AMD Borrows Reddit Fixes for 500-Series MB USB Issues

A few weeks ago AMD finally confirmed that there were indeed USB connection issues with some of their 500-series motherboard designs. Rather than being a problem with any particular AIB partner, however, the issue lurked somewhere within the AMD aspect of the design. Well, while they have acknowledged the problem, to date no solution has yet been provided.

Following a report via TechSpot, however, it would appear that AMD has come up with a rather bizarre temporary solution. Put simply, they’re advising people to attempt some of the ‘workarounds’ listed on Reddit.

AMD 500-Series Motherboard USB Issues!

For the sake of clarification, AMD has not explicitly said that Reddit is the answer to the problem. Rather, following the publication of some of their official temporary fixes, it would appear that, by and large, Team Red is basically just copy-pasting the hard work made by Reddit users attempting to resolve the problem.

So, what are the fixes, well, if you are having problems with USB devices randomly disconnecting on your 500-series motherboard, AMD (or more accurately Reddit) suggests the following:

1. Verify that your motherboard is updated to the latest BIOS version and configured using optimized/factory default settings. Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for BIOS update and download instructions.
2. Check if your Windows 10 is on the latest build and fully up to date. For information on updating Windows 10, please refer to Microsoft article: Update Windows 10
3. Ensure that the Ryzen chipset driver from AMD is installed and up to date. Latest Ryzen chipset driver version is 2.13.27.501 and can be downloaded here.

And if the above doesn’t work, try these two steps in addition:

1. Set PCIe mode from Gen4/Auto to Gen 3 in the BIOS
2. Disable Global C-States in the BIOS

What Do We Think?

Overall, the predominant theory in the problem does seem to revolve around bandwidth and, as such, this might explain why one of the biggest issues encountered is with users and their VR headsets. It would also potentially suggest why altering the PCIe mode from Gen4 to Gen3 might provide a slower but more stable solution.

Of course, AMD is adamant that a fix is on the way, for the moment, however, it would appear that even they are currently viewing Reddit as one of the best sources of information regarding this problem!

What do you think? – Let us know in the comments!