F8 Boot Menu Missing / USB Not Detected After BIOS Changes on ASUS (AMI BIOS)

Understanding BIOS Boot Menu Issues on ASUS PRIME H310M-DASH R2.0: A Guide to Resolving USB Recognition and Boot Menu Accessibility

Introduction

Navigating BIOS configurations can be challenging, especially when hardware tweaks and firmware settings impact your system’s boot process. This article aims to help users with ASUS PRIME H310M-DASH R2.0 motherboards troubleshoot common problems such as missing boot menus and unrecognized USB devices after BIOS modifications.

System Overview

  • Motherboard: ASUS PRIME H310M-DASH R2.0
  • BIOS Version: AMI 2021
  • Processor: Intel Core i3 9th Gen
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4 2400 MHz
  • Graphics Card: AMD RX580 8GB
  • Storage Devices: 128GB SSD and 500GB HDD

Scenario Summary

A user attempted to reinstall Windows 10 using a USB drive prepared with Rufus, choosing GPT partitioning suitable for UEFI boot mode. Initially, the system displayed the F8 boot menu, allowing selection of boot devices. After disabling CSM/Legacy mode in BIOS, unintended consequences arose: the BIOS splash screen disappeared, booting directly into Windows, and the F8 menu was no longer accessible. Additionally, USB devices were not appearing in the override boot menu, despite being recognized within Windows.

Key Challenges Addressed

  • Missing or inaccessible F8 boot menu
  • USB devices not appearing during boot
  • Ensuring stable BIOS settings without resetting all configurations
  • Disabling integrated GPU (iGPU) to prioritize the discrete RX580

Troubleshooting and Resolution Steps

  1. Confirm BIOS Version and Settings Backup

Before making significant changes, it’s advisable to save your current BIOS settings through the BIOS interface or a backup if supported. Since the user is concerned about prior modifications, proceed with caution.

  1. Understanding BIOS Boot Options

  2. F8 Boot Menu: Provides a shortcut to select boot devices dynamically. Its availability can be dependent on BIOS settings and the status of Secure Boot and Fast Boot.

  3. Override Boot Menu: Accessed via Boot Menu key (often F8 or F11), it overlays available boot options for that session.

  4. Restoring F8 Boot Menu Visibility

  5. Check Boot Mode (UEFI/Legacy): Since the USB was created with GPT for UEFI, ensure that BIOS is set to UEFI mode. Disabling CSM may switch the system to pure UEFI

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