Asus ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING Manual

ROG

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

Motherboard

E13238

First Edition

July 2017

Copyright© 2017 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”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

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ii

Contents

Safety information......................................................................................................	vi
About this guide.........................................................................................................	vii
ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING specifications summary...........................................	ix
Package contents.....................................................................................................	xiii
Installation tools and components..........................................................................	xiv

Chapter 1:		Product Introduction
1.1	Motherboard overview...............................................................................		1-1
	1.1.1	Before you proceed.....................................................................	1-1
	1.1.2	Motherboard layout......................................................................	1-2
	1.1.3	Central Processing Unit (CPU)....................................................	1-4
	1.1.4	System memory...........................................................................	1-5
	1.1.5	Expansion slots............................................................................	1-7
	1.1.6	Jumpers and holes......................................................................	1-9
	1.1.7	Onboard LEDs...........................................................................	1-11
	1.1.8	Internal connectors....................................................................	1-12

Chapter 2:		Basic Installation
2.1	Building your PC system...........................................................................		2-1
	2.1.1	Motherboard installation..............................................................	2-1
	2.1.2	CPU installation...........................................................................	2-3
	2.1.3	CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation................................	2-5
	2.1.4	DIMM installation.........................................................................	2-7
	2.1.5	ATX power connection.................................................................	2-8
	2.1.6	SATA device connection..............................................................	2-9
	2.1.7	Front I/O connector....................................................................	2-10
	2.1.8	Expansion card installation........................................................	2-11
	2.1.9	M.2 installation...........................................................................	2-13
	2.1.10	Wi-Fi antenna installation..........................................................	2-15
	2.1.11	Fan holder installation................................................................	2-16
2.2	Motherboard rear and audio connections..............................................		2-17
	2.2.1	Rear I/O connection...................................................................	2-17
	2.2.2	Audio I/O connections................................................................	2-19
2.3	Starting up for the first time....................................................................		2-21
2.4	Turning off the computer.........................................................................		2-22

iii

Chapter 3:		BIOS Setup
3.1	Knowing BIOS.............................................................................................		3-1
3.2	BIOS setup program...................................................................................		3-2
	3.2.1	EZ Mode......................................................................................	3-3
	3.2.2	Advanced Mode...........................................................................	3-4
	3.2.3	QFan Control...............................................................................	3-7
	3.2.4	EZ Tuning Wizard........................................................................	3-9
3.3	My Favorites..............................................................................................		3-12
3.4	Main menu.................................................................................................		3-14
3.5	Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................................		3-14
3.6	Advanced menu........................................................................................		3-16
	3.6.1	Platform Misc Configuration.......................................................	3-16
	3.6.2	CPU Configuration.....................................................................	3-16
	3.6.3	System Agent (SA) Configuration..............................................	3-17
	3.6.4	PCH Configuration.....................................................................	3-17
	3.6.5	PCH Storage Configuration.......................................................	3-17
	3.6.6	PCH-FW Configuration..............................................................	3-18
	3.6.7	Onboard Devices Configuration.................................................	3-18
	3.6.8	APM Configuration.....................................................................	3-19
	3.6.9	Network Stack Configuration.....................................................	3-19
	3.6.10	HDD/SSD SMART Information..................................................	3-19
	3.6.11	USB Configuration.....................................................................	3-19
3.7	Monitor menu............................................................................................		3-20
3.8	Boot menu.................................................................................................		3-20
3.9	Tool menu..................................................................................................		3-22
	3.9.1	ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility.............................................................	3-22
	3.9.2	Secure Erase.............................................................................	3-22
	3.9.3	ASUS Overclocking Profile........................................................	3-24
	3.9.4	ASUS SPD Information..............................................................	3-24
	3.9.5	Graphics Card Information.........................................................	3-24
3.10	Exit menu...................................................................................................		3-25
3.11	Updating BIOS..........................................................................................		3-25
	3.11.1	EZ Update..................................................................................	3-25
	3.11.2	ASUS EZ Flash 3.......................................................................	3-26
	3.11.3	ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3..........................................................	3-28

iv

Chapter 4:		RAID Support
4.1	RAID configurations...................................................................................		4-1
	4.1.1	RAID definitions...........................................................................	4-1
	4.1.2	Installing Serial ATA hard disks...................................................	4-2
	4.1.3	Intel® Rapid Storage Technology in UEFI BIOS..........................	4-2
	4.1.4	Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility...................	4-6
4.2	Creating a RAID driver disk.....................................................................		4-10
	4.2.1	Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows® .................................	4-10
Appendix
Notices	....................................................................................................................		A-1
ASUS contact information......................................................................................			A-7

v

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.

•Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.

•Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

•Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.

•If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.

•Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

•To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.

•Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet.

•Place the product on a stable surface.

•If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

vi

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:

1.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.

2.Chapter 2: Basic Installation

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.

3.Chapter 3: BIOS Setup

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

4.Chapter 4: RAID Support

This chapter describes the RAID configurations.

Where to find more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.

1.ASUS website

The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products.

2.Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

vii

Conventions used in this guide

To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

Bold text	Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics	Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>	Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
	means that you must press the enclosed key.
	Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
	Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3>	If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
	names are linked with a plus sign (+).

viii

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING specifications summary

		Intel® Socket 1151 for 8th Generation Core™ Processors
		Supports 14nm CPU
	CPU	Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
		* The support of these features depends on the CPU types.
		** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.
	Chipset	Intel® Z370 Chipset
		4 x DIMM, max. 64GB DDR4 4000(OC)* / 3866(OC)* / 3733(OC)* /
		3600(OC)* / 3466(OC)* / 3400(OC)* / 3333(OC)* / 3300(OC)* /
		3200(OC)* / 3000(OC)* / 2800(OC)* / 2666 / 2400 / 2133 MHz
	Memory	Dual channel memory architecture
		Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)*
		* Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs.
		Please refer to Memory QVL(Qualified Vendors List) for details.
		2 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (supports x16, x8/x8, x8/x4+x4*, x8+x4+x4/x0**)
		1 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 slot (max. at x4 mode)
		4 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1 slots
	Expansion slots	* For 2 Intel® SSDs on CPU support, install a Hyper M.2 X16 card (sold separately)
		into the PCIeX8_2 slot, and enable this card under BIOS settings.
		** For 3 Intel® SSDs on CPU support, install a Hyper M.2 X16 card (sold separately)
		into the PCIeX16/x8_1 slot, and enable this card under BIOS settings.
		Integrated Graphics ProcessorIntel® HD Graphics support
		Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort/HDMI/DVI-D ports
		Supports DisplayPort 1.2* with max. resolution 4096 x 2304@60Hz
		Supports HDMI 1.4b with max. resolution 4096 x 2160@24Hz
		Supports DVI-D with max. resolution 1920 x 1200@60Hz
	VGA	Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D/Quick Sync Video/Clear Video HD Technology/
		Insider™
		Supports up to 3 displays simultaneously
		Maximum shared memory of 1024MB
		* DP 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant, supports DP 1.2 monitor daisy chain
		up to 3 displays
	Multi-GPU	Supports NVIDIA® 2-Way SLI™ Technology
	support	Supports AMD® 3-Way CrossFireX™ Technology
		1 x ASUS Wi-Fi module (Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth v4.2)
		2 x USB3.1 Gen2 ports (1 x Type-A [red] and 1 x Type-C ports at back
		panel)
		1 x DVI port
	Rear Panel I/O	1 x HDMI port
		1 x DP port
	Ports	2 x USB 3.1 Gen1 ports [blue]
		2 x USB 2.0 ports
		1 x Anti-surge LAN (RJ45) port
		5 x Audio jacks
		1 x Optical S/PDIF out
		(continued on the next page)

ix

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING specifications summary

		Intel® Z370 Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel Rapid Storage
		Technology support
		- 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports
		- 1 x M.2_1 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices
		support (both SATA & PCIE 3.0 x 4 modes)*
		- 1 x M.2_2 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices
		support (PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode)**
	Storage	- Ready for Intel® Optane Memory***
		* The M.2_1 socket shares SATA_1 port when use M.2 SATA mode device. Adjust
		BIOS settings to use a SATA device.
		** The M.2_2 socket shares SATA_56 ports when use M.2 PCIE mode device in X4
		mode. Adjust BIOS settings to use SATA devices.
		*** Intel® Optane Technology only supported when using 8th Generation Intel®
		Processors. Before using Intel® Optane memory modules, ensure that you have
		updated your motherboard drivers and BIOS to the latest version from ASUS
		support website.
		ROG SupremeFX S1220A 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC
		- Supports up to 32-Bit/192kHz playback*
		- Impedance sense for front and rear headphone outputs
		- High quality 120dB SNR stereo playback output and 113 dB SNR
		recording input
		- SupremeFX Shielding Technology
	Audio	- Dual Headphone Amplifiers
		- Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel Jack-retasking
		- Optical S/PDIF out port at back panel
		Audio Features:
		- Sonic Radar III
		- Sonic Studio III + Sonic Studio Link
		* Due to limitations in HDA bandwidth, 32-Bit/192kHz is not supported for
		8-Channel audio.
		Intel® Z370 Chipset:
		- 6 x USB 3.1 Gen1 ports ( 2 ports at back panel [blue], 4 ports at mid-
		board)
		- 6 x USB 2.0 ports ( 2 ports at back panel, 4 ports at mid-board)
		ASMedia® USB 3.1 controllers*:
	USB	- 1 x USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector**
		- 2 x USB 3.1 Gen2 ports (1 x Type-A [red] and 1 x Type-C at back panel)
		* Supports 3A power output
		** The USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector shares bandwidth with PCIE_x1_2 and
		PCIE_x1_4.
		If the USB 3.1 Gen2 front header is connected, PCIE_x1_2 and PCIE_x1_4 will
		be disabled.
		(continued on the next page)

x

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING specifications summary

		Intel® I219-V Gigabit LANDual interconnect between the integrated Media
	LAN	Access Controller (MAC) and physical layer (PHY)
		Anti-surge LANGuard
		ROG GameFirst Technology
	Wireless &	Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac supports dual frequency band 2.4/5 GHz with
		MU-MIMO support
	Bluetooth
		Bluetooth v4.2, 4.0LE, 3.0+HS
		ROG RAMCache II
	ROG Exclusive	ROG GameFirst IV
		ROG CPU-Z
	Features
		ROG Overwolf
		ROG CloneDrive
		Performance Optimization
		5-Way Optimization
		- Whole system optimization with a single click! Perfectly consolidates
		better CPU performance, power saving, digital power control, system
		cooling and app usages.
		Digi+VRM
		EPU
		- EPU
		TPU
		- Auto Tuning, TPU, GPU Boost
		Fan Xpert 4 featuring Fan Auto Tuning function and multiple
		thermistors selection for optimized system cooling control
		ASUS EZ DIY
		- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
		- ASUS EZ Flash 3
	ASUS Special	ASUS Q-Design
		- Q-Shield
	Features
		- Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
		- Q-Slot
		- Q-DIMM
		Gamer’s Guardian
		- SafeSlot
		- DIGI+ VRM
		- DRAM Overcurrent Protection
		- ESD Guards on LAN, Audio, and USB ports
		- Highly Durable Components
		- Stainless Steel Back I/O
		ASUS Exclusive Features
		- AURA Lighting Control
		- 3D Printing Friendly Design
		- AI Suite 3
		- AI Charger
		(continued on the next page)

xi

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING specifications summary

		1 x USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector
		2 x USB 3.1 Gen1 connectors support additional 4 x USB 3.1 Gen1 ports
		2 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 4 x USB 2.0 ports
		6 x SATA 6Gb/s connectors
		1 x 4-Pin M.2_FAN connector
		1 x 4-Pin AIO_PUMP fan connector
		1 x 4-Pin CPU fan connector
		1 x 4-Pin CPU_OPT fan connector
		2 x 4-Pin Chassis fan connectors
		1 x 5-Pin Extension fan connector
		1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
	Internal I/O	1 x 8-pin EATX 12V power connector
		1 x M.2_1 Socket 3 for M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support
	connectors
		( Supports PCIE and SATA modes)
		1 x M.2_2 Socket 3 for M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support
		(Supports PCIE mode only)
		1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
		1 x COM connector
		2 x RGB Headers
		1 x Addressable Header
		1 x TPM connector
		1 x System panel connector
		1 x Thermal sensor connector
		1 x CPU_OV
		1 x Clear CMOS jumper (2-pin)
		128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI 6.0,
		Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning
	BIOS Features	Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My Favorites, Last Modified log,
		F12 PrintScreen and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory
		information
	Manageability	WfM2.0, DMI3.0, WOL by PME, PXE
		Drivers
	Support DVD	ASUS Utilities
	contents	EZ Update
		Anti-virus software (OEM version)
	Operating	Windows® 10 64-bit
	system support
	Form factor	ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications.

xii

Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard	ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING
	4 x SATA 6Gb/s cables
	1 x SLI HB BRIDGE (2-WAY-M)
Cables	1 x RGB LED extension cable
	1 x Addressable LED extension cable
	1 x Thermal sensor cable
	1 x I/O shield
	1 x ASUS 2T2R dual band Wi-Fi moving antennas
	(Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac compliant)
	1 x CPU Installation tool
	1 x ROG cable label
Accessories	1 x ROG fan label
	1 x 3D Printing Mount
	1 x M.2 screw package
	1 x CPU Fan holder
	1 x Pack of cable ties
	1 x ROG STRIX Door hanger
Application drive	ROG motherboard support DVD
Documentation	User guide

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

xiii

Installation tools and components

Intel® 1151 CPU

Intel® 1151 compatible CPU Fan

PC chassis	SATA hard disk drive	Phillips (cross) screwdriver

1 bag of screws

DIMM

Power supply unit

SATA optical disc drive (optional)

Graphics card

The tools and components listed above are not included in the motherboard package.

xiv

Product Introduction

1

1.1Motherboard overview

1.1.1Before you proceed

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.

•Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

•Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.

•Before you install or remove any component, 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, peripherals, or components.

Chapter 1

ASUS ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING

1-1

1 Chapter

1.1.2Motherboard layout

1

2

24.4cm(9.6in)

19	CPU_OV
		EATX12V
	M.2(WIFI)
	USB31G2_EC1	ASM
	USB31G2_E2	3142
	DP
	DVI
	HDMI	LGA1151
	USB1314	ASM
	1442K

LAN1_U31G1_56		LANGuard
3
AUDIO	BACKIO	CHA_FAN2
	CON	AIO_PUMP

PCIE_X1_1

2280

2260

2242

ASM1480ASM1480ASM1480ASM1480

PCIE_X16/X8_1

WGI 219V

	PCIE_X1_2	Lithium Cell
		CMOS Power
Super	PCIE_X1_3	®
I/O

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

PCIE_X8_2

18 T_SENSOR1

PCIE_X1_4	TPU

2280

PCIE_X4

DIGI+

EPU

M.2_2(SOCKET3)

2260

3					4		5
							RGB_HEADER2
		CPU_FAN
							CHA_FAN1
		CPU_OPT
			module)	module)	module)	module)	3D
							MOUNT
			DIMM B1 (64bit, 288-pin	DIMM B2 (64bit, 288-pin	DIMM A1 (64bit, 288-pin	DIMM A2 (64bit, 288-pin	PWR_LED
							EATXPWR
			DDR4	DDR4	DDR4	DDR4
							U31G2 E3
							ASM
				ASM1480			3142
M.2_2(SOCKET3)
PCIE	SATA	IRST
X4	X	V
		Intel®				ASM1480	U31G1 12
		Z370
							SATA6G 1	SATA6G 2
							SATA6G 3	SATA6G 4
		M.2_1(SOCKET3)					5 6
	2242						SATA6G	SATA6G
							MOUNT
							3D
		M.2_1(SOCKET3)
		PCIE SATA IRST
		X4	V	V
3D
MOUNT							CLRTC

COM	RGB_HEADER1	EXT_FAN	U31G1_34	USB910	USB1112
AAFP	TPM				PANEL
		ADD_HEADER			M.2_FAN

17

16

5

15

14

3

9

13

3

12

3

BOOT_DEVICE_LED VGA_LED DRAM_LED CPU_LED

6

1

30.5cm(12in)

7

8

9

10

6

11

Refer to 1.1.8 Internal connectors and 2.2.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

1-2	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots		Page
1.	ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)	1-17
2.	LGA1151 CPU socket	1-4
3.	CPU, CPU optional, AIO pump, M.2, extension, and chassis fan
	connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin AIO_PUMP; 4-pin	1-15
	M.2_FAN; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-2)
4.	DDR4 DIMM slots	1-5
5.	RGB headers (4-pin RGB_HEADER1-2)	1-20
6.	3D Mount	1-10
7.	USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector (U31G2_2)	1-13
8.	M.2 sockets (M.2_1; M.2_2)	1-19
9.	USB 3.1 Gen1 connectors (20-1 pin U31G1_12,U31G1_34)	1-14
10.	Intel® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12, SATA 6G_34,	1-12
	SATA 6G_56)
11.	Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-pin CLRTC)	1-9
12.	System panel connector (20-3 pin PANEL)	1-17
13.	USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112)	1-14
14.	Addressable RGB header (4-1 pin ADD_HEADER)	1-21
15.	TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM)	1-18
16.	Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)	1-18
17.	Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)	1-13
18.	Thermal sensor cable connector (2-pin T_SENSOR)	1-19
19.	CPU over voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV)	1-10

Chapter 1

ASUS ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING

1-3

1.1.3Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1151 socket designed for the 8th Generation Intel® Core™ processors.

1 Chapter

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING CPU LGA1151

•Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.

•Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related.

•Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1151 socket.

•The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP cap.

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1.1.4System memory

The motherboard comes with four DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) Quad Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots.

A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.

DIMM B1 DIMM B2

DIMM A1 DIMM A2

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING 288-pin DDR4 DIMM sockets

Recommended memory configurations

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Memory configurations

You may install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB and 16 GB unbuffered and non ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.

•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.

•Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the following:

a)Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.

b)Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4 GB or more on the motherboard.

c)For more details, refer to the Microsoft® support site at http://support.microsoft. com/kb/929605/en-us.

•The design of the DIMM fan may vary. Ensure that the DIMM fan fits to the motherboard

•The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value.

•For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

•Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133MHz and their corresponding timing or the loaded XMP profile is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and compatibility of the memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other installed devices.

•Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules.

•ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function.

•Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.

•Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.

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1.1.5Expansion slots

Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

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PCIE_X1_1

PCIE_X16/X8_1

PCIE_X1_2

PCIE_X1_3 ®

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

PCIE_X8_2

PCIE_X1_4

PCIE_X4

Slot No. Slot Description

1PCIE_x1_1 slot

2PCIE_x16/x8_1 slot

3PCIE_x1_2 slot

4 PCIE_x1_3 slot

5 PCIE_x8_2 slot

6PCIE_x1_4 slot

7PCIE_x4 slot

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		PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
	VGA configuration	PCIe_x16/x8_1	PCIe_x8_2
	Single VGA/PCIe card	x16 (single VGA	N/A
		recommended)
	Dual VGA/PCIe cards	x8	x8

•We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode.

•Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-2 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

	Hyper M.2 X16 card	PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
	configuration	PCIe_x16/x8_1	PCIe_x8_2
	2 Intel® SSDs on CPU	x8	x4+x4
	support
	3 Intel® SSDs on CPU	x8+x4+x4	N/A
	support

• Hyper M.2 X16 card is purchased separately.

•Enable the Hyper M.2 X16 card under BIOS settings.

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1.1.6Jumpers and holes

	1. Clear RTC RAM jumper (2-pin CLRTC)
	This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can
	clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the	1
	CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in
		Chapter
	CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

CLRTC

+3V_BAT GND

PIN 1

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING Clear RTC RAM

To erase the RTC RAM:

1.Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2.Short-circuit pin 1-2 with a metal object or jumper cap for about 5-10 seconds.

3.Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

4.Hold down the <Delete> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

•If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper

again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery.

•You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.

•Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system.

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2.	CPU over voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV)
	The CPU over voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible
	overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU
1 Chapter	voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage
	setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2.

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING CPU_OV setting

3.3D Mount

Secure 3D printed parts to these 3D Mount holes for a personalized motherboard.

3D Mount

3D Mount

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

3D Mount

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING 3D Printing Mount

•Download 3D source files at http://www.asus.com.

•Use the bundled 3D Mount screws to install the 3D printed parts.

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1.1.7Onboard LEDs

1.POST State LEDs

The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST (Power-On Self-Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives. If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved.

BOOT (YELLOW GREEN)

VGA (WHITE)

DRAM (YELLOW)

CPU (RED)

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING

CPU/DRAM/BOOT_DEVICE/VGA LED

2.Standby Power LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The LED lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

PWR_LED

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING PWR_LED

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1.1.8Internal connectors

1.	Intel® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12, SATA 6G_34, SATA
Chapter	6G_56)
	These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s
	Z370 chipset.
	signal cables.
	If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10
	configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel®
1
		SATA6G_1	SATA6G_2
		GND	GND
		RSATA_TXP1	RSATA_TXP2
		RSATA_TXN1	RSATA_TXN2
		GND	GND
		RSATA_RXN1	RSATA_RXN2
		RSATA_RXP1	RSATA_RXP2
		GND	GND
		SATA6G_3	SATA6G_4
		GND	GND
		RSATA_TXP3	RSATA_TXP4
		RSATA_TXN3	RSATA_TXN4
		GND	GND
		RSATA_RXN3	RSATA_RXN4
		RSATA_RXP3	RSATA_RXP4
		GND	GND
		SATA6G_5	SATA6G_6
		GND	GND
	STRIX Z370-E GAMING	RSATA_TXP5	RSATA_TXP6
		RSATA_TXN5	RSATA_TXN6
		GND	GND
		RSATA_RXN5	RSATA_RXN6
		RSATA_RXP5	RSATA_RXP6
		GND	GND

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING Intel® SATA 6 Gb/s connectors

•These connectors are set to [AHCI] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [Intel RST Premium With Intel Optane System Acceleration (RAID)].

•Before creating a RAID set, refer to the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.

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2.Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector 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 connector.

	AGND	NC SENSE1 RETUR	SENSE2 RETUR	Chapter 1
	AAFP		SENSESEND PORT2 L
STRIX Z370-E GAMING	PORT1 L	PORT1 R PORT2 R
	HD-audio-compliant
	pin definition

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING Analog front panel connector

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.

3.USB 3.1 Gen2 front panel connector (U31G2_E3)

This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.1 Gen2 module for additional USB 3.1 Gen2 ports. The latest USB 3.1 Gen2 connectivity provides data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps. The next-generation standard is completely backward-compatible with your existing USB devices.

U31G2_E3

	SBU2
	SBU1
	CC1
	VBUS
	RX1-
	RX1+
	GND
	TX1-
	TX1+
STRIX Z370-E GAMING	VBUS

VBUS TX2+ TX2- GND RX2+ RX2- GND D-

D+

CC2

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector

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4.USB 3.1 Gen1 connectors (20-1 pin U31G1_12, U31G1_34)

These connectors allow you to connect a USB 3.1 Gen1 module for additional USB 3.1 Gen1 front or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.1 Gen1 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.1 Gen1 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0.

A U31G1_12

B U31G1_34

PIN 1

Vbus IntA P1 SSRX-

IntA P1 SSRX+ GND IntA P1 SSTXIntA P1 SSTX+ GND IntA P1 D- IntA P1 D+

GND

IntA P2 D+ IntA P2 D- GND IntA P2 SSTX+ IntA P2 SSTXGND IntA P2 SSRX+ IntA P2 SSRXVbus

A

PIN 1

B

Vbus SSRXP2IntASSRX+P2IntA GND SSTXP2IntASSTX+P2IntA GND P2IntADP2IntAD+

GND P1IntAD+ P1IntADGND SSTX+P1IntA SSTXP1IntAGND SSRX+P1IntA SSRXP1IntAVbus

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING USB 3.1 Gen 1 connectors

The USB 3.1 Gen1 module is purchased separately.

5.USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. This USB connector complies with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mb/s connection speed.

	USB910
	USB+5V USB P10USB P10+	GND NC
STRIX Z370-E GAMING
PIN 1	USB+5V USB P9USB P9+	GND

USB1112

		USB+5V USB P12USB P12+				GND NC
PIN 1		USB+5V USB P11USB P11+				GND

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING USB2.0 connectors

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DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

6.CPU, CPU optional, AIO pump, M.2, extension, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin AIO_PUMP; 4-pin M.2_FAN; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-2)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

•DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow

inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!

•Ensure that the CPU fan cable is securely installed to the CPU fan connector.

A CPU_FAN

B CHA_FAN1 C CPU_OPT

CHA FAN PWM

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND

GND

CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND

	A	D CHA_FAN2		E AIO_PUMP	F EXT_FAN
	B	PWMFANCHA	INFANCHA PWRFANCHA GND	PWMPUMPAIO INPUMPAIO PWRPUMPAIO GND	GND Control2 Control1 Sense2 Sense1
	C
	D
	E	G M.2_FAN

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

F

M.2PWM

M.2IN M.2PWR GND

G

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING Fan connectors

•The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.

•The EXT_FAN connector supports 2 of 5 thermal sensor sources.

•Connect the fan of your water cooling kit to the AIO_PUMP connector.

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7.ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V)

These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.

A

B

STRIX Z370-E GAMING

	A			B
	EATX12V		EATXPWR
	DC DC DC DC	+3 Volts		GND
	+12V +12V +12V +12V	+12	Volts	+5 Volts
		+12	Volts	+5 Volts
		+5V Standby		+5 Volts
		Power OK		-5 Volts
	PIN 1		GND	GND
		+5 Volts		GND
	GND GND GND GND
			GND	GND
		+5 Volts		PSON#
			GND	GND
		+3	Volts	-12 Volts
		+3	Volts	+3 Volts
			PIN 1

ROG STRIX Z370-E GAMING ATX power connectors

•For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W.

•DO NOT forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will not boot.

•We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

•If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

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