MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk Quick Start Guide

MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk manual cover
Pages 72
Year 2020
Language(s)
English en

MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk Specification

The MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk is a robust motherboard designed for gamers and PC builders seeking reliable performance in the mid-range market. It supports 10th Generation Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, utilizing the LGA 1200 socket. The motherboard features the Intel B460 chipset, offering a solid foundation for gaming and multitasking. Memory support includes dual-channel DDR4, with a capacity of up to 128GB across four DIMM slots, and speeds up to 2933 MHz, ensuring efficient multitasking and smooth performance.

The MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk is equipped with an array of connectivity options, including two M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs, enhancing storage capabilities and data transfer speeds. It includes six SATA III ports for additional storage devices. The motherboard provides rich audio output with the Realtek ALC1200 audio codec, delivering high-definition sound for an immersive gaming experience. Networking is powered by Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN, ensuring stable and fast internet connectivity.

Expansion slots include two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, supporting AMD CrossFire technology for multi-GPU setups, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for additional add-ons. The rear I/O panel features a variety of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2, HDMI, DisplayPort, and a PS/2 combo port for legacy peripherals. It also boasts MSI's Mystic Light RGB lighting, allowing customization with various color schemes and effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the build. The motherboard is designed with an extended heatsink and robust power delivery system, ensuring optimal thermal performance and stability under heavy workloads.

MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

To update the BIOS on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk, download the latest BIOS file from MSI's official website, extract the file, and copy it to a USB drive. Reboot your computer and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'DEL' key during startup, then use the M-Flash utility to perform the update.

What should I do if my MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk won't boot?

First, check all power connections and ensure that the RAM and GPU are properly seated. If the issue persists, try resetting the CMOS by removing the motherboard battery for a few minutes. Reinstall the battery and attempt to boot again.

How can I optimize the BIOS settings for gaming on my MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

To optimize BIOS settings for gaming, enable XMP for your RAM to ensure it runs at its rated speed. Adjust fan curves for better cooling and ensure that the 'Game Boost' feature is enabled if available.

What do the EZ Debug LEDs indicate on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

The EZ Debug LEDs provide a quick way to diagnose hardware problems. The CPU, DRAM, VGA, and Boot LEDs will light up to indicate which component is not functioning correctly if there's an issue during boot.

Is it possible to use NVMe SSDs with the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

Yes, the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk supports NVMe SSDs. It has two M.2 slots that are compatible with PCIe NVMe SSDs, providing fast data transfer speeds.

How do I enable RAID on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

To enable RAID on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk, enter the BIOS setup and navigate to the 'Advanced' section. Set SATA Mode to RAID and save the changes. After rebooting, use the Intel Rapid Storage Technology software to configure your RAID setup.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

The MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk supports a maximum of 128GB of DDR4 RAM, with four DIMM slots available for installation.

Can I use integrated graphics with the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

Yes, the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk supports integrated graphics if your CPU has an integrated GPU. Connect your display cable to the motherboard's video output ports to use the integrated graphics.

What is the procedure to reset the CMOS on the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

To reset the CMOS, turn off your computer and unplug it from the power source. Locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard and remove it. Wait a few minutes, then reinsert the battery and power on the computer.

How can I improve cooling for the MSI MAG B460 Tomahawk?

Improving cooling can be achieved by configuring fan settings in the BIOS, ensuring proper case airflow, and considering additional or upgraded cooling solutions like aftermarket CPU coolers or additional case fans.