How To Use USB Qflash BIOS Update Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite AX V2

Summary

In this tutorial, Mike demonstrates how to perform a USB BIOS flash on a Gigabyte B550 or Elite AX V2 motherboard without a CPU or other components. He explains the process is beneficial for upgrading to new processors or fixing a malfunctioning motherboard. The video outlines the necessary equipment, including a power supply and specific connectors, and guides viewers through downloading, renaming, and storing the BIOS file on a USB drive. Mike emphasizes the importance of using a bare motherboard for troubleshooting simplicity and provides tips for a successful flash, ensuring viewers can update their BIOS with confidence.

Takeaways

• 💡 The video demonstrates how to perform a USB BIOS flash on a Gigabyte B550 or Elite AX V2 motherboard without a CPU or other components.
• 🔌 To flash the BIOS, you need a power supply, specifically the 8-pin EPS and 24-pin main power connectors, and a USB drive formatted in FAT32.
• 💻 Internet access and a computer are required to download the BIOS file, which should be stored on a USB drive.
• 📁 The BIOS file must be renamed to 'gigabyte.bin' for the motherboard to recognize it during the flashing process.
• 🔍 Ensure the correct BIOS version is downloaded, matching the motherboard's revision number, which can be found on the board itself or its packaging.
• 🛠️ The video recommends using a bare motherboard for the flash to simplify troubleshooting if something goes wrong.
• 📋 The USB drive should be formatted and the BIOS file extracted and renamed on a Windows computer using the built-in unzip utility.
• ⏱️ The BIOS flashing process typically takes about five to six minutes, indicated by changes in the LED light pattern.
• 🔄 If the motherboard powers up during the flash, it indicates an error, as the board should remain off until the flash is initiated by pressing the BIOS flash button.
• 👨‍💻 The video is presented by Mike, who invites viewers to ask questions in the comments or join the Discord chat for further assistance.

Q & A

What is the purpose of a USB BIOS flash?

A USB BIOS flash is used to update the BIOS of a motherboard without needing a CPU or other components installed. It's helpful when upgrading to the latest processors or if the motherboard is malfunctioning and needs a fresh BIOS.

What are the minimum requirements to perform a USB BIOS flash on a Gigabyte B550 motherboard?

The minimum requirements include the motherboard itself, a power supply with an 8-pin EPS and 24-pin connectors, a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32, and access to the internet to download the BIOS file.

Why is it recommended to use a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32 for the BIOS flash?

The BIOS flash process requires the USB drive to be formatted in FAT32 because the BIOS can only read files in this format. Any other file system may not be recognized during the flashing process.

What is the correct file extension for the BIOS file when preparing it for the USB flash drive?

The correct file extension for the BIOS file should be '.bin'. It should be renamed to 'gigabyte.bin' to ensure the motherboard recognizes it during the flash process.

How can you determine the revision of your Gigabyte motherboard?

You can determine the revision of your Gigabyte motherboard by looking at the bottom corner near the audio chipset, where the revision number is stamped, or by checking the original box if available.

Why is it important to download the correct BIOS version that supports your CPU?

Downloading the correct BIOS version that supports your CPU ensures compatibility and allows the motherboard to recognize and function with the new processor, especially with newer models like the AMD 5000 series or X3D chips.

What should you do if your motherboard tries to power up during the USB BIOS flash process?

If the motherboard tries to power up during the flash, it indicates an error. You should turn off the power supply, check your connections, ensure the correct file is on the USB drive, and that the motherboard is in the correct state for flashing.

How long does a typical USB BIOS flash process take on a Gigabyte motherboard?

A typical USB BIOS flash process on a Gigabyte motherboard takes about five to six minutes. If it takes significantly longer or the LED indicator behaves abnormally, there might be an issue with the flash process.

What should you do after the BIOS flash is complete?

After the BIOS flash is complete, indicated by the LED turning off and the power supply clicking off, you can safely unplug the USB drive and power supply. The motherboard is now ready to be reassembled with the new CPU and other components.

Why is it suggested to perform the BIOS flash on a bare motherboard?

Performing the BIOS flash on a bare motherboard helps isolate potential issues and simplifies the diagnostic process. It ensures that any problems encountered are not due to other components like RAM, GPU, or faulty buttons.