1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT ITX Gaming Graphics Card. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference.
Image 1.1: The PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT ITX Graphics Card, a compact design featuring a single fan for efficient cooling.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your product package:
- PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT ITX Graphics Card
- Quick Installation Guide (this document)
- Driver CD (or download instructions)
Image 2.1: The PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT ITX Graphics Card alongside its retail packaging, indicating the product's compact size and branding.
3. System Requirements
- PCI Express-enabled motherboard with one X16 graphics slot.
- Minimum 400W power supply (consult your system builder for specific recommendations).
- Minimum 8GB system memory (16GB recommended).
- Supported operating system: Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11 64-bit.
- Internet connection for driver installation and updates.
4. Setup
4.1 Physical Installation
- Power Off: Ensure your computer is completely powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet.
- Open Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case.
- Locate PCIe Slot: Identify an available PCI Express x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Remove Slot Cover: Remove the metal slot cover(s) corresponding to the chosen PCIe slot.
- Insert Graphics Card: Carefully align the graphics card with the PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the retention clip locks into place.
- Secure Card: Fasten the graphics card to the case with the screw(s) removed earlier.
- Connect Power: Connect the required 6-pin or 8-pin PCIe power connector(s) from your power supply to the graphics card. This model typically requires one 6-pin connector.
- Close Case: Replace the side panel of your computer case.
4.2 Driver Installation
- Connect Display: Connect your monitor to one of the graphics card's display outputs (HDMI or DisplayPort).
- Power On: Plug in and power on your computer.
- Initial Boot: Your system may boot with a basic display driver.
- Download Drivers: Visit the official AMD website (www.amd.com/en/support) or the PowerColor website (www.powercolor.com/support) to download the latest AMD Radeon Software Adrenalin Edition drivers for your RX 6500 XT.
- Install Drivers: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts. A system restart may be required.
- Verify Installation: After restarting, open AMD Radeon Software to confirm that the graphics card is recognized and drivers are up to date.
5. Operating the Graphics Card
5.1 Connecting to a Display
The PowerColor RX 6500 XT ITX features the following display outputs:
- 1 x HDMI 2.1
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.4
Connect your monitor(s) using compatible cables. For optimal performance, especially at high resolutions or refresh rates, use high-quality certified cables.
5.2 AMD Radeon Software Adrenalin Edition
The AMD Radeon Software provides a comprehensive interface for managing your graphics card. Key features include:
- Game Settings: Optimize game performance and visual quality.
- Performance Monitoring: View real-time GPU metrics such as temperature, clock speed, and utilization.
- Driver Updates: Check for and install the latest graphics drivers.
- Display Settings: Configure resolution, refresh rate, and color settings.
- AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): Enhance frame rates in supported games by upscaling lower resolution images with minimal quality loss.
Image 5.1: Illustration of AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) in 'Performance Mode', demonstrating how it upscales a lower native resolution image to improve frame rates while maintaining visual quality.
5.3 Cooling System Operation
This graphics card features an efficient cooling solution designed to maintain optimal temperatures during operation. The fan is equipped with a silent passive cooling feature:
- Mute Fan Technology: The fan will stop spinning when the GPU temperature is below 60°C, providing silent operation during light workloads.
- Dual Ball Bearings: The fan utilizes dual ball bearings for increased durability and longevity compared to traditional sleeve bearings.
Image 5.2: Diagram illustrating the fan stop feature, where the graphics card fan ceases rotation when the GPU temperature is below 60°C for silent operation.
Image 5.3: Diagram showing the graphics card fan actively spinning with blue arrows indicating airflow, signifying operation when the GPU temperature exceeds 60°C.
Image 5.4: Close-up illustration of the dual ball bearing mechanism within the graphics card fan, highlighting its robust design for enhanced durability.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning
Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your graphics card:
- Dust Removal: Periodically use compressed air to gently clear dust from the fan blades and heatsink fins. Ensure the fan is held stationary during this process to prevent damage.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the card with a soft, dry, anti-static cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
6.2 Driver Updates
Keep your graphics drivers updated to ensure compatibility with the latest games and applications, and to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes. Check the AMD or PowerColor support websites regularly for new driver releases.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your graphics card, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Display Output:
- Ensure the monitor cable is securely connected to both the graphics card and the monitor.
- Verify that the graphics card is fully seated in the PCIe slot and that all power connectors are attached.
- Test with a different display cable or monitor if possible.
- System Instability or Crashes:
- Ensure your power supply meets the minimum wattage requirement.
- Update your graphics drivers to the latest version.
- Monitor GPU temperatures using AMD Radeon Software to check for overheating.
- Poor Performance in Games:
- Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date.
- Adjust in-game graphics settings to a lower preset.
- Verify that your system meets the game's minimum requirements.
For further assistance, refer to the PowerColor support website or contact their technical support.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AXRX 6500XT 4GBD6-DH |
| Graphics Coprocessor | AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT |
| Memory Size | 4GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Speed | 18.0 Gbps |
| Stream Processors | 1024 |
| Game Clock | 2610 MHz |
| Boost Clock | 2815 MHz |
| Max Resolution | 7680x4320 |
| Video Output Interface | 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 6.5 x 4.92 x 1.57 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.23 pounds |
9. Warranty Information
PowerColor products are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary by region and retailer. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed warranty information, visit the official PowerColor website or contact your point of purchase.
10. Support
For technical support, driver downloads, and frequently asked questions, please visit the official PowerColor support page:
You may also contact PowerColor customer service directly through the contact information provided on their website.
