ASUS TUF GAMING B460-PLUS Motherboard User Manual

Introduction

This document is the user manual for the ASUS TUF GAMING B460-PLUS motherboard. It provides detailed information on installation, configuration, specifications, and safety guidelines.

Copyright © 2020 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

This product contains copyrighted software licensed under various open-source licenses. Source code is available upon request.

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, ensure power cables are unplugged before signal cables are connected. Disconnect all power cables from the existing system before adding a device if possible.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure all power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord, as these could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Ensure your power supply is set to the correct voltage for your area. Contact your local power company if unsure.
• If the power supply is broken, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation Safety

• Before installing the motherboard and components, carefully read all accompanying manuals.
• Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and power cables are not damaged. Contact your dealer immediately if damage is detected.
• 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 areas exposed to moisture.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• If technical problems occur, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
• Your motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures between 0°C and 40°C.

About This Guide

This user guide contains the information needed for installing and configuring the motherboard.

How This Guide Is Organized

• Chapter 1: Product Introduction: Describes motherboard features, new technology, switches, jumpers, and connectors.
• Chapter 2: BIOS Information: Explains how to boot into BIOS and upgrade BIOS using EZ Flash Utility.

Where to Find More Information

• ASUS Website: Provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products.
• Optional Documentation: May include warranty flyers or other dealer-added documents.

Conventions Used in This Guide

• ⚠️ CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to components and injuries.
• ❗ IMPORTANT: Instructions that MUST be followed.
• ✍️ NOTE: Tips and additional information.

Package Contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items:

• Motherboard: 1 x TUF GAMING B460-PLUS motherboard
• Cables: 2 x SATA 6Gb/s cables
• Miscellaneous: 1 x I/O Shield, 1 x M.2 SSD screw package (2-in-1 package), 1 x TUF Gaming sticker
• Application DVD: 1 x Support DVD
• Documentation: 1 x TUF Certification card, 1 x User manual

If any items are damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

TUF GAMING B460-PLUS Specifications Summary

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications.

Connectors with Shared Bandwidth

This section details the motherboard connectors and their shared bandwidth configurations.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows the layout of the motherboard, indicating various connectors and slots. Key areas include CPU socket (LGA1200), DIMM slots, PCIe slots, M.2 slots, SATA ports, USB headers, fan headers, and rear panel connectors.

Configuration Table:

Note: M.2_1 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_1. When M.2_1 runs in SATA mode, SATA6G_1 will be disabled.

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1.1 Before You Proceed

Take note of the following precautions before installing motherboard components or changing 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 (like the power supply case) to avoid static electricity damage.
• Ensure the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached before installing or removing any component to prevent severe damage.

1.2 Motherboard Overview

Diagram Description: The motherboard diagram shows the physical layout of components and connectors. Key numbered locations include:

1. CPU Socket (LGA1200)
2. DIMM Slots (DDR4)
3. PCIe Slots (x16, x1)
4. M.2 Slots
5. SATA Ports
6. Front Panel Headers (Power, Reset, LEDs, Audio)
7. Rear Panel Connectors
8. Fan Headers (CPU, Chassis, AIO Pump)
9. Power Connectors (24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS)
10. Chipset (Intel B460)
11. CMOS Battery
12. RGB Headers
13. USB Headers
14. Debug LED

Note: Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard to prevent injury and damage.

1.2.1 Layout Contents

1. CPU Socket: Intel® Socket LGA1200 for 10th Gen Intel® Core™, Pentium® Gold, and Celeron® Processors.
2. DDR4 DIMM Slots: Four slots for DDR4 memory modules.
3. Expansion Slots: Supports two PCIe x16 graphics cards and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots.
4. Fan Headers: Connects system fans for cooling.

   Header	Max. Current	Max. Power	Default Speed	Shared Control
   CPU_FAN	1A	12W	Q-Fan Controlled	A
   CPU_OPT	1A	12W	Q-Fan Controlled	A
   CHA_FAN1	1A	12W	Q-Fan Controlled	-
   CHA_FAN2	1A	12W	Q-Fan Controlled	A
   AIO_PUMP	1A	12W	Full-Speed	-

5. Power Connectors: Connects to the power supply unit (PSU). Ensure the 8-pin power plug is connected. A PSU compliant with ATX 12V Specification 2.0 (or later) with a minimum of 350W is recommended. For systems with power-consuming devices or multiple high-end PCIe x16 cards, higher wattage PSUs (e.g., 1000W) are recommended for stability.
6. M.2 Slots (Key M): For M.2 SSD modules. Supports PCIe 3.0 x4 & SATA modes (M.2_1) and PCIe 3.0 x4 mode (M.2_2). Supports Intel® Rapid Storage Technology and Intel® Optane™ memory (M.2_2 only). M.2_1 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_1.
7. SATA 6Gb/s Ports: Connects SATA devices like optical drives and hard disk drives.
8. USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header: Provides additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports with speeds up to 5 Gb/s. USB 3.2 Gen 1 module sold separately.
9. USB 2.0 Headers: Provides additional USB 2.0 ports with speeds up to 480 Mb/s. USB 2.0 module sold separately. ⚠️ DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to USB connectors.
10. AURA RGB Headers: Connects RGB LED strips (5050 type, 12V/G/R/B, max 3A, 3m length).
11. Clear CMOS Header: Clears CMOS RTC RAM data (system setup info, passwords). Instructions provided for erasing RTC RAM.
12. COM Port Header: For a serial (COM) port module.
13. Front Panel Audio Header: Connects to chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O modules for HD audio.
14. System Panel Header (20-3 pin): Supports system power LED, HDD activity LED, system warning speaker, ATX power button, reset button, and chassis intrusion detection.

1.2.2 Rear Panel Connectors

The rear panel provides connectivity for external devices:

1. PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Combo Port: For PS/2 mouse or keyboard.
2. DisplayPort: For DisplayPort-compatible devices.
3. Ethernet Port: Gigabit connection to LAN. Includes LED indicators for activity/link and speed.
4. Center / Subwoofer Port (Orange): Connects center/subwoofer speakers.
5. Rear Speaker Out Port (Black): Connects rear speakers for 4, 5.1, or 7.1 channel audio.
6. Line In Port (Light Blue): Connects audio sources like tape, CD, or DVD players.
7. Line Out Port (Lime): Connects headphones or speakers. Acts as Front Speaker Out in 4, 5.1, or 7.1 channel configurations.
8. USB 3.2 Gen 1 Ports: Connects USB 3.2 Gen 1 devices (up to 5Gbps).
9. HDMI™ Port: High-Definition Multimedia Interface for video and audio output, HDCP compliant.
10. Side Speaker Out Port (Gray): Connects side speakers in 7.1-channel audio.
11. Microphone Port (Pink): Connects a microphone.

Audio Configuration Table:

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

This motherboard features an Intel® Socket LGA1200 for 10th Gen Intel® Core™, Pentium® Gold, and Celeron® Processors.

Installation Steps:

1. Ensure the CPU socket lever is open.
2. Align the CPU's triangle mark with the socket's triangle mark.
3. Gently place the CPU into the socket. Do not force it.
4. Close the socket lever.

⚠️ Ensure you install the correct CPU for the LGA1200 socket. Check the PnP cap and socket contacts for damage. Keep the PnP cap for RMA purposes. Warranty may be voided by incorrect installation.

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

1.4 System Memory

The motherboard has four DDR4 Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets.

DIMM Socket Locations:

• Channel A: DIMM_A1 & DIMM_A2*
• Channel B: DIMM_B1 & DIMM_B2*

Memory Configuration Notes:

• Memory sizes can vary between channels; the system maps the lower-sized channel for dual-channel configuration.
• Install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, use modules from the same vendor and with the same version/date code.
• For 10th Gen Intel® processors, Core™ i9/i7 CPUs natively support 2933/2800/2666/2400/2133 MHz. Other CPUs will run at DDR4 2666MHz.
• DDR4 modules have a different notch than DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 modules. Do not install incompatible memory types.
• Default memory frequency depends on SPD. Overclocking modules may run at lower frequencies.
• For system stability with full memory load, use an efficient memory cooling system.
• Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).

Recommended Memory Configurations:

Diagram Description: Visual representations show how to install DIMMs in dual-channel configurations for optimal performance.

Installing a DIMM

To Install a DIMM:

1. Open the clips on the DIMM slot.
2. Align the DIMM's notch with the slot's key.
3. Press down firmly on both ends of the DIMM until the clips snap into place.

To Remove a DIMM:

1. Push down the clips on both ends of the DIMM slot.
2. Gently pull the DIMM straight up out of the slot.

Chapter 2: BIOS Information

2.1 Knowing BIOS

The ASUS UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface with mouse support for easy navigation. It stores system hardware settings for startup.

When to Change BIOS Settings:

• If an error message requests BIOS Setup.
• When installing new components that require BIOS configuration or updates.

⚠️ Inappropriate BIOS settings can lead to instability or boot failure. It is strongly recommended to change settings only with the help of trained personnel.

• When downloading or updating BIOS, rename the file to TGB460PS.CAP for this motherboard.
• BIOS settings and options may vary by release version.

For more information, visit https://www.asus.com/support. A QR code is provided for downloading the BIOS manual.

2.2 BIOS Setup Program

Use BIOS Setup to update or configure BIOS parameters. Navigation keys and onscreen help are provided.

Entering BIOS at Startup

Press <Delete> or <F2> during Power-On Self Test (POST).

Entering BIOS Setup After POST

• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.
• Press the system chassis reset button.
• Turn the system off and back on (if the above methods fail).

After any of these, press <Delete> to enter BIOS.

Notes:

• A USB mouse is recommended for easier control in BIOS Setup.
• If the system becomes unstable, load default settings (Exit menu or <F5>).
• If the system fails to boot after changes, clear CMOS and reset to default.
• Bluetooth devices are not supported in BIOS setup.

BIOS Menu Screen: BIOS Setup offers EZ Mode and Advanced Mode, switchable via the Boot menu or <F7> hotkey.

2.3 ASUS EZ Flash 3

ASUS EZ Flash 3 allows BIOS updates without an OS utility.

Ensure BIOS default settings are loaded for compatibility and stability.

To Update the BIOS by USB:

• This function supports FAT 32/16 formatted USB flash drives with a single partition.
• ⚠️ DO NOT shut down or reset the system during BIOS updates to prevent boot failure.

1. Insert the USB flash disk with the BIOS file into a USB port.
2. Enter BIOS Setup (Advanced Mode), go to the Tool menu, select ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility, and press <Enter>.
3. Select via Storage Device(s).
4. Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field and select your USB flash disk.
5. Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder field and select the BIOS file.
6. Press <Enter> to start the BIOS update process. Reboot when done.

2.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool to restore a corrupted BIOS file. It can use the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive containing the BIOS file.

The BIOS file on the support DVD may be older than the one on the ASUS website. Download the latest file from https://www.asus.com/support/ if needed.

Recovering the BIOS

1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the motherboard support DVD or USB flash drive with the BIOS file.
3. The utility will automatically detect the BIOS file and enter ASUS EZ Flash 3.
4. Enter BIOS Setup and press <F5> to load default BIOS values for system compatibility and stability.

⚠️ DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS, as this can cause system boot failure!

Appendix: Notices

FCC Compliance Information

Responsible Party: Asus Computer International
Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA
Phone / Fax No: (510)739-3777 / (510)608-4555

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to try correcting it by:

• Reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna.
• Increasing the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connecting the equipment to a different circuit.
• Consulting a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.

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)

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement (Class B ITE)

This is a Class B information technology device. It is intended for home environments but may cause interference to radio or television receivers if used nearby. Please follow instructions in the manual.

KC: Korea Warning Statement

This is a Class B device (household broadcasting equipment) intended for home use, suitable for all regions.

Google™ License Terms

Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0. Full license details available at http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0.

Declaration of Compliance for Product Environmental Regulation

ASUS adheres to green design concepts and global environmental regulations. Information on compliance is available at http://csr.asus.com/Compliance.htm.

• EU REACH and Article 33: Compliance with REACH regulations. Chemical substances information at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
• EU RoHS: Complies with EU RoHS Directive. Details at http://csr.asus.com/english/article.aspx?id=35.
• India RoHS: Complies with India E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016 regarding hazardous substances.
• Vietnam RoHS: Products sold in Vietnam meet Circular 30/2011/TT-BCT requirements.
• Turkey RoHS: Complies with AEEE Yönetmeliği.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services

ASUS offers recycling and takeback programs for responsible disposal. Details at http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm.

• ?️❌ DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. It is designed for reuse and recycling.
• ?️❌ DO NOT throw mercury-containing button cell batteries in municipal waste.

Regional Notice for California

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

ASUS Contact Information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address: 1F., No. 15, Lide Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City 112, Taiwan
Telephone: +886-2-2894-3447
Fax: +886-2-2890-7798
Web site: https://www.asus.com

Technical Support
Telephone: +86-21-38429911
Online support: https://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
Web site: https://www.asus.com/us/

Technical Support
Support fax: +1-812-284-0883
Telephone: +1-812-282-2787
Online support: https://qr.asus.com/techserv

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address: Harkortstrasse 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany
Web site: https://www.asus.com/de
Online contact: https://www.asus.com/support/Product/ContactUs/ Services/questionform/?lang=de-de

Technical Support
Telephone (DE): +49-2102-5789557
Telephone (AT): +43-1360-2775461
Online support: https://www.asus.com/de/support