ASUS TUF GAMING B760M-PLUS II Motherboard

1.1 Introduction

Before installing expansion cards or modules, or changing system settings, please review the following:

• Always disconnect the power cable before handling electronic components.
• To prevent damage from static discharge, wear an anti-static wrist strap or ground yourself by touching a metal object.
• Handle electronic components by their edges.
• Place removed components on an anti-static pad or bag.
• Disconnect the power cable before installing or removing expansion cards or modules to prevent fire, electric shock, or damage.

Pin assignments shown are examples; actual layouts may vary. Illustrations are for reference only.

1.2 Component Names and Functions

This section describes the motherboard's layout and the function of its components.

1.2.1 Component Names and Functions

CPU Socket: Supports Intel® LGA1700 socket for 14th/13th/12th Gen Intel® Core™, Pentium® Gold, and Celeron® processors. Ensure correct orientation.

Memory Slots: Features DDR5 DIMM slots supporting Dual Channel memory architecture and Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP).

Expansion Slots: Includes PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIe 4.0 x4, and PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for graphics cards and other expansion devices.

Fan/Pump Headers: Connect CPU fans, case fans, and liquid cooling pump headers. (e.g., CPU_FAN, AIO_PUMP, CHA_FAN)

Power Connectors: 24-pin ATX main power connector and 8-pin +12V power connector.

M.2 Socket 3 Slots: Supports M.2 SSDs (Key M, Type 2242/2260/2280) with PCIe 4.0 x4 or PCIe 4.0 x2 interfaces.

SATA 6Gb/s Ports: Connect SATA storage drives and optical drives. Supports SATA RAID 0/1/5/10.

USB Connectors/Headers: Provides USB 2.0, USB 5Gbps, and USB 10Gbps connectivity via rear ports and front panel headers.

Back Panel Connectors:

• 1. DisplayPort: For video output.
• 2. USB 2.0 (Type-A): For USB 2.0 devices.
• 3. USB 10Gbps (Type-A): For USB 10Gbps devices.
• 4. Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet: Network port with LED indicators for link status and speed (2.5Gbps, 1Gbps/100Mbps).
• 5. HDMI™: For video output.
• 6. USB 20Gbps (Type-C®): High-speed USB Type-C port.
• 7. USB 5Gbps (Type-A): For USB 5Gbps devices.
• 8. Optical S/PDIF Out: Digital audio output.
• 9. Audio Ports: Connect speakers and microphones.

Note: USB port performance may be limited by the connected device's USB version.

Onboard Headers: System Panel Header (for power button, reset, LEDs), Front Panel Audio header, Addressable Gen 2 headers (for RGB lighting), CMOS Clear header, Thunderbolt™ (USB4®) header.

Special Features: Includes ASUS TUF PROTECTION suite (DIGI+ VRM, ESD Guards, TUF LANGuard, Overvoltage Protection, SafeSlot Core+, Stainless-Steel Back I/O), ASUS Q-Design (M.2 Q-Latch, PCIe Slot Q-Release, Q-DIMM, Q-LED), and ASUS Thermal Solution (M.2 heatsink, VRM heatsink).

Software Features: Bundled software includes Armoury Crate, Aura Creator, Aura Sync, Fan Xpert 2+, AI Suite 3, and more.

1.3 Installing the CPU

Precautions: Ensure compatibility with LGA1700 socket. Align CPU triangle marker with socket marker. Do not force the CPU. Remove the socket protective cover after installation. Install CPU cooler according to its manual.

Procedure:

1. Lift the CPU socket lever.
2. Align the CPU's triangle marker with the socket's triangle marker.
3. Gently place the CPU into the socket.
4. Lower the socket lever to secure the CPU.
5. Install the CPU cooler.

1.4 Installing Memory

Compatibility: Supports DDR5 Non-ECC Unbuffered DIMMs. DDR5, DDR4, DDR3, and DDR2 memory modules are not interchangeable.

Procedure:

1. Open the clips on the DIMM slot.
2. Align the notch on the DIMM with the key in the slot.
3. Push down evenly on both ends of the DIMM until the clips lock into place.

Mixing memory modules of different capacities may result in dual-channel operation up to the capacity of the lowest module.

1.5 Installing M.2 SSD

Precautions: Use the correct screwdriver size. If replacing thermal pads, use 1.25mm thickness pads. Ensure the M.2 SSD is compatible with the slot.

Procedure (Type 2280 SSD):

1. Remove screws securing the heatsink.
2. Remove the heatsink.
3. Align the M.2 SSD with the M.2 Socket 3 slot and insert it at an angle.
4. Gently push the SSD down.
5. Secure the SSD using the M.2 Q-Latch or the provided screw.
6. Reinstall the heatsink and secure it with the screws removed earlier.

Procedure (Type 2242/2260 SSD):

1. Install the standoffs into the appropriate screw holes on the motherboard.
2. Align the M.2 SSD with the M.2 Socket 3 slot and insert it.
3. Secure the M.2 SSD using the provided screws.
4. If applicable, remove the M.2 rubber from the heatsink or install it as per the M.2 SSD type.
5. Reinstall the heatsink and secure it with screws.

2.1 What is UEFI BIOS?

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a modern replacement for traditional BIOS. It offers faster boot times, easier updates, and enhanced security. BIOS settings are stored in CMOS RAM. For most users, default settings are optimized for performance. Changes should only be made if prompted by an error message or for specific hardware installations.

Incorrect settings can lead to system instability or failure. Consult a qualified technician for any changes.

Accessing UEFI BIOS: Press or during POST (Power-On Self-Test) to enter the UEFI BIOS Utility. Use to switch between EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3

ASUS EZ Flash 3 is a utility that allows you to update the UEFI BIOS without needing an operating system. Ensure your system is stable and reset BIOS settings to default before updating.

Update Procedure:

1. Prepare a FAT/FAT32 formatted USB drive with the BIOS file.
2. Connect the USB drive to a system USB port.
3. Enter UEFI BIOS Utility (Advanced Mode), navigate to the Tool menu, and select ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility.
4. Select the USB drive and BIOS image file.
5. Confirm the file and proceed with the update.
6. Restart the system after the update completes.

Do not remove the USB drive or interrupt the update process.

2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

This tool helps recover a corrupted BIOS image. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website.

Recovery Procedure:

1. Download the BIOS file and rename it (e.g., using BIOSRenamer.exe or manually to 'asus.cap').
2. Copy the renamed BIOS file to the root directory of a USB storage device.
3. Connect the USB drive to the system.
4. Turn on the system. ASUS EZ Flash 3 will automatically detect and start the BIOS recovery process.

After recovery, reset BIOS settings to default. Do not interrupt the process.

2.4 RAID Configuration

This motherboard supports the following SATA RAID levels:

• RAID 0 (Striping): Increases read/write speed by distributing data across multiple drives. Offers no redundancy; data loss occurs if one drive fails. Requires at least two identical drives.
• RAID 1 (Mirroring): Provides data redundancy by mirroring data across multiple drives. If one drive fails, data is accessible from the other. Requires at least two identical drives.
• RAID 5 (Striping with Parity): Distributes data and parity information across multiple drives for fault tolerance. Allows data recovery if one drive fails. Requires at least three identical drives.
• RAID 10 (Mirroring + Striping): Combines RAID 0 and RAID 1 for both speed and redundancy. Requires at least four identical drives.

Regulatory and Safety Information

This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15 and is designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It also includes HDMI Trademark Notice and general safety precautions regarding accessories and product disposal.

Compliance statements for various regions (Canada ISED, Korea KC, UKCA, EU) are provided, along with links to detailed declarations on the ASUS website.

Environmental Compliance: ASUS adheres to global environmental regulations and provides information on REACH, RoHS, and recycling programs. Please refer to the ASUS CSR website for details.

Warranty Information

ASUS offers a voluntary manufacturer's commercial guarantee, which is independent of and in addition to statutory legal guarantees. For complete warranty information, please visit the ASUS support website.

Service and Support

For multilingual support, product updates, and technical assistance, please visit the ASUS support website at www.asus.com/support/.

Product Registration

Register your product to receive better support and services. Visit account.asus.com/.