ASUS ROG Strix B850-A Gaming WiFi Motherboard Quick Start Guide

Motherboard Layout Overview

The ASUS ROG Strix B850-A Gaming WiFi motherboard features a comprehensive layout designed for high-performance gaming. Key areas and connectors include:

• CPU Socket: AM5
• Memory Slots: Four DDR5 DIMM slots (DIMM_A1, DIMM_A2, DIMM_B1, DIMM_B2)
• Expansion Slots: PCIEX16 (G5), PCIEX16 (G4)
• Storage: Multiple M.2 slots (M.2(WIFI), M.2_1, M.2_2, M.2_3, M.2_4) and SATA 6G ports (SATA6G_1, SATA6G_2).
• Fan and Pump Headers: CPU_FAN, AIO_PUMP, CPU_OPT, CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3, CHA_FAN4.
• Power Connectors: ATX_PWR, CPU_12V_1, CPU_12V_2.
• Front Panel Connectors: F_PANEL, F_AUDIO, USB headers (USB_1_5, USB_1617, etc.), Front Panel System.
• Other Headers: BIOS_FLBK, CLR_CMOS, FLBK_LED, ARGB, T_SENSOR, USB 10Gbps, USB 5Gbps, AUDIO, HDMI_DP, LAN_U10G_11, etc.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Components

Gather all necessary components for your PC build. This typically includes:

• Chassis (PC Case)
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• Memory (RAM modules)
• M.2 SSD (Solid State Drive)
• CPU Cooler (Air or Liquid)
• SATA device (e.g., HDD, SSD, Optical Drive)
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Graphics Card (GPU)

Note: The listed components are recommendations; prepare components according to your specific needs.

Step 2: Install Key Components

Install the CPU

Carefully align the CPU with the socket AM5 on the motherboard and gently lower it into place. Ensure the PnP cap is not removed before the CPU is properly installed. Refer to the motherboard manual for detailed instructions.

Install the Memory

Open the clips on the DIMM slots, align the notch on the memory module with the notch in the slot, and press down firmly on both ends until the clips lock into place. Refer to the motherboard manual for correct slot population.

Step 3: Install the M.2 SSD

Install your M.2 SSD into the designated M.2 slot. Depending on the M.2 slot and SSD type, you may use a screw or a tool-less retention mechanism like ASUS's M.2 Q-Latch or Q-Slide. For single-sided M.2 modules, an optional M.2 rubber may be used. Ensure the M.2 SSD is securely fastened.

Step 4: Install the Cooling System

Air Cooler: Mount the CPU cooler according to its instructions, ensuring it is securely attached to the motherboard. Connect the cooler's fan cable to the CPU_FAN or CPU_OPT header on the motherboard.

AIO Cooler: Install the AIO cooler's pump and radiator as per the cooler's manual. Connect the pump to the AIO_PUMP or W_PUMP header and the radiator fan to the CPU_FAN or CPU_OPT header.

Step 5: Install the Motherboard into the Chassis

Carefully place the motherboard into the PC chassis. Align the motherboard's I/O ports with the chassis's I/O shield opening. Secure the motherboard to the chassis standoffs using screws. This step may vary slightly for cases with pre-mounted I/O shields.

Step 6: Connect Chassis Cables

Connect chassis fans and any ARGB/RGB lighting components to the corresponding headers on the motherboard (e.g., CHA_FAN headers for fans, ARGB and RGB headers for lighting). Ensure correct polarity for ARGB/RGB connections (typically +5V, Data, Ground).

Step 7: Install and Connect the Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Mount the PSU securely into its bay in the chassis using screws. Ensure proper airflow for the PSU. Connect the main ATX power cable (24-pin) and the CPU power cable (e.g., 8-pin EPS) from the PSU to the motherboard. The PSU typically supports AC 100-240V input.

Step 8: Connect Everything to the Motherboard

Connect the front panel connectors (power button, reset button, HDD LED, power LED) to the F_PANEL header. Connect the front panel audio header to the F_AUDIO header. Connect any internal USB headers (e.g., USB 2.0, USB 3.x) to the corresponding USB headers on the motherboard.

Step 9: Install the Graphics Card

Open the retention clip on the primary PCIEX16 slot. Align the graphics card with the slot and press it firmly into place until it clicks. Secure the card to the chassis with screws. Connect any necessary PCIe power cables from the PSU to the graphics card.

Step 10: Connect to the Internet

Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN port on the rear I/O panel, or attach the Wi-Fi antennas to the designated connectors on the rear I/O panel for wireless connectivity.

Step 11: Connect Peripherals

Connect your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other essential peripherals to the appropriate ports on the motherboard's rear I/O panel or via internal headers.

Step 12: Turn On the PSU and Your PC

Ensure all connections are secure. Flip the power switch on the PSU to the 'ON' position. Press the power button on your PC's chassis. Check the motherboard's Q-LEDs or Q-LED Core for system status indicators. If errors occur, verify CPU fan connection and refer to the manual.

Step 13: Install the Operating System and Drivers

Boot your PC from your chosen installation media (e.g., USB drive) to install the operating system. After the OS is installed, install the necessary motherboard drivers and utilities, typically found on the ASUS support website or an included media.

Safety Information

Electrical Safety

• Disconnect power before relocating or working on the system.
• Ensure all power cables are unplugged before connecting or removing signal cables.
• Seek professional assistance for adapters or extension cords.
• Verify your power supply voltage is correct for your region.
• Do not attempt to repair a broken power supply yourself; contact a qualified technician.

Operation Safety

• Read all manuals that came with the package before installation.
• Ensure all cables are correctly connected and undamaged before use.
• Keep small metal objects (paper clips, screws) away from connectors and circuitry to prevent short circuits.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and extreme temperatures. Do not place the product in wet areas.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• Contact a qualified service technician for technical problems.
• Use the motherboard in ambient temperatures between 10°C and 35°C.

Button/Coin Batteries Safety Information

WARNING: INGESTION HAZARD

• This product contains a button cell or coin battery (CR2032, 3V).
• Ingestion can cause serious injury or death.
• Swallowed batteries can cause severe internal chemical burns within 2 hours.
• Keep new and used batteries OUT OF REACH of CHILDREN.
• Seek immediate medical attention if a battery is suspected to be swallowed or inserted.
• Do not attempt to recharge non-rechargeable batteries, disassemble, heat, or incinerate them.
• This product contains non-replaceable batteries.

Compliance and Support

This product complies with various regulations including FCC, HDMI, and regional standards. For detailed compliance information, warranty, and support, please visit the ASUS website.

ASUS Contact Information:

• ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Taipei, Taiwan)
• ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) (Fremont, CA, USA)
• ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) (Ratingen, Germany)
• ASUSTeK (UK) LIMITED (London, England)
• ASUS GLOBAL PTE. LTD. (Singapore)

Visit https://www.asus.com/support/ for multi-language support and product registration.