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Asus PRIME Z370-A Series Manual
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Asus PRIME Z370-A Series Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus PRIME Z370-A Series

  • Page 1 PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Front I/O connector ..............2-8 2.1.8 Expansion card installation ............2-9 2.1.9 M.2 installation ................2-12 2.1.10 ASUS fan holder installation ............. 2-13 Motherboard rear and audio connections ..........2-14 2.2.1 Rear I/O connection ..............2-14 2.2.2 Audio I/O connections ............... 2-16 Starting up for the first time ..............
  • Page 4 3.6.12 HDD/SSD SMART Information ..........3-20 Monitor menu ................... 3-21 Boot menu ....................3-21 Tool menu ....................3-23 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility ............3-23 3.9.2 Secure Erase ................3-24 3.9.3 ASUS User Profile..............3-25 3.9.4 ASUS SPD Information ............. 3-25 3.9.5...
  • Page 5 Chapter 4: RAID Support RAID configurations .................. 4-1 4.1.1 RAID definitions ................4-1 Appendix Notices ........................A-1 ASUS contact information ..................A-5...

  • Page 6: Safety Information

    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.

  • Page 7: About This Guide

    Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS website The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.
  • Page 8 Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

  • Page 9: Prime Z370-A Ii Specifications Summary

    PRIME Z370-A II specifications summary Intel Socket 1151 for Intel Core™ 9000 series, 8th Generation Core™ i7 / ® ® i5 / i3, Pentium and Celeron processors ® ® Supports 14nm CPU Supports Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0* ® * The Intel ®...
  • Page 10 Adjust BIOS settings to use M.2 PCIE devices in X4 mode. Intel I219V Gigabit LAN Controller ® ASUS LANGuard ASUS Turbo LAN Utility Realtek S1220A 8-channel high definition audio CODEC featuring ® Crystal Sound 3 - Power pre-regulator reduces power input noise to ensure consistent...
  • Page 11 - Fast and easy way to get rid of unnecessary junk files <Gaming> AURA Sync Turbo LAN Turbo APP <EZ DIY> Q-Design - ASUS Q-Shield - ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) - ASUS Q-Slot - ASUS Q-DIMM - ASUS Q-Connector (continued on the next page)
  • Page 12 - ASUS LANGuard - Protects against LAN surges, lightning strikes and static-electricity discharges! - ASUS Overvoltage Protection - World-class circuit-protecting power design - ASUS DIGI+ VRM - Digital 8+1phase power design with Dr. MOS ASUS Special Features - ASUS DRAM Overcurrent Protection: Enhanced DRAM overcurrent...
  • Page 13 1 x 5-pin EXT_FAN(Extension Fan) connector 128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.1, ACPI 6.1, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My Favorites, Last Modified log, F12...

  • Page 14: Package Contents

    Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard 1 x ASUS PRIME Z370-A II motherboard Cables 3 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS SLI HB BRIDGE (2-WAY-M) 1 x ASUS Q-Shield Accessories 1 x Q-Connector 1 x M.2 screw package...

  • Page 15: Installation Tools And Components

    Installation tools and components Intel ® LGA1151 CPU Intel LGA1151 compatible CPU Fan ® Phillips (cross) screwdriver SATA hard disk drive PC chassis DIMM 1 bag of screws Power supply unit SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) M.2 SSD module (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

  • Page 17: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product Introduction Motherboard overview 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 18: Motherboard Layout

    1.1.2 Motherboard layout Refer to 1.1.9 Internal connectors and 2.2.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 19 ® SATA6G_56) 9. Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-pin CLRTC) 1-11 10. System panel connector (20-3 pin PANEL) 1-20 11. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910; USB1112) 1-17 12. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) 1-21 13. RGB header (4-pin RGB_HEADER) 1-23 14. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) 1-24 15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-15 16. Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) 1-24 17. Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER) 1-21 18. M.2 sockets (M.2_1(Socket 3); M.2_2(Socket 3)) 1-22 19. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) 1-12 ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 20: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) This motherboard supports the Intel Socket 1151 for Intel Core™ 9000 series, 8th ® ® Generation Core™ i7/i5/i3, Pentium and Celeron processors, with memory and PCI ® ® Express controllers integrated to support dual-channel (4 DIMM) DDR4 memory and 16 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 lanes. • 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 LGA1151 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. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 21: System Memory

    1.1.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR4 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 ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 22 Memory configurations You may install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB and 16 GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512 Mb (64 MB) chips or less (Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB). • 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 (4 DIMMs) 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. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 23: Expansion Slots

    1.1.5 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. Slot No. Slot Description PCIE 3.0/2.0 x1_1 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x1_2 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x1_3 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x1_4 slot PCIE 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 24 PCI Express 3.0 operating mode VGA configuration PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 x16 (single VGA Single VGA/PCIe card recommended) Dual VGA/PCIe card • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI ® mode. • Connect chassis fans to the motherboard chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 25: Onboard Buttons And Switches

    1.1.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. Power-on button The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake up the system. 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 26 MemOK! button lights continuously, press the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking. System will begin automatic memory compatibility tuning and reboot for successful boot. • Refer to section 1.1.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM LED. • The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function. • The MemOK! button does not function under Windows OS environment. ® • During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails, the system reboots and tests the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed of the DRAM LED increases, indicating different test processes. • Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) at www.asus.com. • If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5-10 seconds. • If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! button to boot and load the BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-10...

  • Page 27: Jumpers

    1.1.7 Jumpers Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. Short-circuit pin 1-2 with a metal object or jumper cap for about 5-10 seconds. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. Hold down the <Delete> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data. Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never place a metal object or jumper cap on the CLRTC jumper. Placing a metal object or jumper cap will cause system boot failure! • If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and place a metal object or jumper cap again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery. • You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to default values. • Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You must turn off and turn on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-11...
  • Page 28 CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) 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. To gain more CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-12...

  • Page 29: Onboard Leds

    1.1.8 Onboard LEDs POST State LEDs The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST (Power-On Self-Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives. If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved. The order which the LEDs light up may vary per CPU. The POST State 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. Standby Power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The LED lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-13...

  • Page 30: Internal Connectors

    1.1.9 Internal connectors Intel Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12; SATA 6G_34; ® SATA6G_56) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel ® ® Z370 chipset. These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [Intel RST Premium With Intel Optane System Acceleration (RAID)]. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-14...
  • Page 31 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector 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 connector. 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-15...
  • Page 32 USB 3.1 Gen 1 connectors (20-1 pin U31G1_12; U31G1_34) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.1 Gen 1 module for additional USB 3.1 Gen 1 front or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.1 Gen 1 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.1 Gen 1including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 module is purchased separately. The plugged USB 3.1 Gen 1 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode depending on the operating system’s setting. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-16...
  • Page 33 USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910; USB1112) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. This USB connector complies with USB 2.0 specification that supports 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-17...
  • Page 34 CPU and pump connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin M.2_FAN; 4-pin AIO_PUMP; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-2) Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure that the CPU fan cable is securely installed to the CPU fan connector. • The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power. • Connect the fan of your water cooling kit to the AIO_PUMP connector. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-18...
  • Page 35 ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W. • DO NOT forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will not boot. • 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-19...
  • Page 36 System panel connector (20-3 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. • System power LED (2-pin or 3-1 pin PLED) The 2-pin or 3-1 pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. • Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin HDD_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector. The HDD LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. • System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. • ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW) This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the operating system settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. • Chassis intrusion connector (2-pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-20...
  • Page 37 TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely stores keys, digital certificates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance network security, protect digital identities, and ensures platform integrity. The TPM module is purchased separately. Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER) This connector is for the 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-21...
  • Page 38 10. M.2 sockets (M.2_1(Socket 3); M.2_2(Socket 3)) These sockets allow you to install M.2 SSD modules. • M.2_1 socket supports PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA mode M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 PCIe and SATA storage devices. • M.2_2 socket supports PCIe 3.0 x4 M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 PCIe storage devices. • These sockets support IRST (Intel Rapid Storage Technology). ® The M.2 SSD module is purchased separately. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-22...
  • Page 39 RGB header (4-pin RGB_HEADER) This connector is for RGB LED strips. The RGB header supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strips (12V/G/R/B), with a maximum power rating of 2A (12V), and no longer than 2 m. 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. • 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 is purchased separately. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 1-23...
  • Page 40 Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) This connector is for the thermistor cable that monitors the temperature of the devices and the critical components inside the motherboard. Connect the thermistor cable and place the sensor on the device or the motherboard’s component to detect its temperature. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The COM module is purchased separately. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-24...

  • Page 41: Chapter 2: Basic Installation

    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 LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1151 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 42: Cooling System 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. Chapter 2: Basic Installation...
  • Page 43 To install a CPU heatsink and fan assembly ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 44 To install an AIO cooler AIO_PUMP CPU_FAN CPU_OPT Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 45: Motherboard Installation

    2.1.3 Motherboard installation Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel. Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 46: Dimm Installation

    2.1.4 DIMM installation To remove a DIMM Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 47: Atx Power Connection

    2.1.5 ATX power connection Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug. 2.1.6 SATA device connection ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 48: Front I/O Connector

    2.1.7 Front I/O connector To install ASUS Q-Connector To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector AAFP USB 2.0 To install USB 3.1 Gen 1 connector USB 3.1 Gen 1 Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 49: Expansion Card Installation

    2.1.8 Expansion card installation To install PCIe x16 cards To install PCIe x1 cards ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 50 To install FAN EXTENSION CARD • The illustrations in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models. • The FAN Extension card is purchased separately. Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-10...
  • Page 51 To install ThunderboltEX 3 card • The illustrations in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models. • The ThunderboltEX 3 card is purchased separately. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 2-11...

  • Page 52: M.2 Installation

    2.1.9 M.2 installation For type 22110 M.2 on M.2_1 socket For type 2242/2260/2280 M.2 on M.2_1 socket The M.2 is purchased separately. Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-12...

  • Page 53: Asus Fan Holder Installation

    2.1.10 ASUS fan holder installation To install the ASUS fan holder and fan 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. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 2-13...

  • Page 54: Motherboard Rear And Audio Connections

    Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.2.1 Rear I/O connection Rear panel connectors USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A port E2 DisplayPort DVI-D port HDMI 1.4b port USB 2.0 ports 13 and 14 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports 5 and 6 Intel LAN port* Optical S/PDIF Out port ® USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C™ port EC1 Audio I/O ports** * and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs and audio port definitions. •...
  • Page 55 ** Audio 2, 4, 6 or 8-channel configuration Headset Port 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel 2-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Side Speaker Out Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange – – Center/Sub Center/Sub woofer woofer Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 2-15...

  • Page 56: Audio I/O Connections

    2.2.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2-channel Speakers Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-16...
  • Page 57 Connect to 4-channel Speakers Connect to 5.1-channel Speakers Connect to 7.1-channel Speakers ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 2-17...

  • Page 58: Starting Up For The First Time

    Starting up for the first time After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. Ensure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: Monitor External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) System power 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 Description VGA detected One short beep No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two No memory detected short beeps then a pause (repeated) One continuous beep followed by three No VGA detected short beeps One continuous beep followed by four...

  • Page 59: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    BIOS Setup 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 keyboard- only 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.

  • Page 60: Bios Setup Program

    RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button. • The BIOS setup program does not support the Bluetooth devices. Please visit ASUS website for the detailed BIOS content manual. BIOS menu screen The BIOS Setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

  • Page 61: Ez Mode

    Click to go to Advanced mode Loads optimized Search on the FAQ default settings Click to display boot devices Selects the boot device priority The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...

  • Page 62: Advanced Mode

    3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press the <F7> hotkey.
  • Page 63 This button above the menu bar allows you to view and tweak the overclocking settings of your system. It also allows you to change the motherboard’s SATA mode from AHCI to RAID mode. Refer to section 3.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard for more information. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 64 Move your mouse over this button to show a QR code, scan this QR code on your mobile device to connect to the BIOS FAQ web page of the ASUS support website. You can also scan the following QR code: Hot keys This button above the menu bar contains the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program.

  • Page 65: Qfan Control

    PWM Mode Select a profile to apply to Click to apply the fan setting your fans Click to undo the Click to go back to main menu changes Select to manually configure your fans ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 66 Configuring fans manually Select Manual from the list of profiles to manually configure your fans’ operating speed. Speed points Select to manually configure your fans To configure your fans: Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’...

  • Page 67: Ez Tuning Wizard

    To start OC Tuning: Press <F11> on your keyboard or click from the BIOS screen to open EZ Tuning Wizard screen. Click OC then click Next. Select a PC scenario Daily Computing or Gaming/Media Editing, then click Next. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series...
  • Page 68 Select a Main Cooling System BOX cooler, Tower cooler, Water cooler, or I’m not sure, then click Next. After selecting the Main Cooling System, click Next then click Yes to start the OC Tuning. Creating RAID To create RAID: Click EZ Tuning Wizard from the BIOS screen to open EZ Tuning Wizard screen. Click Yes to enable RAID.
  • Page 69 After selecting the type of RAID, click Next then click Yes to continue the RAID setup. After the RAID setup is done, click Yes to exit the setup then click OK to reset your system. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 3-11...

  • Page 70: My Favorites

    My Favorites My Favorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. My Favorites comes with several performance, power saving, and fast boot related items by default. You can personalize this screen by adding or removing items. Chapter 3: BIOS Setup 3-12...
  • Page 71 Configuration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date. Click Exit (ESC) or press <Esc> key to close Setup Tree Map screen. Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 3-13...

  • Page 72: Main Menu

    Main menu The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings. Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
  • Page 73 CPU permanently. ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto] This item allows you to maximize the oveclocking performance optimized by ASUS core ratio settings. [Disabled] This item allows you to set to default core ratio settings. CPU Core Ratio This item allows you to set the CPU core ratios.

  • Page 74: Advanced Menu

    Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. 3.6.1 Platform Misc Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the ASPM for PCH and SA PCI Express.

  • Page 75: System Agent (Sa) Configuration

    [Intel RST Premium Set to [Intel RST Premium With Intel Optane System With Intel Optane Acceleration (RAID)] when you want to create a RAID System Acceleration configuration from the SATA hard disk drives. (RAID)] ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 3-17...

  • Page 76: Pch-Fw Configuration

    SMART Self Test SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitoring system that shows a warning message during POST (Power-on Self Test) when an error occurs in the hard disks. Configuration options: [On] [Off] SATA6G_1(Charcoal Black) - SATA6G_6(Charcoal Black) SATA6G_1(Charcoal Black) - SATA6G_6(Charcoal Black) This item allows you to enable or disable the selected SATA port.

  • Page 77: Onboard Devices Configuration

    USB Type C Power Switch [Auto] The system will automatically detect your USB Type C devices and provide suitable power if needed. [Enabled] The USB Type C port will always provide power to your devices. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 3-19...

  • Page 78: Apm Configuration

    3.6.9 APM Configuration The items in this menu allow you to set system wake and sleep settings. ErP Ready [Disabled] This item allows you to switch off some power at S4+S5 or S5 to get the system ready for ErP requirement. When set to [Enabled], all other PME options are switched off. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enable(S4+S5)] [Enable(S5)] 3.6.10 USB Configuration...

  • Page 79: Monitor Menu

    Setup Mode [Advanced Mode] This item allows you to go to Advanced Mode of the BIOS after POST. [EZ Mode] This item allows you to go to EZ Mode of the BIOS after POST. ASUS PRIME Z370-A II Series 3-21...
  • Page 80 CSM (Compatibility Support Module) This item allows you to configure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to fully support the various VGA, bootable devices and add-on devices for better compatibility. Launch CSM [Auto] The system automatically detects the bootable devices and the add- on devices.

  • Page 81: Tool Menu

    3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility This item allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 82: Secure Erase

    To launch Secure Erase, click Tool > Secure Erase on the Advanced mode menu. Check the ASUS support site for a full list of SSDs tested with Secure Erase. The drive may become unstable if you run Secure Erase on an incompatible SSD.

  • Page 83: Asus User Profile

    This item displays the information and recommended configuration for the PCIE slots that the graphics card is installed in your system. This feature is only supported on selected ASUS graphics cards. Bus Interface This item allows you to select the bus interface.

  • Page 84: Exit Menu

    3.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu. Load Optimized Defaults This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus.

  • Page 85: Updating Bios

    ® ASUS EZ Flash 3: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted. 3.11.1...

  • Page 86: Asus Ez Flash 3

    3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 ASUS EZ Flash 3 allows you to download and update to the latest BIOS through the Internet without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Updating through the Internet varies per region and Internet conditions. Check your local Internet connection before updating through the Internet.
  • Page 87 To update the BIOS by Internet: Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter>. Select by Internet. Press the Left/Right arrow keys to select an Internet connection method, and then press <Enter>.

  • Page 88: Asus Crashfree Bios 3

    The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at https://www.asus.com/support/ and save it to a USB flash drive.
  • Page 89 ® RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 configuration. For more information on configuring your RAID sets, please refer to the RAID Configuration Guide which you can find at https://www.asus.com/support. 4.1.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.
  • Page 90 Chapter 4: RAID Support...
  • Page 91 Appendix Notices FCC Compliance Information Responsible Party: Asus Computer International Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA Phone / Fax No: (510)739-3777 / (510)608-4555 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
  • Page 92 Compliance Statement of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada licence exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
  • Page 93 ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials.
  • Page 94 доступний на: www.asus.com/support Cijeli tekst EU izjave o sukladnosti dostupan je na: www.asus.com/support Türkçe AsusTek Computer Inc., bu aygıtın temel gereksinimlerle ve ilişkili Čeština Společnost ASUSTeK Computer Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že toto Yönergelerin diğer ilgili koşullarıyla uyumlu olduğunu beyan eder.
  • Page 95 +1-510-739-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.com/us/ Technical Support Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959931 Web site http://www.asus.com/de Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales Technical Support Telephone +49-2102-5789555 Support Fax...
  • Page 96 Appendix...

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