Safety Information

Electrical safety

• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.
• If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

• Before installing the motherboard and adding components, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.
• Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may be exposed to moisture.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction: This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. It includes descriptions of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 2: BIOS information: This chapter discusses changing system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.

Where to find more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.

1. ASUS websites: The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional documentation: Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

Conventions used in this guide

To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.

• DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when completing a task.
• CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when completing a task.
• IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
• NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

• Bold text: Indicates a menu or an item to select.
• Italics: Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
• <Key>: Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means that you must press the enclosed key. Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key.
• <Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>: If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

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

TUF B450M-PLUS GAMING specifications summary

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.

Motherboard overview

The motherboard layout includes various connectors and components. Key items are:

• CPU Socket AM4: Designed for AMD Ryzen™ processors.
• DDR4 DIMM Slots: Four slots labeled DIMM_A1, DIMM_A2*, DIMM_B1, DIMM_B2* for memory modules.
• ATX Power Connectors: 24-pin EATXPWR and 8-pin EATX12V for power supply.
• Fan Connectors: CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 for system cooling.
• RGB Header: RGB_HEADER for RGB LED strips.
• M.2 Socket 3: For M.2 storage devices.
• SATA Connectors: Multiple SATA 6Gb/s ports (SATA6G_1 through SATA6G_6).
• Clear CMOS Header: CLRTC for resetting BIOS settings.
• Front Panel Connectors: F_PANEL (System panel), SPEAKER, AAFP (Front panel audio), SPDIF_OUT (Digital audio).
• Rear Panel Connectors: HDMI, DVI-D, LAN (RJ-45), USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Type A, teal blue), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A, blue), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C), USB 2.0/1.1 ports, Line In (light blue), Line Out (lime), Microphone Port (pink).
• PCI Express Slots: Two PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (PCIEX16_1, PCIEX16_2) and one PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot (PCIEX1).
• Chipset: AMD B450 chipset.
• Super I/O: Chip for managing various I/O functions.
• BIOS Chip: Stores BIOS firmware.

CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1/2)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. Insufficient airflow can damage motherboard components. The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W).

ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)

These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. Ensure the power supply plugs are oriented correctly and push down firmly. It is recommended to use an ATX 12V Specification 2.0-compliant power supply unit (PSU) with a minimum of 350W. Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX +12V power plug, as the system will not boot up otherwise. For systems with more power-consuming devices, a PSU with higher power output is recommended. If unsure about power supply requirements, use the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.com.cn/PowerSupply.aspx?SLanguage=en.

AMD AM4 CPU socket

The motherboard features an AMD AM4 socket designed for AMD Ryzen™ 2nd Generation/ Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics/ Ryzen™ 1st Generation processors. For more details, refer to Central Processing Unit (CPU).

Aura RGB Strip header (4-pin RGB_HEADER)

This header is for RGB LED strips. It supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strips (12V/G/R/B) with a maximum power rating of 3A (12V) and a length of up to 3 meters. Ensure the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached before installing or removing components.

DDR4 DIMM slots

Install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, and 16 GB unbuffered DDR4 DIMMs into these DIMM sockets. For more details, refer to System memory.

M.2 socket 3

This socket allows installation of M.2 (NGFF) SSD modules. It supports PCIe 3.0 x4 mode and SATA mode M Key designs (types 2242/2260/2280/22110). Note that the M.2 Socket shares bandwidth with the SATA_5/6 ports, meaning SATA_5/6 ports cannot be used when an M.2 device is installed.

AMD Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6)

These connectors are used to connect Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.

Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC)

This header allows clearing the CMOS RTC RAM data, which stores system setup information like date, time, and passwords. To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Use a metal object, such as a screwdriver, to short the two pins.
3. Plug the power cord back in and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during boot to enter BIOS setup and re-enter data.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, remove the onboard battery and short the two pins again. After clearing CMOS, reinstall the battery.

System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker, which provides system beeps and warnings.

USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5Gbps) connector (20-1 pin U31G1_12)

Connect a USB 3.1 Gen 1 module to this connector for additional USB 3.1 Gen 1 front or rear panel ports. It offers faster data transfer speeds (up to 5 Gbps), faster charging, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0.

USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB34, USB56)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors and install the module to a slot opening at the back of the chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specifications and support up to 480Mbps connection speed.

Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)

This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports HD audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. For high-definition audio capability, connect a high-definition front panel audio module. In BIOS setup, set the Front Panel Type item to [HD Audio] if needed (default is [HD Audio]).

Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots

This motherboard has two PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 graphic cards.

AMD Ryzen™ 2nd Generation/ Ryzen™ 1st Generation Processors

AMD Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics Processors

• In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot (gray) for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance.
• It is recommended to provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ mode.
• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

This motherboard has a PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot that supports PCI Express 2.0 x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards.

Rear panel connectors

The rear panel provides the following connectors:

1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port: For a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
2. DVI-D port: For any DVI-D compatible device. Note: DVI-D cannot output RGB signals to CRT and is not compatible with DVI-I.
3. USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10Gbps) port (teal blue, Type A): For USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices. These ports are for data storage. All USB devices are controlled by the xHCI controller. Connect USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices to these ports for optimal performance.
4. LAN (RJ-45) port: Allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) via a network hub. The LAN port has LED indicators for Activity/Link and Speed.
5. Line In port (light blue): Connects to audio sources like tape, CD, or DVD players.
6. Line Out port (lime): Connects to a headphone or speaker. In 4.1, 5.1, and 7.1-channel configurations, this port functions as the Front Speaker Out.
7. Microphone port (pink): Connects to a microphone.
8. USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5Gbps) ports: These 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to USB 3.1 Gen 1 devices, primarily for data storage.
9. USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port: For USB 3.1 Gen 1 mobile or peripheral devices.
10. HDMI port: For High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector, supporting HDCP for protected content playback.
11. USB 2.0 ports: These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are for USB 2.0/1.1 devices.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with an AMD AM4 socket designed for AMD Ryzen™ 2nd Generation/ Ryzen™ with Radeon™ Vega Graphics/ Ryzen™ 1st Generation processors. Ensure all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. The AM4 socket has a specific pinout; use a CPU designed for AM4 and ensure correct orientation to avoid damage.

Installing the CPU

Follow these steps to install the CPU:

1. Ensure the CPU socket lever is open.
2. Align the CPU's triangle mark with the socket's triangle mark and place the CPU into the socket.
3. Gently close the CPU socket lever.
4. The CPU is now installed.

Apply Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before installing the heatsink and fan if necessary.

Installing the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

Type 1 Installation:

1. Attach the mounting bracket to the motherboard.
2. Place the heatsink over the CPU.
3. Secure the heatsink using the provided screws.
4. Connect the fan cable.

Type 2 Installation:

1. Attach the mounting brackets to the motherboard using screws.
2. Place the heatsink over the CPU.
3. Secure the heatsink by screwing it into the brackets.
4. Connect the fan cable.

Note: Remove only the screws and retention module, not the plate on the bottom.

System memory

Overview

This motherboard features four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. The sockets are arranged in two channels: Channel A (DIMM_A1 & DIMM_A2*) and Channel B (DIMM_B1 & DIMM_B2*). You can install varying memory sizes, and the system will utilize dual-channel configuration for the total size of the lower-sized channel, mapping excess memory for single-channel operation.

Recommended memory configurations

For optimal compatibility, install DIMMs with the same CAS latency, version, or date code from the same vendor. For system stability with a full memory load (4 DIMMs), consider a more efficient memory cooling system. Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List).

Installing a DIMM

To install a DIMM:

1. Open the clips on the DIMM socket.
2. Align the DIMM notch with the socket key and press down firmly on both ends until the clips lock into place.

To remove a DIMM:

1. Press down on the clips at both ends of the DIMM socket.
2. Gently pull the DIMM straight up and out of the socket.

Chapter 2: BIOS Information

Scan the QR code to view the BIOS update guide. Before using the ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device to TB450MPG.CAP.

BIOS setup program

The BIOS Setup program allows you to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. Use the navigation keys and on-screen help. To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press <Delete> or <F2> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). To enter BIOS Setup after POST, press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously, or press the reset button on the system chassis. Forcing a reset from a running OS can damage data; proper shutdown is recommended.

BIOS setup screens are for reference and may not exactly match your display. Visit www.asus.com for the latest BIOS files. If the system becomes unstable, load default settings (Load Optimized Defaults or F5). If the system fails to boot, clear the CMOS (refer to Motherboard overview section for RTC RAM clearing).

BIOS menu screen

The BIOS setup program can be used in two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode. Press <F7> to switch between them.

EZ Mode

The default EZ Mode screen provides an overview of basic system information. It allows selection of display language, system performance mode, fan profile, and boot device priority. To access Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press <F7>. The default screen can be changed in the Boot menu's Setup Mode item.

EZ Mode displays:

• CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU voltage, CPU/chassis fan speed, and SATA information.
• Display language selection for the BIOS setup program.
• System properties and EZ System Tuning modes.
• CPU Fan speed, with options for manual tuning.
• Bootable devices for boot priority selection.

Other features include: Search by BIOS item name, RGB LED lighting control (AURA ON/OFF), Load Optimized Defaults (F5), Save & Exit (F10), and Search on FAQ.

Advanced Mode

Advanced Mode offers advanced options for experienced users. It includes menus like Main, Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, and Exit. Key features include Q-Fan control, Aura On/Off, and hardware monitoring data. Sub-menu items, configuration fields, and help information are displayed.

Exit menu

The Exit menu allows loading default values, saving changes, or discarding them.

• Load Optimized Defaults: Resets all parameters to default values. Press <F5> to confirm.
• Save Changes & Reset: Saves selected values and exits. Press <F10> to confirm.
• Discard Changes & Exit: Exits without saving changes. Press <Esc> to confirm.
• Launch EFI Shell from USB drives: Attempts to launch the EFI Shell application.

Appendix

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits, designed for reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician. Shielded cables are required for monitor connection. Unauthorized modifications may void user authority.

Compliance Statement of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)

This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation. CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B).

Déclaration de conformité de Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada (ISED)

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement. CAN ICES-3(B)/NMB-3(B).

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement Class B ITE

This device is a Class B digital device. While intended for home use, it may cause interference to radio or television reception if used nearby. Follow instructions for proper handling.

KC: Korea Warning Statement

This is a Class B device (for home use) and can be used in all regions.

REACH

Complying with the REACH regulatory framework, ASUS publishes chemical substances in its products at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. Do not dispose of the motherboard in municipal waste; recycle it properly. Do not dispose of mercury-containing button cell batteries in municipal waste.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services

ASUS is committed to environmental protection through recycling and takeback programs. For detailed information, visit http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm.

Regional notice for California

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Google™ License Terms

Copyright © 2018 Google Inc. Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0. You may obtain a copy of the License at: http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0. Software is provided "AS IS", without warranties.

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address: 4F, No. 150, Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei 112, Taiwan

Telephone: +886-2-2894-3447

Fax: +886-2-2890-7798

Website: www.asus.com

Technical Support

Telephone: +86-21-38429911

Fax: +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101#

Online support: http://qr.asus.com/techserv

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA

Telephone: +1-510-739-3777

Fax: +1-510-608-4555

Website: http://www.asus.com/us/

Technical Support

Support fax: +1-812-284-0883

Telephone: +1-812-282-2787

Online support: http://qr.asus.com/techserv

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address: Harkort Str. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany

Fax: +49-2102-959931

Website: http://www.asus.com/de

Online contact: http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales

Technical Support

Telephone: +49-2102-5789555

Support Fax: +49-2102-959911

Online support: http://qr.asus.com/techserv

FCC COMPLIANCE INFORMATION

Per FCC Part 2 Section 2.1077

Responsible Party: Asus Computer International

Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539.

Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555

hereby declares that the product

Product Name: Motherboard

Model Number: TUF B450M-PLUS GAMING

compliance statement: 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.