GIGABYTE B850M EAGLE WIFI6E (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. You should check your motherboard revision before updating the motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical information. The revision number is printed on the motherboard itself.

The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can be damaged by electrostatic discharge (ESD). Before 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 the 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.

• Before 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, 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.

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. 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.

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.

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

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.

Note: 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. Always replace the plastic protective cover when the CPU is not installed to protect the 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. Install the cooler based on its 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. 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.

Before you begin to install the memory, read the following guidelines:

• 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:

(* = Recommended Dual Channel Memory Configurations)

Dual Channel Memory Configuration

This motherboard provides four memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. The four memory sockets are divided into two channels:

• 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 these 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 these steps to correctly install your expansion card:

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.

• DisplayPort: Connect your DisplayPort-supported monitor here. Supports up to 3840×2160@144 Hz resolution. (Actual support may vary by CPU).

• HDMI Port: Connect your HDMI-supported monitor here. It is HDCP 2.3 compliant and supports up to 4096×2160@60 Hz resolution. (Actual support may vary by CPU).

• USB 2.0/1.1 Port: Use this port for USB 2.0/1.1 devices.

• PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse Port: Use this port to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard.

• Q-Flash Plus Button: This 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 USB port, and press this button to flash the BIOS automatically.

• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red): This port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification. Use this port for USB devices, and it is also the dedicated port for the Q-Flash Plus function.

• USB Type-C® Port (with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Support): This reversible USB port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification.

• RJ-45 LAN Port: Provides Internet connection at up to 2.5 Gbps. The LEDs indicate the connection speed and activity.

• USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port: This port supports the USB 3.2 Gen 1 specification.

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

• Audio Jacks:

– Line In/Rear Speaker Out (Blue): The line in jack.

– Line Out/Front Speaker Out (Green): The line out jack.

– Mic In/Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out (Pink): The Mic in jack.

Important Notes:

• To set up a triple-display configuration, you must install motherboard drivers in the operating system first.

• When removing a cable connected to a back panel connector, first remove the cable from your device and then remove it from the motherboard. Pull it straight out; do not rock it side to side.

Quick Button (Reset Button)

The reset button allows users to quickly turn on/off the computer in an open-case environment. The button can be remapped to perform different tasks via the BIOS Setup.

Status LEDs

The status LEDs show whether the CPU, memory, graphics card, and operating system are working properly after system power-on.

• CPU: CPU status LED

• DRAM: Memory status LED

• VGA: Graphics card status LED

• BOOT: Operating system status LED

If the CPU/DRAM/VGA 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.

The power connectors supply stable power to all components on the motherboard. Before connecting, ensure the power supply is turned off. The connectors have a foolproof design for correct orientation.

• 12V_2X4 (2×4 12V Power Connector): This connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If this connector is not connected, the computer will not start.

• ATX (2×12 Main Power Connector): This is the main power connector for the motherboard.

It is recommended to use a power supply of 500W or greater to meet expansion requirements. An inadequate power supply can result in an unstable or unbootable system.

Pinout for 12V_2X4:

All fan and pump headers are 4-pin and have a foolproof design. When connecting a fan or pump cable, ensure the black connector wire is the ground wire. The speed control function requires a fan/pump with a fan speed control design.

• CPU_FAN / SYS_FAN1 / CPU_OPT (Fan Headers): For connecting CPU and system fans. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended to install a system fan inside the chassis.

• FAN2_PUMP (System Fan/Water Cooling Pump Header): This header can be used for a system fan or a water cooling pump and provides speed control for it.

Pinout for all 4-pin fan/pump headers:

Warning:

• Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from overheating.

• These fan headers are not configuration jumper blocks. Do not place a jumper cap on the headers.

The battery provides power to keep values (like BIOS configurations, date, and time) in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. If the battery voltage drops, the CMOS values may be lost or become inaccurate.

To replace 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. (Alternatively, you can use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the positive and negative terminals of the battery holder, shorting them for 5 seconds, to clear CMOS values).

3. Replace the battery with an equivalent one (CR2032). When installing, note the orientation: the positive side (+) should face up.

4. Plug in the power cord and restart your computer.

Warning:

• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord before replacing the battery.

• Damage may occur if the battery is replaced with an incorrect model.

• Used batteries must be handled in accordance with local environmental regulations.

LED_C (RGB LED Strip Header)

This header is for a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B), with a maximum power rating of 2A (12V) and a maximum length of 2m. The power pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to Pin 1 (12V).

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

These headers are for a standard 5050 addressable RGB Gen2 LED strip, with a maximum power rating of 3A (5V) and a maximum of 256 LEDs. The power pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) must be connected to Pin 1 (V).

Warning:

• To avoid abnormal LED behavior, do not connect addressable RGB Gen1 LED strips and addressable RGB Gen2 LED strips to the same header at the same time.

• Before installing or removing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord to prevent damage.

This motherboard supports M.2 PCIe SSDs only. An M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to create a RAID set with a SATA hard drive.

Installing the M.2 rubber pad:

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

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

M2A_CPU Installation:

1. Locate the M2A_CPU connector. Use a screwdriver to unfasten the screw on the heatsink and remove it.

2. Locate the proper mounting hole for your M.2 SSD. 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.

3. Remove the protective film from the thermal pad on the bottom of the heatsink. Then replace the heatsink and secure it and the M.2 SSD with the original screw.

M2B_CPU Installation:

1. Locate the proper mounting hole based on the length of your M.2 SSD. If needed, move the standoff to the desired mounting hole.

2. Insert the M.2 SSD into the connector at an angle. Press down on the front end of the M.2 SSD and use the provided M.2 screw to fasten it.

Removing and Installing the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus clip:

• Removal: Rotate the latch clockwise by 45 degrees until you hear a “click.” Pull the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus clip straight up vertically.

• Installation: Align the notch on the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus clip with the notch on the motherboard and insert it vertically downward. Rotate it counterclockwise by 45 degrees until you hear a “click.”

Connect the switches and indicators from your chassis to the F_PANEL header. Note the positive and negative pins before connecting.

• PLED/PWR_LED (Power LED): Connects to the power status indicator. The LED is on when the system is operating and off in S3/S4/S5 states.

• PW (Power Switch): Connects to the power button on the chassis. This turns the system on and off.

• SPEAK (Speaker): Connects to the chassis speaker. It provides beep codes for system startup status.

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

• RES (Reset Switch): Connects to the reset button on the chassis. Press it to restart the computer.

• CI (Chassis Intrusion Header): Connects to a chassis intrusion switch/sensor to detect if the case has been opened.

• NC: No Connection.

• F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header): Supports High Definition (HD) audio. Connect your chassis front panel audio module here. Ensure the wire assignments of the module connector match the motherboard header’s pin assignments.

• FU3C_10G (USB Type-C® Header): Conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification and provides one internal USB Type-C port.

• FU3A_5G (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header): Conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 1 and provides two USB ports. For purchasing an optional 3.5″ front panel, contact a local dealer.

• FUSB_1/FUSB_2 (USB 2.0/1.1 Headers): Each header conforms to USB 2.0/1.1 specification and can provide two USB ports via an optional USB bracket.

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

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

• RST (Reset Jumper): Can connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if it freezes. This jumper can also be remapped for other functions in the BIOS.

• CLR_CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper): Use this jumper to clear the BIOS configuration and reset 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. The jumper is normally open. Shorting the pins clears the CMOS.

Important:

• Always turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the power outlet before clearing the CMOS values.

• After a system restart from clearing CMOS, go to BIOS Setup to load factory defaults (select Load Optimized Defaults) or manually configure the settings.

Accessing BIOS Setup:

Press the <Delete> key during the POST (Power-On Self-Test) when the computer is turned on.

Function Keys on Startup Screen:

• <DEL>: Enters BIOS Setup or accesses the Q-Flash utility within BIOS Setup.

• <F12>: BOOT MENU: Allows you to set the first boot device for one time without entering BIOS Setup. Use the arrow keys to select a device and press <Enter>.

• <END>: Q-FLASH: Accesses the Q-Flash utility directly without entering BIOS Setup first.

Upgrading the BIOS:

• Q-Flash: Allows you to upgrade or back up the BIOS from within the BIOS environment.

• Q-Flash Plus: Allows you to update the BIOS when the system is off (S5 shutdown state). Save the BIOS file to a USB drive, plug it into the dedicated port, and press the Q-Flash Plus button.

Caution:

• Because BIOS flashing is potentially risky, it is recommended that you do not flash the BIOS if you are not experiencing problems with the current version.

• It is recommended not to alter default settings unless necessary to prevent instability. If the system fails to boot after changes, clear the CMOS values to reset to defaults.

If the operating system you are installing requires you to provide additional RAID drivers, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Download the AMD RAID Preinstall Driver file from the motherboard model’s support page. Unzip the file and copy the files to a USB thumb drive.

Step 2:

Boot from the Windows setup disc and perform standard OS installation steps. 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. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the following three drivers in order:

1. AMD-RAID Bottom Device

2. AMD-RAID Controller

3. AMD-RAID Config Device

Finally, continue the OS installation.

After you install 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 applications via GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC). Click Install to proceed. (In BIOS Setup, make sure Gigabyte Utilities Downloader is set to Enabled.)

When the EULA (End User License Agreement) dialog box appears, press <Accept> to install 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.

Before you begin, prepare the following items:

• SATA hard drives or SSDs. For 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.

Note: An M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to set up a RAID set with a SATA hard drive.

RAID Levels Information:

(Note) RAID 5 is only available on NVMe SSDs with the AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series Processors.

The following safety precautions should be observed:

• Do not touch or move the antenna while the unit is transmitting or receiving.

• Do not hold any component containing the radio such that the antenna is very close or touching any exposed parts of the body, especially the face or eyes, while transmitting.

• Do not operate the radio or attempt to transmit data unless the antenna is connected; if not, the radio may be damaged.

• Use in specific environments: The use of wireless devices in hazardous locations, on airplanes, and in hospitals is limited by constraints and regulations from safety directors, the FAA, and the respective hospitals.

• Antenna use: To comply with FCC RF exposure limits, low gain integrated antennas should be located at a minimum distance of 7.9 inches (20 cm) or more from the body of all persons.

• Explosive Device Proximity Warning: Do not operate a portable transmitter near unshielded blasting caps or in an explosive environment unless the device has been modified to be qualified for such use.

• Antenna Warning: The wireless adapter is not designed for use with high-gain antennas.

• Use On Aircraft Caution: Regulations prohibit airborne operation of radio-frequency wireless devices because their signals could interfere with critical aircraft instruments.

• Wireless Usage Restriction: The IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN 5.15 GHz-5.35 GHz and/or Wi-Fi 6E Low Power Indoor 5.945 GHz-6.425 GHz frequency bands are restricted for indoor use only in all EU countries and the UK.

WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment) Symbol Statement:

The symbol on the product or packaging indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, the device should be taken to waste collection centers for proper treatment, collection, recycling, and disposal.

Battery Information and Disposal:

The symbol of a crossed-out wheeled bin indicates that this product and/or its battery should not be disposed of with household waste. You must use the public collection system to return, recycle, or treat them in compliance with local regulations.

End of Life Directives-Recycling:

The symbol on the product or packaging indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other waste. It should be taken to waste collection centers for proper disposal procedures.

WARNING – INGESTION HAZARD:

• This product contains a button cell or coin battery (CR2032).

• DEATH or serious injury can occur if ingested. A swallowed battery can cause Internal Chemical Burns in as little as 2 hours.

• KEEP new and used batteries OUT OF REACH of CHILDREN.

• Seek immediate medical attention if a battery is suspected to be swallowed or inserted inside any part of the body.

• Non-rechargeable batteries are not to be recharged.

• Remove and immediately recycle or dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Do NOT dispose of batteries in household trash or incinerate.

• Even used batteries may cause severe injury or death.

• Do not force discharge, recharge, disassemble, heat above the manufacturer’s specified temperature rating, or incinerate. Doing so may result in injury due to venting, leakage, or explosion resulting in chemical burns.