UEFI Settings are strange - Always on USB for the MSI MAG B550M MORTAR WIFI

When I ordered my last batch of PokyPow prototypes, I thought my USB header connector was broken or wired wrong.

Instead of the USB 2.0 socket on the mainboard, I tried a USB-A port from the back and tried it that way. With the regular blue USB-A to USB-C cable, the PokyPow was powered, when I turned off the PC.

I was confused. Maybe the USB 2.0 socket on the mainboard is broken?

Nope. The PokyPow will power on when I power on the PC when plugged into the mainboard USB 2.0 socket. 🤔

Turns out it was just my BIOS/UEFI settings. I was assuming that USB Always On was enabled because the USB ports on the back did power my devices when the PC was on. But for some reason, MSI decided to split that logic.

To turn on USB Always On for the MSI MAG B550M MORTAR WIFI with the AMI BIOS version 7C94v1K from 2024-08-09:

1. Go into your UEFI
2. On the top right is a search icon and search for "USB"
3. Enable Resume By USB Device

You also might need to disable the ERP power setting, but I am not 100% sure about that. This was disabled by default.

PokyPow updates

We have a new schematics. Switched a couple of components for cost, reliability and adding features. We will probably order PCB this week for testing.

As soon as the new PCBs work, I will let you know!

The original goal of 200 people on the mailing list was surpassed and that is good! We are now slowly going to the 400 mark!

Thank you so much and stay tuned!