GIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard User Guide

B650 AORUS ELITE AX
B650 AORUS ELITE
User’s Manual
Rev. 1202

B650 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard

GIGABYTE will reduce paper use in order to fulfill the responsibilities of a global citizen.
Also, to reduce the impacts on global warming, the packaging materials of this product are recyclable and reusable. GIGABYTE works with you to protect the environment.
For more product details, please visit GIGABYTE’s website.

Copyright
© 2024 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.
The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.
Disclaimer
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.
Changes to the specifications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE without prior notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmitted, or published in any form or by any means without GIGABYTE’s prior written  permission.

• For detailed product information, carefully read the User’s Manual.
• For quick set-up of the product, refer to the Quick Installation Guide on GIGABYTE’s website. https://download.gigabyte.com/FileList/Manual/mb_manual_installation-guide_12QM-100xR.pdf
  For product-related information, check on our website at: https://www.gigabyte.com

Identifying Your Motherboard Revision
The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: “REV: X.X.” For example, “REV: 1.0” means the revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before updating motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical  information.
Example:

Chapter 1 Product Introduction

1-1 Motherboard Layout

1-2 Motherboard Block Diagram

Only for B650 AORUS ELITE AX.
(Note) Actual support may vary by CPU.

1-3 Box Contents

• B650 AORUS ELITE AX, or B650 AORUS ELITE motherboard
• User’s Manual
• One antennaj
• Two SATA cables
• One G Connector
• M.2 screw/standoff

Only for B650 AORUS ELITE AX.

• The box contents above are for reference only and the actual items shall depend on the product package you obtain.
  The box contents are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 2 Hardware Installation

2-1 Installation Precautions
The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user’s manual and follow these procedures:

• Prior to installation, make sure the chassis is suitable for the motherboard.
• Prior to installation, do not remove or break motherboard S/N (Serial Number) sticker or warranty sticker provided by your dealer. These stickers are required for warranty validation.
• Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.
• When connecting hardware components to the internal connectors on the motherboard, make sure they are connected tightly and securely.
• When handling the motherboard, avoid touching any metal leads or connectors.
• It is best to wear an electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap when handling electronic components such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap, keep your hands dry and first touch a metal object to eliminate static electricity.
• Prior to installing the motherboard, please have it on top of an antistatic pad or within an electrostatic shielding container.
• Before connecting or unplugging the power supply cable from the motherboard, make sure the power supply has been turned off.
• Before turning on the power, make sure the power supply voltage has been set according to the local voltage standard.
• Before using the product, please verify that all cables and power connectors of your hardware components are connected.
• To prevent damage to the motherboard, do not allow screws to come in contact with the motherboard circuit or its components.
• Make sure there are no leftover screws or metal components placed on the motherboard or within the computer casing.
• Do not place the computer system on an uneven surface.
• Do not place the computer system in a high-temperature or wet environment.
• Turning on the computer power during the installation process can lead to damage to system components as well as physical harm to the user.
• If you are uncertain about any installation steps or have a problem related to the use of the product, please consult a certified computer technician.
• If you use an adapter, extension power cable, or power strip, ensure to consult with its installation and/or grounding instructions.

2-2 Product Specifications

CPU| AMD Socket AM5, support for:
AMD Ryzen™
7000 Series Processors/AMD Ryzen™
8000 Series Processors
(Go to GIGABYTE’s website for the latest CPU support list.)
---|---
Chipset| AMD B650
Memory|  Support for DDR5 5200/4800/4400 MT/s memory modules  4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets supporting up to 192 GB (48 GB single  DIMM capacity) of system memory Dual channel memory architecture Support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16 memory modules  Support for AMD EXtended Profiles for Overclocking (AMD EXPO™) and Extreme
Memory Profile (XMP) memory module
(The CPU and memory configuration may affect the supported memory types, data rate (speed), and number of DRAM  modules, please refer to “Memory Support List” on GIGABYTE’s website for more information.)
Onboard
Graphics|  Š Integrated Graphics Processor with AMD Radeon™  Graphics support:
– 1 x DisplayPort, supporting a maximum resolution of 3840×2160@144 Hz

• Support for DisplayPort 1.4 version and HDR.
  – 1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096×2160@60 Hz
• Support for HDMI 2.1 version and HDCP 2.3.
  * Support for native HDMI 2.1 TMDS compatible ports.
  (Graphics specifications may vary depending on CPU support.)
  Audio| Realtek®  Audio CODEC
  High Definition Audio
  2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
    You can change the functionality of an audio jack using the audio software. To configure 7.1-channel audio, access the audio  software for audio settings.
  LAN| Realtek®  2.5GbE LAN chip (2.5 Gbps/1 Gbps/100 Mbps)
  Wireless
  Communication
  Modulej|  AMD Wi-Fi 6E RZ616 (MT7922A22M) (For PCB rev. 1.0)
  – WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands
  – BLUETOOTH 5.2
  – Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard  Intel®  Wi-Fi 6E AX210 (For PCB rev. 1.1)
  – WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands – BLUETOOTH 5.3
  – Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard  Realtek®
  Wi-Fi 6E RTL8852CE (For PCB rev. 1.2)
  – WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands
  – BLUETOOTH 5.3
  – Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard (Actual data rate may vary depending on environment and equipment.)
  Expansion Slots| 1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIEX16), integrated in the CPU:
  AMD Ryzen™  7000 Series Processors support PCIe 4.0 x16 mode
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 1 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x8 mode
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 2 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4 mode
    The PCIEX16 slot can only support a graphics card or an NVMe SSD. If only one graphics card is to be installed, be sure to  install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
  Chipset:
  – 2 x PCI Express x16 slots, supporting PCIe 3.0 and running at x1 (PCIEX1_1/2)
  Storage Interface|  1 x M.2 connector (M2A_CPU), integrated in the CPU, supporting Socket 3,
  M key, type 25110/2580 SSDs:
  AMD Ryzen™  7000 Series Processors support PCIe 5.0 x4/x2 SSDs
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 1 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 2 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs
  1 x M.2 connector (M2B_CPU), integrated in the CPU, supporting Socket 3, M key, type 25110/2580 SSDs:
  AMD Ryzen™  7000 Series Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 1 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs
  AMD Ryzen™  8000 Series-Phoenix 2 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x2 SSDs  1 x M.2 connector (M2C_SB), integrated in the  Chipset, supporting Socket 3, M key, type 25110/2580 PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs 4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
  RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 support for NVMe SSD storage devices
  RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 support for SATA storage devices
  USB| CPU: –  1 x USB Type-C®  port on the back panel, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
  – 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red) on the back panel CPU + USB 2.0 Hub:
  – 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports on the back panel Chipset:
  –  1 x USB Type-C®  port with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support, available through the internal USB header
  3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (1 port on the back panel, 2 ports available through the internal USB header)
  – 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports available through the internal USB headers Chipset+USB 3.2 Gen 1 Hub:
  –  4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports on the back panel
  Internal
  Connectors| 1 x 24-pin ATX main power connector
  1 x 8-pin ATX 12V power connector
  1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
  1 x CPU fan header
  1 x CPU fan/water cooling pump header
  3 x system fan headers
  1 x system fan/water cooling pump header
  2 x addressable LED strip headers
  2 x RGB LED strip headers
  1 x CPU cooler LED strip/RGB LED strip header
  3 x M.2 Socket 3 connectors
  4 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
  1 x front panel header
  1 x front panel audio header
  1 x USB Type-C®
  header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 support
  1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header
  2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
  1 x Trusted Platform Module header (For the GC-TPM2.0 SPI/GC-TPM2.0 SPI 2.0/
  GC-TPM2.0 SPI V2 module only)
  1 x reset button
  1 x reset jumper
  1 x Clear CMOS jumper
  Back Panel
  Connectors| 1 x Q-Flash Plus button
  2 x SMA antenna connectors (2T2R)j
  1 x DisplayPort
  1 x HDMI port
  1 x USB Type-C®  port, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
  2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red)
  5 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
  4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
  1 x RJ-45 port
  3 x audio jacks
  I/O Controller| iTE® I/O Controller Chip
  Hardware
  Monitor| Voltage detection
  Temperature detection
  Fan speed detection
  Water cooling flow rate detection
  Fan fail warning
  Fan speed control
    Whether the fan (pump) speed control function is supported will depend on the fan (pump) you install.
  BIOS|  1 x 256 Mbit flash
  Use of licensed AMI UEFI BIOS
  PnP 1.0a, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0
  Unique Features| Support for GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC)
  *  Available applications in GCC may vary by motherboard model. Supported functions of each application may also vary  depending on motherboard specifications.
  Support for Q-Flash
  Support for Q-Flash Plus
  Bundled
  Software|  Š Norton
  ®
  Internet Security (OEM version)
  Š LAN bandwidth management software
  Operating
  System| Support for Windows 11 64-bit
  Support for Windows 10 64-bit
  Form Factor| ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 24.4cm

& Please visit the SERVICE/SUPPORT\Utility page on GIGABYTE’s website to download the latest version of apps.
https://www.gigabyte.com/Support/Utility/Motherboard?m=ut

2-3 Installing the CPU and CPU Cooler
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:

• Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.
  (Go to GIGABYTE’s website for the latest CPU support list.)

• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the CPU to prevent hardware damage.

• Locate the pin one of the CPU. The CPU cannot be inserted if oriented incorrectly. (Or you may locate the notches on both sides of the CPU and alignment keys on the CPU socket.)

• Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the CPU.

• Do not turn on the computer if the CPU cooler is not installed, otherwise overheating and damage of the CPU may occur.
  Set the CPU host frequency in accordance with the CPU specifications. It is not recommended that the system bus frequency be set beyond hardware specifications since it does not meet the standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the  frequency beyond the standard specifications, please do so according to your hardware specifications including the CPU, graphics card, memory, hard drive, etc.

A. Note the CPU Orientation
Note the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.

Do not remove the CPU socket cover before inserting the CPU. It may pop off from the load plate automatically after you insert the CPU and close the load plate.

B. Installing the CPU
Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU into the motherboard CPU socket.

1. 1.Gently press the CPU socket lever handle down and away from the socket.
   2. Completely lift up the CPU socket locking lever.
   3. With your fingers, hold the plastic protective cover attached to the metal load plate to lift open the metal load plate.

2. Hold the CPU with your fingers by the edges.
   Align the CPU pin one marking (triangle) with the pin one corner of the CPU socket (or you may align the CPU notches with the socket alignment keys) and gently insert the CPU into position.

3. Make sure the CPU is properly installed and then close the load plate. Secure the socket lever under its retention tab. The plastic protective cover will pop off by itself and can be removed.

• Always replace the plastic protective cover when the CPU is not installed to protect the CPU socket.

Do not force to engage the CPU socket locking lever when the CPU is not installed correctly as this would damage the CPU and CPU socket.

C. Installing the CPU Cooler
Be sure to install the CPU cooler after installing the CPU. (Actual installation process may differ depending the CPU cooler to be used. Refer to the user’s manual for your CPU cooler.)

1. Apply an even and thin layer of thermal grease on the surface of the installed CPU.

2. Type A:
   Hook the CPU cooler clip to the mounting lug on one side of the retention frame. On the other side, push straight down on the CPU cooler clip to hook it to the mounting lug on the retention frame. Turn the cam handle from the left side to the right side to lock into place. Type B:
   First remove the four screws from the CPU retention frame and remove the CPU retention frame. Then align the four shoulder screws on the CPU cooler with the standoffs from the back plate. Fasten each shoulder screw in a 1-2-3-4 (x) pattern as shown on the right.

• When using a Type B CPU cooler, it is not recommended to fasten each screw down all the way in one step. Follow order 1-2-3-4, fasten screw clockwise 1 rotation per step. Repeat steps 1-2-3-4 till all screws are fastened.

  3. Finally, attach the power connector of the CPU cooler to the CPU fan header (CPU_FAN) on the motherboard.

2-4 Installing the Memory
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:

• Make sure that the motherboard supports the memory. It is recommended that memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used. (Go to GIGABYTE’s website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory modules.)

• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing the memory to prevent hardware damage.

• Memory modules have a foolproof design. A memory module can be installed in only one direction.
  If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.

• When installing memory modules, be sure to install in the DDR5_A2 socket first.

• Recommended Memory Configurations:

| DDR5_A1| DDR5_A2| DDR5_B1| DDR5_B2
---|---|---|---|---
1 Module| – –| | – –| – –
2 Modules| – –| | – –|
4 Modules| | | |

(“ “=Installed, “- -“=No Memory)
(“*”=Recommended Dual Channel Memory Configurations)

Dual Channel Memory Configuration
This motherboard provides four memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. After the memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specifications and capacity of the memory. Enabling Dual Channel memory mode will double the  original memory bandwidth.
The four memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:

• Channel A: DDR5_A1, DDR5_A2
• Channel B: DDR5_B1, DDR5_B2

Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.

1. Dual Channel mode cannot be enabled if only one memory module is installed.
2. When enabling Dual Channel mode with two or four memory modules, it is recommended that memory of the same capacity, brand, speed, and chips be used.

2-5 Installing an Expansion Card
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install an expansion card:

• Make sure the motherboard supports the expansion card. Carefully read the manual that came with your expansion card.
• Always turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before installing an expansion card to prevent hardware damage.

Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.

1. Locate an expansion slot that supports your card. Remove the metal slot cover from the chassis back panel.
2. Align the card with the slot, and press down on the card until it is fully seated in the slot.
3. Make sure that the expansion card is fully seated in its slot.
4. Secure the card’s metal bracket to the chassis back panel with a screw.
5. After installing all expansion cards, replace the chassis cover(s).
6. Turn on your computer. If necessary, go to BIOS Setup to make any required BIOS changes for your expansion card(s).
7. Install the driver provided with the expansion card in your operating system.

2-6 Back Panel Connectors

a. Q-Flash Plus Button (Note)
Q-Flash Plus allows you to update the BIOS when your system is off (S5 shutdown state). Save the latest BIOS on a USB thumb drive and plug it into the dedicated port, and then you can now flash the BIOS automatically by simply pressing the Q-Flash Plus  button. The QFLED will flash when the BIOS matching and flashing activities start and will stop flashing when the main BIOS flashing is complete.
b. SMA Antenna Connectors (2T2R)j
Use this connector to connect an antenna.
Tighten the antennas to the antenna connectors and then aim the antennas correctly for better signal reception.
c. DisplayPort
DisplayPort delivers high quality digital imaging and audio, supporting bi- directional audio transmission.
You can use this port to connect your DisplayPort-supported monitor. Note: The DisplayPort Technology can support a maximum resolution of 3840×2160@144 Hz but the actual resolutions supported depend on the monitor being used.
d. HDMI Port
The HDMI port is HDCP 2.3 compliant and supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio formats. It also supports up to 192KHz/24bit 7.1-channel LPCM audio output. You can use this port to connect your HDMI-supported monitor. The maximum  supported resolution is 4096×2160@60 Hz, but the actual resolutions supported are dependent on the monitor being used.
After installing the DisplayPort/HDMI device, make sure to set the default sound playback device to DisplayPort/HDMI. (The item name may differ depending on your operating system.)
e. USB 2.0/1.1 Port
The USB port supports the USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Use this port for USB devices.
f. USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port
The USB 3.2 Gen 1 port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 1 specification and is compatible to the USB 2.0 specification. Use this port for USB devices.
Only for B650 AORUS ELITE AX.

• When removing the cable connected to a back panel connector, first remove the cable from your device and then remove it from the motherboard.
• When removing the cable, pull it straight out from the connector. Do not rock it side to side to prevent an electrical short inside the cable connector.

g. USB Type-C® Port (with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Support)
The reversible USB port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification and is compatible to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specification. Use this port for USB devices.
h. RJ-45 LAN Port
The Gigabit Ethernet LAN port provides Internet connection at up to 2.5 Gbps data rate. The following describes the states of the LAN port LEDs.

Speed LED:

Activity LED:

i. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red)
The USB 3.2 Gen 2 port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification and is compatible to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specification. Use this port for USB devices.
j. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red) (Q-Flash Plus Port)
The USB 3.2 Gen 2 port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification and is compatible to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specification. Use this port for USB devices. Before using Q-Flash Plus (Note), make sure to insert the USB flash drive into this port first.
k. Line In/Rear Speaker Out
The line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
l. Line Out/Front Speaker Out
The line out jack.
m. Mic In/Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out
The Mic in jack.

Audio Jack Configurations:

Jack| Headphone/
2-channel| 4-channel| 5.1-channel| 7.1-channel
---|---|---|---|---
a. Line In/Rear Speaker Out| | | |
b. Line Out/Front Speaker Out| | | |
c. Mic In/Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out| | | |
Front Panel Line Out/Side Speaker Out| | | |

You can change the functionality of an audio jack using the audio software. To configure 7.1-channel audio, access the audio software for audio settings.
Please visit GIGABYTE’s website for details on configuring the audio software.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/697/realtek897-audio.html
(Note) To enable the Q-Flash Plus function, please navigate to the “Unique Features” page of GIGABYTE’s website for more information.

2-7 Onboard Buttons and LEDs
Quick Button
The reset button (RST_SW) allows users to quickly turn on/off the computer in an open-case environment when they want to change hardware components or conduct hardware testing.

The reset button provides you with several functions to use. To remap the button to perform different tasks, please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “RST_SW (MULTIKEY)” for more information.

Status LEDs
The status LEDs show whether the CPU, memory, graphics card, and operating system are working properly after system power-on. If the CPU/DRAM/VGA LED is on, that means the corresponding device is not working normally; if the BOOT LED is on, that  means you haven’t entered the operating system yet.

CPU: CPU status LED
DRAM: Memory status LED
VGA: Graphics card status LED
BOOT: Operating system status LED

2-8 Internal Connectors

1. ATX_12V/ATX_12V1	11) BAT

2. ATX| 12) M2A_CPU/M2B_CPU/M2C_SB
3. CPU_FAN| 13) F_PANEL
4. SYS_FAN1/2/3| 14) F_AUDIO
5. SYS_FAN4_PUMP| 15) F_U320G
6. CPU_OPT| 16) F_U32
7. D_LED1/D_LED2| 17) F_USB1/F_USB2
8. CPU_LED| 18) SPI_TPM
9. LED_C1/LED_C2| 19) CLR_CMOS
10. SATA3 0/1/2/3| 20) RST

Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:

• First make sure your devices are compliant with the connectors you wish to connect.
• Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.
• After installing the device and before turning on the computer, make sure the device cable has been securely attached to the connector on the motherboard.

1/2) ATX_12V1/ATX_12V/ATX (2×2, 2×4, 12V Power Connectors and 2×12 Main Power Connector)
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the components on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, first make sure the power supply is turned off and all devices are properly installed. The  power connector possesses a foolproof design. Connect the power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected, the computer will not start.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable  system.

ATX_12V1:

3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2/3 (Fan Headers)
All fan headers on this motherboard are 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design.
When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a  system fan be installed inside the chassis.

SYS_FAN4_PUMP (System Fan/Water Cooling Pump Header)
The fan/pump header is 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan  with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis. The header also provides speed control for a water cooling pump. Please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website  and search for “Smart Fan 6” for more information.

PUMP
---|---|---|---
Maximum Current| 2A| 2A| 2A
Maximum Power| 24W| 24W| 24W

• Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.
• These fan headers are not configuration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the headers.

CPU_OPT (CPU Fan/Water Cooling Pump Header)
The fan/pump header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design.

• Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.
• These fan headers are not configuration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the headers.

D_LED1/D_LED2 (Addressable LED Strip Headers)
The headers can be used to connect a standard 5050 addressable LED strip, with maximum power rating of 5A (5V) and maximum number of 1000 LEDs.

Connect your addressable LED strip to the header. The power pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to Pin 1 of the addressable LED strip header. Incorrect connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.

For how to turn on/off the lights of the LED strip, please navigate to the “Unique Features” page of GIGABYTE’s website.
Before installing or removing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.

CPU_LED (CPU Cooler LED Strip/RGB LED Strip Header)
The header can be used to connect a CPU cooler LED strip or a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B), with maximum power rating of 2A (12V) and maximum length of 2m. 

Connect the CPU cooler LED strip/RGB LED strip to the header. The power pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to Pin 1 (12V) of this header. Incorrect connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.

LED_C1/LED_C2 (RGB LED Strip Headers)
The headers can be used to connect a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B), with maximum power rating of 2A (12V) and maximum length of 2m.

Connect your RGB LED strip to the header. The power pin (marked with a triangleon the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to Pin 1 (12V) of this header.
Incorrect connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.

For how to turn on/off the lights of the LED strip, please navigate to the “Unique Features” page of GIGABYTE’s website.
Before installing or removing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.

SATA3 0/1/2/3 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA 1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The SATA connectors support RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10. Please navigate to the  “Configuring a RAID Set” page of GIGABYTE’s website for instructions on configuring a RAID array.

To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “SATA Configuration” for more information.

BAT (Battery)
The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS configurations, date, and time information) in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery voltage drops to a low level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or  may be lost. 

You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery:

1. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Gently remove the battery from the battery holder and wait for one minute. (Or use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative terminals of the battery holder, making them short for 5 seconds.)
3. Replace the battery.
4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.
   • Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.
   • Replace the battery with an equivalent one. Damage to your devices may occur if the battery is replaced with an incorrect model.
   • Contact the place of purchase or local dealer if you are not able to replace the battery by yourself or uncertain about the battery model.
   • When installing the battery, note the orientation of the positive side (+) and the negative side (-) of the battery (the positive side should face up).
   • Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.

M2A_CPU/M2B_CPU/M2C_SB (M.2 Socket 3 Connectors)
There are two types of M.2 SSDs: M.2 SATA SSDs and M.2 PCIe SSDs. This motherboard only supports M.2 PCIe SSDs. Please note that an M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to create a RAID set with a SATA hard drive. Please navigate to the “Configuring a RAID  Set” page of GIGABYTE’s website for instructions on configuring a RAID array.

Follow the steps below to correctly install an M.2 SSD in the M.2 connector.
Step 1:
Unfasten the screws on the motherboard heatsink diagonally to remove the heatsink. Select the M.2 slot you want to use and press down on the M.2 EZ- Latch clip to open it. Loosen the M.2 EZ-Latch clip with a screwdriver, move it to mounting hole for your M.2 SSD and tighten it in the hole.

• If you want to install an M.2 SSD that came with its own heatsink, you have to remove the EZ-Latch clip first and use the provided screw and standoff to fasten the SSD.
• If you want install an M.2 SSD in the 110mm hole that already has a motherboard heatsink standoff, be sure to remove the EZ-Latch clip first and use the motherboard heatsink screw to secure the heatsink and SSD.

Step 2:
Insert the M.2 SSD into the M.2 connector at an angle. Press down on the front end of the M.2 SSD and close M.2 EZ-Latch clip to secure the M.2 SSD.
Step 3:
Remove the protective film from the bottom of the motherboard heatsink and then replace the heatsink and tighten the screws diagonally.

• Types of M.2 SSDs supported by each M.2 connector:

| M.2 PCIe x4 SSD| M.2 PCIe x2 SSD| M.2 SATA SSD
---|---|---|---
M2A_CPU| | | X
M2B_CPU| (Note)| | X
M2C_SB| | | X

Please visit GIGABYTE’s website for details on using M.2 EZ-Latch.
Install the M.2 SSD: https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/919/M2-ezlatch.html

• Motherboard heatsink design may vary by model.

F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)
Connect the power switch, reset switch, speaker, chassis intrusion switch/sensor and system status indicator on the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the positive and negative pins before connecting the cables. 

• PLED/PWR_LED (Power LED):
  Connects to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the system is operating. The LED is off when the system is in S3/ S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).System Status| LED
  ---|---
  S0| On
  S3/S4/S5| Off

• PW (Power Switch):
  Connects to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may configure the way to turn off your system using the power switch (please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN” for more information).

• SPEAK (Speaker):
  Connects to the speaker on the chassis front panel. The system reports system startup status by issuing a beep code. One single short beep will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup.

• HD (Hard Drive Activity LED):
  Connects to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The LED is on when the hard drive is reading or writing data.

• RES (Reset Switch):
  Connects to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.

• CI (Chassis Intrusion Header):
  Connects to the chassis intrusion switch/sensor on the chassis that can detect if the chassis cover has been removed. This function requires a chassis with a chassis intrusion switch/sensor.

• NC: No connection.

The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module mainly consists of power switch, reset switch, power LED, hard drive activity LED, speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis front panel module to this header, make sure the wire  assignments and the pin assignments are matched correctly.

F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)
The front panel audio header supports High Definition audio (HD). You may connect your chassis front panel audio module to this header. Make sure the wire assignments of the module connector match the pin assignments of the motherboard header.  Incorrect connection between the module connector and the motherboard header will make the device unable to work or even damage it.

Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each wire instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.

F_U320G (USB Type-C® Header with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Support)
The header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 specification and can provide one USB port.

F_U32 (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header)
The header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specification and can provide two USB ports. For purchasing the optional 3.5″ front panel that provides two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, please contact the local dealer.

F_USB1/F_USB2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)
The headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.

Prior to installing the USB bracket, be sure to turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the USB bracket.

SPI_TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header)
You may connect an SPI TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to this header.

CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)
Use this jumper to clear the BIOS configuration and reset the CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear the CMOS values, use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the two pins for a few seconds.

| Open: Normal

Short: Clear CMOS Values

---|---

• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing the CMOS values.
• After system restart, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized Defaults) or manually configure the BIOS settings (please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website for more information).

RST (Reset Jumper)
The reset jumper (RST) can connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.

The reset jumper provides you with several functions to use. To remap the button to perform different tasks, please navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “RST_SW (MULTIKEY)” for more information.

Chapter 3 BIOS Setup

BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) records hardware parameters of the system in the CMOS on the motherboard. Its major functions include conducting the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during system startup, saving system parameters and loading operating  system, etc. BIOS includes a BIOS Setup program that allows the user to modify basic system configuration settings or to activate certain system features.
When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power to the CMOS to keep the configuration values in the CMOS.
To access the BIOS Setup program, press the key during the POST when the power is turned on.
To upgrade the BIOS, use either the GIGABYTE Q-Flash or Q-Flash Plus utility.

• Q-Flash allows the user to quickly and easily upgrade or back up BIOS without entering the operating system.
• Q-Flash Plus allows you to update the BIOS when your system is off (S5 shutdown state). Save the latest
  BIOS on a USB thumb drive and plug it into the dedicated port, and then you can now flash the BIOS automatically by simply pressing the Q-Flash Plus button.

For instructions on using the Q-Flash and Q-Flash Plus utilities, please navigate to the “Unique Features” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “BIOS Update Utilities.”

• Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, if you do not encounter problems using the current version of BIOS, it is recommended that you not flash the BIOS. To flash the BIOS, do it with caution. Inadequate BIOS flashing may result in system  malfunction.
• It is recommended that you not alter the default settings (unless you need to) to prevent system instability or other unexpected results. Inadequately altering the settings may result in system’s failure to boot. If this occurs, try to clear the CMOS values and  reset the board to default values.
• Refer to the introductions of the battery/clear CMOS jumper in Chapter 2 or navigate to the “BIOS Setup” page of GIGABYTE’s website and search for “Load Optimized Defaults” for how to clear the CMOS values.

Startup Screen:
The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.

Function Keys:
: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH
Press the key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup. : BOOT MENU
Boot Menu allows you to set the first boot device without entering BIOS Setup. In Boot Menu, use the up arrow key or the down arrow key to select the first boot device, then press to accept.
The system will boot from the device immediately.
Note: The setting in Boot Menu is effective for one time only. After system restart, the device boot order will still be based on BIOS Setup settings.
< END>: Q-FLASH
Press the key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.