Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your GIGABYTE B650E AORUS Elite X AX ICE AM5 ATX Motherboard. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
The GIGABYTE B650E AORUS Elite X AX ICE motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 8000 and 7000 Series Processors, features DDR5 memory compatibility, PCIe 5.0, multiple M.2 slots, and advanced connectivity options including WiFi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN.
1. Setup and Installation
1.1 Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in the motherboard package:
- GIGABYTE B650E AORUS Elite X AX ICE Motherboard
- SATA Cables
- Wi-Fi Antenna
- User Manual (digital copy)
- Driver CD/USB (if included, otherwise download from GIGABYTE website)
1.2 Motherboard Layout
Familiarize yourself with the motherboard's key components and connectors.
Image: Overview of the GIGABYTE B650E AORUS Elite X AX ICE motherboard, highlighting the CPU socket, DDR5 DIMM slots, M.2 slots, and PCIe slots.
Key areas include the AMD AM5 CPU socket, four DDR5 DIMM slots, three M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, and full-length PCIe slots for graphics cards and expansion cards.
1.3 Component Installation
1.3.1 CPU Installation
- Carefully open the CPU socket lever.
- Align the triangular mark on the CPU with the mark on the socket.
- Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
- Close the socket lever to secure the CPU.
1.3.2 Memory (RAM) Installation
- Open the clips at both ends of the DIMM slot.
- Align the notch on the DDR5 memory module with the key in the DIMM slot.
- Insert the memory module firmly until the clips snap into place. For dual-channel operation, refer to the motherboard's specific slot recommendations (usually A2 and B2).
1.3.3 M.2 SSD Installation
- Locate the M.2 slots, often covered by thermal guards.
- Remove the M.2 Thermal Guard XL.
- Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle.
- Secure the M.2 SSD with the EZ-Latch Plus mechanism or screw.
- Reattach the M.2 Thermal Guard XL.
1.3.4 Graphics Card (GPU) Installation
- Open the retention clip on the primary PCIe 5.0 x16 slot.
- Align the graphics card with the slot and press firmly until it seats correctly and the clip locks.
- Secure the card to the chassis with a screw.
1.3.5 Power Supply Connections
Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin (or 8+4-pin) CPU power connector from your power supply to the motherboard.
1.4 Initial Boot and BIOS Update
After assembling your system, connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Power on the system.
It is highly recommended to update the BIOS to the latest version for optimal stability and compatibility, especially with new CPUs and memory modules. The GIGABYTE Q-Flash Plus feature allows you to update the BIOS without installing a CPU, memory, or graphics card.
1.4.1 Q-Flash Plus Procedure
- Download the latest BIOS file from the GIGABYTE website for your specific motherboard model.
- Rename the downloaded BIOS file to
GIGABYTE.bin(or as specified in the official GIGABYTE Q-Flash Plus guide). - Copy the renamed BIOS file to the root directory of a USB flash drive (FAT32 formatted).
- Insert the USB flash drive into the dedicated Q-Flash Plus USB port on the motherboard's rear I/O panel.
- Ensure the 24-pin ATX power connector is connected to the motherboard.
- Press the Q-Flash Plus button on the motherboard. The Q-Flash Plus LED will blink, indicating the update process has started.
- Wait for the LED to stop blinking, which signifies the completion of the BIOS update. Do not power off or restart the system during this process.
1.5 Driver Installation
After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers for optimal performance. Drivers can be downloaded from the official GIGABYTE website.
- Chipset Drivers: Essential for system stability and component recognition. It is recommended to download these directly from AMD's website for the latest versions.
- LAN Drivers: For wired network connectivity.
- Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth Drivers: For wireless connectivity.
- Audio Drivers: For sound functionality.
- USB Drivers: To ensure proper functionality of all USB ports.
2. Operation
2.1 BIOS/UEFI Settings
To enter the BIOS/UEFI setup, press the DEL key during system startup. The BIOS allows configuration of system settings, boot order, fan speeds, and overclocking parameters.
2.2 Key Features
- AMD AM5 Socket: Supports AMD Ryzen 8000 and 7000 Series Processors.
- DDR5 Compatibility: Four DIMM slots with support for AMD EXPO & Intel XMP memory modules.
- Commanding Power Design: Twin 12+2+2 Phases Digital VRM Solution with a 6-Layer 2X Copper PCB for stable power delivery.
- Cutting-Edge Thermal Design: Features M.2 Thermal Guard XL and VRM Thermal Armor to maintain optimal temperatures.
- Next Gen Connectivity: Includes PCIe 5.0 support, three M.2 slots, dual USB-C ports, Bluetooth 5.3, WiFi 6E, and 2.5GbE LAN.
Image: Close-up view of the motherboard's power delivery system and PCIe 5.0 slot, emphasizing robust design for performance.
3. Maintenance
3.1 BIOS Updates
Regularly check the GIGABYTE website for new BIOS versions. Updates can improve system stability, add support for new hardware, and fix bugs. Always follow the official update procedures carefully.
3.2 Driver Updates
Keep your system drivers updated. Visit the GIGABYTE support page for your motherboard model to download the latest drivers for chipset, LAN, Wi-Fi, audio, and other components.
3.3 Physical Cleaning
Periodically clean dust from the motherboard and components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning. Pay attention to heatsinks and fan areas to maintain optimal cooling performance.
4. Troubleshooting
4.1 Common Issues and Solutions
- No Display/Boot: Ensure all power cables are securely connected. Reseat RAM modules and the graphics card. Check CPU installation.
- System Instability/Crashes: Update BIOS and all drivers. Check memory compatibility and run memory diagnostic tools. Ensure adequate cooling.
- USB Device Issues: Update chipset drivers. Ensure USB devices are connected to appropriate ports.
- Network Connectivity Problems: Verify LAN cable connection or Wi-Fi antenna installation. Update LAN/Wi-Fi drivers.
4.2 Debug LEDs
The motherboard features debug LEDs (CPU, DRAM, VGA, BOOT) that illuminate to indicate the component causing a boot failure. Consult the full online manual for specific LED codes and their meanings.
Image: Angled view of the motherboard, showing the location of debug LEDs which assist in diagnosing boot issues.
5. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | GIGABYTE |
| Model Name | B650E AORUS ELITE X AX ICE |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM5 |
| Compatible Processors | AMD Ryzen 8000 and 7000 Series |
| Chipset Type | AMD B650E |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR5 |
| RAM Memory Maximum Size | 128 GB |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 3x M.2 |
| LAN | 2.5GbE LAN |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| USB Ports | Dual USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen2X2 Type-C) and other USB ports |
| Form Factor | EATX |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 13.19 x 3.15 x 10.63 inches |
6. Warranty and Support
6.1 Product Warranty
The GIGABYTE B650E AORUS Elite X AX ICE Motherboard comes with a 5-Year Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, refer to the official GIGABYTE website.
6.2 Technical Support
For technical assistance, driver downloads, and further documentation, please visit the official GIGABYTE support website. You can also find FAQs and troubleshooting guides there.
Official GIGABYTE Support: https://www.gigabyte.com/support