel Armor

Experience

  • MSI Center
  • GAMING HOTKEY
  • GAMING MOUSE Control
  • Click BIOS 5

Package Contents

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

Board

  • 1x Motherboard

Documentation

  • 1x Quick installation guide

Cables

  • 2x SATA 6Gb/s cables

Accessories

  • 1x Case badge
  • 1x I/0 Shielding
  • 1x M.2 screw
  • Product Registration Card


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

Back Panel Connectors

Back Panel Connectors

Item Description
1 Flash BIOS button
2 PS/2 keyboard/ mouse port
3 DVI-D port
4 USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps Type-A ports (From CPU)
5 1 Gbps LAN jack
6 Audio jacks
7 USB 2.0 Type-A port (From B550 chipset)
  • Flash BIOS Port
8 USB 2.0 Type-A port (From B550 chipset)
9 HDMI port
10 USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) Type-A ports (From B550 chipset)

LAN Port LED Status Table

LAN Port LED Status Table

Audio Jacks Connection

Audio jacks to headphone and microphone diagram

Audio jacks to headphone and mic diagram

Audio jacks to stereo speakers diagram

Audio jacks to stereo speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 4-channel speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 4-channel speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 5.1-channel speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 5.1-channel speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 7.1-channel speakers diagram

Audio jacks to 7.1-channel speakers diagram

Overview of Components

Overview of Components

CPU Socket

CPU 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.

  • When changing the processor, the system configuration could be cleared and reset BIOS 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

DIMM Slots

Memory module installation recommendation
Memory module installation recommendation

  • Always insert memory modules in the DIMMA2 slot first.
  • To ensure system stability for Dual channel mode, memory modules must be of the same type, number and density.
  • 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 module depend on installed CPU and devices when overclocking.
  • Please refer to www.msi.com for more information on compatible memory.

PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots

PCI_E1~6: PCIe Expansion Slots
PCI_E1: PCIe 3.0 x16 (From CPU)
PCI_E2: PCIe 2.0 x1 (From B550 chipset)
PCI_E3: PCIe 2.0 x1 (From B550 chipset)
PCI_E4: PCIe 3.0 x4 (From B550 chipset)
PCI_E5: PCIe 2.0 x1 (From B550 chipset)
PCI_E6: PCIe 2.0 x1 (From B550 chipset)

  • If you install a large and heavy graphics card, you need to use a tool such as MSI 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 2.0 x1 speed when any one of PCI_E2, PCI_E3, and PCI_E5 slots was be installed.

PCIe bandwidth of PCIe slots

Slot Single 2-Way
PCI_E1 (CPU) @ 3.0 x16 @ 3.0 x16
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 @3.0 x4
PCI_E5 (PCH) 2.0 x1 Empty Empty 2.0 x1
PCI_E6 (PCH) 2.0 x1 2.0x1

(─: unavailable, @: graphics card)

M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M)


Watch the video to learn how to Install M.2 module.
http://youtu.be/JCTFABytrYA

Installing M.2 module

  • Move and fasten the M.2 standoff to the appropriate position for your M.2 SSD,
  • Insert your M.2 SSD into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle.
  • Secure the M.2 SSD in place with the supplied M.2 screw.
    M2_1: M.2 Slot (Key M)

SATA1~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors

These connectors are SATA 6Gb/s interface ports. Each connector can connect to one SATA device.
SATA1~6: SATA 6Gb/s Connectors

  • 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.

JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors

The JFP1 connector controls the power on, power reset, and the LEDs on your PC case/ chassis. Power Switch/ Reset Switch headers allow you to connect power button/ reset button. Power LED header connects to LED light on the PC case, and HDD LED header indicates the activity of the hard disk. The JFP2 connector is for Buzzer and Speaker. To connect the cables from PC case to the right pins, please refer to the following images below.
JFP1, JFP2: Front Panel Connectors


Please note that Power LED and HDD LED have positive and negative connection, you need to link up the cable to the corresponding positive and negative port on the motherboard. Otherwise, LEDs won't work properly.

JAUD1: Front Audio Connector

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

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
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

CPU_PWR1, ATX_PWR1: Power Connectors

These connectors allow you to connect an ATX power supply.

CPU_PWR1

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 Ground 2 Ground
3 Ground 4 Ground
5 +12V 6 +12V
7 +12V 8 +12V

TX_PWR1

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


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

JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector

This connector allows you to connect the chassis intrusion switch cable.
JCI1: Chassis Intrusion Connector

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.

JUSB3: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Connector

This connector allows you to connect USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps ports on the front panel.

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


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

JUSB1~2: USB 2.0 Connectors

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

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

  • 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 Center utility.

JLPC1: BIOS Debug Connector

This connector is used for board level debugging purposes by the manufacturer.

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
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

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.

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 1.8V power 2 SPI_TPM_CS#_R
3 SPI_TPM_DATI 4 SPI_DATO
5 SPI_CS#_R 6 SPI_TPM_CLK
7 Ground 8 SPI_TPM_RST#
9 SPI_SW_SEL 10 NA
11 SPI_TPM_WP# 12 SPI_TPM_HOLD#

JLPT1: Parallel Port Connector

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

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 RSTB# 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

JCOM1: Serial Port Connector

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

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

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. The auto mode fan connectors can automatically detect PWM and DC mode.
You can control fans in BIOS> HARDWARE MONITOR panel. It allows you to set DC or PWM to your fan type. Check the Smart Fan Mode, the fan speed will change according to the CPU or system temperature. Uncheck the Smart Fan Mode, the fan will spin at maximum speed.


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

 Fan Connectors

PWM Mode pin definition

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 Ground 2 +12V
3 Sense 4 Speed Control Signal

DC Mode pin definition

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 Ground 2 Voltage Control
3 Sense 4 NC

Fan connector specifications

Connector Default fan mode Max. current Max. power
CPU_FAN1 PWM mode 2A 24W
PUMP_FAN1 PWM mode 3A 36W
SYS_FAN1~4 DC mode 2A 24W

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 jumpers to clear the CMOS memory.
JBAT1: Clear CMOS (Reset BIOS) Jumper

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.

BAT1: CMOS Battery

If the CMOS battery is out of charge, the time in the BIOS will be reset and the data of system configuration will be lost. In this case, you need to replace the CMOS battery.

Replacing CMOS battery

  1. Push the retainer clip to free the battery.
  2. Remove the battery from the socket.
  3. Install the new CR2032 coin-cell battery with the + sign facing up. Ensure that the retainer holds the battery securely.

JRGB1~2: RGB LED connector

The JRGB connectors allow you to connect the 5050 RGB LED strips 12V.

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name
1 +12V 2 G
3 R 4 B

RGB LED Strip Connection

RGB LED Strip Connection

RGB LED Fan Connection

RGB LED Fan Connection

  • The JRGB 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.

Onboard LEDs

EZ Debug LED

These LEDs indicate the debug status of the motherboard.


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

Installing OS, Drivers & MSI Center

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

Installing Windows 10/ Windows 11

  1. Power on the computer.
  2. Insert the Windows 10/ Windows 11 installation disc/USB into your computer.
  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 the Windows 10/ Windows 11 installation disc/USB from the Boot Menu.
  6. Press any key if screen shows Press any key to boot from CD or DVD... message. If not, please skip this step.
  7. Follow the instructions on the screen to install Windows 10/ Windows 11.

Installing Drivers with MSI DUI

MSI DUI (Driver Utility Installer) needs to be installed over the Internet. If you cannot connect to Internet, please refer to the Installing Drivers with DVD/ USB Drive section.

  1. Start up your computer in Windows 10/ Windows 11.
  2. Select Start > Settings > Windows Update, and then select Check for updates.
  3. MSI DUI will pop up automatically.
    Installing OS, Drivers & MSI Center - Step 1
  4. Select the I have read and agree to the MSI Terms of Use check box, and then click Next.
    Installing OS, Drivers & MSI Center - Step 2
  5. Check the Select All checkbox in the lower-left corner and click Install to install MSI Center and drivers. The installation progress will be shown at the bottom.
    Installing OS, Drivers & MSI Center - Step 3
  6. Once the progress has completed, click Finish.


The MSI DUI will only pop up once. If you cancel or close it during the process, please refer to the Live Update chapter of the MSI Center manual to install the drivers. You can also go to www.msi.com to search your motherboard and download the drivers.

Installing Drivers with DVD/ USB Drive

  1. Start up your computer in Windows 10/ Windows 11.
  2. Insert MSI® Drive disc into the optical drive or Insert MSI® USB Drive into the USB port.
  3. Click the Select to choose what happens with this disc pop-up notification, then select Run DVDSetup.exe to open the installer. If you turn off the AutoPlay feature from the Windows Control Panel, you can still manually execute the DVDSetup.exe from the root path of the MSI DVD/ USB Drive.
  4. The installer will find and list all necessary drivers in the Drivers/Software tab.
  5. Click the Install button in the lower-right corner of the window.
  6. The drivers 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.

MSI Center

MSI Center is an application that helps you easily optimize game settings and smoothly use content creation softwares. It also allows you to control and synchronize LED light effects on PCs and other MSI products. With MSI Center, you can customize ideal modes, monitor system performance, and adjust fan speed.

MSI Center User Guide
If you would like to know more information about MSI Center, please refer to
http://download.msi.com/manual/mb/MSICENTER.pdf
or scan the QR code to access.


Functions may vary depending on the product you have.

UEFI BIOS

MSI UEFI BIOS is compatible with UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) architecture. UEFI has many new functions and advantages that traditional BIOS cannot achieve, and it will completely replace BIOS in the future. The MSI UEFI BIOS uses UEFI as the default boot mode to take full advantage of the new chipset's capabilities.


The term BIOS in this user guide refers to UEFI BIOS unless otherwise noted.

UEFI advantages

  • Fast booting - UEFI can directly boot the operating system and save the BIOS selftest process. And also eliminates the time to switch to CSM mode during POST.
  • Supports for hard drive partitions larger than 2 TB.
  • Supports more than 4 primary partitions with a GUID Partition Table (GPT).
  • Supports unlimited number of partitions.
  • Supports full capabilities of new devices - new devices may not provide backward compatibility.
  • Supports secure startup - UEFI can check the validity of the operating system to ensure that no malware tampers with the startup process.

Incompatible UEFI cases

  • 32-bit Windows operating system - this motherboard supports only Windows 10/ Windows 11 64-bit operating system.
  • Older graphics card - the system will detect your graphics card. If you use older graphics cards, it may display a warning message There is no GOP (Graphics Output protocol) support detected in this graphics card.


We recommend that you replace it with a graphics card supporting GOP/UEFI or use CPU with integrated graphics for having normal function.

How to check the BIOS mode?

  1. Power on your computer.
  2. Press 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.
  3. After entering the BIOS, you can check the BIOS Mode at the top of the screen.

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.

  • BIOS items are regularly updated for better system performance. The items may be slightly different from the latest BIOS; therefore, the description is for reference only. You could also refer to the HELP information panel for BIOS item description.
  • The BIOS screens, options and settings will vary depending on your system.

Entering BIOS Setup

Press 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.

BIOS User Guide

If you'd like to know more instructions on setting up the BIOS, please refer to
http://download.msi.com/manual/mb/AMDX570BIOS.pdf
or scan the QR code to access.


Functions may vary depending on the product you have.

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.


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. Insert the USB flash drive that contains the update file into the USB port.
  2. Please refer the following methods to enter flash mode.
    • Reboot and press Ctrl + F5 key during POST and click on Yes to reboot the system.
      Press <Ctrl+F5> to activate M-Flash for BIOS update.
    • Reboot and press Del key during POST to enter BIOS. Click the M-FLASH button and click on Yes to reboot the system.
      Updating BIOS
  3. Select a BIOS file to perform the BIOS update process.
  4. When prompted click on Yes to start recovering BIOS.
  5. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will reboot automatically.

Updating the BIOS with MSI Center

Before updating:

  • Make sure the LAN driver is already installed and the internet connection is set properly.
  • Please close all other application software before updating the BIOS.

To update BIOS:

  1. Install and launch MSI Center and go to Support page.
  2. Select Live Update and click on Advance button.
  3. Select the BIOS file and click on Install button.
  4. The installation reminder will appear, then click the Install button on it.
  5. The system will automatically restart to update BIOS.
  6. After the flashing process is 100% completed, the system will restart automatically.

Updating BIOS with Flash BIOS Button

  1. Please download the latest BIOS file that matches your motherboard model from the MSI® website.
  2. Rename the BIOS file to MSI.ROM, and save it to the root of the USB storage device.
  3. Connect the power supply to CPU_PWR1 and ATX_PWR1. (No need to install CPU and memory.)
  4. Plug the USB storage device that contains the MSI.ROM file into the Flash BIOS Port on the rear I/O panel.
  5. Press the Flash BIOS Button to flash BIOS, and the LED starts flashing.
  6. The LED will be turned off when the process is completed.

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.

Revision History

  • Version 5.0, 2022/04, First release.

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.

Documents / Resources

References

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download MSI B550 GAMING GEN3 - Motherboard Manual

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