how do i know mb bios version before buying
how do i know mb bios version before buying
Check the default BIOS version on the motherboard before purchasing from Sotre. This will help you determine if an upgrade to a newer model is necessary for CPU 14th Gen support. The link provided points to Gigabyte's Z790 Gaming X-AX model page.
You can't be sure—it might be any of them, depending on when the specific motherboard you purchased was made.
You won't necessarily get what you expect. The board you receive might be outdated stock with the original release, or it could be a newer model that includes a BIOS version capable of running your processor right away. It really depends on chance. The 14th generation has been available for some time, so purchasing from a reputable seller that carries a wide selection increases your odds of finding a compatible board without needing an update. (Don't feel pressured to scavenge or steal a cheaper 12th generation CPU just to fix the board.)
Used to have it printed directly on the box, but now you should opt for a revised version. Choose something updated like rev. 2.0 instead of older models. Rev.2.0 is available from the factory BIOS: https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z79...upport-cpu
Yes, it works with USB flashing; I completely missed that part and don’t care about the rev. 2 issue.
Yes, it's possible to boot into BIOS without using the CPU, typically by leveraging specialized hardware or firmware that initiates the process directly.
You'll find instructions on updating the BIOS without a CPU in Gigabyte's documentation. Check page 12 of their "unique features" manual: https://download.gigabyte.com/FileList/M...5bd2189129
To engage with the system, you must have a CPU and graphics output available.