ASUS Motherboard Prime User Manual

Motherboard Prime

Motherboard

PRIME Z490-A

E16209 First Edition February 2020
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ii

Contents
Safety information…………………………………………………………………………………………. v About this guide…………………………………………………………………………………………… vi PRIME Z490-A specifications summary ………………………………………………………… vii Connectors with shared bandwidth ………………………………………………………………. xi Package contents……………………………………………………………………………………….. xiii Installation tools and components………………………………………………………………. xiv

Chapter 1:

Product Introduction

1.1 Before you proceed ……………………………………………………………………….. 1-1

1.2 Motherboard layout………………………………………………………………………… 1-2

Chapter 2:

Basic Installation

2.1 Building your PC system………………………………………………………………… 2-1

2.1.1 CPU installation………………………………………………………………… 2-1

2.1.2 Cooling system installation…………………………………………………. 2-3

2.1.3 DIMM installation………………………………………………………………. 2-5

2.1.4 M.2 installation …………………………………………………………………. 2-6

2.1.5 Fan bracket installation ……………………………………………………… 2-8

2.1.6 Motherboard installation…………………………………………………….. 2-9

2.1.7 ATX power connection…………………………………………………….. 2-10

2.1.8 SATA device connection………………………………………………….. 2-11

2.1.9 Front I/O connector …………………………………………………………. 2-12

2.1.10 Expansion card installation ………………………………………………. 2-13

2.1.11 M.2 Wi-Fi module and antenna installation…………………………. 2-15

2.2 Motherboard rear and audio connections ……………………………………… 2-16

2.2.1 Rear I/O connection ………………………………………………………… 2-16

2.2.2 Audio I/O connections……………………………………………………… 2-17

2.3 Starting up for the first time………………………………………………………….. 2-20

2.4 Turning off the computer ……………………………………………………………… 2-20

Chapter 3:

BIOS and RAID Support

3.1 Knowing BIOS ……………………………………………………………………………….. 3-1

3.2 BIOS setup program ………………………………………………………………………. 3-2

3.3 EZ Update ……………………………………………………………………………………… 3-2

3.4 ASUS EZ Flash 3 ……………………………………………………………………………. 3-3

3.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3…………………………………………………………………. 3-4

3.6 RAID configurations ………………………………………………………………………. 3-5

iii

Appendix Notices …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. A-1 ASUS contact information………………………………………………………………………….. A-6
iv

Safety information Electrical safety
· To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
· When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
· Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
· Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
· Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.
· If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
· Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.
· Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
· To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
· Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet.
· Place the product on a stable surface. · If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer. · Your motherboard should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures
between 0°C and 40°C.
v

About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts: · Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard. · Chapter 2: Basic Installation This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. · Chapter 3: BIOS and RAID Support This chapter tells how to boot into the BIOS, upgrade BIOS using the EZ Flash Utility and support on RAID.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. ASUS website
The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. 2. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components and injuries to yourself when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
vi

PRIME Z490-A specifications summary

CPU Chipset Memory
Graphics Expansion Slots Multi-GPU support
Storage

Intel® Socket LGA 1200 for 10th Gen Intel® CoreTM, Pentium® Gold and Celeron® processors*
Supports Intel® 14 nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 * Refer to www.asus.com for CPU support list. Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 support depends on the CPU types.
Intel® Z490 Chipset
4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR4 4600(O.C) / 4500(O.C) / 4400(O.C) / 4266(O.C.) / 4133(O.C.) / 4000(O.C.) / 3866(O.C.) / 3733(O.C.) / 3600(O.C.) / 3466(O.C.) / 3400(O.C.) / 3333(O.C.) / 3200(O.C.) / 3000(O.C.) / 2933(O.C.) / 2800(O.C.) / 2666 / 2400 / 2133 MHz NonECC, Un-buffered Memory
Dual Channel Memory Architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)
OptiMem II 10th Gen Intel® CoreTM i9/i7 CPUs support 2933/2800/2666/2400/2133 natively.
refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
1 x DisplayPort 1.4
1 x HDMITM 1.4b Support DisplayPort 1.4 with max. resolution of 4096 x 2304 @60Hz. Please
refer to www.intel.com for any update. Graphics specifications may vary between CPU types.
Intel® 10th Gen processors
2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (support x16, x8/x8 modes) Intel® Z490 Chipset
1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (supports x4 mode)
3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots The PCIe x1_2 slot shares bandwidth with M.2 slot (Key E). Support PCIe bifurcation for RAID on CPU function.
Supports NVIDIA 2-Way SLI® Technology
Supports AMD 3-Way CrossFireXTM Technology
Total supports 2 x M.2 slots and 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports Intel® Z490 Chipset
M.2_1 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280/22110 (supports PCIe 3.0 x4 & SATA modes)*
M.2_2 slot (Key M), type 2242/2260/2280/22110 (supports PCIe 3.0 x4 mode)
6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology supports Raid 0,1,5,10
Intel® OptaneTM Memory Ready * M.2_1 shares bandwidth with SATA_2. ** M.2_2 slot shares bandwidth with SATA_56. When M.2_2 slot is operating in
PCIe x4 mode, SATA_56 will be disabled.

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vii

PRIME Z490-A specifications summary

Ethernet Wireless & Bluetooth USB
Audio
Back Panel I/O Ports

1 x Intel® I225-V Ethernet M.2 slot (Key E) (Wi-Fi module is sold separately) Rear USB (Total 8 ports) 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (3 x Type-A + 1 x USB Type-C®) 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (2 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) Front USB (Total 7 ports) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 front panel connector (supports USB Type-C®) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports Realtek® S1220A 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC – Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs – Internal audio Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for
headphone and speakers – Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking – High quality 120 dB SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR
recording input (Line-in) – Supports up to 32-Bit/192kHz playback Audio Features: – Power pre-regulator reduces power input noise to ensure consistent
performance – Rear optical S/PDIF out port – Premium Japanese audio capacitors – Audio Shielding – Dedicated audio PCB layers – Audio cover – Unique de-pop circuit Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192kHz is not supported for
8-Channel audio. 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (3 x Type-A + 1 x USB Type-C®) 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (2 x Type-A) 2 x USB 2.0 ports (2 x Type-A) 1 x DisplayPort 1 x HDMITM port 1 x Intel® I225-V Ethernet port 5 x Audio jacks 1 x Optical S/PDIF out port

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viii

PRIME Z490-A specifications summary

Internal I/O connectors Special Features

Fan and cooling related 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan header 1 x 4-pin CPU OPT Fan header 1 x 4-pin AIO Pump header 2 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers 1 x 4-pin M.2 Fan header 1 x W_PUMP+ header Power related 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector 1 x 8-pin +12V Power connector 1 x 4-pin +12V Power connector Storage related 2 x M.2 slots (Key M) 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports USB 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Front Panel connector (supports USB Type-C®) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports Miscellaneous 2 x AURA addressable Gen 2 headers 2 x AURA RGB headers 1 x Clear CMOS header 1 x COM Port header 1 x CPU Over Voltage jumper 1 x Front panel audio header (AAFP) 1 x M.2 slot (Key E) 1 x Power button 1 x 20-3 pin System Panel header with Chassis Intrude function 1 x Thermal sensor header 1 x Thunderbolt header ASUS 5X PROTECTION III – ASUS DIGI+ VRM (- Digital power design with Dr. MOS) – ASUS Enhanced DRAM Overcurrent Protection – ASUS ESD Guards – ASUS LANGuard – ASUS Overvoltage Protection – ASUS Stainless-Steel Back I/O ASUS Q-Design: – ASUS Q-Connector – ASUS Q-DIMM – ASUS Q-LED (CPU [red], DRAM [yellow], VGA [white], Boot Device
[yellow-green]) – ASUS Q-Slot

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ix

PRIME Z490-A specifications summary

Special Features
Software Features
BIOS Manageability Operating System Form Factor

ASUS Thermal Solution: – Aluminum M.2 Heatsink – Aluminum heatsink design ASUS EZ DIY: – Procool – Pre-mounted I/O shield – ASUS SafeSlot ASUS Exclusive Software: Armoury Crate: – Aura Creator – Aura Sync AI Suite 3 – 5-Way Optimization with AI Overclocking
TPU EPU Digi+ VRM Fan Xpert 4 Turbo app – EZ update AI Charger ASUS Turbo LAN DTS:X® Ultra UEFI BIOS AI Overclocking Guide ASUS EZ DIY – ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 – ASUS EZ Flash 3 – ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode FlexKey 192 (128+64) Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS WOL by PME, PXE Windows® 10 – 64 bit ATX Form Factor 12 inch x 9.6 inch (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications.

x

Connectors with shared bandwidth

A C

C

B

D

B A

D

Configuration PCIEX16_1
A PCIEX16_2
Configuration PCIEX1_2
B M.2 slot (Key E)
Configuration M.2_1
C SATA_2
Configuration M.2_2
D SATA_56

1 x16
1 x1 1 V (PCIe/SATA mode) 1 x4 –

2 x8 x8 2 V 2 V (PCIe mode) V 2 x2 V

xi

· PCIEX1_2 slot shares bandwidth with M.2 slot (Key E). · M.2_1 shares bandwidth with SATA_2. · M.2_2 slot shares bandwidth with SATA_56. When M.2_2 slot is operating in PCIe x4
mode, SATA_56 will be disabled.
xii

Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard Cables
Miscellaneous
Installation Media Documentation

1 x PRIME Z490-A motherboard 3 x SATA 6Gb/s cables 1 x Fan bracket 1 x M.2 Rubber Package 1 x M.2 SSD screw package 1 x M.2 Key E screw package 1 x Q-connector 1 x Support DVD 1 x User manual

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

xiii

Installation tools and components

Phillips (cross) screwdriver

PC chassis

Power supply unit

Intel® LGA 1200 CPU

Intel® LGA 1200 compatible CPU Fan

DDR4 DIMM

SATA hard disk drive

SATA optical disc drive (optional)

Graphics card (optional)

M.2 SSD module (optional)

1 Bag of screws

The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

xiv

Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Product Introduction

1

1.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

· Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
· Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
· Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
· Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
· Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.

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1-1

1.2 Motherboard layout

Chapter 1

1-2

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

Layout contents 1. CPU socket 2. DIMM slots 3. Expansion slots 4. Fan and Pump headers 5. Power connectors 6. M.2 slot 7. SATA 6GB/s port 8. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Front Panel connector 9. USB 3.2 Gen 1 header 10. USB 2.0 header 11. AURA Addressable Gen2 header 12. AURA RGB header 13. Clear CMOS header 14. COM Port header 15. CPU Over Voltage jumper 16. Front Panel Audio header 17. M.2 slot (Key E) 18. Power button 19. System Panel header 20. Thermal Sensor header 21. Thunderbolt header 22. Q-LEDs 23. Standby Power LED 24 8-pin Power Plug LED

Page 1-4 1-5 1-7 1-9 1-10 1-11 1-12 1-13 1-14 1-15 1-16 1-17 1-18 1-19 1-19 1-20 1-20 1-21 1-22 1-23 1-24 1-25 1-25 1-26

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1. CPU socket
The motherboard comes with a LGA1200 socket designed for 10th Gen Intel® CoreTM, Pentium® Gold and Celeron® processors.

Chapter 1

· Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1200 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for other sockets on the LGA1200 socket.
· The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU.
· Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
· Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related.
· Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1200 socket.
· The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP cap.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

2. DIMM slots The motherboard comes with Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots designed for DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) memory modules.
A DDR4 memory module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.
Recommended memory configurations

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Chapter 1

Memory configurations You may install 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
· The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value.
· For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load or overclocking condition.
· Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.
· Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

1-6

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

3. Expansion slots
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

Chapter 1

Please refer to the following tables for the recommended VGA configuration and Hyper M.2 configuration.

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Chapter 1

Recommended VGA configuration

Slot Description 2. PCIe 3.0 x16_1 4. PCIe 3.0 x16_2 6. PCIe 3.0 x16_3

Single VGA x16 –

Dual VGA x8 x8 –

Triple VGA x8 x8 x4

· We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireXTM or SLI® mode.
· Ensure to connect the 8-pin and 4-pin power plugs when running CrossFireXTM or SLI® mode.
· Connect a chassis fan to the chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

Hyper M.2 X16 series card configuration

Slot Description

Up to 2 Intel® SSD on CPU support

2. PCIe 3.0 x16_1

–

4. PCIe 3.0 x16_2

x4+x4

Up to 3 Intel® SSD on CPU support x8+x4+x4 –

· Hyper M.2 X16 series card sold separately.
· When using up to 2 Intel® SSD on CPU support on PCIe 3.0 x16_2, PCIe 3.0 x16_1 will run at x8.
· When using up to 3 intel® SSD on CPU support, PCIe 3.0 x16_2 will be disabled. If you wish to connect a display, we suggest using the internal VGA, or installing a VGA card to PCIe x16_3, which will run at x4.
· Enable the Hyper M.2 X16 series card under BIOS settings.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

4. Fan and Pump headers The Fan and Pump headers allow you to connect fans or pumps to cool the system.

Chapter 1

· DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan headers. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan headers!
· Ensure the cable is fully inserted into the header.
For water cooling kits, connect the pump connector to the W_PUMP+ header.

Header CPU_FAN CPU_OPT CHA_FAN1 CHA_FAN2 AIO_PUMP M.2_FAN W_PUMP+

Max. Current 1A 1A 1A 1A 1A 1A 3A

Max. Power 12W 12W 12W 12W 12W 12W 36W

Default Speed Q-Fan Controlled Q-Fan Controlled Q-Fan Controlled Q-Fan Controlled
Full-Speed Q-Fan Controlled
Full-Speed

Shared Control A A –

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5. Power connectors
These Power connectors allow you to connect your motherboard to a power supply. The power supply plugs are designed to fit in only one orientation, find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the power supply plugs are fully inserted.

Chapter 1

Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug.
· For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W.
· We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
· If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

1-10

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

6. M.2 slot The M.2 slot allows you to install M.2 SSD modules.
· M.2_1 slots support PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA mode Key M design and type 2242 / 2260/ 2280 / 22110 storage devices.
· M.2_2 slot supports PCIe 3.0 x4 mode Key M design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 storage devices.
· M.2_1 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_2 · M.2_2 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_56. When M.2_2 is operating in PCIe x4
mode, SATA_56 will be disabled. Adjust BIOS settings to use M.2 PCIe devices in x4 mode. · M.2 slots supports IRST (Intel® Rapid Storage Technology). The M.2 SSD module is purchased separately.

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7. SATA 6Gb/s ports
The SATA 6Gb/s ports allows you to connect SATA devices such as optical disc drives and hard disk drives via a SATA cable.

Chapter 1

If you installed SATA storage devices, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z490 chipset.
· The slots are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a SATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [Intel RST Premium with Intel Optane System Acceleration (RAID)].
· When M.2_1 is operating in PCIe mode, SATA6G_2 will be disabled.
· M.2_2 shares bandwidth with SATA6G_56. When M.2_2 is in x4 speed and populated, SATA6G_56 will be disabled. When M.2_2 is in x2 speed and populated, SATA6G_56 will be in x2 speed.
· Before creating a RAID set, refer to the RAID Configuration Guide. You can download the RAID Configuration Guide from the ASUS website.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

8. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Front Panel connector The USB 3.2 Gen 2 connector allows you to connect a USB 3.2 Gen 2 module for additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The USB 3.2 Gen 2 connector provides data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gb/s.
· The USB 3.2 Gen 2 module is purchased separately. · For the list of compatible devices, please visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

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Chapter 1

9. USB 3.2 Gen 1 header The USB 3.2 Gen 1 header allows you to connect a USB 3.2 Gen 1 module for additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports. The USB 3.2 Gen 1 header provides data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s.
The USB 3.2 Gen 1 module is purchased separately.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

10. USB 2.0 header The USB 2.0 header allows you to connect a USB module for additional USB 2.0 ports. The USB 2.0 header provides data transfer speeds of up to 480 Mb/s connection speed.
DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

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11. AURA Addressable Gen2 header
The Addressable Gen2 header allows you to connect individually addressable RGB WS2812B LED strips or WS2812B based LED strips.

Chapter 1

The Addressable Gen2 header supports WS2812B addressable RGB LED strips (5V/ Data/Ground), with a maximum power rating of 3A (5V), and the addressable headers on this board can handle a combined maximum of 500 LEDs.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
· Actual lighting and color will vary with LED strip. · If your LED strip does not light up, check if the addressable RGB LED strip is
connected in the correct orientation, and the 5V connector is aligned with the 5V header on the motherboard. · The addressable RGB LED strip will only light up when the system is powered on. · The addressable RGB LED strip is purchased separately.

1-16

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

12. AURA RGB header The AURA RGB header allows you to connect RGB LED strips.

Chapter 1

The AURA RGB header supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strips (12V/G/R/B), with a maximum power rating of 3A (12V).
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
· Actual lighting and color will vary with LED strip. · If your LED strip does not light up, check if the RGB LED extension cable and the
RGB LED strip is connected in the correct orientation, and the 12V connector is aligned with the 12V header on the motherboard. · The LED strip will only light up when the system is powered on. · The LED strip is purchased separately.

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13. Clear CMOS header
The Clear CMOS header allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in the CMOS, which contains the date, time, system passwords, and system setup parameters.

Chapter 1

To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Short-circuit pin 1-2 with a metal object or jumper cap for about 5-10 seconds. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 4. Hold down the key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to
re-enter data.
DO NOT short-circuit the pins except when clearing the RTC RAM. Short- circuiting or placing a jumper cap will cause system boot failure!
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard button cell battery and move the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the button cell battery.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

14. COM Port connector The COM (Serial) Port connector allows you to connect a COM port module. Connect the COM port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening on the system chassis.
The COM port module is purchased separately.
15. CPU Over Voltage jumper The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible overclocking system (depending on the type of the installed CPU). Set to pins 2-3 to increase the CPU voltage setting, or set to pins 1-2 to use the default CPU voltage setting.

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16. Front Panel Audio header
The front panel audio header is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports HD Audio. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this header.

Chapter 1

We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
17. M.2 slot (Key E) The M.2 Wi-Fi slot allows you to install an M.2 Wi-Fi module (E-key, type 2230).

The M.2 Wi-Fi module is purchased separately.

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Chapter 1

18. Power button Press the Power button to power up the system, or put the system into sleep or softoff mode (depending on the operating system settings).
The LED near the button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or installing any motherboard component.

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19. System Panel header The System Panel header supports several chassis- mounted functions.

Chapter 1

· System Power LED header (PLED) The 2-pin header allows you to connect the System Power LED. The System Power LED lights up when the system is connected to a power source, or when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
· Storage Device Activity LED header (HDD_LED) The 2-pin header allows you to connect the Storage Device Activity LED. The Storage Device Activity LED lights up or blinks when data is read from or written to the storage device or storage device add-on card.
· System Warning Speaker header (SPEAKER) The 4-pin header allows you to connect the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
· Power Button/Soft-off Button header (PWRSW) The 3-1 pin header allows you to connect the system power button. Press the power button to power up the system, or put the system into sleep or soft-off mode (depending on the operating system settings).
· Reset button header (RESET) The 2-pin header allows you to connect the chassis-mounted reset button. Press the reset button to reboot the system.
· Chassis intrusion connector (CHASSIS) The 2-pin connector allows you to connect the chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to the connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced, the signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

20. Thermal Sensor header The Thermal Sensor header allows you to connect a sensor to monitor the temperature of the devices and the critical components inside the motherboard. Connect the thermal sensor and place it on the device or the motherboard’s component to detect its temperature.
The thermal sensor is purchased separately.

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Chapter 1

21. Thunderbolt header The Thunderbolt header allows you to connect an add-on Thunderbolt I/O card that supports Intel’s Thunderbolt Technology, allowing you to connect up to six Thunderbolt-enabled devices and a DisplayPort-enabled display in a daisy-chain configuration.
The add-on Thunderbolt I/O card and Thunderbolt cables are purchased separately.

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 1

22. Q-LEDs The Q-LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA, and booting devices) during the motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved.
The Q-LEDs provide the most probable cause of an error code as a starting point for troubleshooting. The actual cause may vary from case to case.
23. Standby Power LED The Standby Power LED lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, in soft-off mode, or connected to a power source. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component.

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24. 8-pin Power Plug LED
The 8-pin Power Plug LED lights up to indicate that the 8-pin power plug is not connected.

Chapter 1

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Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter 2: Basic Installation
Basic Installation

2

2.1 Building your PC system

The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models.

2.1.1

CPU installation
· Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1200 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155, LGA1156, and LGA1151 sockets on the LGA1200 socket.
· ASUS will not cover damages resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, incorrect CPU orientation/placement, or other damages resulting from negligence by the user.

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.2 Cooling system installation
Apply Thermal Interface Material to the CPU cooling system and CPU before you install the cooling system, if necessary.
To install a CPU heatsink and fan assembly

Chapter 2

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To install an AIO cooler
If you wish to install an AIO cooler, we recommend installing the AIO cooler after installing the motherboard into the chassis.

Chapter 2

AIO_PUMP / W_PUMP+

CPU_FAN CPU_OPT

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.3 DIMM installation

Chapter 2

To remove a DIMM

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2.1.4 M.2 installation
1
2 1

Chapter 2

3

· The M.2 rubber pad is

optional for when installing

a single sided M.2 storage

4

device. Ensure to install the

bundled M.2 rubber pad

before installing your single

sided M.2 storage device.

· DO NOT install the bundled M.2 rubber pads when installing a double-sided M.2 storage device. The rubber pad installed by default is compatible with double sided M.2 storage devices.

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Chapter 2

5 6
5

9 7

8 9

· The M.2 heatsink can be installed to the M.2_1 slot or to the M.2_2 slot. · The M.2 is purchased separately.

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2.1.5 Fan bracket installation

Chapter 2

When using high performance settings whilst overclocking, ensure to install the fan holder for additional fan(s).
· You may install 12V (1A, 12W), 40mm x 40mm fans or 50mm x 50mm fans. · Ensure to the use the bundled screws that came with your fans. · Fans are purchased separately.

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.6 Motherboard installation
1. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel.
2. Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Chapter 2

DO NOT over tighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

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2.1.7 ATX power connection

Chapter 2

OR

AND

· DO NOT connect the 4-pin power plug only, the motherboard may overheat under heavy usage.
· Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug, or connect both the 8-pin and 4-pin power plugs.

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.8 SATA device connection
OR

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

2.1.9 Front I/O connector
To install ASUS Q-Connector

To install USB 3.2 Gen 2 connector

USB 3.2 Gen 2
This connector will only fit in one orientation. Push the connector until it clicks into place.
To install USB 3.2 Gen 1 connector To install USB 2.0 connector

USB 3.2 Gen 1
To install front panel audio connector

USB 2.0

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.10 Expansion card installation
To install PCIe x16 cards
To install PCIe x1 cards

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

To install ThunderboltEX 3-TR card

6-pin PCIe power connector

USB Type-C® port connects to Thunderbolt devices MiniDP in port connects to DP out port on the motherboard or a VGA card

USB 2.0 header Thunderbolt header

Ensure to install the ThunderboltEX 3-TR card to a PCIe slot from PCH.
· Step 6 is optional, please connect a 6-pin PCIe power connector when you wish to use the USB Type-C® port Thunderbolt quick charge feature to charge a 5V or more device. The ThunderboltEX 3-TR card can support quick charging up to 100W.
· The TypeC_1 port can support up to 20V devices, and the TypeC_2 port can support up to 9V devices when the 6-pin PCIe power connector is connected.
· The Thunderbolt card is sold separately.

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

2.1.11 M.2 Wi-Fi module and antenna installation
Installing the M.2 W-Fi Module
2 1
4 3

Chapter 2

5
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· Ensure that the ASUS 2×2 dual band Wi-Fi antenna is securely installed to the Wi-Fi ports.
· Ensure that the antenna is at least 20 cm away from all persons.
· The illustration to the left is for reference only. The I/O port layout may vary with models, but the Wi-Fi antenna installation procedure is the same for all models.
· The M.2 Wi-Fi module and antenna are purchased separately.
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2.2 Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.2.1 Rear I/O connection

Chapter 2

Rear panel connectors 1. DisplayPort 2. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port 3 3. Intel® I225-V Ethernet port 4. HDMITM port 5. USB 2.0 ports 12 and 13 6. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports 1 and 2 7. USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C® port C4 8. USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports 9 and 10 9. Optical S/PDIF OUT port 10. Audio jacks*

• Refer to the table on the next page for audio port definitions.
  · We strongly recommend that you connect your devices to ports with matching data transfer rate. Please connect your USB 3.2 Gen 1 devices to USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports and your USB 3.2 Gen 2 devices to USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for faster and better performance for your devices.
  · Due to the design of the Intel chipset, all USB devices connected to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB devices must update their firmware for better compatibility.

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Chapter 2

• Audio 2, 4, 5.1 or 7.1-channel configuration

Port
Light Blue Lime Pink Orange

Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In ­

Black

­

4-channel

5.1-channel

7.1-channel

Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In ­
Rear Speaker Out

Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Sub woofer Rear Speaker Out

Side Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Sub woofer Rear Speaker Out

2.2.2 Audio I/O connections
Audio I/O ports

Connect to Headphone and Mic

Connect to Stereo Speakers

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Connect to 2-channel Speakers Connect to 4-channel Speakers Connect to 5.1-channel Speakers

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Connect to 7.1-channel Speakers

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Chapter 2

2.3 Starting up for the first time
1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
2. Ensure that all switches are off.
3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis.
4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.
5. Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External storage devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with the “green” standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up or change from orange to green after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests (POST). While the tests are running, the BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance.

BIOS Beep
One short beep
One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) One continuous beep followed by three short beeps One continuous beep followed by four short beeps

Description VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected
No memory detected
No VGA detected
Hardware component failure

7. At power on, hold down the key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3.

2.4 Turning off the computer
While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power button for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting.

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Chapter 2: Basic Installation

Chapter 3: BIOS and RAID Support
BIOS and RAID Support

3

3.1 Knowing BIOS
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboardonly BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system. The term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimal performance. DO NOT change the default BIOS settings except in the following circumstances:
· An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you to run the BIOS Setup.
· You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or update.
Inappropriate BIOS settings may result to instability or boot failure. We strongly recommend that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service personnel.
· When downloading or updating the BIOS file, rename it as PZ490A.CAP for this motherboard.
· BIOS settings and options may vary due to different BIOS release versions. Please refer to the latest BIOS version for settings and options.

For more information on BIOS configurations, please refer to https://www.asus.com/support, or download the BIOS manual by scanning the QR code.

Chapter 3

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3.2 BIOS setup program
Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screen include navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program.
Entering BIOS at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press or