All stock codes associated to this product
PRIMEZ490A, PRIME-Z490-A
Asus Prime Z490-A Motherboard
Overview
Intel Z490 (LGA 1200) ATX motherboard with dual M.2, 14 DrMOS power stages,
HDMI, DisplayPort, SATA 6 Gbps, Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C,
Thunderbolt 3 support, and Aura Sync RGB lighting
- Intel LGA 1200 Socket: Ready for 10th Gen Intel Core processors
- Enhanced power solution: 12+2 DrMOS power stages, 6-layer PCB, ProCool
sockets, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power
delivery
- AI Overclocking: Quickly optimizes CPU performance based on the CPU and
cooler, achieving results that are extremely close to manual tuning by
experts
- AI Cooling: Manages and controls all motherboard fans, automatically
optimizing settings based on current system load and temperature
- 5-Way Optimization: One-click, system-wide tuning delivers optimized
overclocking and intelligent cooling for CPU or GPU-intensive tasks
- Comprehensive cooling: VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, hybrid fan headers and
Fan Xpert 4
- Next-gen connectivity: Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet, front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
and Thunderbolt 3 header support
ASUS Prime series is expertly engineered to unleash the full potential of
10th Gen Intel® Core™ processors. Boasting a robust power design, comprehensive
cooling solutions and intelligent tuning options, Prime Z490 series motherboards
provide daily users and DIY PC builders a range of performance tuning options
via intuitive software and firmware features.
Tune It Your Way
Comprehensive controls form the foundation of the ASUS Prime series. The
Prime Z490 motherboard packs flexible tools to tune every aspect of your system,
enabling you to tweak performance settings to perfectly match the way you work
maximizing your productivity.
5-Way Optimization
ASUS 5-Way Optimization makes your PC smart, taking care of complex tuning
with just one click. It dynamically optimizes essential aspects of your system,
providing overclocking and cooling profiles that are tailored for your
rig.
- 5-Way Optimization is an automated tuning utility that optimizes
overclocking and cooling profiles for your unique system
configuration.
- Fans stay whisper-quiet for everyday computing, and deliver optimal
airflow when the system is crunching through CPU- or GPU-intensive
tasks.
- A stress test feature allows you to optimize and overclock for CPU- or
memory-centric workloads.
TPU
EPU
Fan Expert 4
Digi + VRM Control
Turbo App
ASUS AI Overclocking
ASUS AI Overclocking is an intelligent utility that helps you get the most
out of your build by automatically profiling your CPU and cooling system to
predict optimal voltage and frequency settings.
Accessible via the AI Suite software in Windows or directly through the UEFI,
the intuitive AI Overclocking user interface enables users of all levels. A
range of customizable settings are available for seasoned overclockers, and an
auto-tuning option is available for beginners.
AI Overclocking at a Glance
Designed by Experts
At the heart of AI Overclocking is a proprietary algorithm developed by ROG
R&D engineers who worked with world-renowned overclockers to create a tool
for users of all levels.
Predictive Edge
The algorithm analyzes your CPU and cooling system, and based on what it
finds, predicts optimal settings. The software then uses these settings to
automatically guide the clocking process, balancing frequency and voltage.
Real-time Adjustments
The software monitors workload, system temperature, fan speed and power draw
every minute and it makes real-time adjustments to ensure ongoing optimal
performance
AI Overclocking Guide
The AI Overclocking Guide provides detailed information and instructions
about how to tune your system manually. It can be accessed by hitting the F11
hotkey.
Core Group Loading
For high-core count processors like the Z490, AI Overclocking lists data
according to core group. This gives you adaptive control based on the status of
core groups (3 / 5 / 8 / all cores), and it provides target frequency and
voltage estimations needed for manual tuning.
AI Overclocking in AI Suite
Onboard intelligence lets you automated overclocking with full, flexible
control available via 5-Way Optimization within AI Suite (in
Windows).
AI Cooling
ASUS AI Cooling function will automatically manage and control
motherboard-connected fans to ensure optimal settings based on current system
load and temperature.
Self-Adaptive Fan Tuning
CPU Temperature Detection
AI Cooling detects CPU temperatures and uses a proprietary algorithm to
calculate the lowest fan speed required to effectively cool the system and keep
fan noise down.
Automated Optimization
Under stable system loads, the software then automatically lowers fan* speed
to the optimal setting, decreasing fan noise without compromising
performance.
Ongoing Monitoring
AI Cooling continues to monitor the system and adjust fan speed based on
current load.
Automatic Tuning
One-click Activation
AI Cooling can easily be activated via the Fan Xpert 4 dashboard in ASUS AI
Suite 3. Once activated, it will override all manual controls.
Manual Tuning
Fan Speed References
For those who prefer manual control, AI Cooling provides reference points on
a graph that details fan speed in relation to temperature, providing a guide for
fan settings.
UEFI BIOS
The renowned ASUS UEFI BIOS provides everything you need to configure, tweak
and tune your system. It offers intelligently simplified options for PC DIY
beginners, as well as comprehensive features for seasoned
veterans.
Advanced Mode
Advanced Tuning for Serious Tweakers
An intuitive Advanced mode offered via the UEFI lets you take complete
control. A built-in search feature makes it easy to find options, and various
Advanced functions let you intelligently make nuanced adjustments so you can
dial in performance just the way you want.
Prediction
AI Overclocking monitors system vitals such as temperature, fan speed, and
power draw to estimate overclocking performance.
AI Overclocking Guide
Refer to the guide offered in the UEFI BIOS for step-by-step instructions
detailing how to use AI Overclocking.
Search Function
Quickly and easily find the option or setting you need.
ASUS User Profile
Port configuration settings between different BIOS versions or share them
with friends.
FlexKey
Remap the reset button on the chassis to toggle Aura lighting, activate the
DirectKey to go straight to the UEFI BIOS, or reset the system.
EZ Mode
Quick and Simple Setup
EZ mode displays vital settings and stats and also offers guided wizards,
drag-and-drop functionality, and one-click application of important settings all
to help you get your rig up and running in no time.
AI Overclocking
Enable AI Overclocking via a shortcut.
Intuitive Graphical Fan Control
Fine-tune individual fan settings simply by dragging a curve with the
mouse.
EZ XMP
Improve DRAM performance with one click.
Aura On/Off mode (Stealth)
Easily enable or disable Aura RGB lighting or every onboard LED, for a
subdued aesthetic touch.
Cool to the Core
Prime Z490 series is engineered with multiple onboard heatsinks and an array
of hybrid fan headers to ensure your rig stays cool and stable under intense
workloads.
M.2 Heatsink
An M.2 drive sits under a passive heatsink to ward off the throttling that
can occur with sustained transfers. The heatsink is held in place by
easily-removable captive screws, giving you the flexibility to move it to
another M.2 slot.
VRM Heatsink and Thermal Pads
Two massive VRM heatsinks with underneath thermal pads improve heat transfer
from the MOSFETs and chokes for better cooling performance. A bundled fan holder
provides additional cooling options.
Stack Cool 3+
2-ounce copper layers draw heat away from critical components to keep them at
their optimal operating temperatures.
Cooler by Design
Prime Z490 series features comprehensive cooling controls that are
configurable via Fan Xpert 4 software or via the UEFI BIOS.
Multiple Temperature Sources
Each header can dynamically reference three thermal sensors. Fan Xpert 4
allows you to map the temperature of supported ASUS graphics cards to optimize
cooling for GPU- and CPU-intensive tasks.
Dual Pump Headers
A dedicated header supplies over 3 amps for high-performance PWM or DC water
pumps, plus a second dedicated header for AiOs.
Smart Protection
A dedicated integrated circuit protects each fan header from overheating and
overcurrent.
4-Pin PWM/DC Fan
Each onboard header supports auto-detection of PWM or DC fans.
Build on a Solid Foundation
Prime Z490 series is built to handle the additional cores and increased
bandwidth of 10th Generation Intel Core processors. A Z490 motherboard provides
all the fundamentals to boost daily productivity, so your system will be ready
for action with stable power, intuitive cooling and flexible transfer
options.
Robust Power Design
Stable power is essential to extract every last bit of performance out of
10th Generation Intel Core processors, Prime Z490 motherboard is geared to cater
to the demands of these high-core count CPUs.
ProCool Connectors
Proprietary connectors augment the motherboard's link to the PSU with 8+4 pin
connectors that pass 12 volts of power directly to the processors. Each jack
features solid pins that can handle more current than hollow-pin
connectors.
12+2 DrMOS Power Stages
A VRM with 12+2 DrMOS power stages delivers the power and efficiency that the
latest Intel processors demand.
ASUS OptiMem II
Revisions to the motherboard's trace routing provide the latest Intel
processors with unrestricted access to memory bandwidth. ASUS OptiMem II
technology carefully maps memory signal pathways across different PCB layers to
reduce vias and adds shielding zones that significantly reduce crosstalk.
ASUS OptiMem II benefits:
- Improved memory stability and compatibility
- Allows lower memory latencies at equivalent voltages
- Improved memory frequency margin
Dual M.2 (up to 32 Gbps)
Dual M.2 slots support data-transfer speeds of up to 32 Gbps via x4 PCI
Express 3.0 bandwidth, enabling quicker boot-up and app load times with OS or
application drives.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A & Type-C
Numerous USB ports support high-end rigs loaded with peripherals, including a
front-panel USB Type-C connectors with fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity for
compatible cases.
Thunderbolt 3 Support
Prime Z490-A supports ThunderboltEX 3-TR, an Intel certified Thunderbolt 3
add-on card that enables bi-directional speeds of up to 40 Gbps via a single
cable. Additionally, an integrated Thunderbolt 3 header can support up to six
devices in a daisy-chain and provide up to 100 watts of power to fast-charge
devices.
Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet
Intel Ethernet Connection I225-V reduces CPU overhead and offers
exceptionally high TCP and UDP throughput for faster, smoother data
transfer.
Little Things Make a Big Difference
Prime Z490 series adds the nuanced details that improve every experience,
from exclusive codecs that provide pristine audio quality to intuitive RGB
lighting controls that let you customize your system to create a uniquely
personal look.
Realtek Codec and Unique Design Features for Pristine, Powerful
Audio
Prime Z490-A utilizes a unique audio codec designed in close collaboration
with Realtek the Realtek S1220A. It also features an unprecedented 120 dB
signal-to-noise ratio for the stereo line out and a 113 dB SNR for the line in,
providing pristine audio quality. Additionally, an impedance-sensing circuit
automatically adjusts gain to ensure an optimal volume range for your
headphones.
DTS:X Ultra adds a spatial audio feature to boost headphones and speakers for
enhanced gaming, VR, and extended-reality experiences. DTS:X Ultra supports
sound based on channels, scenes, and objects to allow for deeper sonic immersion
in enabled content. It also provides post-processing enhancements and
device-level tuning for DTS codecs.
Flawless Audio that Immerses You in the Game
Power Pre-Regulator
Reduces power-input noise to ensure consistent performance.
Audio Shielding
Separates analog/digital signal domains, significantly reducing multi-lateral
interference.
Separate Layer for Left and Right Tracks
Ensures minimal crosstalk between audio paths.
Integrated Amplifier
Capable of driving high-impedance headphones, without rolling-off high or low
frequencies.
De-Pop Circuit
Reduces start-up popping noise to all audio outputs.
Premium Japanese Capacitors
Premium parts provide an immersive sound signature, with exceptional
fidelity.
Aura Sync | Outshine the Competition
A well-tuned enthusiast system deserves a matching aesthetic. ASUS Aura
offers full RGB lighting control with a variety of functional presets for the
built-in RGB LEDs as well as strips and devices connected to the onboard RGB
headers - and it can all be synced with an ever-growing portfolio of
Aura-capable hardware.
Addressable Gen 2 RGB Header
Two addressable Gen 2 RGB headers are now capable of detecting the number of
LEDs on second-gen addressable RGB devices, allowing the software to
automatically tailor lighting effects to specific devices. The new headers also
offer backward-compatibility with existing Aura RGB gear.
Armoury Crate
Armoury Crate is a new software utility designed to give you centralized
control of supported products. From a single intuitive interface, Armoury Crate
allows you to easily customize RGB lighting and effects for every compatible
device in your arsenal. The software also provides control of settings for an
ever-growing number of ASUS products, including keyboard and mouse preferences.
Armoury Crate even features dedicated product registration and highlight to help
you stay in touch with the ASUS community.
SafeSlot | Protect Your Graphics Card
SafeSlot is the PCIe slot reinvented by ASUS and engineered to provide
superior retention and shearing resistance. Manufactured in a single step using
a new insert-molding process, SafeSlot integrates fortifying metal for an
inherently stronger slot, which is then firmly anchored to the PCB through
additional solder points.
FlexKey | The Chassis Reset Button Reassigned
FlexKey is a front-panel header that lets you customize the reset button on
the front-panel of your chassis to provide quick access to Aura lighting
controls, DirectKey or system reset.
Specifications
CPU
|
Intel Socket 1200 for
10th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold and
Celeron Processors |
|
Supports Intel 14 nm
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
Z490 |
Memory
|
4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB,
DDR4
4800(O.C.)/4600(O.C)/4500(O.C)/4400(O.C)/4266(O.C.)/4133(O.C.)/4000(O.C.)/3866(O.C.)/3733(O.C.)/3600(O.C.)/3466(O.C.)/3333(O.C.)/3200(O.C.)/3000(O.C.)/2933(O.C.)/2800(O.C.)/2666/2400/2133
MHz Non-ECC, Un-buffered Memory |
|
Dual Channel Memory
Architecture |
|
OptiMem
II |
|
* 10th Gen Intel
Corei9/i7 CPUs support 2933/2800/2666/2400/2133 natively, Refer to
www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
|
Graphic
|
Integrated Graphics
Processor |
|
1 x DisplayPort 1.4
* |
|
1 x HDMI
1.4b |
|
*Graphics
specifications may vary between CPU types. |
|
**Support DisplayPort
1.4 with max. resolution of 4096 x 2304 @60Hz. Please refer
to www.intel.com for any update. |
Multi-GPU Support
|
Supports NVIDIA 2-Way
SLI Technology |
|
Supports AMD 3-Way
CrossFireX Technology |
Expansion Slots
|
Intel 10th Gen
Processors |
|
2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x16
or dual x8) *1 |
|
Intel Z490
Chipset |
|
1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (max
at x4 mode) |
|
3 x PCIe 3.0 x1
*2 |
Storage
|
Total supports 2 x
M.2 slots and 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports |
|
Intel Z490 Chipset
: |
|
1 x M.2_1 socket 3,
with M key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (SATA &
PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode)*3 |
|
1 x M.2_2 socket 3,
with M key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (PCIE 3.0 x
4 mode)*4 |
|
6 x SATA 6Gb/s
port(s) |
|
Support Raid 0, 1, 5,
10 |
|
Intel Optane Memory
Ready |
LAN
|
Intel I225-V 2.5Gb
Ethernet |
|
ASUS
LANGuard |
Wireless Data
Network |
M.2 slot only (Key E)
(Support CNVI & PCIe interface)* |
|
*Wi-Fi module is sold
separately. |
Audio
|
Realtek ALC S1220A 7.1
Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC |
|
- Impedance sense for
front and rear headphone outputs |
|
- Internal audio
Amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for headphone and
speakers |
|
- Supports :
Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel
Jack-retasking |
|
- High quality 120 dB
SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR recording
input |
|
- Supports up to
32-Bit/192kHz playback * |
|
Audio Feature
: |
|
- Optical S/PDIF in
port(s) at back panel |
|
- Audio
Shielding |
|
- Dedicated audio PCB
layers |
|
- Premium Japanese
audio capacitors |
|
- Audio
Cover |
|
- Unique de-pop
circuit |
|
- Power pre-regulator:
Reduces power input noise to ensure consistent
performance |
|
* Due to limitations in
HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192kHz is not supported for 8-Channel
audio. |
USB Ports
|
Rear USB
Port (
Total 8 ) |
|
4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2
port(s)(3 x Type-A +1 x USB Type-C) |
|
2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1
port(s)(2 x Type-A) |
|
2 x USB 2.0 port(s)(2 x
Type-A) |
|
Front USB
Port (
Total 7 ) |
|
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 front
panel connector port(s) |
|
2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1
port(s) |
|
4 x USB 2.0
port(s) |
Special Features
|
ASUS 5X Protection
III : |
|
- ASUS LANGuard:
Protects against LAN surges, lightning strikes and static-electricity
discharges! |
|
- ASUS Overvoltage
Protection: World-class circuit-protecting power
design |
|
- ASUS Stainless-Steel
Back I/O: 3X corrosion-resistance for greater
durability! |
|
- ASUS DIGI+ VRM -
Digital power design with Dr. MOS |
|
- ASUS Enhanced DRAM
Overcurrent Protection - Short circuit damage
prevention |
|
- ASUS ESD Guards -
Enhanced ESD protection |
|
AURA
: |
|
- Aura RGB Strip
Headers |
|
- Addressable Gen 2
Header |
|
ASUS Exclusive
Features : |
|
- Pre- mounted I/O
shield |
|
ASUS Quiet Thermal
Solution : |
|
- Stylish Fanless
Design: PCH Heat-sink & MOS Heat-sink & M.2 Heat-sink
solution |
|
ASUS Q-Design
: |
|
- ASUS Q-LED (CPU,
DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) |
|
- ASUS
Q-Slot |
|
- ASUS
Q-DIMM |
|
- ASUS
Q-Connector |
|
DIY Friendly
Design |
|
-
Procool |
|
-
SafeSlot |
Software Features
|
ASUS Exclusive
Software: |
|
Armoury
Crate: |
|
- Aura
Creator |
|
- Aura
Sync |
|
AI Suite
3 |
|
- 5-way Optimization
with AI Overclocking |
|
TPU |
|
EPU |
|
Digi+
VRM |
|
Fan Xpert
4 |
|
Turbo
app |
|
- EZ
update |
|
AI
Charger |
|
ASUS Turbo
LAN |
|
DTS:X Ultra |
|
UEFI
BIOS: |
|
AI Overclocking
Guide |
|
ASUS EZ DIY
: |
|
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS
3 |
|
- ASUS EZ Flash
3 |
|
- ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ
Mode |
|
- EZ Tuning
Wizard |
|
FlexKey |
Back I/O Ports
|
1 x Intel I225-V 2.5Gb
Ethernet |
|
1 x
DisplayPort |
|
1 x
HDMI |
|
4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (3 x
Type-A+1 x USB Type-C) |
|
2 x USB 3.2 Gen
1 |
|
2 x USB
2.0 |
|
1 x Optical S/PDIF
out |
|
5 x Audio
jack(s) |
Internal I/O Ports
|
1 x CPU Fan
connector(s) |
|
1 x CPU OPT Fan
connector(s) |
|
2 x Chassis Fan
connector(s) |
|
1 x AIO_PUMP
connector |
|
1 x W_PUMP+
connector |
|
2 x Addressable RGB
header |
|
1 x AAFP
connector |
|
2 x Aura RGB Strip
Headers |
|
1 x USB 3.2 Gen2
connector support additional 1 USB ports(20-pin,
Type-C) |
|
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1(up to
5Gbps) connector(s) support(s) additional 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1
port(s) |
|
2 x USB 2.0
connector(s) support(s) additional 4 USB 2.0 port(s) |
|
1 x M.2 Socket 1 with M
Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (SATA mode &
PCIE mode) |
|
1 x M.2 Socket 2 with M
key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (PCIE 3.0 x 4
mode) |
|
1 x M.2 with E key for
Wi-Fi module |
|
1 x COM port(s)
connector(s) |
|
6 x SATA 6Gb/s
connector(s) |
|
1 x Thunderbolt
header(s) |
|
1 x 24-pin EATX Power
connector(s) |
|
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V Power
connector(s) |
|
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power
connector(s) |
|
1 x System panel(s)
(Chassis intrusion header is inbuilt) |
|
1 x Thermal sensor
connector(s) |
|
1 x Power-on
button(s) |
|
1 x Clear CMOS
jumper(s) |
|
1 x CPU_OV
jumper |
|
1 x M.2 Fan
Header |
Accessories
|
User's
manual |
|
3 x SATA 6Gb/s
cable(s) |
|
1 x Supporting
DVD |
|
1 x
Q-Connector |
|
1 x CPU Fan
Holder |
|
1 x M.2 SSD screw
package(s) |
|
1 x M.2 Key E screw
package(s) |
|
1 x M.2 Rubber
Package(s) |
BIOS
|
192 (128+64) Mb Flash
ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS |
Manageability
|
WOL by PME,
PXE |
Operating System
|
Windows 10
64-bit |
Form Factor
|
ATX Form
Factor |
|
12 inch x 9.6 inch (
30.5 cm x 24.4 cm ) |
Note
|
*1 The PCIe x1_2 slot
shares bandwidth with M.2 slot (Key E). |
|
*2 Support PCIe
bifurcation for RAID on CPU function. |
|
*3 The M.2_1 socket
shares bandwidth with SATA_2. |
|
*4 M.2_2 slot shares
bandwidth with SATA_56. When M.2_2 slot is operating in PCIe x4 mode,
SATA_56 will be disabled. |