AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU Dies After Enabling EXPO; MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi Motherboard Under Scrutiny
A new case of an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU malfunction has emerged, this time involving MSI's X870E Tomahawk WiFi motherboard. Reddit user u/Realistic_Age_718 reported permanent CPU damage after enabling AMD EXPO, a feature designed to optimize memory performance by automatically tightening memory timings and increasing memory frequencies.
Upon activating AMD EXPO, the user's system ceased booting, displaying a persistent '00' error code. Despite attempting BIOS flashbacks to the latest version (E6E59AMSI.A10, built December 23, 2024), the issue remained unresolved. Examination of the Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU revealed a noticeable bulge at the center, indicating irreparable internal damage. Surprisingly, the MSI motherboard socket and its pins appeared completely intact, showing no visible damage.
This incident adds to an alarming trend of recent Ryzen 9800X3D failures, previously concentrated primarily around ASRock X870/X870E motherboards. With this latest case involving an MSI model, questions have intensified regarding potential BIOS issues, improper voltage handling, or unforeseen compatibility conflicts on the AM5 platform.
While human error has been responsible for similar cases, the Reddit user affirmed meticulous installation and setup, stating that the system had been fully functional prior to enabling EXPO. Post-incident testing confirmed motherboard functionality by successfully booting with an alternative CPU (Ryzen 8500G), further pointing toward CPU-specific damage triggered by EXPO activation.
As manufacturers investigate these recurring issues, ASRock has already released BIOS updates aimed at mitigating the problem. Users are now awaiting a similar response from MSI to address concerns around the safety and reliability of their motherboards with AMD's high-performance CPUs.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Have you experienced similar problems with EXPO or AM5 platforms? Let us know below!
