Gigabyte Motherboard Error Codes: Crack the Gigabyte Motherboard Error Code Like a Pro
Are you experiencing the mysterious cryptic language of Gigabyte motherboard error codes? If this is the case then we are on the same ride! Dealing with confusing error codes flashing on your Gigabyte motherboard can be frustrating. It’s like your motherboard is speaking a secret code only decipherable by tech wizards.
The fact is that Gigabyte motherboard error codes are your motherboard’s way of saying, “Houston, we have a problem.” Whether it’s a memory initialization hiccup or a CPU speed mismatch, these codes are your motherboard’s attempt at communicating the issue. So, understanding what these codes mean is key to diagnosing and fixing underlying problems.
But do you know what your motherboard saying with the error code? Fear not dear readers, as we are going to decode all the error codes and provide you with actionable solutions to tackle each code head-on.
What Is A Gigabyte Motherboard Error Code?
Gigabyte motherboards feature diagnostic LEDs on the board itself to display numeric error codes encountered during the POST (power-on self-test) process. These 2-digit hex codes indicate specific errors or processes in initialization and can help identify exactly what component or step is failing when you attempt to boot up your computer.
For example, code 00 indicates normal functioning, while code 02 signals that the CMOS configuration data is corrupt. So if your Gigabyte motherboard is stuck displaying an error code, checking the code against Gigabyte’s list provides valuable clues to narrow down issues before attempting fixes.
Error Code List for Gigabyte Motherboards
Gigabyte uses both 2-digit codes and 1-letter alphabetic codes to indicate POST status and errors. The main error codes are numeric, but you may also see letter codes like F for CPU fan failure or J for overheating issues.
Here’s an overview of common Gigabyte error code types:
LED Code | Description |
10 | PEI Core has started. |
11 | Pre-memory CPU initialization is started. |
12~14 | Reserved. |
15 | Pre-memory North-Bridge initialization is started. |
16~18 | Reserved. |
19 | Pre-memory South Bridge initialization has started. |
1A~2A | Reserved. |
2B~2F | Memory initialization. |
31 | Memory installed. |
32~36 | CPU PEI initialization |
37~3A | IOH PEI initialization |
3B~3E | PCH PEI initialization |
3F~4F | Reserved. |
60 | DXE Core has been started. |
61 | NVRAM initialization. |
62 | Installation of the PCH runtime services |
63~67 | CPU DXE initialization has started. |
68 | PCI host bridge initialization has started. |
69 | IOH DXE initialization |
6A | IOH SMM initialization |
6B~6F | Reserved. |
70 | PCH DXE initialization |
71 | PCH SMM initialization |
72 | PCH device initialization |
73~77 | PCH DXE initialization (PCH module specific). |
78 | ACPI Core initialization |
79 | CSM initialization has started. |
7A~7F | reserved for AMI use. |
80~8F | reserved for OEM use (OEM DXE initialization codes). |
90 | Phase transfer to BDS (Boot Device Selection) from DXE |
91 | issue an event to connect drivers. |
92 | PCI Bus initialization is started. |
93 | PCI bus hotplug initialization |
94 | PCI bus enumeration for detecting how many resources are requested |
95 | Check the PCI device’s request for resources. |
96 | Assign PCI device resources. |
97 | Console output devices connect (ex., the monitor is lit). |
98 | Console input devices connect (ex., PS2/USB keyboard and mouse are activated). |
99 | Super IO initialization |
9A | USB initialization has started. |
9B | Issues are reset during the USB initialization process. |
9C | Detect and install all currently connected USB devices. |
9D | activated all currently connected USB devices. |
9E~9F | Reserved. |
A0 | IDE initialization has been started. |
A1 | Issues are reset during the IDE initialization process. |
A2 | Detect and install all currently connected IDE devices. |
A3 | activated all currently connected IDE devices. |
A4 | SCSI initialization has started. |
A5 | Issues are reset during the SCSI initialization process. |
A6 | Detect and install all currently connected SCSI devices. |
A7 | activated all currently connected SCSI devices. |
A8 | Verify the password if needed. |
A9 | BIOS Setup is started. |
AA | Reserved. |
AB | Wait for the user command in BIOS Setup. |
AC | Reserved. |
AD | Issue Ready To Boot event for OS Boot. |
AE | Boot to Legacy OS. |
AF | Exit Boot Services |
B0 | Runtime AP installation begins. |
B1 | Runtime AP installation ends. |
B4 | USB devices are hot plug-ins. |
B5 | PCI device hotplug |
B6 | Clean-up of NVRAM |
B7 | Reconfigure the NVRAM settings. |
B8~BF | Reserved. |
C0~CF | Reserved. |
E0 | S3 Resume is started (called from DXE IPL). |
E1 | Fill boot script data for the S3 resume. |
E2 | Initializes VGA for S3 resume. |
E3 | OS S3 wake vector call |
F0 | Recovery mode will be triggered due to infected firmware volume detection. |
F1 | The user’s decision will trigger recovery mode. |
F2 | Recovery has started. |
F3 | A recovery firmware image is found. |
F4 | The recovery firmware image is loaded. |
F5~F7 | Reserved for future AMI progress codes |
50~55 | A memory initialization error occurs. |
56 | Invalid CPU type or speed |
57 | CPU mismatch. |
58 | CPU self-test failed, or there was a possible CPU cache error. |
59 | CPU micro-code is not found, or the micro-code update failed. |
5A | internal CPU error. |
5B | Resetting PPI has failed. |
5C~5F | Reserved. |
D0 | CPU initialization error. |
D1 | IOH initialization error |
D2 | PCH initialization error. |
D3 | Some of the architectural protocols are not available. |
D4 | PCI resource allocation error. out of resources. |
D5 | There is no space for Legacy Option ROM initialization. |
D6 | No console output devices are found. |
D7 | No console input devices were found. |
D8 | It is an insecure password. |
D9~DA | can’t load the boot option. |
DB | The Flash update has failed. |
DC | The reset protocol has failed. |
DE~DF | Reserved. |
E8 | S3 resume is failed. |
E9 | S3 Resume PPI is not found. |
EA | The S3 Resume Boot Script is inoperative. |
EB | The S3 OS wake call has failed. |
EC~EF | Reserved. |
F8 | Recovery PPI is ineffective. |
F9 | The recovery capsule was not found. |
FA | invalid recovery capsule. |
FB~FF | Reserved |
Common Error Codes of Gigabyte’s Mobo, Their Meaning, Cause and Solutions
Here are some common Gigabyte error codes with their meanings, causes and solutions:
Error Code | Meaning | Likely Cause | Solution |
00 | No error during POST | Normal operation | None needed |
02 | CMOS read/write error | Corrupt CMOS data | Reset BIOS to defaults |
15 | Secure mode error | Improper shutdown/reset | Reset CMOS, remove CMOS battery for 15 mins |
50-55 | RAM failure | Faulty memory stick(s) | Reseat RAM, test sticks individually, replace RAM |
62 | Installation of the PCH Runtime Services | Improper CPU installation | Reinstall CPU, ensure proper alignment |
99 | Super IO initialization error | Faulty super I/O chip | Ensure proper connection, replace motherboard |
B2 | Legacy option ROM initialization | Outdated BIOS | Update motherboard BIOS |
dE | No controllers detected | Faulty SATA/HDD connections | Check drive connections, enable AHCI in BIOS |
F | CPU fan failure | Faulty/disconnected CPU fan | Reconnect CPU fan, replace fan if needed |
This covers some of the most common Gigabyte motherboard error codes, their meaning, underlying issues, and troubleshooting fixes to try.
How to Troubleshoot Gigabyte Motherboard’s Different Error Codes?
Below is a more in-depth look at a few prevalent Gigabyte error codes encountered, explaining the meaning behind these codes plus systematic troubleshooting solutions to attempt:
00 – Not Used
The 00 error code indicates normal functionality, as all initialization processes and components have passed POST with no issues detected. So if your system boots to 00 on the motherboard’s diagnostic display, there is no present error – the system is operating as expected. Generally, no troubleshooting steps are necessary for code 00.
50 – 54 – Memory Initialization Errors
Error codes in the 50-54 range pertain to RAM issues halting the initialization process during boot-up:
- 50 – Memory initialization error occurs
- 51 – Memory initialization error occurs
- 52 – Memory initialization error occurs
- 53 – Memory initialization error occurs
- 54 – Memory initialization error occurs
If your Gigabyte motherboard is stuck displaying any 50-54 code, the culprit is likely faulty or improperly connected RAM. Try the following RAM-related fixes:
- Reseat RAM sticks in their slots to ensure proper contact
- Test RAM sticks individually to isolate failures to specific stick(s)
- Try RAM sticks in different slots in case slot failure at play
- Update motherboard BIOS/UEFI in case of compatibility issues
- Finally, replace RAM sticks if testing reveals permanent faults/failures
So check for physical connection issues first, then test sticks individually before deeming cursed and replacing.
D2/D4 – PCI Allocation Error
Both code D2 and D4 pertain to PCI allocation issues during POST initialization:
- D2 – PCH initialization error.
- D4 – PCI resource allocation check error.
These PCI-related errors suggest your hardware may be drawing too much power from the bus, or assignment conflicts exist. Potential solutions include:
- Remove any unnecessary PCI and PCI-E devices to reduce power drain
- Reset CMOS to allow re-detection of connected devices
- Update to the latest stable BIOS version
- Reseat expansion cards in their slots
Start by eliminating non-essential devices drawing PCI bus resources first during troubleshooting.
56 – 57 – Invalid CPU Type or Speed/CPU Mismatch
Codes 56 and 57 relate to processor-compatibility errors:
- 56 – Invalid CPU type or Speed
- 57 – CPU mismatch error
If you recently changed processors, these codes can stem from the new CPU not being supported by the installed BIOS version. Or the code may signal the opposite – outdated BIOS not supporting your modern CPU. Fixes to try:
- Update motherboard BIOS to latest stable version
- Reset BIOS settings to defaults if overclocking enabled
- Reinstall previous compatible CPU if available
- Ensure processor properly inserted in socket
Updating BIOS is often key to resolving CPU-related error 56/57 issues.
62 – Installation of the PCH Runtime Services
Error 62 indicates failure initializing the Platform Controller Hub (PCH) Runtime Services during the boot sequence due to an improperly seated processor:
- 62 – Installation of the PCH Runtime Services
Before attempting BIOS reconfiguration or firmware updates, ensure your processor is properly installed:
- Reseat CPU in the socket, ensuring alignment of pins
- Check socket pins for any damage preventing contact
- Confirm CPU fan power connector is plugged in
A simple reseat can fix code 62 if the processor became slightly out of alignment from movement/vibration.
99 – Super IO Initialization
Error code 99 pertains specifically to initialization failures with the motherboard’s Super I/O controller chip:
- 99 – Super IO Chip initialization error
The Super I/O chip controls connectivity of integrated input/output devices. If code 99 appears, suspect an issue with the physical integrity of this chip. Troubleshoot by:
- Ensuring Super I/O chip module is properly seated
- Checking socket pins for any obvious damage
- Finally, replacing the motherboard if reseating does not resolve
This is one error code that usually requires motherboard replacement if chip-reseating does not work.
A0 – IDE Initialization Is Started
- A0 – IDE initialization is started
Code A0 signals that the POST process has reached IDE hard drive initialization. It generally indicates a hard drive connection or configuration issue:
- Check SATA and power cables to all drives for loose connections
- Update motherboard firmware/BIOS to latest IDE drivers
- Disable any RAID controller functionality and enable AHCI mode
- Attempt boot with single drive attached during testing
So unlike other error codes, A0 is informational only – proceed to check drive health and connectivity.
A2 – IDE Detect
- A2 – IDE hard drive detect error
Similar to A0, error A2 suggests a problem detecting your connected storage drives:
- Confirm SATA cables properly connected from drives to motherboard
- Inspect SATA ports and cable connectors for bent pins or damage
- Update motherboard BIOS to latest stable version
- Check for drive failure/replacement if issue persists
- Consider switching from IDE/RAID to AHCI drives
Drive cables connections should be checked first. Also, migrating drives to AHCI can improve detection issues.
Other Troubleshooting Tips for Gigabyte Motherboard Error Codes
Here are a few additional things to check when encountering POST error codes on a Gigabyte motherboard:
- Clear CMOS Memory Button – Pressing this button resets BIOS, which can resolve initialization issues and provide a fresh start. Consult your motherboard manual on the jumper location.
- BIOS Update – While updating BIOS to the latest firmware version should not be the first step taken, it can definitely resolve compatibility issues at play with certain error codes. But proceed with caution only if the system is stable.
- Reduce to Minimum Configuration – Remove unnecessary PCI cards, hard drives, and RAM sticks to minimum essentials to help isolate faulty components producing error codes.
- Check Connectors and Cables – Reseating both power and data connections (SATA/HDD, 24-pin ATX, etc.) often fixes elusive contact issues causing codes.
Error codes on Gigabyte motherboards provide insight into exactly what component or initialization process is failing during boot-up. While frustrating to diagnose, methodically checking connections, reducing devices, reseating parts, and testing sticks/drives can isolate and fix the underlying problems signalinged by POST error codes.
Conclusion
Error codes displayed on Gigabyte motherboard diagnostic LEDs may seem cryptic initially. But they actually provide valuable clues regarding failing hardware or processes when boot failures occur. Using the above breakdown of common codes, you can accurately identify and troubleshoot issues signaled during the POST routine. Start systematically to rule out potential causes like disconnected cables, dusty RAM slots, outdated firmware, and defective parts. Match the displayed 2-digit code against Gigabyte’s error list to zero in on solutions. Hopefully, this breakdown gives you a helpful head start on resolving annoying Gigabyte motherboard error issues. Let us know in the comments if you have encountered additional common codes during your troubleshooting! And don’t forget to share this motherboard error code reference for others experiencing code conundrums.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common Gigabyte motherboard error codes?
Some prevalent Gigabyte error codes involve memory errors (50-55), CPU issues (56-57), PCI allocation failures (D2, D4) and hard drive detection problems (A0, A2). Chipset initialization errors like codes 62 and 99 also frequently occur.
My Gigabyte motherboard shows code 99 on its display. What does this mean?
Error code 99 indicates a failure in initializing the Super I/O controller chip crucial for onboard component connectivity. This likely requires motherboard replacement if reseating the Super I/O chip does not resolve this physical defect.
What should I do if my Gigabyte motherboard is stuck on error code A0?
Code A0 emerges during hard drive initialization, often from loose drive connections. Check SATA cables are firmly attached to board and storage drives when troubleshooting code A0 boot failures. Also update motherboard BIOS, enable AHCI mode, or remove RAID drivers.
Why does my Gigabyte board display error code 62 during boot-up?
Error 62 signifies an issue with Platform Controller Hub (PCH) initialization, commonly due to the CPU being slightly out of alignment in its socket. Carefully remove and then reseat the processor to ensure its proper fit to hopefully resolve code 62 problems.
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