Product Overview
The GIGABYTE B550M DS3H AC is an Ultra Durable Motherboard designed for AMD Ryzen processors. It features a Pure Digital VRM Solution, PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, Dual PCIe 4.0/3.0 M.2 connectors, and Intel Dual Band WiFi 6. This motherboard provides a robust and feature-rich platform for building a high-performance personal computer.
Setup and Installation
Unboxing and Included Accessories
Before beginning installation, ensure all components are present. The motherboard package typically includes the following:
- GIGABYTE B550M DS3H AC Motherboard
- Wi-Fi Antenna
- I/O Shield
- SATA Cables (typically two, one straight, one 90-degree)
- M.2 Drive Screws and Rubber Pads
- Multilingual Installation Guide
Component Installation
Follow the detailed steps in the multilingual installation guide for proper component installation. Key steps include:
- Installing the CPU: Carefully align and place your AMD Ryzen processor into the AM4 socket.
- Installing RAM: Insert DDR4 memory modules into the DIMM slots. Refer to the Qualified Vendor List (QVL) on the GIGABYTE website for compatible modules.
- Installing M.2 SSDs: Secure M.2 drives into the designated slots using the provided screws and rubber pads.
- Installing Graphics Card: Insert your graphics card into the primary PCIe 4.0 x16 slot.
- Connecting Power: Connect the ATX 12V 8-pin power connector and the main 24-pin ATX power connector.
- Connecting Peripherals: Connect SATA drives, front panel headers, and other peripherals.
BIOS Update
This motherboard features a BIOS Q-Flash Plus button on the back panel, allowing you to update the BIOS without installing a CPU, memory, or graphics card. Refer to the manual for detailed instructions on using Q-Flash Plus.
Key Features
Processor Support
The GIGABYTE B550M DS3H AC motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 5000 Series, G-Series, and 3000 Series desktop processors with an AM4 socket.
Memory
It features four DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting a maximum capacity of 128GB of ECC and non-ECC unbuffered memory. Supported speeds go up to 3200 MT/s, with overclocking capabilities up to 4733 MT/s. Always check the Qualified Vendor List (QVL) on the GIGABYTE website for compatible RAM modules to ensure stability.
Storage
The motherboard includes two M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs. The top M.2 slot supports PCIe 4.0 x4 mode with standard Ryzen 3000/5000 series CPUs, or PCIe 3.0 x4 with Ryzen 3000/4000/5000 G-series processors. The second M.2 slot supports PCIe 3.0 x4 and is routed through the B550 chipset. Additionally, there are four SATA 6Gb/s ports for traditional storage devices.
Expansion Slots
The board provides five PCIe expansion slots:
- One PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (main slot, reinforced with Ultra Durable Stainless Steel for heavy graphics cards). Performance varies based on CPU (PCIe 4.0 x16 for Ryzen 3000/5000 series, PCIe 3.0 x16 for G-series Ryzen).
- Four full-length PCIe x1 slots, all running through the B550 chipset and supporting PCIe 3.0.
Connectivity
The GIGABYTE B550M DS3H AC offers comprehensive connectivity options:
- Wireless: Integrated Intel Dual Band WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Ethernet: One Gigabit Ethernet port.
- USB Ports (Rear Panel): Four USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, and one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port.
- USB Headers (Internal): Two USB 2.0 headers, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 header, and one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C header.
- Video Outputs: HDMI 2.3 port (requires a G-series Ryzen processor with integrated graphics).
- Audio: Realtek High Definition Audio Codec supporting up to 7.1 surround sound.
Fan Headers
The motherboard includes five fan headers for optimal cooling:
- CPU Fan header
- CPU Optional Fan header
- Three System Fan headers
RGB Lighting
While the board itself does not feature built-in RGB lighting, it provides multiple headers for connecting compatible RGB devices:
- Two 4-pin RGB headers
- Two 3-pin ARGB headers
These headers allow for customization of lighting effects using GIGABYTE's RGB Fusion software.
Operating Your Motherboard
Once all components are installed and connected, power on your system. The motherboard's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) allows for configuration of hardware settings, boot order, and system monitoring.
BIOS/UEFI Interface
Access the UEFI BIOS by pressing the designated key (usually DEL or F2) during system startup. The intuitive interface allows you to:
- Adjust CPU and memory settings.
- Configure storage devices.
- Monitor system temperatures and fan speeds.
- Update BIOS firmware.
Driver Installation
After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers for the motherboard's components (chipset, LAN, audio, WiFi, etc.). These can typically be found on the GIGABYTE support website for your specific model.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your motherboard:
- Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air.
- BIOS Updates: Keep your BIOS updated to the latest version to benefit from performance improvements, bug fixes, and support for new hardware.
- Driver Updates: Ensure all drivers are up-to-date for optimal compatibility and performance.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, refer to the following general troubleshooting tips:
- No Power/No Boot: Double-check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU). Ensure the power supply is switched on.
- No Display: Verify that your monitor is connected to the graphics card (or motherboard if using integrated graphics) and powered on. Reseat the graphics card and RAM modules.
- System Instability/Crashes: Check RAM compatibility with the QVL. Ensure proper cooling for CPU and VRMs. Update BIOS and drivers.
- Peripheral Issues: Ensure devices are correctly connected. Install or update relevant drivers.
For more specific issues, consult the detailed troubleshooting section in the official GIGABYTE user manual or their online support resources.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 9.61 x 9.61 x 1.38 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.22 pounds |
| Manufacturer | VIP Computer Centre Ltd - PC Stock Order Account |
| ASIN | B08VS6TKFW |
| Item Model Number | B550M DS3H AC |
| Date First Available | January 12, 2023 |
| Brand | GIGABYTE |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM4 |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR4 |
| Compatible Processors | AMD Ryzen 5000 Series, G-Series, 3000 Series |
| Chipset Type | AMD B550 |
| Memory Clock Speed | 4733 MHz |
| Platform | Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 5 |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This product is typically covered by a 3-Year Protection Plan. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the GIGABYTE official website.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, driver downloads, or further information, please visit the official GIGABYTE support website or contact their customer service.
