BIOS Update Fails on B650E Motherboard

Hey everyone,

I'm building a new PC with an ASUS ROG STRIX B650E-F GAMING WIFI motherboard, and I'm running into a frustrating issue. I'm trying to update the BIOS to the latest version (version 1605), but the update process keeps failing.

I've tried the following:

• Downloading the BIOS file directly from ASUS's support page.
• Formatting the USB drive (a SanDisk 32GB) to FAT32.
• Renaming the BIOS file to "SB650EF.CAP" as per the manual.
• Using the BIOS Flashback feature (motherboard powered off, dedicated USB port).
• Trying a different USB drive (a Kingston 16GB).
• Ensuring the system is not overclocked (though it hasn't booted fully yet).

When I try to initiate the update (either through the BIOS utility or Flashback), the process starts, I see the progress bar, and then it errors out, sometimes with a generic "Update Failed" message, and sometimes it just reboots without updating.

Has anyone else encountered this with a B650E board or this specific motherboard? Any ideas on what else I can try? I'm starting to suspect a faulty motherboard, but I wanted to exhaust all software/process possibilities first.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Hey AnxiousDIYer,

That sounds like a classic case of USB compatibility or formatting issues, even though you've tried a couple of drives. Here are a few more things to consider:

1. USB Port: Ensure you're using a USB 2.0 port for BIOS Flashback if possible. Sometimes newer USB 3.x ports can be finicky during this process. Check your motherboard manual for the specifically designated BIOS Flashback port.
2. USB Drive Brand/Model: While you've tried two, some USB drive controllers are just less compatible than others. Look for a reputable brand like SanDisk, Kingston, or Corsair, and ideally, one that's not too "fancy" with encryption or unique partitioning schemes. A simple, older 16GB or 32GB drive is usually safest.
3. Re-download and Re-zip: Sometimes the download can get corrupted. Try downloading the BIOS file again, extract it, and then rename it. Some users report success with *not* renaming the file if the tool is smart enough, but your manual implies renaming is required. Stick to the manual for now.
4. BIOS Version: Are you absolutely sure you downloaded the correct BIOS for your EXACT motherboard model (B650E-F GAMING WIFI)? Double-check the ASUS support page. Sometimes there are slight variations.
5. Clearing CMOS: Before trying again, consider clearing the CMOS. You can do this by unplugging the power, removing the CMOS battery for about 30 seconds, and then putting it back. This resets all BIOS settings to default.
6. Alternative BIOS Version: If the latest version (1605) is problematic, try an older, stable version. Sometimes the newest updates introduce bugs. You can find older versions on the ASUS support page.

Regarding your suspicion of a faulty motherboard, it's always a possibility, but let's rule out these common USB and BIOS update quirks first.

Let me know how it goes!

I had a similar issue with an MSI board last year. Turns out the USB stick had a weird partition table that the BIOS updater didn't like. I had to use a specific tool (like Rufus or HP USB Disk Storage Format Tool) to do a full low-level format instead of a quick one, and then format it to FAT32 again. Also, make sure you're extracting the .CAP file from the downloaded ZIP, don't just put the ZIP on the USB.

Also, check if there's a "BIOS Rescue" or similar utility on your motherboard that might be more robust than the standard update utility. Some boards have this feature.