MSI B550M Pro, A520M Pro Quick Start Guide

MSI B550M Pro, A520M Pro manual cover
Pages 66
Year 2020
Language(s)
English en

MSI B550M Pro, A520M Pro Specification

The MSI B550M Pro and A520M Pro are motherboards designed to support AMD Ryzen processors, offering a blend of performance and value for different user needs. The B550M Pro model is based on the B550 chipset, providing support for PCIe 4.0 on the primary graphics card slot and M.2 slot, which is crucial for users looking to leverage the latest high-speed storage solutions and graphics cards. It features dual-channel DDR4 memory support, with a maximum capacity of up to 128GB, enhancing multitasking capabilities and system performance. Additionally, it includes USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for fast data transfer, and support for Mystic Light for customizable RGB lighting.

In contrast, the A520M Pro is built on the A520 chipset, offering a more cost-effective solution without PCIe 4.0 support. This model is ideal for users who do not require the advanced features of the B550M Pro but still demand reliability and efficiency. It supports dual-channel DDR4 memory, up to 64GB, which is sufficient for typical daily computing tasks. The A520M Pro provides essential connectivity options including USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports and features such as Core Boost technology and Turbo M.2 for enhanced CPU performance and storage speed.

Both motherboards are equipped with robust VRM designs for stable power delivery, Audio Boost for high-quality audio output, and a range of connectivity options to accommodate varying peripheral demands. They also include BIOS Flashback for easy BIOS updates, ensuring compatibility with the latest Ryzen processors. These specifications make the MSI B550M Pro and A520M Pro suitable for different user profiles, from budget-conscious builders to those seeking more advanced feature sets.

MSI B550M Pro, A520M Pro F.A.Q.

How can I update the BIOS on the MSI B550M Pro motherboard?

To update the BIOS on the MSI B550M Pro, download the latest BIOS version from the MSI website, extract the files to a USB drive, reboot your PC, enter the BIOS setup, and use the M-Flash utility to complete the update process.

What should I do if my MSI A520M Pro motherboard is not detecting RAM?

Ensure that the RAM is properly seated in the correct slots. Check the motherboard manual for compatible RAM configurations. If the issue persists, test with different RAM sticks or slots to identify any potential faults.

How can I enable XMP on the MSI B550M Pro to improve RAM performance?

Enter the BIOS setup during boot, navigate to the overclocking settings, and enable the XMP profile for your RAM to optimize memory performance on the MSI B550M Pro.

My MSI A520M Pro is not booting up. What troubleshooting steps can I take?

Check all power connections, ensure the CPU and RAM are installed correctly, reset the CMOS, and verify that the PSU is functioning. If the problem persists, test the system with minimal hardware components.

What are the connectivity options available on the MSI B550M Pro?

The MSI B550M Pro offers a variety of connectivity options, including PCIe 4.0 slots, USB 3.2 Gen1, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and multiple audio jacks.

Can I use a Ryzen 5000 series CPU with the MSI A520M Pro motherboard?

Yes, the MSI A520M Pro supports Ryzen 5000 series CPUs, but you may need to update the BIOS to the latest version to ensure compatibility.

How do I reset the CMOS on the MSI B550M Pro motherboard?

To reset the CMOS on the MSI B550M Pro, turn off the system, unplug the power cord, and use a jumper cap to short the JBAT1 pins for a few seconds, or remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes before reinserting it.

What type of storage drives can I install on the MSI A520M Pro?

The MSI A520M Pro supports SATA drives and M.2 NVMe SSDs, allowing you to install both traditional hard drives and faster SSDs for improved performance.

How can I improve cooling on my MSI B550M Pro system?

Improve cooling by ensuring proper airflow with additional case fans, using quality thermal paste on the CPU, and considering an aftermarket CPU cooler for better heat dissipation.

Are there any known compatibility issues with the MSI A520M Pro and certain GPUs?

There are no widespread compatibility issues, but always check for BIOS updates and ensure the GPU is properly seated and powered. Consult MSI's support for specific GPU compatibility concerns.