Asus TUF Gaming B850M-PLUS WIFI B850 Chipset AMD Ryzen AM5 Socket Micro ATX Gaming Motherboard
- Brand: Asus
- Product Code: TUFGAMINGB850MPLUSWIFI [#56]
- sku: TUFGAMINGB850MPLUSWIFI
- Reward Points: 23
- Availability: In Stock ✓ Ready to ship!
- Qty available: 2
R4,631.68 inc. VAT
- Ex VAT: R4,027.55
- Price in reward points: 4632
The specifications below may differ from the model's specifications. Please view the above short specification block to verify which features apply in this model. E&OE.
About this product
The Asus TUF Gaming B850M-PLUS WIFI is a rugged micro-ATX motherboard built on the AMD B850 chipset for the AM5 socket. With 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages, DDR5 memory support up to 8000 MT/s (OC), PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, 2.5 Gb Ethernet and built-in WiFi 6E, it delivers a stable and high-performance platform tailored for gaming and content creation.
Overview Summary
Product: Asus TUF Gaming B850M-PLUS WIFI micro-ATX motherboard
This motherboard combines military-grade durability with modern performance features designed for serious gamers and creators alike. Its robust 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power delivery ensures stable voltage under load, while support for DDR5 memory up to 8000 MT/s (OC) lets you push your system further. The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot readies your build for next-generation graphics, and storage options include three M.2 slots plus SATA 6 Gb/s ports. Networking and connectivity are compelling - 2.5 Gb Ethernet and integrated WiFi 6E ensure fast wired/wireless links, and the rear I/O offers USB 20 Gbps Type-C along with multiple USB ports. Additional features include comprehensive cooling headers, BIOS FlashBack, and Aura Sync RGB compatibility to round out the package.
Whether assembling a compact gaming rig, productivity workstation or streaming PC, this board blends performance, connectivity and stability in a space-efficient micro-ATX form factor.
Performance tier: Upper mainstream / enthusiast
Uses: Gaming PC, content creation, streaming, workstation builds, overclocked systems
Overview
ASUS TUF GAMING B850M-PLUS WIFI takes all the essential elements of the latest AMD Ryzen(TM) processors and combines them with game-ready features and proven durability. Engineered with military-grade components, an upgraded power solution and a comprehensive cooling system, this motherboard goes beyond expectations with rock-solid and stable performance for marathon gaming. TUF GAMING motherboards also undergo rigorous endurance testing to ensure that they can handle conditions where others may fail. This platform delivers the power and connectivity that advanced AI PC applications demand.
Description
Engineered for durability and performance, the Asus TUF Gaming B850M-PLUS WIFI combines military-grade components-such as alloy chokes and durable capacitors-with a sturdy PCB design to withstand extended use. The 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stage architecture ensures stable power to modern high-core CPUs under load. With full support for high-speed DDR5 memory (up to 8000 MT/s via OC), the board unlocks memory headroom for performance seekers. The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot readies users for upcoming GPU generations, while dual PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 3.0 expansion help maintain flexibility. Storage is versatile with three M.2 slots (one PCIe 5.0, two PCIe 4.0/3.0) alongside four SATA 6 Gb/s ports. Networking includes a 2.5 Gb Ethernet controller and integrated WiFi 6E + Bluetooth. Rear I/O offers one USB 20 Gbps Type-C, several USB 10 Gbps / 5 Gbps / 2.0 ports, HDMI and DisplayPort video outputs (depending on CPU). BIOS FlashBack support allows BIOS updates without CPU installed. Aura Sync RGB headers let you sync lighting across components. Cooling headers for CPU, pump, and chassis fans give full thermal control.
Features
Key features and benefits:
- Robust power design: 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages provide stable current to demanding CPUs under load.
- DDR5 memory support: Up to 256 GB across 4 DIMMs, with overclocking to 8000 MT/s (OC), plus EXPO and AEMP profiles.
- PCIe 5.0 ready: One full x16 slot supports next-gen GPUs; additional expansion through PCIe 4.0 / 3.0 slots.
- High speed storage: Three M.2 slots (one PCIe 5.0, two PCIe 4.0/3.0) plus SATA 6 Gb/s for legacy drives.
- Fast networking: 2.5 Gb Ethernet and integrated WiFi 6E with Bluetooth for ultra-responsive connectivity.
- Comprehensive I/O: USB 20 Gbps Type-C, multiple 10 Gbps/5 Gbps/2.0 ports, DisplayPort / HDMI outputs (via CPU), BIOS FlashBack support.
- Cooling and control: Multiple fan / pump headers, thermal sensors, and full UEFI tuning tools.
- Lighting sync: Aura Sync RGB headers let you coordinate lighting across system components.
AI Advisor
ASUS AI Advisor is an ASUS technical expert that's always available to answer your questions. Owners of compatible ASUS motherboards can interact with this AI-powered technology using natural language to learn more about their hardware. For DIY beginners, it can provide easy-to-understand explanations of one-click optimization features like AI Overclocking and fan speed tuning, and for seasoned PC-building veterans, it can offer guidance and instructions on the latest features offered by ASUS.
UEFI BIOS
The UEFI interface delivers easy-to-use configuration options for PC beginners, and advanced features for veterans.
BIOS Q-Dashboard
Simplify your motherboard configuration with BIOS Q-Dashboard. Its intuitive visual representation of hardware connections and corresponding BIOS settings takes the complexity out of setting up your system. Upgrade now, and discover the power of BIOS Q-Dashboard to easily and efficiently enhance your computing setup.
ASUS MyHotkey
This feature provides a fast, convenient way to update the BIOS and boot your OS, enhancing PC upgrades with streamlined efficiency for DIY users.
Advanced Tuning for Serious Tweakers
An intuitive Advanced mode offered via the UEFI lets you take complete control. A built-in search feature makes it easy to find options, and various advanced functions let you intelligently make nuanced adjustments so you can dial in performance just the way you want.
Intuitive Graphical Fan Control
Fine-tune individual fan settings simply by dragging a curve with the mouse.
Aura On/Off Mode (Stealth)
Easily enable or disable Aura RGB lighting or every onboard LED, for a subdued aesthetic touch.
Quick and Simple Setup
EZ Mode displays vital settings and stats and also offers guided wizards, drag-and-drop functionality and one-click application of important settings - all to help you get your rig up and running in no time.
ASUS DriverHub
ASUS DriverHub streamlines the installation and management of ASUS drivers and utilities to keep your hardware up-to-date and performing optimally. This standalone application automatically detects current driver versions and presents available updates in a list view. By default, it supports ASUS motherboards, and users are invited to install ASUS DriverHub after OS installation. Additionally, ASUS DriverHub offers one-click installation and update checks, making it easier for users to keep their systems running smoothly and efficiently.
ASUS GlideX
ASUS GlideX is a cross-device, cross-platform screen-sharing, screen-control and operation solution for enhanced productivity across PCs, tablets and smartphones via USB or WiFi. Features include screen mirroring, screen extension, unified control with one keyboard and mouse, easy file transfers, and using mobile cameras as PC webcams. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android and iOS.
All-Around Energy Efficiency
The Power Saving function contains several settings that can easily optimize power consumption and maximize energy savings. You can enable a CPU power limit, darken Aura lighting and set the fan profile to a power saving mode. You can also toggle the Power Saver plan that is built into Windows.
Armoury Crate
Within a single intuitive interface, Armoury Crate offers easily customized Aura Sync RGB settings for every compatible device in your arsenal, plus controls for an ever-growing family of ASUS products, including keyboard and mouse preferences. Armoury Crate also integrates product registration and a news feed so that the ASUS community always has access to interesting updates.
Premium Power Design
Stable power is crucial for maximizing the performance of AMD processors. The motherboard is designed to meet the needs of high-core-count CPUs. It features 14(80A) + 2(80A) + 1(80A) power stages that integrate high-side and low-side MOSFETs and drivers into packages rated for up to 80A each. This configuration ensures optimal power delivery, efficiency, stability and performance for both current and future AMD processors.
Eight Layered PCB design
Enhanced stability and overclocking.
ProCool Power Connectors
Proprietary 8+8 pin connectors improve PSU connection.
TUF Components
TUF chokes and capacitors offer rock-solid durability and stability.
Digi+VRM Control
Real-time voltage control.
DRAM Overclocking Performance
Comprehensive memory tuning options are the cornerstone of TUF GAMING motherboards. With the motherboard, you can extract all the potential out of your DDR5 modules*, whether they're from an extreme-speed kit or an entry-level set that would otherwise be locked.
DDR5 DOMINANCE
For those who want to fly past stock DDR5 speeds, this motherboard is primed and ready for enthusiast-grade kits, courtesy of vast AMD Extended Profiles for Overclocking (EXPO(TM)) support. Seasoned veterans can further tweak performance via an extensive array of settings in the UEFI.
ASUS AEMP
ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile (AEMP) is an exclusive firmware feature for PMIC-restricted memory modules. AEMP automatically detects the memory chips on your kit and then presents optimized frequency, timing and voltage profiles that you can quickly apply.
M.2 PCIe 5.0 Support
This motherboard also features one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot to enjoy the fastest data transfers of up to 128 Gbps*, and all M.2 slots support NVMe RAID configurations to take advantage of the latest available speeds.
AIO Pump Header
An integrated AIO management system enables full control of PWM or DC water pumps, making it perfect for custom or all-in-one cooling setups.
Enlarged VRM Heatsinks
The extensive surface area of this heatsink covers the MOSFETs and chokes to improve thermal performance.
Multiple Temperature Sources
Each header can dynamically reference three thermal sensors. Fan Xpert 4 allows you to map the temperature of supported ASUS graphics cards to optimize cooling for GPU- and CPU-intensive tasks.
Smart Fan Protection
A dedicated integrated circuit protects each fan header from excess heat and electrical currents.
Superb PCH Heatsink
A surface area for the chipset cooler maximizes system performance and heat dissipation.
M.2 Heatsinks
All three M.2 slots have dedicated heatsinks to help keep M.2 SSDs at optimal operating temperatures and ensure consistent performance and reliability.
4-Pin PWM/DC Fan
All onboard fan headers support auto-detection of PWM or DC fans.
Cooler Compatibility
ASUS AIO coolers offer robust performance, high overclocking potential, bold aesthetics and customizable functionality for new TUF Gaming motherboards, empowering you to build your dream gaming rig.
Empowering Connection
This motherboard offers a versatile range of connectivity with PCIe 5.0, rear USB 20Gbps Type-C(RegTM) port and front USB 10Gbps Type-C(RegTM) connector.
PCIe 5.0 for Graphics Card
PCIe 5.0 offers twice the data transfer speed of PCIe 4.0, making it robust enough to handle new data-heavy tasks. PCIe 5.0 also brings other benefits, such as electrical changes to improve signal integrity, backward-compatible CEM connectors for add-in cards and backward compatibility with previous versions of the PCIe bus.
Rear USB 20Gbps Type-C(RegTM)
Extensive USB support ensures connections to a wide array of external devices. This motherboard includes a USB 20Gbps Type-C(RegTM) port on the rear I/O panel that delivers transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps.
Front USB 10Gbps Type-C(RegTM)
This motherboard features a USB 10Gbps Type-C(RegTM) front panel connector for speedy data transfers of up to 10Gbps.
PCIe Slot Q-Release
A physical lever unlocks the first PCIe slot's security latch with one tap, greatly simplifying the process of detaching a PCIe card from the motherboard when it's time to upgrade to a new GPU or other compatible device.
Q-Antenna
With Q-Antenna, attaching a WiFi antenna to your PC is now easy and fast. Instead of slowly rotating two fasteners until they finally lock in, they just snap into place. Less hassle, and more consistent performance.
M.2 Q-Latch
The innovative ASUS Q-Latch makes it easy to install or remove an M.2 SSD without the need for specific tools or screws. This design employs a simple locking mechanism to secure the drive and neatly detach it with one tap.
Q-LED
The on-board Q-LED troubleshooting lights give PC builders a quick indicator to confirm that key components - CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage devices - are functioning normally during startup. It can also alert them when memory modules have not been properly installed--even before booting.
BIOS FlashBack(TM)
BIOS FlashBack(TM) simplifies BIOS updates. Just load the BIOS file onto a FAT32 USB stick, insert it into the BIOS FlashBack(TM) port, and press a button-no CPU or memory needed.
Pre-mounted I/O shield
Our pre-installed I/O shield safeguards ports, simplifies the build process, increases functionality and enhances aesthetics for PC DIY enthusiasts.
SafeSlot & SafeDIMM
SafeSlot is a reinforced metal sheath integrated with a PCIe slot to keep a card firmly installed and to ensure the highest possible data speeds. The SafeDIMM sheath is integrated to protect memory modules, empowering you to insert them with speed, accuracy and confidence.
ESD Guards
ASUS added special TVS diodes to boost electrostatic discharge prevention by up to +/- 10 kV of air discharge and +/- 6 kV of contact discharge - well above the industry standard.
TUF LANGuard
TUF LANGuard is a military-grade innovation that integrates advanced signal-coupling technology and premium surface-mounted capacitors to improve throughput, helping to protect the motherboard from lightning strikes and static electricity.
Stainless Steel Back I/O Panel
TUF Gaming motherboards feature a corrosion-resistant stainless steel rear I/O panel with up to a 3X longer lifespan. These models pass a rigorous 72-hour salt fog test, surpassing the industry standard.
Build With Confidence
TUF GAMING Alliance is a collaboration between ASUS and trusted PC component brands to ensure compatibility across a wide range of parts, such as PC cases, power supplies, CPU coolers, memory kits and more. With new partnerships and components being added regularly, the TUF GAMING Alliance will continue to grow even stronger.
Ultrafast Networking
Provide a feature-packed high-performance gaming package, with ultrafast networking for smoother online gameplay.
WiFi 6E
WiFi 6E ensures stable connections and low latency.
2.5Gb Ethernet
On-board 2.5Gb Ethernet kicks your LAN connection up a notch by improving bandwidth speeds up to 2.5X faster than 1Gb connections.
Realtek 7.1 Channel Audio
This motherboard utilizes an audio codec designed in close collaboration with Realtek - the Realtek ALC1220P. It features an unprecedented 120 dB signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio for the stereo line out and a 113 dB SNR for the line in, providing pristine audio quality. Additionally, an impedance-sensing circuit automatically adjusts gain to ensure an optimal volume range for your headphones.
Outshine The Competition
A well-tuned system deserves a matching aesthetic. The TUF GAMING motherboard features edge lighting to enhance its rugged look, and ASUS Aura offers full RGB control with presets for built-in LEDs and third-party strips. It can all sync with an ever-growing portfolio of Aura-compatible hardware.
Addressable Gen2 RGB Header
Three addressable Gen2 RGB headers will support up to 500 LEDs on Gen2 RGB devices, empowering Aura Sync to automatically tailor lighting effects across your whole system. The headers also offer full backward compatibility with existing Aura Sync gear.
What's in the Box
- Asus TUF Gaming B850M-PLUS WIFI motherboard
- WiFi antenna (dual) with magnetic base
- 2 x SATA 6 Gb/s cables
- Quick start guide / user manual
- M.2 screws / standoffs kit
- TUF Gaming sticker
Specifications
| Model | TUF GAMING B850M-PLUS WIFI |
| CPU | AMD Socket AM5 for AMD Ryzen 9000 & 8000 & 7000 Series Desktop Processors |
| Chipset | AMD B850 Chipset |
| Memory | 4 x DIMM slots, max. 256GB, DDR5 |
| Supports up to 8000+MT/s (OC) with Ryzen 9000 & 8000 & 7000 Series Processors, ECC and Non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM | |
| Dual channel memory architecture | |
| Supports AMD Extended Profiles for Overclocking (EXPO ) | |
| ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile (AEMP) | |
| * Adjustments will be made based on the specifications of mass-produced memory products available on the market. | |
| * Supported memory types, data rate (speed), and number of DRAM modules vary depending on the CPU and memory configuration | |
| * Non-ECC, un-buffered DDR5 memory supports On-Die ECC function. | |
| Graphics | 1 x DisplayPort |
| 1 x HDMI port | |
| * Graphics specifications may vary between CPU types. Please refer to AMD CPU specifications. | |
| ** Supports max. 8K@30Hz as specified in DisplayPort 1.4. | |
| * Supports 4K@60Hz as specified in HDMI 2.1. | |
| Expansion Slots | AMD Ryzen 9000 & 7000 Series Desktop Processors |
| 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (supports x16 mode) | |
| AMD Ryzen 8000 Series Desktop Processors | |
| 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (supports x8/x4 mode) | |
| AMD B850 Chipset | |
| 1 x PCIe 4.0 x1 slot | |
| ** Specifications vary by CPU types. | |
| - To ensure compatibility of the device installed | |
| Storage | Total supports 3 x M.2 slots and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports |
| AMD Ryzen 9000 & 7000 Series Desktop Processors | |
| M.2_1 slot (Key M), type 2280 (supports PCIe 5.0 x4 mode) | |
| M.2_2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode) | |
| AMD Ryzen 8000 Series Desktop Processors | |
| M.2_1 slot (Key M), type 2280 (supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode) | |
| M.2_2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 mode) | |
| AMD B850 Chipset | |
| M.2_3 slot (Key M), type 2280 (supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode) | |
| 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports | |
| * Specifications vary by CPU types. | |
| AMD RAIDXpert2 Technology | |
| Ryzen 9000 Series Processors: RAID 0/1/5/10 | |
| Ryzen 8000 Series Processors: RAID 0/1 | |
| Ryzen 7000 Series Processors: RAID 0/1/10 | |
| Ethernet | 1 x Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| TUF LANGuard | |
| Wireless & Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 6E |
| 2x2 Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | |
| Supports 2.4/5/6GHz frequency band | |
| Bluetooth v5.3 | |
| * WiFi 6E 6GHz regulatory may vary between countries, supported only in Windows 11 or later. | |
| ** The Bluetooth version may vary, please refer to the Wi-Fi module manufacturer's website for the latest specifications. | |
| USB | Rear USB (Total 12 ports) |
| 1 x USB 20Gbps port (1 x USB Type-C) | |
| 3 x USB 10Gbps ports (3 x Type-A) | |
| 4 x USB 5Gbps ports (4 x Type-A) | |
| 4 x USB 2.0 ports (4 x Type-A) | |
| Front USB (Total 6 ports) | |
| 1 x USB 10Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C) | |
| 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports | |
| 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 3 additional USB 2.0 ports | |
| * USB Type-C power delivery output: max. 5V/3A. | |
| Audio | Realtek ALC1220P 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC |
| - Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs | |
| - Internal audio Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for headphone and speakers | |
| - Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking | |
| - High quality 120 dB SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR recording input (Line-in) | |
| - Supports up to 32-Bit/192 kHz playback | |
| Audio Features | |
| - Audio Shielding | |
| - Premium audio capacitors | |
| - Dedicated audio PCB layers | |
| - Audio cover | |
| - Unique de-pop circuit | |
| * Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192 kHz is not supported for 7.1 Surround Sound audio. | |
| Back Panel I/O Ports | 1 x USB 20Gbps port (1 x USB Type-C) |
| 3 x USB 10Gbps ports (3 x Type-A) | |
| 4 x USB 5Gbps ports (4 x Type-A) | |
| 4 x USB 2.0 ports (4 x Type-A) | |
| 1 x DisplayPort | |
| 1 x HDMI port | |
| 1 x Wi-Fi module | |
| 1 x Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet port | |
| 5 x Audio jacks | |
| 1 x BIOS FlashBack button | |
| Internal I/O Connectors | Fan and Cooling Related |
| 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan header | |
| 1 x 4-pin CPU OPT Fan header | |
| 1 x 4-pin AIO Pump header | |
| 3 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers | |
| Power Related | |
| 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector | |
| 2 x 8-pin +12V CPU Power connectors | |
| Storage Related | |
| 3 x M.2 slots (Key M) | |
| 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports | |
| USB | |
| 1 x USB 10Gbps connector (supports USB Type-C ) | |
| 1 x USB 5Gbps header supports 2 additional USB 5Gbps ports | |
| 2 x USB 2.0 headers support 3 additional USB 2.0 ports | |
| Miscellaneous | |
| 3 x Addressable Gen 2 headers | |
| 1 x Clear CMOS header | |
| 1 x Chassis Intrusion header | |
| 1 x COM Port header | |
| 1 x Front Panel Audio header (F_AUDIO) | |
| 1 x 10-1 pin Front Panel System header | |
| Special Features | ASUS TUF PROTECTION |
| - DIGI+ VRM (- Digital power design with DrMOS) | |
| - ESD Guards | |
| - TUF LANGuard | |
| - Overvoltage protection | |
| - SafeSlot | |
| - Stainless-steel back I/O | |
| ASUS Q-Design | |
| - M.2 Q-Latch | |
| - PCIe Slot Q-Release | |
| - Q-Antenna | |
| - Q-Dashboard | |
| - Q-DIMM | |
| - Q-LED (CPU [red], DRAM [yellow], VGA [white], Boot Device [yellow green]) | |
| ASUS Thermal Solution | |
| - M.2 heatsink | |
| - VRM heatsink design | |
| ASUS EZ DIY | |
| - BIOS FlashBack button | |
| - BIOS FlashBack LED | |
| - ProCool | |
| - Pre-mounted I/O shield | |
| - SafeDIMM | |
| Aura Sync | |
| - Addressable Gen2 headers | |
| Software Features | ASUS Exclusive Software |
| Armoury Crate | |
| - Aura Creator | |
| - Aura Sync | |
| - Fan Xpert 4 | |
| - Power Saving | |
| ASUS DriverHub | |
| ASUS GlideX | |
| TurboV Core | |
| TUF GAMING CPU-Z | |
| DTS Audio Processing | |
| Adobe Creative Cloud (Free Trial) | |
| Norton 360 for Gamers (60 Days Free Trial) | |
| WinRAR (40 Days Free Trial) | |
| UEFI BIOS | |
| ASUS EZ DIY | |
| - ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 | |
| - ASUS EZ Flash 3 | |
| - ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode | |
| - ASUS MyHotkey | |
| BIOS | 256 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS |
| Manageability | WOL by PME, PXE |
| Accessories | Cables |
| 2 x SATA 6Gb/s cables | |
| Miscellaneous | |
| 1 x ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna | |
| 1 x TUF GAMING sticker | |
| 2 x M.2 rubber packages | |
| 1 x Screw package for M.2 SSD | |
| Documentation | |
| 1 x Quick start guide | |
| Operating System | Windows 11, Windows 10 64-bit |
| Form Factor | micro-ATX Form Factor |
| 9.6 inch x 9.6 inch (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm) |
FAQ
What processors are compatible with this motherboard?
This board supports AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs via the AM5 socket (check Asus CPU support list for specific models).
Can I overclock memory on this board?
Yes - the board supports DDR5 memory overclocking up to 8000+ MT/s via EXPO and AEMP profiles, depending on CPU and memory compatibility.
Does the motherboard include WiFi?
Yes, it comes with integrated WiFi 6E and Bluetooth support via an onboard wireless module.
How many M.2 slots and SATA ports are available?
It offers 3 M.2 slots (one supporting PCIe 5.0, others PCIe 4.0/3.0) plus 4 SATA 6 Gb/s ports for additional drives.