Asus Prime Z490-A Z490 Chipset Gen 10 LGA 1200 Motherboard

Overview:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

LANGuard
ASUS LANGuard is a hardware-level network protection feature that integrates advanced signal-coupling technology and premium anti-EMI surface-mounted capacitors to improve throughput and ensure a more reliable connection.

Turbo LAN
Turbo LAN with cFosSpeed traffic-shaping technology reduces network lag and allows you to adjust application network transmission priorities in just one click.

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 S1220A
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
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.