Contents

Safety information
- About this guide
- Z170-PREMIUM specifications summary
- Package contents
- Installation tools and components
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
- 1.1 Special features
  - 1.1.1 Product highlights
  - 1.1.2 Other special features
- 1.2 Motherboard overview
  - 1.2.1 Before you proceed
  - 1.2.2 Motherboard layout
  - 1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 1.2.4 System memory
  - 1.2.5 Expansion slots
  - 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches
  - 1.2.7 Jumpers
  - 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs
  - 1.2.9 Internal connectors
Chapter 2: Basic Installation
- 2.1 Building your PC system
  - 2.1.1 Motherboard installation
  - 2.1.2 CPU installation
  - 2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation
  - 2.1.4 DIMM installation
  - 2.1.5 ATX Power connection
  - 2.1.6 SATA device connection
  - 2.1.7 Front I/O Connector
  - 2.1.8 Expansion Card installation
  - 2.1.9 Wi-Fi antenna installation
- 2.2 BIOS update utility
- 2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections
  - 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection
  - 2.3.2 Audio I/O connections
- 2.4 Starting up for the first time
- 2.5 Turning off the computer
Chapter 3: BIOS Setup
- 3.1 Knowing BIOS
- 3.2 BIOS setup program
  - 3.2.1 EZ Mode
  - 3.2.2 Advanced Mode
  - 3.2.3 QFan Control
  - 3.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard
- 3.3 My Favorites
- 3.4 Main menu
- 3.5 Ai Tweaker menu
- 3.6 Advanced menu
  - 3.6.1 CPU Configuration
  - 3.6.2 Platform Misc Configuration
  - 3.6.3 System Agent (SA) Configuration
  - 3.6.4 PCH Configuration
  - 3.6.5 PCH Storage Configuration
  - 3.6.6 USB Configuration
  - 3.6.7 Network Stack Configuration
  - 3.6.8 Onboard Devices Configuration
  - 3.6.9 APM Configuration
  - 3.6.10 HDD/SSD SMART Information
  - 3.6.11 Intel(R) Thunderbolt Configuration
- 3.7 Monitor menu
- 3.8 Boot menu
- 3.9 Tool menu
  - 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility
  - 3.9.2 Secure Erase
  - 3.9.3 ASUS Overclocking Profile
  - 3.9.4 ASUS SPD Information
  - 3.9.5 Graphics Card Information
- 3.10 Exit menu
- 3.11 Updating BIOS
  - 3.11.1 EZ Update
  - 3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3
  - 3.11.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Chapter 4: Software Support
- 4.1 Installing an operating system
  - 4.1.1 Windows 7 and USB 3.0 driver for 100 Series
- 4.2 Support DVD information
  - 4.2.1 Running the support DVD
  - 4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals
- 4.3 Software information
- 4.4 AI Suite 3
  - 4.4.1 Ai Charger+
  - 4.4.2 USB 3.1 Boost
  - 4.4.3 EZ Update
  - 4.4.4 USB BIOS Flashback
  - 4.4.5 Push Notice
  - 4.4.6 System Information
  - 4.4.7 Key Express
- 4.5 Audio configurations
Chapter 5: RAID Support
- 5.1 RAID configurations
  - 5.1.1 RAID definitions
  - 5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
  - 5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS
  - 5.1.4 Intel Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
- 5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk
  - 5.2.1 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
  - 5.2.2 Installing the RAID driver during Windows OS installation
Appendix
- Notices
- ASUS contact information

ASUS Z170-PREMIUM User Manual

ASUS Z170-PREMIUM Motherboard manual cover

Pages 190

Year 2015

Language(s)

of 190

ASUS Z170-PREMIUM Motherboard Specification

The ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard is designed to cater to high-performance computing needs, integrating the Intel Z170 chipset to support Intel's 6th and 7th generation Core processors. It features four DDR4 DIMM slots, allowing for a maximum of 64GB of RAM, enhancing multitasking and application performance. The board includes multiple expansion options with three PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 slots, enabling support for multi-GPU setups with NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFireX technology.

Storage solutions are robust, featuring a SATA Express port, six SATA 6Gb/s ports, and an M.2 slot to accommodate high-speed SSDs, boosting data access and transfer rates. The motherboard supports Intel Rapid Storage Technology, providing enhanced data protection and performance. Connectivity is comprehensive, including USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C ports for fast data transfer, supplemented by USB 3.0 and 2.0 options for peripheral compatibility.

Networking capabilities are spearheaded by an integrated Intel Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring stable and fast internet connectivity. The onboard LANGuard and Turbo LAN technologies provide enhanced network protection and optimized traffic management. The audio experience is enriched by Crystal Sound 3, delivering high-quality sound with minimal interference, utilizing Japanese capacitors and an isolated audio design.

The ASUS Z170-PREMIUM emphasizes reliability and stability with 5X Protection II, which includes hardware safeguards like overvoltage protection and component longevity enhancements. The motherboard supports ASUS's UEFI BIOS with EZ and Advanced Modes, offering a user-friendly interface for system configuration and tweaking. Aesthetically, it features a sleek design with customizable RGB lighting, providing both functionality and style for any build.

ASUS Z170-PREMIUM Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard?

To update the BIOS on your ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard, download the latest BIOS version from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB drive, restart your computer, and enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Del' key during boot. Navigate to the 'Tool' tab and select 'ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility'. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the BIOS.

What should I do if my ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard won't boot?

First, ensure all power connections are secure. Check that RAM and other components are properly seated. Try resetting the CMOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes and then replacing it. If the problem persists, try booting with minimal components to isolate the issue.

How can I enable XMP for my RAM on the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM?

Enter the BIOS by pressing the 'Del' key during startup. Go to the 'Ai Tweaker' tab, find the 'XMP' option, and set it to 'Profile 1' or 'Profile 2', depending on your RAM specifications. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard?

The ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard supports a maximum of 64GB of DDR4 RAM across four DIMM slots, with each slot supporting up to 16GB.

How can I troubleshoot USB ports not working on my ASUS Z170-PREMIUM?

First, check the Device Manager for any USB-related errors. Ensure that USB drivers are up-to-date. Try connecting devices to different USB ports. If the issue persists, check BIOS settings to ensure USB ports are enabled.

Can I use NVMe SSDs with the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard?

Yes, the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard supports NVMe SSDs through its M.2 slot. Ensure the SSD is properly installed in the M.2 slot and configure the BIOS settings for optimal performance.

What are the steps to reset BIOS settings on the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM?

To reset the BIOS settings, enter the BIOS setup by pressing 'Del' during boot. Navigate to the 'Exit' menu and select 'Load Setup Defaults'. Confirm the action, save changes, and exit the BIOS. Alternatively, you can reset the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes.

How can I improve cooling for my ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard?

Ensure your case has adequate airflow by arranging cables neatly and installing additional fans if necessary. Consider upgrading to a higher performance CPU cooler and apply quality thermal paste. Regularly clean dust from fans and heatsinks.

What are the typical beep codes for the ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard and their meanings?

Beep codes can indicate various issues: 1 short beep usually means a successful POST, 1 long and 2 short beeps indicate a video card error, while continuous short beeps may suggest a power issue. Refer to the motherboard manual for a complete list.

How can I connect additional case fans to my ASUS Z170-PREMIUM motherboard?

Locate the available fan headers on the motherboard, labeled as CHA_FAN or similar. Connect the fan cables to these headers, ensuring the alignment of the pins. If you need more connections, consider using a fan splitter or hub.