Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX User manual

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Z590 AORUS
ELITE
Z590 AORUS
ELITE AX
Z590 AORUS ELITE AX
Z590 AORUS ELITE
User's Manual
Rev. 1002
12ME-Z59ELTW-1002R

Copyright
©2021 GIGA-BYTE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. All rights reserved.
The trademarks mentioned in this manual are legally registered to their respective owners.
Disclaimer
Information in this manual is protected by copyright laws and is the property of GIGABYTE.
Changes to the specications and features in this manual may be made by GIGABYTE
without prior notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, translated, transmit-
ted, or published in any form or by any means without GIGABYTE's prior written permission.
Documentation Classications
In order to assist in the use of this product, GIGABYTE provides the following types of
documentations:
For quick set-up of the product, read the Quick Installation Guide included with the product.
For detailed product information, carefully read the User's Manual.
For product-related information, check on our website at: https://www.gigabyte.com
Identifying Your Motherboard Revision
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.
Example:

- 3 -
Table of Contents
Z590 AORUS ELITE (AX) Motherboard Layout ..............................................................4
Z590 AORUS ELITE (AX) Motherboard Block Diagram..................................................5
Chapter 1 Hardware Installation ....................................................................................6
1-1 Installation Precautions....................................................................................... 6
1-2 ProductSpecications ........................................................................................ 7
1-3 Installing the CPU ............................................................................................. 11
1-4 Installing the Memory........................................................................................ 11
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card ............................................................................ 12
1-6 Back Panel Connectors .................................................................................... 12
1-7 Internal Connectors........................................................................................... 15
Chapter 2 BIOS Setup.................................................................................................25
2-1 Startup Screen.................................................................................................. 25
2-2 The Main Menu................................................................................................. 26
2-3 Smart Fan 6 ..................................................................................................... 27
2-4 Favorites (F11).................................................................................................. 29
2-5 Tweaker ............................................................................................................ 30
2-6 Settings............................................................................................................. 35
2-7 System Info....................................................................................................... 39
2-8 Boot................................................................................................................... 40
2-9 Save & Exit ....................................................................................................... 43
Chapter 3 Appendix.....................................................................................................44
3-1 ConguringaRAIDSet..................................................................................... 44
3-2 Installing Intel®Optane™Memory and Storage Management........................... 45
3-3 Drivers Installation ............................................................................................ 47
Regulatory Notices...................................................................................................... 48
Contact Us .................................................................................................................. 52

- 4 -
Z590 AORUS ELITE (AX) Motherboard Layout
* The box contents above 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.
USB20
U32G2
U320G
DP
U32_LAN
LGA1200
ATX
AUDIO
DDR4_A1
DDR4_A2
DDR4_B1
DDR4_B2
ATX_12V_2X2
Intel®Z590
CLR_CMOS
THB_C1
M_BIOS
PCIEX4
PCIEX1
PCIEX16
F_U32
CODEC
Z590 AORUS ELITE (AX)
F_PANEL
F_USB1
F_USB2
SPI_TPM
LED_C1
QFLASH_PLUS
F_AUDIO
SYS_FAN2
D_LED1
SYS_FAN1
CPU_FAN
LED_C2
D_LED2
CPU_OPT
iTE®
Super I/O
SATA3 5 3 1
4 2 0
BAT
Realtek®
2.5GbE LAN
CPU DRAM
VGA BOOT
SYS_FAN4_PUMP
ATX_12V_2X4
USB 2.0 Hub
USB 2.0 Hub
SYS_FAN3
U32
F_U32C
M2P_SB
6080110 THB_C2
QFLED
M2B_SB
6080110
M2A_CPU
6080110
Box Contents
5Z590 AORUS ELITE AX or Z590 AORUS ELITE motherboard
5User's Manual 5Four SATA cables
5Quick Installation Guide 5One G Connector
5M.2 screws 5One antennaj
M2_WIFIj
jOnly for the Z590 AORUS ELITE AX.
Temperature sensor

Z590 AORUS ELITE (AX) Motherboard Block Diagram
LGA1200 CPU
CPU CLK+/- (100~500 MHz)
DDR4 3200 (Note)/3000 (Note)/2933 (Note)/
2666/2400/2133 MHz
PCI Express 4.0 (Note)/3.0 Bus
DMI 3.0
SPI
Bus
4 USB 2.0/1.1
USB 2.0
Hub
1 PCI Express x16
x16
DisplayPort
eSPI Bus
1 USB Type-C
®
, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
1 USB Type-C
®
, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A
5 USB 3.2 Gen 1
4 USB 2.0/1.1
USB 2.0
Hub
Center/Subwoofer
Speaker Out
Line Out
MIC
Line In
S/PDIF Out
Rear Speaker Out
CODEC
M.2
WIFIjBIOS
TPM
DDI
1 M.2 Socket 3
(M2A_CPU) (Note)
Intel®Z590
iTE®
Super I/O
(Note) Actual support may vary by CPU.
LAN
RJ45
x1
PCI Express 3.0 Bus
x1
1 PCI Express x1
x4
1 PCI Express x4
x4
2 M.2 Socket 3
(M2B_SB/M2P_SB)
Realtek®
2.5GbE LAN
6 SATA 6Gb/s
- 5 -
jOnly for the Z590 AORUS ELITE AX.

Chapter 1 Hardware Installation
1-1 Installation Precautions
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 com-
ponents such as a motherboard, CPU or memory. If you do not have an ESD wrist strap, keep
yourhandsdryandrst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certiedcomputertechnician.
•If you use an adapter, extension power cable, or power strip, ensure to consult with its instal-
lation and/or grounding instructions.
- 6 -

1-2 ProductSpecications
CPU LGA1200 package:
- 11th Generation Intel
®
Core
™
i9 processors/Intel
®
Core
™
i7 processors/
Intel
®
Core
™
i5 processors
- 10th Generation Intel
®
Core
™
i9 processors/Intel
®
Core
™
i7 processors/Intel
®
Core
™
i5 processors/Intel
®
Core
™
i3 processors/Intel
®
Pentium
®
processors/
Intel
®
Celeron
®
processors*
* Limited to processors with 4 MB Intel®Smart Cache, Intel®Celeron®G5xx5 family.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
L3 cache varies with CPU
Chipset Intel®Z590 Express Chipset
Memory 11th Generation Intel®Core™i9/i7/i5 processors:
- Support for DDR4 3200/3000/2933/2666/2400/2133 MHz memory modules
10th Generation Intel®Core™i9/i7 processors:
- Support for DDR4 2933/2666/2400/2133 MHz memory modules
10th Generation Intel®Core™i5/i3/Pentium®/Celeron®processors:
- Support for DDR4 2666/2400/2133 MHz memory modules
4 x DDR4 DIMM sockets supporting up to 128 GB (32 GB single DIMM capacity)
of system memory
Dual channel memory architecture
Support for ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8 memory modules (operate in
non-ECC mode)
Support for non-ECC Un-buffered DIMM 1Rx8/2Rx8/1Rx16 memory modules
SupportforExtremeMemoryProle(XMP)memorymodules
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory
modules.)
Onboard
Graphics
Integrated Graphics Processor-Intel®HD Graphics support:
- 1 x DisplayPort, supporting a maximum resolution of 4096x2304@60 Hz
* Support for DisplayPort 1.2 version and HDCP 2.3
(GraphicsspecicationsmayvarydependingonCPUsupport.)
Audio Realtek®ALC1220-VB codec
* The back panel line out jack supports DSD audio.
HighDenitionAudio
2/4/5.1/7.1-channel
Support for S/PDIF Out
LAN Realtek®2.5GbE LAN chip (2.5 Gbit/1 Gbit/100 Mbit)
Wireless
Communication
Modulej
Intel®Wi-Fi 6 AX201
- WIFI a, b, g, n, ac with wave 2 features, ax, supporting 2.4/5 GHz Dual-Band
- BLUETOOTH 5.1
- Support for 11ax 160MHz wireless standard and up to 2.4 Gbps data rate
* Actual data rate may vary depending on environment and equipment.
Expansion Slots 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x16 (PCIEX16)
* For optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed,
be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
(The PCIEX16 slot conforms to PCI Express 4.0 standard.) (Note)
1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x4 (PCIEX4)
1 x PCI Express x1 slot
(PCIEX4 and PCIEX1 slots conform to PCI Express 3.0 standard.)
jOnly for the Z590 AORUS ELITE AX.
(Note) Supported by 11th Generation processors only.
- 7 -

Multi-Graphics
Technology Support for AMD Quad-GPU CrossFire™and 2-WayAMD CrossFire™technologies
Storage Interface CPU:
- 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 2260/2280/22110 PCIe 4.0 x4/x2
SSD support) (M2A_CPU) (Note)
Chipset:
- 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 2260/2280/22110 PCIe 3.0 x4/x2
SSD support) (M2B_SB)
- 1 x M.2 connector (Socket 3, M key, type 2260/2280/22110 SATA and PCIe
3.0 x4/x2 SSD support) (M2P_SB)
- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
Support for RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10
* Refer to "1-7 Internal Connectors," for the installation notices for the M.2 and SATA
connectors.
Intel®Optane™Memory Ready
USB Chipset:
- 1 x USB Type-C®port on the back panel, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
- 1 x USB Type-C®port with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support, available through the
internal USB header
- 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red) on the back panel
- 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (3 ports on the back panel, 2 ports available through
the internal USB header)
Chipset+2 USB 2.0 Hubs:
- 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports on the back panel, 4 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 water cooling CPU fan header
3 x system fan headers
1 x system fan/water cooling pump header
2 x addressable LED strip headers
2 x RGB LED strip headers
6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
3 x M.2 Socket 3 connectors
1 x front panel header
1 x front panel audio header
1 x USB Type-C®header, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 support
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 headers
2 x Thunderbolt™add-in card connectors
1 x Trusted Platform Module header (For the GC-TPM2.0 SPI/GC-TPM2.0 SPI
2.0 module only)
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x Q-Flash Plus button
(Note) Supported by 11th Generation processors only.
- 8 -

Back Panel
Connectors
1 x USB Type-C®port, with USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports (red)
3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports
4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
2 x SMA antenna connectors (2T2R)j
1 x DisplayPort
1 x RJ-45 port
1 x optical S/PDIF Out connector
5 x audio jacks
I/O Controller iTE®I/O Controller Chip
Hardware
Monitor
Voltage detection
Temperature detection
Fan speed detection
Watercoolingow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256Mbitash
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 APP Center
* Available applications in APP Center may vary by motherboard model. Supported
functionsofeachapplicationmayalsovarydependingonmotherboardspecications.
- @BIOS
- EasyTune
- Fast Boot
- Game Boost
- ON/OFF Charge
- RGB Fusion
- Smart Backup
- System Information Viewer
Support for Q-Flash Plus
Support for Q-Flash
Support for Xpress Install
jOnly for the Z590 AORUS ELITE AX.
- 9 -

Please visit GIGABYTE's website for support lists of CPU, memory
modules, SSDs, and M.2 devices.
Please visit the Support\Utility List page on GIGABYTE's website to download the latest
version of apps.
Z590 AORUS
ELITE
Z590 AORUS
ELITE AX
Bundled
Software
Norton®Internet Security (OEM version)
Realtek®8125 Gaming LAN Bandwidth Control Utility
Operating
System Support for Windows 10 64-bit
Form Factor ATX Form Factor; 30.5cm x 24.4cm
* GIGABYTEreservestherighttomakeanychangestotheproductspecicationsandproduct-relatedinformationwithout
prior notice.
- 10 -

1-3 Installing the CPU
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:
•Make sure that the motherboard supports the CPU.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest CPU support list.)
•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specications.Itisnotrecommended
thatthesystembusfrequencybesetbeyondhardwarespecicationssinceitdoesnotmeetthe
standard requirements for the peripherals. If you wish to set the frequency beyond the standard
specications,pleasedosoaccordingtoyourhardwarespecicationsincludingtheCPU,graph-
ics card, memory, hard drive, etc.
Installing the CPU
Locate the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.
1-4 Installing the Memory
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.
(Go to GIGABYTE's website for the latest supported memory speeds and memory modules.)
•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 direc-
tion. If you are unable to insert the memory, switch the direction.
DualChannelMemoryConguration
This motherboard provides four memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. After the memory
isinstalled,theBIOSwillautomaticallydetectthespecicationsandcapacityofthememory.EnablingDual
Channel memory mode will double the original memory bandwidth.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on hardware installation.
Do not remove the CPU socket cover before inserting the CPU. It may pop off from the load
plate automatically during the process of re-engaging the lever after you insert the CPU.
Alignment
Key
Alignment
Key
LGA1200 CPU Socket
Pin One Corner of the CPU Socket Triangle Pin One Marking on the CPU
NotchNotch
LGA1200 CPU
- 11 -

The four memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:
Channel A: DDR4_A1, DDR4_A2
Channel B: DDR4_B1, DDR4_B2
RecommandedDualChannelMemoryConguration:
DDR4_A1 DDR4_A2 DDR4_B1 DDR4_B2
2 Modules - - DS/SS - - DS/SS
4 Modules DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS DS/SS
(SS=Single-Sided, DS=Double-Sided, "- -"=No Memory)
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.
1-5 Installing an Expansion Card
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.
1-6 Back Panel Connectors
After installing the DisplayPort device, make sure to set the default sound playback device to
DisplayPort. (The item name may differ depending on your operating system.)
Tighten the antennas to the antenna connectors and then aim the antennas correctly for better
signal reception.
USB 2.0/1.1 Port
TheUSBportsupportstheUSB2.0/1.1specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
SMA Antenna Connectors (2T2R)j
Use this connector to connect an antenna.
DisplayPort
DisplayPort delivers high quality digital imaging and audio, supporting bi-directional audio transmission.
DisplayPort can support HDCP 2.3 content protection mechanism. You can use this port to connect your
DisplayPort-supported monitor. Note: The DisplayPort Technology can support a maximum resolution of
4096x2304@60 Hz but the actual resolutions supported depend on the monitor being used.
jOnly for the Z590 AORUS ELITE AX.
- 12 -

(Note) To enable the Q-Flash Plus function please visit the "Unique Features" webpage of GIGABYTE's
website.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Red)
TheUSB3.2Gen2portsupportstheUSB3.2Gen2specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB3.2
Gen1andUSB2.0specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A Port (Q-Flash Plus Port)
TheUSB3.2Gen2portsupportstheUSB3.2Gen2specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB3.2
Gen1andUSB2.0specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.BeforeusingQ-FlashPlus(Note), make
suretoinserttheUSBashdriveintothisportrst.
USB 3.2 Gen 1 Port
TheUSB3.2Gen1portsupportstheUSB3.2Gen1specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB2.0
specication.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
USB Type-C®Port
ThereversibleUSBportsupportstheUSB3.2Gen2x2specicationandiscompatibletotheUSB3.2
Gen2,USB3.2Gen1,andUSB2.0specications.UsethisportforUSBdevices.
RJ-45 LAN Port
The Gigabit Ethernet LAN port provides Internet connection at up to 2.5 Gbps data rate. The following
describes the states of the LAN port LEDs.
Activity LED
Connection/
Speed LED
LAN Port
Activity LED:Connection/Speed LED:
State Description
Orange 2.5 Gbps data rate
Green 1 Gbps data rate
Off 100 Mbps data rate
State Description
Blinking Data transmission or receiving is occurring
Off No data transmission or receiving is occurring
Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out
Use this audio jack to connect center/subwoofer speakers.
Rear Speaker Out
Use this audio jack to connect rear speakers.
Optical S/PDIF Out Connector
This connector provides digital audio out to an external audio system that supports digital optical audio.
Before using this feature, ensure that your audio system provides an optical digital audio in connector.
Line In/Side Speaker Out
The line in jack. Use this audio jack for line in devices such as an optical drive, walkman, etc.
Line Out/Front Speaker Out
The line out jack. This jack supports audio amplifying function. For better sound quality, it is recommended
that you connect your headphone/speaker to this jack (actual effects may vary by the device being used).
Mic In/Side Speaker Out
The Mic in jack.
- 13 -

AudioJackCongurations:
Jack Headphone/
2-channel 4-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel
Center/Subwoofer Speaker Out a a
Rear Speaker Out a a a
Line In/Side Speaker Out a
Line Out/Front Speaker Out a a a a
Mic In/Side Speaker Out a
•Whenremovingthecableconnectedtoabackpanelconnector,rstremovethecablefromyour
device and then remove it from the motherboard.
•When removing the cable, pull it straight out from the connector. Do not rock it side to side to
prevent an electrical short inside the cable connector.
•If you want to install a Side Speaker, you need to retask either the Line in or Mic in jack to be Side
Speaker out through the audio driver.
•ToenableorconguretheaudioamplifyingfunctionfortheLineoutjack,pleaseaccessthe
HD Audio Manager application.
PleasevisitGIGABYTE'swebsitefordetailsonconguringtheaudiosoftware.
- 14 -

1-7 Internal Connectors
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) ATX_12V_2X2/ATX_12V_2X4
2) ATX
3) CPU_FAN
4) SYS_FAN1/2/3
5) SYS_FAN4_PUMP
6) CPU_OPT
7) LED_C1/LED_C2
8) D_LED1/D_LED2
9) SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5
10) M2A_CPU/M2B_SB/M2P_SB
11) F_PANEL
12) F_AUDIO
13) F_U32C
14) F_U32
15) F_USB1/F_USB2
16) SPI_TPM
17) THB_C1/THB_C2
18) CLR_CMOS
19) BAT
20) CPU/DRAM/VGA/BOOT
21) QFLASH_PLUS
4
5
2
17
13
412 8 11
1
1
7
9
10
10
15
16
3 76
18
4
20
14
10
19
21
8
- 15 -

DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
131
2412
ATX
1/2) ATX_12V_2X2/ATX_12V_2X4/ATX (2x2, 2x4, 12V Power Connectors and 2x12 Main Power
Connector)
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the
componentsonthemotherboard.Beforeconnectingthepowerconnector,rstmakesurethepower
supply is turned off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses a foolproof
design. Connect the power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected,
the computer will not start.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high
power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide
the required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.
ATX:
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 3.3V 13 3.3V
2 3.3V 14 -12V
3 GND 15 GND
4 +5V 16 PS_ON (soft On/Off)
5 GND 17 GND
6 +5V 18 GND
7 GND 19 GND
8 Power Good 20 NC
9 5VSB (stand by +5V) 21 +5V
10 +12V 22 +5V
11 +12V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
23 +5V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
12 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
24 GND (Only for 2x12-pin
ATX)
ATX_12V_2X4:
Pin No. Denition Pin No. Denition
1 GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) 5 +12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
2 GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) 6 +12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V)
3 GND 7 +12V
4 GND 8 +12V
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
ATX_12V_2X4
41
8
5
ATX_12V_2X2:
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 GND
3 +12V
4 +12V
ATX_12V_2X2
2
4
1
3
- 16 -

3/4) CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/2/3 (Fan Headers)
All fan headers on this motherboard are 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design.
When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire
is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design.
For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.
CPU_FAN
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
11
SYS_FAN2
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
5) SYS_FAN4_PUMP (System Fan/Water Cooling Pump Header)
The fan/pump header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. Most fan headers possess a
foolproof insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation
(the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with
fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed
inside the chassis. The header also provides speed control for a water cooling pump, refer to Chapter 2,
"BIOS Setup," "Smart Fan 6," for more information.
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
6) CPU_OPT (Water Cooling CPU Fan Header)
The fan header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. Most fan headers possess a foolproof
insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black
connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed
control design.
DEBUG PORT
G.QBOFM
1
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 Voltage Speed Control
3 Sense
4 PWM Speed Control
•Be sure to connect fan cables to the fan headers to prevent your CPU and system from over-
heating. Overheating may result in damage to the CPU or the system may hang.
•Thesefanheadersarenotcongurationjumperblocks.Donotplaceajumpercaponthe
headers.
DEBUG PORT
G.QBOFM
1
SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN3
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
1
Connector CPU_FAN SYS_FAN1~3 SYS_FAN4_PUMP CPU_OPT
Maximum Current 2A 2A 2A 2A
Maximum Power 24W 24W 24W 24W
- 17 -

7) LED_C1/LED_C2 (RGB LED Strip Headers)
The headers can be used to connect a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B), with maximum power
rating of 2A (12V) and maximum length of 2m.
Pin No. Denition
1 12V
2 G
3 R
4 B
11
LED_C1 LED_C2
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
8) D_LED1/D_LED2 (Addressable LED Strip Headers)
The headers can be used to connect a standard 5050 addressable LED strip, with maximum power rating
of 5A (5V) and maximum number of 1000 LEDs.
Pin No. Denition
1 V (5V)
2 Data
3 No Pin
4 GND
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.
For how to turn on/off the lights of the LED strip please visit the "Unique Features" webpage of
GIGABYTE's website.
D_LED1 D_LED2
1
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 
 _ B
BS_ B
SB_ B
_S  S_ _ B _U _ B
 
 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _ S  _
S  _
SF
 
B_
B_
F _0
S S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B
 
U
S  _S
_ SF_
B 
USB0_B
B_
B_
F_USB3
 F_USB303

_

_3U
S_
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 
 _ B
BS_ B
SB_ B
_S  S_ _ B _U _ B
 
 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _ S  _
S  _
SF
 
B_
B_
F _0
S S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B
 
U
S  _S
_ SF_
B 
USB0_B
B_
B_
F_USB3
 F_USB303

_

_3U
S_
1
Connect your addressable LED strip to the header. The power
pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be
connected to Pin 1 of the addressable LED strip header. Incorrect
connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.
Addressable LED
Strip
1
Connect your RGB LED strip to the header. The power pin (marked
with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to
Pin 1 (12V) of this header. Incorrect connection may lead to the
damage of the LED strip.
RGB LED Strip
1
12V
- 18 -

9) SATA3 0/1/2/3/4/5 (SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA
1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The Intel®Chipset supports
RAID0,RAID1,RAID5,andRAID10.RefertoChapter3,"ConguringaRAIDSet,"forinstructions
onconguringaRAIDarray.
Pin No. Denition
1 GND
2 TXP
3 TXN
4 GND
5 RXN
6 RXP
7 GND
To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, refer to Chapter 2, "BIOS Setup," "Settings\IO Ports\
SATAAndRSTConguration,"formoreinformation.
1
1
SATA3 5 3 1
4 2 0
7
7
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
DEBUG
PORT
G.QBOFM
10) M2A_CPU (Note)/M2B_SB/M2P_SB (M.2 Socket 3 Connectors)
 TheM.2connectorssupportM.2SATASSDsorM.2PCIeSSDsandsupportR AIDconguration.Please
note that an M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to create a RAID set either with an M.2 SATA SSD or a SATA
harddrive.RefertoChapter3,"ConguringaRAIDSet,"forinstructionsonconguringaRAIDarray.
Follow the steps below to correctly install an M.2 SSD in the M.2 connector.
Step 1:
Locate the M.2 connector where you will install the M.2 SSD, use a screwdriver to unfasten the screw
ontheheatsinkandthenremovetheheatsink.Removetheprotectivelmfromthethermalpadonthe
M.2 connector.
Step 2:
Locate the proper mounting hole based on the length of your M.2 SSD drive. If needed, move the standoff
to the desired mounting hole. Insert the M.2 SSD into the M.2 connector at an angle.
Step 3:
Press the M.2 SSD down and then use the included screw to secure it in the connector. Replace the
heatsinkandsecureittotheoriginalhole.Removetheprotectivelmfromthebottomoftheheatsink
before replacing the heatsink.
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_ SF_
B 
USB0_B
B_
B_
F_USB3
 F_USB303

_

_3U
S_
80 60110
M2B_SB
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_ SF_
B 
USB0_B
B_
B_
F_USB3
 F_USB303

_

_3U
S_
80 60110
M2P_SB
M2A_CPU (Note)
F_USB30 F_U
B_ 
F_  F_ 

_
B
BS_
B
SB_
B
_S

S_
_
B
_U
_
B


 
S  
 
123
 
123
 
123
 
123
1
1
1
1
BSS
S
_S 
SSU
 
1 2 3 4 5
 S3 BSSS

U
 __ 3
F_USB3F
S  _
S  _
S  _
SF


B_
B_
F
_0
S
S
_0F
_F
_
_
__B


U
S  _S
_ SF_
B 
USB0_B
B_
B_
F_USB3
 F_USB303

_

_3U
S_
80 60110
(Note) Supported by 11th Generation processors only. Be sure to use Intel®SSDs if you want to set up a
RAIDcongurationontheM2A_CPUconnector.
- 19 -

Installation Notices for the M.2 and SATA Connectors:
The availability of the SATA connectors may be affected by the type of device installed in the M.2
sockets. The M2P_SB connector shares bandwidth with the SATA3 1 connector. Refer to the following
table for details.
•M2P_SB:
SATA3 0 SATA3 1 SATA3 2 SATA3 3 SATA3 4 SATA3 5
M.2 SATA SSD ara a a a
M.2 PCIe SSD
a a a a a a
No M.2 SSD Installed a a a a a a
a: Available, r: Not available
Connector
Type of
M.2 SSD
•M2A_CPU (Note)/M2B_SB:
SATA3 0 SATA3 1 SATA3 2 SATA3 3 SATA3 4 SATA3 5
M.2 PCIe SSD *
a a a a a a
No M.2 SSD Installed a a a a a a
a: Available, r: Not available
* The M2A_CPU (Note)/M2B_SB connector supports only PCIe SSDs.
Connector
Type of
M.2 SSD
(Note) Supported by 11th Generation processors only.
- 20 -