Gigabyte’s B650 Gaming X AX V2 motherboard, detailed in its manual (Rev․ 1201 & 1501), is designed for AMD Ryzen 7000/8000/9000 series processors․
Overview of the Motherboard
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2, as outlined in its manual (Rev․ 1201 & 1501), is a robust ATX board․ It prioritizes gaming and performance, supporting the latest AMD Ryzen CPUs․ GIGABYTE emphasizes environmental responsibility, aiming to reduce paper usage․ This board features advanced VRM design, PCIe 5․0 support, and DDR5 memory compatibility, delivering a high-end computing experience․
Key Features and Specifications
According to the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual (Rev․ 1201 & 1501), key features include support for AMD Ryzen 7000/8000/9000 series CPUs and DDR5 memory․ It boasts PCIe 5․0, multiple M․2 slots, and a high-quality audio codec․ The board offers robust connectivity with ample USB ports and fast networking capabilities, enhancing overall system performance․

Unboxing and Component Identification
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details package contents and clearly identifies all motherboard components, connectors, and included accessories for easy setup․
Package Contents
According to the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, the package includes the motherboard itself, an I/O shield, SATA cables, M․3 screws, and standoffs․ Additionally, a manual is provided for installation guidance․ The box also contains a bag for accessory storage, ensuring all components are accounted for and organized during the build process․
Motherboard Layout and Connectors
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details a well-organized layout․ Key connectors include PCIe 5․0 slots, DDR5 memory slots, M․2 slots for SSDs, SATA III ports, and USB ports․ The rear I/O panel offers diverse connectivity․ The manual clearly labels each connector, aiding in component installation and ensuring proper system configuration․

Installation Guide
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual guides users through CPU, RAM, and cooler installation, emphasizing proper alignment and secure fastening for optimal performance․
CPU Installation
Gigabyte’s B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details a careful CPU installation process․ First, lift the socket lever․ Align the CPU’s golden triangle with the socket’s mark․ Gently place the processor, avoiding bent pins․ Then, close the lever, securing the CPU․ Incorrect installation can cause damage, so follow the manual closely․
RAM Installation and Configuration
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual explains RAM installation․ Open the DIMM slot clips․ Align the notch on the RAM module with the slot․ Press down firmly on both ends until the clips click shut․ For optimal performance, consult the manual for recommended configurations and dual-channel setup․
Cooler Installation
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details cooler installation․ Ensure the CPU has thermal paste applied․ Align the cooler with the mounting holes․ Securely fasten the cooler, following the manual’s specific instructions for your cooler type․ Proper installation is crucial for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures and system stability․
BIOS Setup and Configuration
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual guides users through BIOS access and configuration, enabling system optimization and hardware control․
Accessing the BIOS
Gigabyte’s B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details BIOS entry by pressing the ‘Del’ key during system startup․ Repeatedly tap the key immediately after powering on the PC, before the Windows logo appears․ If fast boot is enabled, a restart from within Windows may be necessary to reliably access the BIOS setup utility․
BIOS Interface Overview
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual outlines a user-friendly BIOS interface․ Key sections include ‘Tweaker’ for performance adjustments, ‘M․I․T․’ for advanced overclocking, ‘Settings’ for system configuration, and ‘Boot’ for boot order control․ The interface utilizes mouse navigation and clear labeling for ease of use․
Optimizing System Performance in BIOS
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details performance tuning within the BIOS․ Enabling XMP for DDR5 memory is crucial․ Adjusting CPU core ratios and voltages within ‘M․I;T․’ can boost performance, but requires caution․ Prioritize stable settings and monitor temperatures closely for optimal results, as outlined in the guide․

Software Installation and Utilities
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual highlights GIGABYTE APP Center, SSD Toolbox, and AORUS Engine for system management and optimization․
GIGABYTE APP Center
The GIGABYTE APP Center, as referenced in the B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, serves as a centralized hub for all GIGABYTE utilities․ It simplifies the installation and management of essential software, including tools for system information, LED lighting control, and driver updates․
Costa_Brava is a base application within the APP Center․
GIGABYTE SSD Toolbox
The GIGABYTE SSD Toolbox, mentioned alongside the B650 Gaming X AX V2 in available resources, is a utility designed for optimizing and maintaining SSD performance․ It allows users to monitor drive health, perform firmware updates, and ensure optimal data transfer speeds․
SAPPER is a version of the toolbox․
AORUS Engine
AORUS Engine, with version 1․53 available for download, is a key software component for Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 users․ This application facilitates advanced control over system lighting, fan speeds, and performance profiles․ It allows for customization and monitoring of various hardware components, enhancing the overall user experience․

Connectivity and I/O Ports
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 features a comprehensive array of rear panel I/O ports and internal connectors, as detailed in the manual․
Rear Panel I/O Ports
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2’s rear panel, thoroughly documented in the manual, includes USB ports for peripherals, HDMI and DisplayPort for graphics output, and audio jacks․
It also features LAN ports for network connectivity and PS/2 ports for legacy devices․ The manual provides a detailed diagram illustrating the precise location of each port for easy identification and usage․
Internal Connectors
As detailed in the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, internal connectors support numerous components․ These include USB headers for front panel ports, fan headers for cooling solutions, and SATA connectors for storage devices․
The manual also illustrates the location of the front panel audio header and the system panel header, crucial for case connectivity and proper system function․

Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual assists with resolving issues like no boot, fan control, or USB port problems, offering diagnostic steps․
No Boot Issues
If the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 fails to boot, the manual suggests checking power connections, RAM seating, and CPU installation․ Ensure all components are correctly installed․ Verify the CMOS battery is functioning and consider resetting the BIOS to default settings as a troubleshooting step․
Cooling Fan Control Problems
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details BIOS settings for fan control․ If fans aren’t responding, check the Smart Fan 5 settings within the BIOS․ Ensure the fan headers are correctly connected and configured for PWM or Voltage control․ A BIOS update might resolve compatibility issues․
USB Port Issues
Refer to the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual for USB port assignments and troubleshooting․ If ports aren’t functioning, verify USB drivers are current․ Check BIOS settings for USB configuration, including XHCI hand-off․ A power supply issue could also limit USB functionality; ensure adequate wattage․

Overclocking Guide
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details safe overclocking practices․ Understand voltage settings and monitor temperatures closely for stable performance gains․
Understanding Overclocking
Overclocking, as outlined in the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, involves increasing processor and memory speeds beyond factory settings․ This boosts performance but generates more heat and requires a stable power supply․ Careful adjustments within the BIOS are crucial, focusing on voltage and multipliers․
Monitoring system temperatures is paramount to prevent damage․
Safe Overclocking Practices
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual emphasizes incremental overclocking․ Increase speeds gradually, testing stability after each adjustment using stress-testing software․ Monitor CPU and component temperatures closely; exceeding safe limits can cause damage․ Maintain adequate cooling, and avoid extreme voltage increases․
Back up your data before overclocking!

Driver Installation and Updates
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual directs users to download drivers from the GIGABYTE website, ensuring optimal system performance and stability․
Downloading and Installing Drivers
According to the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, accessing the official GIGABYTE website is crucial for obtaining the latest drivers․ Users should navigate to the support section, locate their specific motherboard model, and download the necessary packages․
Carefully follow the on-screen instructions during installation to ensure proper functionality and avoid potential conflicts․ Regularly checking for updates is recommended․
Keeping Drivers Up-to-Date
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual emphasizes the importance of driver maintenance․ Utilize the GIGABYTE APP Center, which facilitates driver updates and system monitoring․ Regularly check the GIGABYTE support website for the newest versions, ensuring optimal performance and stability․
Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues, so proactive updates are vital․
Advanced Features
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual highlights PCIe 5․0 support and compatibility with high-speed DDR5 memory, enhancing system capabilities;
PCIe 5․0 Support
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual details its PCIe 5․0 implementation, offering bandwidth for next-generation graphics cards and SSDs․ This ensures future-proofing and maximized performance․ The motherboard features reinforced PCIe slots, supporting substantial weight from high-end components․ Utilizing PCIe 5․0 unlocks faster data transfer speeds, improving overall system responsiveness and gaming experiences․
DDR5 Memory Support
As outlined in the Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual, this motherboard supports high-speed DDR5 memory․ It enables faster data transfer rates and increased system bandwidth․ The board supports DDR5 memory modules, enhancing overall performance for demanding applications and gaming․ Optimized memory configurations are detailed within the manual for optimal stability and speed․
Warranty Information
GIGABYTE provides warranty coverage for the B650 Gaming X AX V2, details of which are found in the product manual, alongside the RMA process․
Warranty Coverage
GIGABYTE’s warranty for the B650 Gaming X AX V2, as outlined in the manual, varies by region․ Standard coverage protects against manufacturing defects․ It does not cover damage from misuse, overclocking, or modifications․ Review the manual for specific terms, duration, and exclusions applicable to your location․ Proper documentation is crucial for claims․
RMA Process
To initiate an RMA for your B650 Gaming X AX V2, consult the manual for detailed instructions․ Typically, this involves obtaining an RMA number from GIGABYTE’s support website․ Package the motherboard securely, including all accessories, and ship it to the designated address․ Ensure proper documentation accompanies the return․
Safety Precautions
The manual stresses ESD protection during installation․ Proper power supply considerations are crucial for the B650 Gaming X AX V2’s stability and longevity․
ESD Protection
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can severely damage components․ The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual emphasizes grounding yourself with an ESD wrist strap before handling the motherboard or any PC parts․ Work on a non-carpeted surface and avoid clothing that easily generates static electricity․ Touching a grounded metal object frequently helps dissipate static charge, protecting sensitive electronics․
Power Supply Considerations
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual recommends a high-quality power supply unit (PSU) with sufficient wattage for your components․ Consider the power demands of your CPU, GPU, and other peripherals․ A PSU with 80+ Bronze certification or higher is advised for efficiency and stability․ Ensure proper cable management to optimize airflow and prevent overheating․

Appendix
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual lists supported CPUs and includes a revision history detailing changes made to the documentation over time․
Supported CPU List
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual confirms compatibility with AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors․ Specific CPU models are detailed within the documentation, ensuring users select a supported processor for optimal performance․ Regularly check GIGABYTE’s website for updated compatibility lists as new processors are released, guaranteeing a smooth and stable system build․
Revision History
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 manual exists in revisions 1201 and 1501, reflecting updates and improvements․ GIGABYTE continually refines its documentation to address user feedback and incorporate new information․ Checking the manual’s revision number ensures users have the most current guidance for installation, configuration, and troubleshooting, maximizing their motherboard experience․