MSI PRO B650M-B

The MSI PRO B650M-B is a micro-ATX motherboard designed to support AMD Ryzen 7000-series processors, based on the B650 chipset. This motherboard offers a good balance of performance, connectivity, and features for users looking to build a powerful but budget-conscious PC. Here are the detailed features of the MSI PRO B650M-B:

Key Features:

1. Chipset and Processor Support:

• Chipset: AMD B650
• Socket Type: AM5, supporting AMD Ryzen 7000-series processors (Zen 4 architecture).
• Supports PBO (Precision Boost Overdrive) and Auto-Overclocking for better performance tuning.

2. Memory:

• Memory Type: DDR5 RAM (Note: Supports DDR4 memory via specific variants of the B650 chipset, but this model focuses on DDR5).
• Slots: 4 x DIMM slots for maximum flexibility.
• Maximum Memory Capacity: Up to 64GB.
• Memory Speed: Supports DDR5 speeds from 4800 MHz to 6400 MHz (overclockable, depending on the CPU and memory configuration).
• Dual-Channel Memory Architecture for improved performance in supported applications.

3. Expansion Slots:

• PCIe 5.0 x16 Slot: 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for high-performance graphics cards (GPU).
• PCIe 4.0 x16 Slot: 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 (electrical x4) for other expansion cards.
• PCIe 4.0 x1 Slot: 1 x PCIe 4.0 x1 slot for additional expansion cards (e.g., sound cards, network cards).

4. Storage:

• M.2 Slots:
  • 1 x M.2 PCIe 4.0 x4 slot for high-speed NVMe SSDs.
  • 1 x M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 slot (also supports SATA drives).
• SATA Ports:
  • 4 x SATA III (6Gb/s) ports for traditional hard drives (HDDs) or SATA SSDs.
• Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 configurations for data redundancy or performance.

5. Networking:

• Ethernet Port: 1 x Gigabit Ethernet LAN port with Realtek RTL8125B for fast wired networking.
• Wi-Fi: No built-in Wi-Fi, but the board can support Wi-Fi 6/6E via an additional Wi-Fi card if desired.

6. Audio:

• Realtek ALC897 Audio Codec: Supports 7.1-channel HD audio with high-quality sound output via 3.5mm jacks.
• Audio Boost: Features to enhance the audio experience for better sound clarity.

7. USB Ports:

• Rear I/O:
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C.
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A.
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A.
  • 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A.
• Internal USB Headers:
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 header.
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 headers.
  • 2 x USB 2.0 headers.

8. Video Output:

• 1 x HDMI 2.1 port for integrated graphics (if using a Ryzen APU with onboard GPU).
• Note: No DisplayPort output, so you would need a dedicated GPU for higher-end graphics setups.

9. Cooling and Power:

• CPU Fan Headers: 1 x 4-pin CPU fan header.
• Chassis Fan Headers: 2 x 4-pin system fan headers for efficient case cooling.
• Power Connectors:
  • 24-pin ATX power connector for motherboard power.
  • 8-pin CPU power connector for stable power delivery to the processor.

10. Form Factor:

• Size: Micro-ATX (9.6 x 9.6 inches or 244 x 244 mm).
• Standard mounting holes for most micro-ATX cases.

11. BIOS and Overclocking:

• UEFI BIOS: A user-friendly interface for system configuration, monitoring, and updates.
• Overclocking Support: Limited compared to high-end motherboards, but it does support basic memory and CPU overclocking features for compatible components.
• Flash BIOS Button: Allows you to update the BIOS without needing a CPU or RAM installed.

12. Build Quality and Durability:

• Military-Grade Components: Designed with robust components for enhanced durability and stability.
• Solid Capacitors and high-quality PCB ensure long-lasting performance.

13. Additional Features:

• TPM 2.0 support for enhanced security features.
• Supports DirectStorage and Auto-Overclocking technologies for gaming and general performance improvements.
• EZ Debug LEDs: Diagnostic LEDs to help with troubleshooting during system setup.

Summary:

The MSI PRO B650M-B motherboard offers a solid platform for building a Ryzen 7000-series-based system. With support for DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing, and a variety of connectivity options, it’s a great choice for users who want reliability and performance without the premium features found in high-end models. While it lacks built-in Wi-Fi and some advanced features, it offers excellent expandability for a budget-friendly PC build. It is well-suited for users who need a stable, functional system for work, general use, or moderate gaming.