GIGABYTE B850 AORUS STEALTH ICE (01) PDF MANUAL

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.

The box contents are as follows:

• B850 AORUS STEALTH ICE motherboard

• User’s Manual

• Quick Installation Guide

• One antenna

• Two SATA cables

• One G Connector

• Three packs of M.2 thick/thin rubber pads

* The box contents 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.

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.

CPU	AMD Socket AM5, support for: • AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series Processors/ • AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series Processors/ • AMD Ryzen™ 7000 Series Processors
Chipset	AMD B850
Memory	• Support for DDR5 5200/4800 MT/s memory modules • 4 x DDR5 DIMM sockets supporting up to 256 GB (64 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 modules
Onboard Graphics	Integrated Graphics Processor with AMD Radeon™ Graphics support: • 1 x HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096×2160@60 Hz * Support for HDMI 2.1 version, HDCP 2.3, and HDR. ** Support for native HDMI 2.1 TMDS compatible ports. (Graphics specifications may vary depending on CPU support.)
Audio	• Realtek® ALC1220 CODEC (* The back panel line out jack supports DSD audio.) • 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.) • Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN	Realtek® 5GbE LAN chip (5 Gbps/2.5 Gbps/1 Gbps/100 Mbps)
Wireless Communication Module	Realtek® Wi-Fi 7 RTL8922AE • WIFI a, b, g, n, ac, ax, supporting 2.4/5/6 GHz carrier frequency bands • BLUETOOTH 5.4 • Support for 11be 160MHz wireless standard (Actual data rate may vary depending on environment and equipment.) * Wi-Fi 7 features require Windows 11 SV3 to function properly. (There is no support driver for Windows 10.) ** Wi-Fi 7 channels on 6 GHz band availability depends on individual country’s regulations.
Expansion Slots	1 x PCI Express x16 slot (PCIEX16), integrated in the CPU: ► AMD Ryzen™ 9000/7000 Series Processors support PCIe 5.0 x16 mode ► AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series-Phoenix 1 Processors support PCle 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: • 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, supporting PCle 4.0 and running at x4 (PCIEX4) * The PCIEX4 slot shares bandwidth with the M2D_SB connector. The PCIEX4 slot becomes unavailable when a device is installed in the M2D_SB connector.
Storage Interface	1 x M.2 connector (M2A_CPU), integrated in the CPU, supporting Socket 3, M key, type 25110/22110/2580/2280 SSDs: ► AMD Ryzen™ 9000/7000 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 22110/2280 SSDs: ► AMD Ryzen™ 9000/7000 Series Processors support PCIe 5.0 x4/x2 SSDs ► AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series-Phoenix 1 Processors support PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs * The M2B_CPU connector becomes unavailable when an AMD Ryzen™ 8000 Series-Phoenix 2 processor is used. • 2 x M.2 connectors (M2C_SB, M2D_SB), integrated in the Chipset, supporting Socket 3, M key, type 22110/2280 PCIe 4.0 x4/x2 SSDs • 2 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors • RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 support for NVMe SSD storage devices (* RAID 5 is only available on AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series Processors.) • RAID 0 and RAID 1 support for SATA storage devices
USB	CPU: • 1 x USB Type-C® port on the back panel, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support CPU+USB 3.2 Gen 1 Hub: • 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports 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 • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red) on the back panel • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports available through the internal USB header • 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports available through the internal USB headers
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 • 4 x system fan headers • 2 x system fan/water cooling pump headers • 3 x addressable RGB Gen2 LED strip headers • 1 x RGB LED strip header • 4 x M.2 Socket 3 connectors • 2 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 noise detection header • 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 Q-Flash Plus button • 1 x power button • 1 x reset button • 1 x reset jumper • 2 x temperature sensor headers • 1 x Clear CMOS jumper
Back Panel Connectors	• 1 x HDMI port • 2 x antenna connectors (2T2R) • 1 x USB Type-C® header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red) • 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports • 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports • 1 x RJ-45 port • 1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector • 2 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 512 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 • Support for Smart Backup
Bundled Software	Norton® Internet Security (OEM version)
Operating System	Support for Windows 11 64-bit
Form Factor	ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 24.4cm

Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:

• Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.

• 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.

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

A. Note the CPU Orientation

Note the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU. Locate the Triangle Pin One Marking on both the CPU and the CPU socket to ensure correct orientation.

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

1. Gently press the CPU socket lever handle down and away from the socket. Completely lift up the CPU socket locking lever. 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.

Be sure to install the CPU cooler after installing the CPU. The actual installation process may differ depending on 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. Follow the instructions for your cooler type:

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.

* 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.

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.

• 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)

The memory status LED will light up if the memory module is installed in the incorrect slot before booting. Ensure that the memory module is installed in the correct slot. Refer to the table for memory installation instructions.

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.

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.

• USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port: Supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 and is compatible with USB 2.0. Use for USB devices.

• HDMI Port: HDCP 2.3 compliant, supports Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD Master Audio, and 192KHz/24bit 7.1-channel LPCM audio. Maximum resolution is 4096×2160@60 Hz. Actual support may vary by CPU.

• USB 2.0/1.1 Port: Supports USB 2.0/1.1. Use for USB devices.

• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red) (Q-Flash Plus Port): Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and is compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2.0. Use for USB devices. Before using Q-Flash Plus, insert the USB flash drive into this port.

• RJ-45 LAN Port: Provides Internet connection up to 5 Gbps. LED states are as follows:

Speed LED		Activity LED
State	Description	State	Description
Green	5 Gbps data rate	Blinking	Data transmission or receiving is occurring
Orange	2.5 Gbps/1 Gbps/100 Mbps data rate	Yellow	No data transmission or receiving is occurring

• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red): Supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and is compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2.0. Use for USB devices.

• USB Type-C® Port (with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Support): Reversible USB port that supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and is compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2.0. Use for USB devices.

• Antenna Connectors (2T2R): Connect an antenna here. Ensure it is securely connected for better signal reception.

• Line Out/Front Speaker Out: The line out jack.

• Mic In/Rear Speaker Out: The Mic in jack.

• Optical S/PDIF Out Connector: Provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital optical audio.

Audio Jack Configurations:

Jack	Headphone/ 2-channel	4-channel	5.1-channel	7.1-channel
Line Out/Front Speaker Out	✔	✔	✔	✔
Mic In/Rear Speaker Out		✔		✔
Front Panel Line Out/Side Speaker Out			✔	✔
Front Panel Mic In/Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out			✔	✔

Quick Buttons

This motherboard has 2 quick buttons: a power button and a reset button. These allow users to quickly turn on/off or reset the computer in an open-case environment.

• POWER: Power Button

• RESET: Reset Button. The reset button provides several functions and can be remapped in the BIOS Setup.

QF_PLUS (Q-Flash Plus Button)

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, plug it into the dedicated port, and then press 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.

Status LEDs

The status LEDs show whether the CPU, memory, graphics card, and operating system are working properly after system power-on. If a specific LED is on, it means the corresponding device is not working normally. If the BOOT LED is on, it 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

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 (Power Connectors)

These connectors supply stable power to all motherboard components. The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If it’s not connected, the computer will not start. It’s recommended to use a power supply of 500W or greater.

3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2/3/4 (Fan Headers)

All fan headers are 4-pin. Connect the fan cable in the correct orientation (black wire is ground). Speed control requires a fan with a speed control design. For optimal heat dissipation, a system fan is recommended.

Pin No.	Definition
1	GND
2	Voltage Speed Control
3	Sense
4	PWM Speed Control

5) FAN5/6_PUMP (System Fan/Water Cooling Pump Headers)

These 4-pin headers support fans or water cooling pumps. They possess a foolproof design and provide speed control.

Connector	CPU_FAN	SYS_FAN1~4	FAN5/6_PUMP	CPU_OPT
Maximum Current	2A	2A	2A	2A
Maximum Power	24W	24W	24W	24W

6) CPU_OPT (CPU Fan/Water Cooling Pump Header)

This 4-pin header is for an additional CPU fan or water cooling pump.

Pin No.	Definition
1	GND
2	Voltage Speed Control
3	Sense
4	PWM Speed Control

7) EC_TEMP1/EC_TEMP2 (Temperature Sensor Headers)

Connect thermistor cables to these headers for temperature detection.

Pin No.	Definition
1	SENSOR IN
2	GND

8) LED_C (RGB LED Strip Header)

Connect a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B) with a max power rating of 2A (12V) and max length of 2m. Connect the power pin (triangle on plug) to Pin 1 (12V).

Pin No.	Definition
1	12V
2	G
3	R
4	B

9) ARGB_V2_1/ARGB_V2_2/ARGB_V2_3 (Addressable RGB Gen2 LED Strip Headers)

Connect a standard 5050 addressable RGB Gen2 LED strip with a max power rating of 3A (5V) and a max of 256 LEDs. Connect the power pin (triangle on plug) to Pin 1 (V).

Pin No.	Definition
1	V (5V)
2	Data
3	No Pin
4	GND

10) SATA3 0/1 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)

These connectors support SATA 6Gb/s, 3Gb/s, and 1.5Gb/s standards and RAID 0 and RAID 1.

Pin No.	Definition
1	GND
2	TXP
3	TXN
4	GND
5	RXN
6	RXP
7	GND

11) BAT (Battery)

The battery provides power to keep CMOS values. Replace it when voltage drops. To replace, turn off and unplug the PC, remove the old battery, wait a minute, install the new battery with the positive side (+) facing up, plug in and restart.

12) M2A_CPU/M2C_SB/M2D_SB/M2B_CPU (M.2 Socket 3 Connectors)

These connectors support M.2 PCIe SSDs. M.2 SATA SSDs are not supported. For installation steps, please see the specific guide for your M.2 connector.

13) F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)

Connects chassis front panel components like power switch, reset switch, LEDs, etc. Pin assignments vary by case.

14) F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)

Supports High Definition (HD) audio. Connect your chassis front panel audio module here.

Pin No.	Definition
1	MIC L
2	GND
3	MIC R
4	NC
5	Head Phone R
6	MIC Detection
7	SENSE_SEND
8	No Pin
9	Head Phone L
10	Head Phone Detection

15) FU3C_20G (USB Type-C® Header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Support)

This header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 specification and can provide one USB port.

16) FU3A_5G (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header)

This header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specifications and can provide two USB ports via an optional front panel.

17) FUSB_1/FUSB_2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers)

These headers conform to USB 2.0/1.1 specification and each can provide two USB ports via an optional USB bracket.

Pin No.	Definition
1	Power (5V)
2	Power (5V)
3	USB DX-
4	USB DY-
5	USB DX+
6	USB DY+
7	GND
8	GND
9	No Pin
10	NC

18) SPI_TPM (Trusted Platform Module Header)

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

Pin No.	Definition
1	Data Output
2	Power (1.8V)
3	No Pin
4	NC
5	Data Input
6	CLK
7	Chip Select
8	GND
9	IRQ
10	NC
11	NC
12	RST

19) DB_SENSE (Noise Detection Header)

This header can be used to connect a noise detection cable to detect the noise inside the case. Remove the jumper cap before connecting the cable.

Pin No.	Definition
1	Noise Detection
2	GND

20) 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 before clearing the CMOS values.

21) RST (Reset Jumper)

The reset jumper can connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel to restart the computer.

Pin No.	Definition
1	Reset
2	GND

Installing the M.2 rubber pad (applicable only for M.2 connectors without pre-installed thermal pads):

a. When using a double-sided M.2 SSD, attach the thick rubber pad (Black) to the recommended placement area.

b. When using a single-sided M.2 SSD, first stick the thin rubber pad (Gray) to the thick rubber pad, and then attach them to the recommended placement area.

Avoid contacting any chips or IC components on the motherboard when attaching the rubber pads.

Installation for M2A_CPU:

Step 1: Turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and remove the motherboard heatsink. Locate the proper mounting hole for the M.2 SSD to be installed. If you want to install an M.2 SSD in the 110mm hole, remove the EZ-Latch Plus clip from the 80mm hole first.

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 make sure it is secured by the clip.

Step 3: Remove the protective film from the bottom of the motherboard heatsink, and finally, turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and then install the heatsink back in place.

Installation for M2C_SB/M2D_SB:

Step 1: Turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and remove the motherboard heatsink. Locate the proper mounting hole for the M.2 SSD to be installed and secure the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus clip in the hole first.

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 make sure it is secured by the clip.

Step 3: Remove the protective film from the bottom of the motherboard heatsink, and finally, turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and then install the heatsink back in place.

Installation for M2B_CPU:

Step 1: Turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and remove the motherboard heatsink. Locate the proper mounting hole for the M.2 SSD to be installed and secure the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus clip in the hole first.

Step 2: Remove the protective film from the thermal pad on the M.2 connector. Insert the M.2 SSD into the M.2 connector at an angle.

Step 3: Press down on the front end of the M.2 SSD and make sure it is secured by the clip. Remove the protective film from the bottom of the motherboard heatsink, and finally, turn the M.2 EZ-Latch Click clip clockwise and then install the heatsink back in place.

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
M2C_SB	✔	✔	X
M2D_SB	✔	✔	X
M2B_CPU	✔	✔	X

To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key during the POST when the power is turned on. The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.

Function Keys:

<DEL>: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH

Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.

<F12>: 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 <Enter> 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 <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.

• 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 use the “Load Optimized Defaults” option in BIOS to clear the CMOS values.

Operating System Installation

With the correct BIOS settings, you are ready to install the operating system. If your OS requires an additional RAID driver during installation, follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the AMD RAID Preinstall Driver file, unzip it, and copy the files to a USB thumb drive.

Step 2: Boot from the Windows setup disc. When the screen requesting you to load the driver appears, select Browse.

Step 3: Insert the USB thumb drive and browse to the location of the drivers. Install the following three drivers in order: ① AMD-RAID Bottom Device, ② AMD-RAID Controller, ③ AMD-RAID Config Device. Then, continue the OS installation.

Drivers Installation

After installing the operating system, a dialog box will appear on the bottom-right corner of the desktop asking if you want to download and install the drivers and GIGABYTE applications via GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC). Click Install to proceed. (In BIOS Setup, make sure Settings\IO Ports\Gigabyte Utilities Downloader Configuration\Gigabyte Utilities Downloader is set to Enabled.)

When the EULA (End User License Agreement) dialog box appears, press <Accept> to install GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC). On the GIGABYTE CONTROL CENTER screen, select the drivers and applications you want to install and click Install. Before the installation, make sure the system is connected to the Internet.

This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. Prepare the correct number of hard drives as indicated in the table below before configuring a RAID array.

	RAID 0	RAID 1	RAID 5 (Note)	RAID 10
Minimum Number of Hard Drives	≥2	2	≥3	4
Array Capacity	Number of hard drives * Size of the smallest drive	Size of the smallest drive	(Number of hard drives – 1) * Size of the smallest drive	(Number of hard drives/2) * Size of the smallest drive
Fault Tolerance	No	Yes	Yes	Yes

(Note) Only available on NVMe SSDs with the AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series Processors.

Before you begin, please prepare the following items:

• SATA hard drives or SSDs. To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended that you use two hard drives with identical model and capacity.

• Windows setup disc.

• An Internet connected computer.

• A USB thumb drive.

An M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to set up a RAID set either with an M.2 SATA SSD or a SATA hard drive.

Regular Boot

Code	Description
10	PEI Core is started.
11	Pre-memory CPU initialization is started.
12~14	Reserved.
15	Pre-memory North-Bridge initialization is started.
16~18	Reserved.
19	Pre-memory South-Bridge initialization is started.
1A~2A	Reserved.
2B~2F	Memory initialization.
31	Memory installed.
32~36	CPU PEI initialization.
37~3A	IOH PEI initialization.
3B~3E	PCH PEI initialization.
3F~4F	Reserved.
60	DXE Core is started.
61	NVRAM initialization.
62	Installation of the PCH runtime services.
63~67	CPU DXE initialization is started.
68	PCI host bridge initialization is started.
69	IOH DXE initialization.
6A	IOH SMM initialization.
6B~6F	Reserved.
70	PCH DXE initialization.
71	PCH SMM initialization.
72	PCH devices initialization.
73~77	PCH DXE initialization (PCH module specific).
78	ACPI Core initialization.
79	CSM initialization is started.
7A~7F	Reserved for AMI use.
80~8F	Reserved for OEM use (OEM DXE initialization codes).
90	Phase transfer to BDS (Boot Device Selection) from DXE.
91	Issue event to connect drivers.
92	PCI Bus initialization is started.
93	PCI Bus hot plug initialization.
94	PCI Bus enumeration for detecting how many resources are requested.
95	Check PCI device requested resources.
96	Assign PCI device resources.
97	Console Output devices connect (ex. Monitor is lighted).
98	Console input devices connect (ex. PS2/USB keyboard/mouse are activated).
99	Super IO initialization.
9A	USB initialization is started.
9B	Issue reset during USB initialization process.
9C	Detect and install all currently connected USB devices.
9D	Activated all currently connected USB devices.
9E~9F	Reserved.
A0	IDE initialization is started.
A1	Issue reset during IDE initialization process.
A2	Detect and install all currently connected IDE devices.
A3	Activated all currently connected IDE devices.
A4	SCSI initialization is started.
A5	Issue reset during SCSI initialization process.
A6	Detect and install all currently connected SCSI devices.
A7	Activated all currently connected SCSI devices.
A8	Verify password if needed.
A9	BIOS Setup is started.
AA	Reserved.
AB	Wait user command in BIOS Setup.
AC	Reserved.
AD	Issue Ready To Boot event for OS Boot.
AE	Boot to Legacy OS.
AF	Exit Boot Services.
B0	Runtime AP installation begins.
B1	Runtime AP installation ends.
B2	Legacy Option ROM initialization.
B3	System reset if needed.
B4	USB device hot plug-in.
B5	PCI device hot plug.
B6	Clean-up of NVRAM.
B7	Reconfigure NVRAM settings.
B8~BF	Reserved.
C0~CF	Reserved.

S3 Resume

Code	Description
E0	S3 Resume is started (called from DXE IPL).
E1	Fill boot script data for S3 resume.
E2	Initializes VGA for S3 resume.
E3	OS S3 wake vector call.

Recovery

Code	Description
F0	Recovery mode will be triggered due to invalid firmware volume detection.
F1	Recovery mode will be triggered by user decision.
F2	Recovery is started.
F3	Recovery firmware image is found.
F4	Recovery firmware image is loaded.
F5~F7	Reserved for future AMI progress codes.

Error

Code	Description
50~55	Memory initialization error occurs.
56	Invalid CPU type or speed.
57	CPU mismatch.
58	CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error.
59	CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed.
5A	Internal CPU error.
5B	Reset PPI is failed.
5C~5F	Reserved.
D0	CPU initialization error.
D1	IOH initialization error.
D2	PCH initialization error.
D3	Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available.
D4	PCI resource allocation error. Out of Resources.
D5	No Space for Legacy Option ROM initialization.
D6	No Console Output Devices are found.
D7	No Console Input Devices are found.
D8	It is an invalid password.
D9~DA	Can’t load Boot Option.
DB	Flash update is failed.
DC	Reset protocol is failed.
DE~DF	Reserved.
E8	S3 resume is failed.
E9	S3 Resume PPI is not found.
EA	S3 Resume Boot Script is invalid.
EB	S3 OS Wake call is failed.
EC~EF	Reserved.
F8	Recovery PPI is invalid.
<F9>	Recovery capsule is not found.
FA	Invalid recovery capsule.
FB~FF	Reserved.