ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi Motherboard User Manual

1. Overview

The ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi motherboard is designed for robust performance and unwavering gaming stability, supporting AMD AM4 socket processors including Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs. It features military-grade components, an upgraded power solution, and comprehensive cooling options to ensure reliable operation under demanding conditions.

Image 1.1: ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi Motherboard and its retail packaging.

2. Key Features

• AMD AM4 Socket and PCIe 4.0: Optimized for Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 & 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs.
• Robust Power Design: Features 8+2 DrMOS power stages with high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power delivery.
• Optimized Thermal Solution: Includes fanless VRM and PCH heatsinks, multiple hybrid fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4 / UEFI Q-Fan Control utility for efficient cooling.
• High-performance Gaming Networking: Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and 2.5 Gb LAN with ASUS LANGuard for reliable and fast network connectivity.
• Best Gaming Connectivity: Supports HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz) and DisplayPort 1.2 output, dual M.2 slots (one with PCIe 4.0 x4), front panel USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C & Type-A ports, and Thunderbolt 3 header.
• Industry-leading Gaming Audio & AI Noise Cancelling Mic Technology: High fidelity audio from a SupremeFX S1220A codec with DTS Sound Unbound and Sonic Studio III, plus ASUS AI Noise Cancelling Mic technology for clear communication.
• Gaming Look and Feel: ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting, including RGB headers and a Gen 2 addressable RGB header for extensive customization.

Image 2.1: Annotated view highlighting features for total gaming immersion, including RGB headers and audio codec.

Image 2.2: Annotated view showcasing extreme power and performance features, such as ProCool Socket and M.2 support.

Image 2.3: Annotated view detailing comprehensive cooling and protection features, including VRM heatsinks and ASUS SafeSlot.

Image 2.4: Annotated view of the rear I/O panel, showing various connectivity options like USB, LAN, and display outputs.

3. What's in the Box

Upon opening the retail packaging, you should find the following items:

• ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi Motherboard
• Rear I/O Panel Shield
• SATA Cables (typically 2)
• M.2 Screw Package
• M.2 Rubber Pads
• Wi-Fi Antenna
• User Manual / Quick Start Guide
• Support DVD (for drivers and utilities)
• TUF Gaming Stickers / Decals

Image 3.1: Visual representation of the typical contents included in the product box.

4. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and system stability. Always ensure your system is powered off and unplugged before handling components.

4.1 Pre-Installation Checklist

• Compatible CPU (AMD AM4 socket, Ryzen 3rd Gen or 5000 series).
• DDR4 RAM modules.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU).
• Storage devices (NVMe M.2 SSDs, SATA SSDs/HDDs).
• Graphics Card (if not using integrated graphics).
• PC Case with ATX form factor support.
• Screwdriver and anti-static wrist strap.

4.2 Motherboard Installation Steps

1. Prepare the Case: Install the I/O shield into the case's rear opening.
2. Install CPU: Open the CPU socket lever, align the CPU with the triangle marker on the socket, gently place the CPU, and close the lever.
3. Install CPU Cooler: Attach your chosen CPU cooler according to its specific instructions.
4. Install RAM: Open the DIMM slot clips, align the RAM modules with the notch, and press firmly until the clips snap into place. Refer to the manual for recommended dual-channel configurations.
5. Mount Motherboard: Carefully place the motherboard into the PC case, aligning it with the standoffs. Secure it with screws.
6. Install M.2 SSDs: Insert M.2 SSDs into the M.2 slots and secure them with the provided screws and rubber pads.
7. Connect Power Cables: Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin CPU power connector from your PSU to the motherboard.
8. Connect Front Panel Cables: Connect the power button, reset button, USB ports, and audio jacks from your case to the corresponding headers on the motherboard.
9. Connect SATA Devices: Connect SATA data cables from your storage drives to the SATA ports on the motherboard.
10. Install Graphics Card: Insert the graphics card into the primary PCIe 4.0 x16 slot and secure it. Connect PCIe power cables from the PSU if required.
11. Connect Wi-Fi Antenna: Attach the included Wi-Fi antenna to the connectors on the rear I/O panel.

Important BIOS Update: If you are installing a compatible Ryzen 5000 series CPU, please ensure your BIOS is up to date. Visit the official ASUS website, search for your motherboard model, navigate to the "Support" tab, then "Drivers and Tools," and finally "BIOS & Firmware" to download the latest BIOS version. Follow the provided instructions for BIOS Flashback if needed.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 First Boot and BIOS Setup

• After assembly, connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
• Power on your system. Press the DEL key during startup to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup.
• In the BIOS, you can configure boot order, enable XMP for RAM, adjust fan curves, and monitor system status.
• Save changes and exit BIOS to boot into your operating system installer.

5.2 Driver Installation

After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers for the motherboard's components. These can be found on the included support DVD or downloaded from the official ASUS support website. Key drivers include:

• Chipset Drivers
• LAN Drivers (2.5Gb Ethernet)
• Wi-Fi 6 Drivers
• Audio Drivers (SupremeFX S1220A)
• USB Drivers

5.3 ASUS Software Utilities

ASUS provides several software utilities to enhance your experience:

• Armoury Crate: Centralized software for system monitoring, driver updates, and Aura Sync RGB control.
• Aura Sync: Control and synchronize RGB lighting across compatible components.
• Fan Xpert 4: Advanced fan control for optimal cooling and noise levels.
• AI Noise Cancelling Mic: Software utility to enhance microphone clarity.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and stable operation of your motherboard.

• Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged.
• BIOS Updates: Check the ASUS support website regularly for new BIOS versions. Updates can improve compatibility, stability, and performance.
• Driver Updates: Keep your drivers updated to ensure compatibility with new software and hardware, and to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.
• Cable Management: Ensure cables are neatly routed to improve airflow and prevent interference.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power/No Boot: Double-check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU, PCIe for GPU). Ensure the PSU is switched on. Try reseating RAM modules.
• No Display: Verify monitor connection and input source. Reseat the graphics card. Test with a different display cable or monitor. If your CPU has integrated graphics, try booting without the discrete GPU.
• System Instability/Crashes: Check RAM seating and try testing with one RAM stick at a time. Ensure CPU cooler is properly installed and making good contact. Monitor temperatures using software.
• Peripheral Not Detected: Try different USB ports. Reinstall drivers for the peripheral.
• Network Connectivity Issues: Check LAN cable connection. Reinstall LAN/Wi-Fi drivers. Ensure Wi-Fi antenna is securely attached.
• BIOS Reset: If system settings are preventing boot, clear the CMOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes or using the CLRTC jumper (refer to the full manual for location).

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the comprehensive ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi User Manual (PDF).

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

ASUS products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ASUS support website.

Online Resources:

• Official ASUS Support Website: https://www.asus.com/us/support/
• Download the full User Manual (PDF): https://manuals.plus/m/4d8ed211c55f2c55ba4dc69a81a1e81654da3fd5a864b7adc0cb35f1b3bf57eb
• Download the User Guide (PDF): https://manuals.plus/m/f0529dc3f05bd28732ea6e9b193366e43eb157437e3f2f4b0b10571ab8a7ccd6

For technical assistance, driver downloads, and BIOS updates, always refer to the official ASUS support channels.