Motherboard ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX
E21511 First Edition December 2022 Copyright © 2022 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Safety information........................................................................................................ v About this guide.......................................................................................................... vi ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary............................................. vii Package contents......................................................................................................
Appendix Q-Code table............................................................................................................. A-1 Notices ..................................................................................................................... A-5 Warranty.................................................................................................................. A-16 ASUS contact 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.
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.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary Intel® Socket LGA1700 for 13th Gen Intel® Core™ & 12th Gen Intel® Core™ Pentium® Gold and Celeron® Processors* CPU Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and Intel® 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. Chipset Intel® Z790 Chipset 2 x DIMM, Max.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary Ethernet 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet ASUS LANGuard Wi-Fi 6E 2x2 Wi-Fi 6E (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax) Wireless & Bluetooth Supports 2.4/5/6GHz frequency band Bluetooth® v5.3** * WiFi 6E 6GHz regulatory may vary between countries. ** The Bluetooth® version may vary, please refer to the Wi-Fi module manufacturer’s website for the latest specifications. Rear USB (Total 10 ports) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port (1 x USB Type-C®) 5 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (5 x Type-A) 4 x USB 3.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary 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 3 x 4-pin Chassis Fan headers 2 x 4-pin Full Speed Fan headers 1 x W_PUMP+ header 1 x 2-pin Water In header 1 x 2-pin Water Out header 1 x 3-pin Water Flow header Power related 1 x 24-pin Main Power connector 2 x 8-pin +12V Power connectors 1 x 6-pin PCIe Power connector Storage related 2 x M.2 slots (Key M) 1 x DIMM.2 slot supports 2 x M.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary Extreme OC Kit - FlexKey button - LN2 Mode - Probelt - ReTry button - Safe boot button - Start button - Slow Mode Extreme Engine Digi+ - SMD Capacitor - MicroFine Alloy Choke ASUS Q-Design - M.2 Q-Latch - PCIe Slot Q-Release - Q-Code - Q-Connector - Q-LED (CPU [red], DRAM [yellow], VGA [white], Boot Device [yellow green]) - Q-Slot ASUS Thermal Solution Special Features - M.2 heatsink backplate - M.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX specifications summary ROG Exclusive Software - GameFirst VI - ROG CPU-Z - Sonic Studio III + Sonic Studio Virtual Mixer + Sonic Suite Companion - Sonic Radar III - DTS® Sound Unbound - BullGuard Internet Security (1-year full version) ASUS Exclusive Software Armoury Crate - AIDA64 Extreme (1 year full version) - Aura Creator - Aura Sync - Fan Xpert 4 (with AI Cooling II) - Power Saving Software Features - Two-Way AI Noise Cancellation AI Suite 3 - Easy Optimization with AI Overclocki
xii • Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications. • MyASUS offers a variety of support features such as helping to troubleshoot issues, optimizing product performance, integrating ASUS software, and recovery drive creation. Please scan the QR Code for installation guide and FAQ.
Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard 1 x ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX motherboard 1 x ROG DIMM.2 with heatsink ROG DIMM.2 with Heatsink 1 x M.2 pad for ROG DIMM.2 2 x M.2 screw packages for ROG DIMM.2 PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card with Heatsink 1 x PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card with heatsink 1 x M.2 screw package for ROG PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card 1 x Thermal pad for M.
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Product Introduction Product Introduction 1.1 Before you proceed 1 Chapter 1 Chapter 1: 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.
1.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX 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 1-20 1-21 1-21 1-22 1-23 1-23 1-24 1-24 1-25 1-26 1-26 1-27 1-27 1-28 1-29 1-30 1-31 1-32 1-32 1-33 1-34 1-34 1-35 1-35 Chapter 1 Layout contents 1. CPU socket 2. DIMM slots 3. Expansion slots 4. Fan and Pump headers 5. Liquid Cooling System headers 6. Power connectors 7. M.2 Slot 8. DIMM.2 slot 9. SATA 6Gb/s port 10. USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® Front Panel connector 11. USB 3.2 Gen 1 header 12. USB 2.0 header 13.
1. CPU socket The motherboard comes with a LGA1700 socket designed for 13th Gen Intel® Core™ & 12th Gen Intel® Core™ Pentium® Gold and Celeron® Processors. Chapter 1 1-4 • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1700 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for other sockets on the LGA1700 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.
2. DIMM slots The motherboard comes with Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots designed for DDR5 (Double Data Rate 5) memory modules. Chapter 1 A DDR5 memory module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, DDR3, or DDR4 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, DDR3, or DDR4 memory module to the DDR5 slot.
Memory configurations You may install 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB unbuffered and non‑ECC DDR5 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Chapter 1 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.
3. Expansion slots Chapter 1 Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. Please refer to the following table for the recommended VGA configuration and PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card configuration.
Recommended VGA configuration Chapter 1 Slot Description 1 PCIEX16(G5)_1 3 PCIEX16(G5)_2 Single VGA x16 - Dual VGA x8 x8 Connect a chassis fan to the chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. PCIe bifurcation & M.2 settings in PCIe x16 slots for PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card Slot Description 3 1-8 PCIEX16(G5)_2 Quantity of identifiable M.2 SSD (pcs) Situation for PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card M.2 PCIe 5.0 x4 • The PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card is bundled as an accessory.
4. Fan and Pump headers Chapter 1 The Fan and Pump headers allow you to connect fans or pumps to cool the system. • 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 or AIO_ PUMP header.
5. Liquid Cooling System headers The Liquid Cooling System headers allow you to connect sensors to monitor the temperature and flow rate of your liquid cooling system. You can manually adjust the fans and water pump to optimize the thermal efficiency of your liquid cooling system.
6. Power connectors Chapter 1 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. Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug, or connect both 8-pin power plugs. • We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices.
7. M.2 slot The M.2 slot allows you to install M.2 devices such as M.2 SSD modules. Chapter 1 • Intel® 13th & 12th Gen Processors: -M .2_1 supports PCIE 4.0 x4 mode M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 storage devices. • Intel® Z790 Chipset: - M.2_2 supports PCIE 4.0 x4 and SATA modes M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 storage devices. • Intel® Rapid Storage Technology supports PCIe RAID 0/1/5/10, SATA RAID 0/1/5/10. The M.2 SSD module is purchased separately.
8. DIMM.2 slot Chapter 1 The DIMM.2 slot allows you to install a DIMM.2 card to support additional M.2 SSD modules. • Before you install or remove the DIMM.2 card, 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 or DIMM.2 card. • The DIMM.2 card is notched to fit in only one orientation. Ensure that the notch on your card is aligned correctly with the DIMM.2 slot before inserting the card.
9. SATA 6Gb/s port The SATA 6Gb/s port 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 to the SATA6G_1-4 ports, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z790 chipset. • RAID configuration and boot drives are not supported on the SATA6G_E1-2 ports. Before creating a RAID set, refer to the RAID Configuration Guide.
10. USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® Front Panel connector • The USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® module is purchased separately. • For PD 3.0 / QC 4+ support, ensure to connect the 6-pin PD_12V_PWR connector. • PD 3.0 up to DC 20V/3A 60W fast charging technology is only supported on CC Logic Devices. • In S5 (Soft Off State) PD 3.0 and QC 4+ only provide power delivery of up to 10W. ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX Chapter 1 The USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® connector allows you to connect a USB 3.
11. 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. Chapter 1 The USB 3.2 Gen 1 module is purchased separately.
12. USB 2.0 header Chapter 1 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.
13. 80 Light Bar jumper Chapter 1 The 80 Light Bar jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard Q-CODE LED. When the jumper is set to OFF, all Aura RGB lighting effects as well as RGB LED strips connected to the RGB_HEADER headers and ADD_GEN2 headers will also be disabled alongside the Q-CODE LED.
14. Addressable Gen2 header Chapter 1 The Addressable Gen2 header allows you to connect individually addressable RGB WS2812B LED strips or WS2812B based LED strips. 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.
15. 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. 1-20 • Actual lighting and color will vary with LED strip.
16. BLCK buttons Chapter 1 The BLCK buttons allow you adjust the BCLK frequency. To use the BCLK buttons, Runtime BCLK OC needs to be enabled in the BIOS first. 17. BIOS Switch button This motherboard comes with two BIOS chips. Press the BIOS Switch button to switch BIOS and load different BIOS settings. The nearby BIOS_LEDs indicate which BIOS is currently selected.
18. FlexKey button (Reset) Press the FlexKey button to reboot the system. You may also configure the button and assign a quick access feature such as activating Safe Boot, turning Aura lighting on or off, or activating the DirectKey function to the button. Chapter 1 This button set to [Reset] by default. You can assign a different function to this button in the BIOS settings.
19. Front Panel Audio header Chapter 1 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. 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. 20.
21. OSC Sense header The OSC Sense header is reserved for the ROG True Voltician card and allows you to monitor the fluctuations of the CPU voltage. Chapter 1 22. Pause switch The Pause switch allows you to freeze the system at a hardware level, thus allowing you to adjust your system settings under heavy overclocking.
23. ProbeIt Measurement Points Chapter 1 The ROG ProbeIt allows you to detect your system’s current voltage and OC settings using a multimeter. You can also measure the ProbeIt points during overclocking. Using ProbeIt Connect one of the probe onto the GND ProbeIt point, then connect the other probe onto another ProbeIt point to measure the corresponding voltage information. The illustration above is for reference only, the actual motherboard layout and measure points may differ by model.
24. ReTry button Chapter 1 The ReTry button is specially designed for overclockers and is most useful during the booting process where the Reset button is rendered useless. Press this button to force the system to reboot while retaining the same settings to be retried in quick succession to achieve a successful POST. 25. RSVD switch and header The RSVD switch and header is reserved for ASUS-authorized technicians only. Please ensure the RSVD switch is set to Disabled.
26. Safe Boot button Chapter 1 The Safe Boot button temporarily applies safe settings to the BIOS while retaining the overclocked settings, allowing you to modify the settings causing a boot failure. Press this button at anytime to force the system to reboot into the BIOS safe mode. 27. Slow Mode switch The system may crash due to the CPU being unstable when using extreme overclocking settings.
28. Start button Press the Start button to power up the system, or put the system into sleep or soft-off mode (depending on the operating system settings). Chapter 1 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.
29. System Panel header Chapter 1 The System Panel header supports several chassis-mounted functions. • 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 (HDLED) The 2-pin header allows you to connect the Storage Device Activity LED.
30. Thermal Sensor header Chapter 1 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.
31. Thunderbolt™ (USB4®) header Chapter 1 The Thunderbolt™ (USB4®) header allows you to connect an add-on Thunderbolt™ I/O card that supports Intel®’s Thunderbolt™ Technology, allowing you to connect Thunderbolt™-enabled devices to form a daisy-chain configuration. • The add-on Thunderbolt™ I/O card and Thunderbolt™ cables are purchased separately. • Please visit the official website of your purchased Thunderbolt™ card for more details on compatibility.
32. V_Latch switch The V_Latch switch is used for enthusiasts interested in viewing the onboard voltage regulation. When V_Latch switch is set to enabled, it will record both the True highest and True lowest voltages of the Vcore. Chapter 1 33. Q-Code LED The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. 1-32 • The Q-Code LEDs provide the most probable cause of an error code as a starting point for troubleshooting.
34. Q-LEDs Chapter 1 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.
35. Condensation Detection LEDs The Condensation Detection LEDs will light up when water condensation is detected on the corresponding critical key components (CPU, DRAM, and PCIE). This userfriendly design helps you quickly identify possible damages caused by condensation. Chapter 1 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. 36. BIOS LED The BIOS LEDs indicate which BIOS chip is currently in use.
37. Storage Device Activity LED Chapter 1 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. 38. 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 1-36 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter 2: Basic Installation Basic Installation 2.1 Building your PC system 2 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. CPU installation • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1700 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA1151, and LGA1200 sockets on the LGA1700 socket.
Chapter 2 Ensure to remove the CPU Socket lever protector on the lever latch before locking the lever latch under the retention tab. Failure to do so may cause damages to your system when installing the cooling system.
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. • Ensure to remove the CPU Socket lever protector on the lever latch before installing the cooling system, failure to do so may cause damages to your system.
• We recommend using a LGA1700 compatible cooling system on an Intel® 700 series motherboard. • Additional holes for LGA1200 compatible cooling systems are also available on ASUS’ Intel® 700 series motherboards, however, we still strongly advise consulting with your cooling system vendor or manufacturer on the compatibility and functionality of the cooling system. • Push-pin type LGA1200 compatible cooling systems cannot be installed to this motherboard.
To install an AIO cooler We recommend using a LGA1700 compatible cooling system when installing a cooling system to an Intel® 700 series motherboard. • Additional holes for LGA1200 compatible cooling systems are also available on ASUS’ Intel® 700 series motherboards, however, we still strongly advise consulting with your cooling system vendor or manufacturer on the compatibility and functionality of the cooling system.
2.1.
2.1.4 M.2 installation Supported M.2 type varies per motherboard. The illustrations only show the installation steps for a single M.2 slot, the steps are the same for the other M.2 slots if you wish to install an M.2 to another M.2 slot. • Use a Phillips screwdriver when removing or installing the screws or screw stands mentioned in this section. • If the thermal pad on the M.2 heatsink becomes damaged, we recommend replacing it with a thermal pad with a thickness of 1.25mm. • The M.
3. Install your M.2 to your M.2 slot. The steps may differ between installing M.2 of different lengths, please refer to the different types and their installation steps below: • To install an M.2 to M.2_1 and M.2_2 slot For 2280 length A. Remove the plastic film from the thermal pad. B. Rotate and adjust the M.2 Q-latch at the 2280 position so that the handle points away from the M.2 slot. C. Install your M.2 to the M.2 slot. D. Rotate the M.2 Q-Latch clockwise to secure the M.2 in place.
For 2242 and 2260 length A. Remove the plastic film from the thermal pad. B. Remove the thermal pad of the M.2 length screw hole you wish to install your M.2 to, then install the M.2 Q-latch. C. Rotate and adjust the M.2 Q-latch so that the handle points away from the M.2 slot. D. Install your M.2 to the M.2 slot. Chapter 2 E. Rotate the M.2 Q-Latch clockwise to secure the M.2 in place. Thermal pad ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX M.
4. Remove the plastic film from the thermal pads on the bottom of the heatsinks. If the thermal pad on the M.2 heatsink becomes damaged, we recommend replacing it with a thermal pad with a thickness of 1.25mm. 5. Replace the heatsinks. 6. Secure the heatsinks using the screws on the heatsink.
2.1.5 Additional cooling kit installation To install the DDR5 fan holder Chapter 2 You may install 12V (1A, 12W), 40mm x 40mm/50mm x 50mm/60mm x 60mm fans onto the fan holder if you require additional cooling for your motherboard.
2.1.6 Motherboard installation 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 1. This instruction is for reference only, please place the amount of screws according to your installation situation. DO NOT over tighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
ATX power connection Chapter 2 2.1.7 OR AND Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug or both 8-pin power plugs.
Chapter 2 The PD_12V_PWR connector provides additional power for the front USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connector (supports USB Type-C®). To support 60W, please install the power cable to the 6-pin PCIe Power connector (PD_12V_PWR) else only 27W will be supported.
2.1.
2.1.9 Front I/O connector To install ASUS Q-Connector To install USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® connector USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® Chapter 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 2.0 USB 3.
2.1.
To install PCIe 5.0 M.2 Card Chapter 2 2-18 1. Remove the four (4) cover screws that secure the cover to the PCIe 5.0 M.2 card, then remove the cover and set it aside. 2. Peel the plastic films off the thermal pads by the M.2 slots. 3. Secure the bundled stand screw onto the PCIe 5.0 M.2 card.
Install the M.2 storage device into the onboard M.2 slot (A), then secure the M.2 storage devices with the bundled screw (B). 5. Peel the plastic films off the thermal pad (A), secure the cover to the PCIe 5.0 M.2 card with the cover screws that you removed earlier (B), then install the PCIe 5.0 M.2 card into the PCIEX16(G5)_2 slot (C). Chapter 2 4. When the PCIe 5.0 M.2 card is installed on the PCIEX16_2 slot, PCIEX16_1 will run x8 only. 6.
To install Thunderbolt™ series card 6-pin PCIe power connector USB Type-C® port connects to Thunderbolt devices Chapter 2 MiniDP in port connects to DP out port on the motherboard or a VGA card USB 2.0 header Thunderbolt™ (USB4®) header The Thunderbolt™ card can only be used when installed to the PCIEX4(G4) slot. Ensure to install your Thunderbolt™ card to the PCIEX4(G4) slot.
Using the PCIe Slot Q-Release The PCIEX16(G5)_1 slot comes with a PCIe Slot Q-Release button allowing you to easily remove an expansion card installed to this PCIe slot, even when the expansion card may be blocking the PCIe push-latch, such as a graphics card. To release an expansion card using the PCIe Slot Q-Release: Slightly lift the expansion card with one hand and press the PCIe Slot Q-Release button with the other hand. This should release the expansion card so that you can remove it with ease.
2.1.11 DIMM.2 installation • Supported M.2 type varies per motherboard. • The M.2 SSD module is purchased separately.
12 16 11 15 14 • Before you install or remove the DIMM.2 card, 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 or DIMM.2 card. • The DIMM.2 card is notched to fit in only one orientation. Ensure that the notch on your card is aligned correctly with the DIMM.2 slot before inserting the card. • DIMM.2 module supports PCIe 4.
2.1.12 Wi-Fi moving antenna installation Installing the ASUS Wi-Fi moving antenna Connect the bundled ASUS Wi-Fi moving antenna connector to the Wi-Fi ports at the back of the chassis. Chapter 2 • Ensure that the ASUS Wi-Fi moving antenna is securely installed to the Wi-Fi ports. • Ensure that the antenna is at least 20 cm away from all persons. The illustration above is for reference only.
2.2 BIOS update utility BIOS FlashBack™ BIOS FlashBack™ allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. To use BIOS FlashBack™: 1. Visit https://www.asus.com/support/ and download the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. 2. Manually rename the file as MZ790A.CAP, or launch the BIOSRenamer.exe application to automatically rename the file, then copy it to your USB storage device. 3.
For more information on using the BIOS FlashBack™ feature, please refer to https://www.asus.com/support/, or by scanning the QR code below.
2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Clear CMOS button (CLR_CMOS). Press this button to clear the BIOS setup information only when the systems hangs due to overclocking. PS/2 Mouse (green) port USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports E5, E6, E7, and E8 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports 5, 6, 7, and P8 Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet port* BIOS FlashBack™ button PS/2 Keyboard (purple) port USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C® port C3 Wi-Fi module 11.
* Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet port LED indications Activity Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description OFF GREEN BLINKING No link Linked Data activity OFF No link 100 Mbps / 10 Mbps connection 2.5 Gbps connection 1 Gbps connection OFF GREEN ORANGE ACT/LINK LED SPEED LED LAN port ** Audio 2, 4, 5.1 or 7.1-channel configuration Port Chapter 2 Light Blue (Rear panel) Lime (Rear panel) Pink (Rear panel) Black (Rear panel) Orange (Rear panel) 2.3.2 2-channel 4-channel 5.1-channel 7.
Connect to Headphone and Mic The rear panel Lime (Line out) port does not support spatial audio. If you wish to use spatial audio make sure to connect your audio output device to the audio jack on the front panel of your chassis.
Connect to 5.1-channel Speakers Chapter 2 Connect to 7.
2.4 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: Monitor b. External storage devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c.
Chapter 2 2-32 Chapter 2: Basic Installation
Chapter 3: BIOS and RAID Support BIOS and RAID Support 3 For more details on BIOS and RAID configurations, please refer to www.asus.com/ support. 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.
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 during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press or , POST continues with its routines. Entering BIOS Setup after POST To enter BIOS Setup after POST: • Press ++ simultaneously.
3.3 ASUS EZ Flash 3 The ASUS EZ Flash 3 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS‑based utility. Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey . To update the BIOS: • This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.
3.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using a USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file. Recovering the BIOS 1. Download the latest BIOS version for this motherboard from whttps://www.asus.com/support/. 2. Rename the BIOS file as ASUS.CAP or MZ790A.CAP and copy the renamed BIOS file to a USB flash drive. 3.
3.5 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology that supports PCIe RAID 0/1/5/10 and SATA RAID 0/1/5/10 configurations. 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, or by scanning the QR code. RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.
Chapter 3 3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS Setup
Appendix Appendix Code 00 01 02 03 04 06 Description Not used Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard).
Q-Code table Code Appendix E0 E1 E2 E3 E4 – E7 E8 E9 EA EB EC – EF F0 F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 – F7 F8 F9 FA FB – FF 60 61 62 63 – 67 68 69 Description S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL) S3 Boot Script execution Video repost OS S3 wake vector call Reserved for future AMI progress codes S3 Resume Failed S3 Resume PPI not Found S3 Resume Boot Script Error S3 OS Wake Error Reserved for future AMI error codes Recovery condition triggered by firmware (Auto recovery) Recovery condition triggere
Q-Code table Description Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started Driver connecting is started PCI Bus initialization is started PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization PCI Bus Enumeration PCI Bus Request Resources PCI Bus Assign Resources Console Output devices connect Console input devices connect Super IO Initialization USB initialization is started USB Reset USB Detect USB Enable Reserved for future AMI codes IDE initialization is started IDE Reset IDE Detect IDE Enable SCSI initialization is sta
Q-Code table Code B4 B5 B6 B7 B8– BF D0 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9 DA DB DC Description USB hot plug PCI bus hot plug Clean-up of NVRAM Configuration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings) Reserved for future AMI codes CPU initialization error System Agent initialization error PCH initialization error Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available PCI resource allocation error.
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.
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.
NCC: Wireless Statement 取得審驗證明之低功率射頻器材，非經核准，公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變更頻 率、加大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。低功率射頻器材之使用不得影響飛航安全及 干擾合法通信；經發現有干擾現象時，應 立即停用，並改善至無干擾時方得繼續使用。 前述合法通信，指依電信管理法規定作業之無線電通信。低功率射頻器材須忍受合法通 信或工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之干擾。 應避免影響附近雷達系統之操作。 Japan RF Equipment Statement 屋外での使用について 本製品は、5GHz帯域での通信に対応しています。電波法の定めにより5.2GHz、5.
Declaration of compliance for product environmental regulation ASUS follows the green design concept to design and manufacture our products, and makes sure that each stage of the product life cycle of ASUS product is in line with global environmental regulations. In addition, ASUS disclose the relevant information based on regulation requirements. Please refer to http://csr.asus.com/Compliance.
Safety Precautions Accessories that came with this product have been designed and verified for the use in connection with this product. Never use accessories for other products to prevent the risk of electric shock or fire.
Simplified UKCA Declaration of Conformity ASUSTek Computer Inc. hereby declares that this device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of The Radio Equipment Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/1206). Full text of UKCA declaration of conformity is available at https://www.asus.com/support/.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX Упрощенное заявление о соответствии европейской директиве ASUSTek Computer Inc. заявляет, что устройство соответствует основным требованиям и другим соответствующим условиям директивы 2014/53/ EU. Полный текст декларации соответствия ЕС доступен на https://www.asus.com/support/. Работа WiFi в диапазоне частот 5150-5350 должна быть ограничена использованием в помещениях для стран, перечисленных в таблице ниже: a.
Appendix Pojednostavljena EU Izjava o sukladnosti ASUSTeK Computer Inc. ovim izjavljuje da je ovaj uređaj sukladan s bitnim zahtjevima i ostalim odgovarajućim odredbama direktive 2014/53/EU. Cijeli tekst EU izjave o sukladnosti dostupan je na https://www.asus.com/support/. WiFi koji radi na opsegu frekvencija 5150-5350 MHz bit će ograničen na upotrebu u zatvorenom prostoru u zemljama na donjem popisu: a.
:)LPI( לבית בהספק נמוךWi-Fi 6E מכשיריa. עד5945 המכשיר מוגבל לשימוש פנימי בלבד בשימוש בטווח התדרים אסטוניה,)CZ( צ'כיה,)CY( קפריסין,)BG( בולגריה,)BE( בבלגיה6425MHz הולנד,)DE( גרמניה,)LT( ליטא,)IE( אירלנד,)IS( איסלנד,)FR( צרפת,)EE( .)ES( ספרד,)NL( :)) (מכשירים ניידיםVLP( בהספק נמוך מאודWi-Fi 6E מכשיריb.
Appendix Declarație de conformitate UE, versiune simplificată Prin prezenta, ASUSTek Computer Inc. declară că acest dispozitiv este în conformitate cu reglementările esențiale și cu celelalte prevederi relevante ale Directivei 2014/53/UE. Textul complet al declarației de conformitate UE este disponibil la adresa https://www.asus.com/support/. Pentru ţările listate în tabelul de mai jos, reţelele WiFi care funcţionează în banda de frecvenţă de 5.150-5.350 MHz trebuie utilizate doar în interior: a.
Спрощена декларація про відповідність нормам ЄС ASUSTek Computer Inc. заявляє, що цей пристрій відповідає основним вимогам та іншим відповідним вимогам Директиви 2014 / 53 / EU. Повний текст декларації відповідності нормам ЄС доступний на https://www.asus.com/support/. Робота Wi-Fi на частоті 5150-5350 МГц обмежується використанням у приміщенні для країн, поданих у таблиці нижче: a. b.
Warranty EN: ASUS Guarantee Information • ASUS offers a voluntary manufacturer’s Commercial Guarantee. • ASUS reserves the right to interpret the provisions of the ASUS Commercial Guarantee. • This ASUS Commercial Guarantee is provided independently and in addition to the statutory Legal Guarantee and in no way affects or limits the rights under the Legal Guarantee. CR: Informacije o ASUS jamstvu • ASUS dragovoljno nudi komercijalno proizvođačko jamstvo.
ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX SW: ASUS garantiinformation • ASUS erbjuder en frivillig kommersiell tillverkningsgaranti. • ASUS förbehåller sig rätten att tolka bestämmelserna i ASUS kommersiella garanti. • Denna kommersiella garanti från ASUS tillhandahålles separat och som tillägg till den lagstadgade garantin, och påverkar eller begränsar på intet sätts rättigheterna under den lagstadgade garantin. För all garantiinformation, besök https://www.asus.com/se/support/.
ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address: 1F., No. 15, Lide Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City 112 ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address: Harkortstrasse 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany ASUSTeK (UK) LIMITED Address: 1st Floor, Sackville House, 143-149 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 6BL, England, United Kingdom Service and Support Visit our multi-language website at https://www.asus.com/support.
