Update problems with MSI Tomahawk B450 BIOS, CPU debug indicator stays on, no further info
Update problems with MSI Tomahawk B450 BIOS, CPU debug indicator stays on, no further info
I possess two Ryzen processors, a 1600 and a 3600x. The motherboard I'm using isn't one I've worked with before; I initially attempted the 3600x but it wouldn't boot and the error indicator appeared. I discovered I needed an updated BIOS to enable support for the 3600x. First, I tried activating the "flashback" feature with the latest stable version, but it didn't resolve the issue. I renamed the installation file to "MSI.ROM" – the only item present on the USB drive, without subfolders or partitions. I used a USB 2.0, 2GB, fat32 partition, and tried various other drives and older BIOS versions. Resetting the CMOS by removing the battery gave me no improvement. Eventually, I decided to take my 1600 CPU out of the main system temporarily to update the BIOS. It booted successfully and opened the BIOS settings, though a dramatic error light flashed and a pop-up warned about RAM not being in optimal slots. I assumed that was connected and moved on. I proceeded with the BIOS flash, seemingly without problems, then began cleaning thermal paste. After a short wait, the computer powered off unexpectedly after installation. I wasn't sure if it should shut down automatically, so I left it on for a while. When I turned it back on, a CPU error light appeared again with my 1600 installed. Next, I removed the graphics card to re-seat the RAM in the correct slots, then reinstalled the CPU. After reassembly and powering up, the issue persisted – the CPU error light remained. I'm hoping for some guidance or advice on this situation. Thank you for reading my update.
Welcome to the forums! First, I would like to confirm that you had a cpu cooler on the mobo while it was updating the bios, is that the case? Second, try the 3600x. It's possible that the bios update went through and it's just waiting on a new CPU Third, it's possible the bios settings are in a weird state. Follow these instructions: Fourth, it's possible the bios update failed, but is in a recoverable state. Insert the 1600, put your USB stick in the Flash BIOS Port (bottom of the stack closest to the Flash BIOS button) and follow the instructions Fifth, it's possible I've missed something and you're still safe Sixth, it's possible the BIOS update failed in an unrecoverable state and the mobo is bricked
MSI mobos often restart after BIOS flashing or remain on the end screen with confirmation. Ending power down during BIOS can permanently damage the card. Reset BIOS using the CMOS jumper or remove the battery. Test with a single RAM stick only. Edit: Initially follow @OddOod’s advice about the BIOS flash button, then attempt the CMOS reset switch.