ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi AMD B650 ATX Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi AMD B650 ATX Motherboard. Designed for AMD Socket AM5 processors, this motherboard offers advanced features for high-performance computing and gaming. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or usage.

2. Product Features

• Ready for Advanced AI PCs: Designed for the future of AI computing, with the power and connectivity needed for demanding AI applications.
• AMD AM5 Socket: Ready for AMD Socket AM5 for AMD Ryzen 9000 & 8000 & 7000 Series Desktop Processors.
• Enhanced Power Solution: 8+2+1 phase power design, 6-layer PCB, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power delivery.
• Ultrafast Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, rear USB 10Gbps Type-A & Type-C ports, and front USB 5Gbps Type-C support.
• Comprehensive Cooling: VRM and M.2 heatsinks, PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 2+.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your motherboard package:

• ASUS B650E MAX Gaming WiFi Motherboard
• ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna
• SATA cables (2x)
• M.2 screw packages
• M.2 rubber standoffs
• Quick Start Guide and other documentation

4. Motherboard Layout

4.1 Internal Connectors and Components

Familiarize yourself with the key components and connectors on the motherboard:

• AMD AM5 Socket: Central socket for your Ryzen processor.
• DDR5 DIMM Slots: Four slots for DDR5 memory modules.
• PCIe 5.0 x16 Slot: Primary slot for your graphics card.
• PCIe 5.0 M.2 Slots: Multiple slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs.
• SATA 6Gb/s Ports: For connecting traditional SATA storage devices.
• USB Headers: Various headers for front panel USB ports (USB 10Gbps Type-C, USB 5Gbps Type-C, USB 2.0).
• Fan Headers: Multiple headers for CPU, chassis, and AIO pump fans.
• Power Connectors: 24-pin ATX power connector and 8-pin CPU power connectors.

4.2 Rear I/O Panel

The rear I/O panel provides various ports for external device connectivity:

• DisplayPort (DP): For video output.
• HDMI™: For video and audio output.
• USB 10Gbps Type-A & Type-C: High-speed USB ports.
• USB 5Gbps Type-A: Standard USB ports.
• Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet: For wired network connection.
• Wi-Fi 6E Antenna Connectors: For wireless network connectivity.
• Audio Jacks: For connecting speakers, headphones, and microphones.
• BIOS Flashback™ Button: For updating BIOS without a CPU or RAM installed.

5. Setup

Follow these general steps to set up your motherboard and components:

1. Install CPU: Carefully align your AMD Ryzen processor with the AM5 socket and secure it.
2. Install CPU Cooler: Attach your CPU cooler (air or AIO liquid cooler) according to its instructions.
3. Install RAM: Insert DDR5 memory modules into the DIMM slots. For dual-channel operation, refer to your motherboard's specific manual for recommended slot configurations.
4. Install M.2 SSDs: Secure your NVMe M.2 SSDs into the PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, using the provided screws/standoffs and heatsinks if applicable.
5. Install Graphics Card: Insert your PCIe 5.0 x16 graphics card into the primary PCIe slot and secure it.
6. Connect Power: Connect the 24-pin ATX power cable and the 8-pin CPU power cables from your power supply to the motherboard.
7. Connect Peripherals: Connect SATA devices, front panel connectors (USB, audio, power/reset buttons), and case fans.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 BIOS Configuration

Upon first boot, enter the BIOS (usually by pressing DEL or F2 during startup) to configure essential settings such as boot order, date/time, and enable XMP/EXPO profiles for your RAM.

6.2 Driver and Software Installation

After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers for your motherboard components (chipset, audio, LAN, Wi-Fi, etc.). ASUS provides the Armoury Crate software, which can assist with driver installation, RGB lighting control (Aura Sync), and system monitoring.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your motherboard:

• Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from your PC case and motherboard components using compressed air.
• Cable Management: Ensure cables are neatly routed to improve airflow and prevent interference.
• BIOS Updates: Keep your BIOS updated to the latest version for improved compatibility, stability, and performance.
• Driver Updates: Regularly update your drivers for all components.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 Common Issues

• No Display: Check all power connections, ensure the graphics card is seated correctly, and try reseating RAM modules.
• System Instability: This can often be related to RAM settings (XMP/EXPO profiles), outdated BIOS, or overheating. Ensure proper cooling and try loading BIOS defaults.
• Device Not Recognized: Verify connections, install/update drivers, and check BIOS settings for device detection.

8.2 BIOS Flashback™

The BIOS Flashback™ feature allows you to update the BIOS without a CPU, RAM, or graphics card installed. This is particularly useful for ensuring compatibility with newer CPUs that may not be supported by the motherboard's factory-installed BIOS version.

1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website for your specific motherboard model.
2. Rename the BIOS file to B650EMAX.CAP (or as specified by ASUS for your model) and save it to the root directory of a FAT32-formatted USB drive.
3. Insert the USB drive into the designated BIOS Flashback USB port on the rear I/O panel.
4. With the system powered off but connected to the power supply, press and hold the BIOS Flashback button for approximately three seconds until the LED starts blinking.
5. The LED will stop blinking when the BIOS update is complete.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official ASUS support website. ASUS provides comprehensive support resources, including FAQs, driver downloads, and contact information for technical assistance.

For further assistance, please visit the ASUS Store.