ASUS Z170-AR User Manual

ASUS Z170-AR Motherboard manual cover
Pages 130
Year 2015
Language(s)
English en

ASUS Z170-AR Motherboard Specification

The ASUS Z170-AR motherboard is designed to cater to enthusiasts looking for a robust foundation for building high-performance systems. It supports Intel's 6th generation Core processors, utilizing the LGA 1151 socket, and is built on the Intel Z170 chipset. The board supports dual-channel DDR4 memory, with speeds up to 3400 MHz when overclocked, allowing for a maximum of 64GB across four DIMM slots. It features advanced connectivity options, including integrated USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C ports for faster data transfer rates, alongside multiple USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports for versatile peripheral connectivity.

The motherboard includes a comprehensive array of expansion slots, with three PCIe 3.0 x16 slots supporting NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFireX for multi-GPU setups, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for additional cards. Storage options are robust, with six SATA 6Gb/s ports and support for SATA Express and M.2 interfaces, catering to high-speed SSDs for rapid data access. The ASUS Z170-AR also incorporates ASUS' renowned 5-Way Optimization technology, offering automated system tuning, advanced fan controls, and energy efficiency enhancements, which simplifies the overclocking process while maintaining stable performance.

It is equipped with ASUS' Crystal Sound 3 technology, delivering immersive audio with precise sound fidelity, and features premium Japanese capacitors for superior sound clarity. The motherboard's UEFI BIOS is user-friendly, offering an intuitive interface for system configuration and performance tuning. Aesthetic customizations are facilitated through ASUS' Aura RGB LED lighting, allowing users to personalize their rigs with a spectrum of colors. With a focus on reliability, performance, and user customization, the ASUS Z170-AR motherboard stands out as a versatile choice for building a powerful and personalized computing experience.

ASUS Z170-AR Motherboard F.A.Q.

How can I update the BIOS on my ASUS Z170-AR motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS version from the official ASUS website. Copy the BIOS file to a USB drive. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS by pressing the 'Del' key during boot. Use the EZ Flash utility found in the BIOS to select and update the BIOS from your USB drive.

What should I do if my ASUS Z170-AR motherboard fails to boot?

First, check all power connections and ensure the RAM and CPU are properly seated. Clear the CMOS by removing the battery or using the jumper method. If the problem persists, try booting with minimal hardware to isolate the issue.

Which types of RAM are compatible with the ASUS Z170-AR motherboard?

The ASUS Z170-AR motherboard supports DDR4 RAM modules with speeds ranging from 2133 MHz to 3466 MHz (OC). It has four DIMM slots allowing for dual-channel memory configurations.

How do I reset the BIOS settings to default on my ASUS Z170-AR?

To reset the BIOS to default settings, enter the BIOS by pressing 'Del' during boot, navigate to the 'Exit' menu, and select 'Load Setup Defaults.' Alternatively, you can clear the CMOS by using the jumper method or removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes.

Can I overclock my CPU using the ASUS Z170-AR motherboard?

Yes, the ASUS Z170-AR supports CPU overclocking. You can adjust the CPU multiplier and voltage settings in the BIOS under the 'AI Tweaker' section. Ensure adequate cooling is in place when overclocking to prevent overheating.

What is the M.2 slot specification on the ASUS Z170-AR motherboard?

The ASUS Z170-AR motherboard includes an M.2 slot that supports both SATA and PCIe (up to 32Gbps) SSDs. It is compatible with M.2 form factors 2242, 2260, 2280, and 22110.

How can I improve the cooling performance of my ASUS Z170-AR system?

Enhance cooling by ensuring proper airflow within the case. Install additional case fans, consider a high-performance CPU cooler, and ensure cable management is neat to avoid obstructing airflow. Regularly clean dust from fans and heatsinks.

Why is my ASUS Z170-AR motherboard not detecting my graphics card?

Ensure the graphics card is properly seated in the PCIe slot and that the power connectors are attached. Update the BIOS and ensure that the latest drivers for the graphics card are installed. Test the graphics card in another system to rule out hardware failure.

What RAID configurations are supported by the ASUS Z170-AR motherboard?

The ASUS Z170-AR supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations via the Intel Rapid Storage Technology. These can be set up in the BIOS under the 'Advanced' tab, within the 'SATA Configuration' section.

How do I enable XMP for my RAM on the ASUS Z170-AR?

Enter the BIOS by pressing 'Del' during startup. Navigate to the 'AI Tweaker' section and set the 'AI Overclock Tuner' to 'XMP.' This will automatically apply the XMP profile settings for optimal RAM performance.