ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE Motherboard Targets Home and SMB Server Needs with Advanced Features

ASUS has unveiled the Pro WS B850M-ACE SE microATX motherboard, designed to cater to a diverse range of users, from home server enthusiasts and small business deployments to demanding workstation setups. This board distinguishes itself through its server-oriented features like IPMI and robust connectivity options.

Introducing the ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE

ASUS’s latest offering, the Pro WS B850M-ACE SE motherboard, represents a significant step in providing server-grade capabilities to a broader audience. Initially conceived for home and small business servers, its adaptability extends to high-performance workstations requiring extensive storage solutions. This microATX board leverages a design philosophy often found in server motherboards, offering features typically reserved for more specialized systems.

Key Features and Specifications

At its core, the B850M-ACE SE is built around AMD’s Socket AM5 platform, supporting the full spectrum of consumer Ryzen and commercial Ryzen PRO desktop processors – encompassing models from the Ryzen 7000 and Ryzen 9000 series. Notably, it also provides compatibility with EPYC 4005 series server processors within the AM5 socket, expanding its potential use cases.

Processor Support: AMD Socket AM5 – Ryzen 7000 & 9000 Series (Consumer and PRO)
Memory: ECC DDR5 Unbuffered Memory up to 256GB (4 Sub-Channels, Up to 5600MHz)
Storage Connectivity: Two M.2-2280 slots (PCIe 5.0 x4), PCIe Gen 4 MCIO, U.2 Gen 3, Four SATA 6 Gbps ports

Advanced Server Features

Beyond its core capabilities, the B850M-ACE SE incorporates features designed to elevate server performance and management. The integrated Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) provides remote access and control for monitoring and troubleshooting server operations.

IPMI with ASPEED AST2600: Powered by an ASPEED AST2600 chip, the IPMI functionality is complemented by ASUS Control Center Express IT management software.
High-Speed Interfaces: Includes U.2 Gen 3 and PCIe Gen 4 MCIO for rapid storage access.

Connectivity & Expansion

The motherboard’s connectivity options are extensive, catering to diverse peripheral requirements.

LAN Ports: Three wired LAN interfaces – a 10 GbE port (Realtek RTL8127 PHY), a 2.5 GbE port (Intel i225 series controller), and a 1 GbE interface for IPMI control.
USB Connectivity: Offers a comprehensive selection of USB ports, including two 10 Gbps USB-C ports on the rear panel, a 20 Gbps USB-C header, three 10 Gbps USB Type-A ports, an internal Type-A port and additional 5 Gbps ports via headers.
Display Outputs: Integrated HDMI and DisplayPort outputs leveraging the iGPU. A D-Sub port is provided for IPMI functionality.