Asus Z170-AR User Manual
Z170-AR
Motherboard
E10395
First Edition
July 2015
Copyright © 2015 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.
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ii
Contents
Safety information ....................................................................................................... v
About this guide .......................................................................................................... v
Package contents ...................................................................................................... vii
Z170-AR specifications summary ............................................................................ vii
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................1-1
1.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................................1-4
1.4 System memory .........................................................................................1-8
1.5 Expansion slots ........................................................................................1-16
1.6 Jumpers .................................................................................................... 1-19
1.7 Connectors ............................................................................................... 1-21
1.8 Onboard LEDs .......................................................................................... 1-34
1.9 Onboard buttons and switches ..............................................................1-36
1.10 Software support ......................................................................................1-39
Chapter 2: BIOS Setup
2.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................ 2-1
2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................................. 2-2
2.2.1 EZ Mode......................................................................................2-3
2.2.2 Advanced Mode ..........................................................................2-4
2.2.3 QFan Control...............................................................................2-7
2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard .......................................................................2-9
2.3 My Favorites ............................................................................................. 2-12
2.4 Main menu ................................................................................................2-14
2.5 Ai Tweaker menu ......................................................................................2-16
2.6 Advanced menu .......................................................................................2-32
2.6.1 CPU Conguration ....................................................................2-33
2.6.2 Platform Misc Conguration ......................................................2-35
2.6.3 System Agent (SA) Conguration .............................................2-37
2.6.4 PCH Conguration ....................................................................2-38
2.6.5 PCH Storage Conguration.......................................................2-38
2.6.6 USB Conguration ....................................................................2-40
2.6.7 Network Stack Conguration.....................................................2-41
2.6.8 Onboard Devices Conguration ................................................2-41
2.6.9 APM Conguration ....................................................................2-44
2.6.10 HDD/SSD SMART Information .................................................2-45
2.6.11 Intel(R) Thunderbolt ..................................................................2-45
iii
2.7 Monitor menu ...........................................................................................2-46
2.8 Boot menu ................................................................................................2-51
2.9 Tool menu ................................................................................................. 2-57
2.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility ............................................................2-57
2.9.2 Secure Erase ............................................................................2-57
2.9.3 ASUS O.C. Prole .....................................................................2-59
2.9.4 ASUS DRAM SPD Information .................................................2-60
2.9.5 Graphics Card Information ........................................................2-60
2.10 Exit menu .................................................................................................. 2-61
2.11 Updating BIOS .......................................................................................... 2-62
2.11.1 EZ Update .................................................................................2-62
2.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 ......................................................................2-63
2.11.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ..........................................................2-65
2.12 Installing an operating system ...............................................................2-66
2.12.1 Windows® 7 and USB 3.0 driver for 100 Series ........................ 2-66
Appendices
Notices .................................................................................................................... A-1
ASUS contact information ...................................................................................... A-5
iv
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 x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
• Before installing the motherboard and adding components, 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 be exposed to moisture.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
• Chapter1:Productintroduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports. It includes descriptions of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.
• Chapter2:BIOSsetup
This chapter discusses changing system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions for the BIOS parameters are also provided.
v
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
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
completing a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when
completing 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
Italics
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
vi
Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items:
Motherboard
Cables
ASUS Z170-AR Motherboard
2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector
Accessories
2-in-1 Q-connector
M.2 screw package
CPU installation tool
Application DVD
Documentation
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
Support DVD
User Guide and Feature Manual
Z170-AR specifications summary
LGA1151 socket for 6th Generation Intel® Core™ i7/ i5/ i3/Pentium®/Celeron®
Processors
CPU
Chipset
Memory
Expansion
Slots
VGA
Supports 14nm CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types.
Intel® Z170 Express Chipset
4 x DIMM, max. 64GB, DDR4 3400(O.C.)*/3333(O.C.)*/3200(O.C.)*/3100(O.C.)*/
3000(O.C.)*/2933(O.C.)*/2800(O.C.)*/2666(O.C.)*/2600(O.C.)*/2400(O.C.)*/2133
MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory
Dual channel memory architecture
Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (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 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode)
1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot* (max. at x4 mode, compatible with PCIe x1 and
x4 devices)
3 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slots
1 x PCI slot
* The PCIe x16_3 slot shares bandwidth with SATA6G_56. The PCIe x16_3 is default set
at x2 mode.
Integrated Graphics Processor- Intel® HD Graphics support
Multi-VGA output support: DisplayPort/HDMI ports
Supports DisplayPort 1.2* with max. resolution 4096 x 2304@60Hz/24Hz
Supports HDMI 1.4b with max. resolution 4096 x 2160@24Hz / 2560 x
1600@60Hz
(continued on the next page)
vii
Z170-AR specifications summary
Supports Intel® InTru™ 3D/Quick Sync Video/Clear Video HD Technology/Insider™
Supports up to 2 displays simultaneously
VGA
Multi-GPU
Support
Storage
LAN
Audio
Maximum shared memory of 512MB
* DP 1.2 Multi-Stream Transport compliant, supports DP 1.2 monitor daisy chain up to 3
displays.
Supports NVIDIA® 2-way / Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology (with 2 PCIex16 graphics
cards)
Supports AMD® 3-way / Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Intel® Z170 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel Rapid Storage
Technology 14 support
- 1 x SATA Express port (compatible with 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports)
- 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports(gray, 2 from SATA Express)
- Supports Intel® Smart Response Technology*
- 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key**, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices
support (both SATA & PCIE mode)***
* These functions will work depending on the CPU installed.
** Supports PCIE RAID configurations via onboard M.2 and PCIex16_3.
*** M.2 shares SATA mode with SATA Express. Change this item before installing M.2
SATA devices.
Gigabit Intel LAN connection- 802.3az Energy Efcient Ethernet (EEE) appliance
Intel® I219-V Gigabit LAN- Dual interconnect between the integrated Media Access
Controller (MAC) and physical layer (PHY)
ASUS LAN Guard
ASUS Turbo LAN Utility
Realtek® ALC892 8-channel high definition audio CODEC featuring Crystal
Sound 3
- Power pre-regulator reduces power input noise to ensure consistent performance
- Separate layer for left and right track, ensuring both sound deliver equal quality
- Top notch audio sensation delivers according to the audio conguration
- Audio shielding ensures precise analog/digital separation and greatly reduced
multi-lateral interference
- EMI protection cover to prevent electrical noise to affect the amplier quality
- Audio Amplier to enhance the highest quality sound for headphone and
speakers
- Unique de-pop circuit to reduce start-up popping noise to audio outputs
- Premium Japan-made audio capacitors provides warm, natural, and immersive
sound with exceptional clarity and delity
- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit true BD lossless sound
- DTS Studio Sound™
- DTS Connect
- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming, front panel jack-retasking (MIC)
- Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O
viii
(continued on the next page)
Z170-AR specifications summary
Intel® Z170 Express Chipset- supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost
- 6 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at back panel, blue)
USB
ASUS
Exclusive
Features
- 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at back panel)
ASMedia® USB 3.1 controllers- supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost and 3A
power output
- 1 x USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports at back panel (teal blue, Type-A)
- 1 x USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 port at back panel (Type-C)
Superb Performance
OC Design - ASUS PRO Clock Technology
- Full BCLK range for extreme overclocking performance
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
-CPU Power: Digital 8-phase power design
-iGPU Power: Digital 2-phase power design
TPU
- Auto Tuning, TPU, GPU Boost, 2-level TPU switch
EPU
- EPU
Fan Xpert 3 featuring Fan Auto Tuning function and multiple thermistors
selection for optimized system cooling control
Turbo App featuring system performance tuning, network priority, and audio
scene conguration for selected applications.
UEFI BIOS
- Most advanced options with fast response time
Special Memory O.C. Design
- Superb memory O.C. capability under full load by minimizing the coupling
noise and signal reection effect
PC Cleaner
- Fast and easy way to get rid of unnecessary junk les
Remote Entertainment
Remote GO!
- Remote GO! Function: Cloud GO!, Remote Desktop, Remote Keyboard &
Mouse, File Transfer
- Wi-Fi GO! & NFC Remote app for portable smartphone/tablet, supporting iOS 7
& Android 4.0 systems
Media Streamer
- Pipe music or movies from your PC to a smart TV, your entertainment goes
wherever you go!
- Media Streamer app for portable smartphone/tablet, supporting iOS 7 &
Android 4.0 systems
HyStream
- Stream iOS devices’ screen on your PC screen.*
* Contact your device vendor for supporting information.
(continued on the next page)
ix
Z170-AR specifications summary
eSports Champions
Turbo LAN
- Fast and smooth online gaming with lower pings and less lags
Crystal Sound 3
- Hear the cleanest sound with dedicated audio design onboard!
Turbo APP
- Tailored app performance, network priority and audio conguration for your
needs
EZ DIY
ASUS
Exclusive
Features
ASUS Special
Features
Push Notice
- Monitor your PC status with smart devices in real time
USB BIOS Flashback Card supported
UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface
- TPU
- CrashFree BIOS 3
- EZ Flash 3
ASUS Q-Design
- ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
- ASUS Q-Slot
- ASUS Q-DIMM
- ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS 5X Protection
- ASUS DIGI+ VRM - 8 Phase digital power design
- ASUS Enhanced DRAM Overcurrent Protection - Short circuit damage
prevention
- ASUS ESD Guards - Enhanced ESD protection
- ASUS High-Quality 5K-Hour Solid Capacitors - 2.5x long lifespan with excellent
durability
- ASUS Stainless Steel Back I/O - 3x more durable corrosion-resistant coating
Special Features
- Mobo Connect
- LAN Guard
- USB 3.1 Boost
- Ai Charger+
- AI Suite 3
- MemOK!
- EZ XMP
(continued on the next page)
x
Z170-AR specifications summary
ASUS Quiet
Thermal
Solution
ASUS
Exclusive
Overclocking
Features
Rear Panel I/O
Ports
Internal I/O
Connectors
Quiet Thermal Design:
- ASUS Fan Xpert 3
- ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink solution
Precision Tweaker 2:
- CPU Core/Cache Voltage: Adjustable CPU Core/Cache Voltage at 0.005V
increment
- CPU Graphics Voltage: Adjustable CPU Graphics voltage at 0.005V increment
- CPU VCCIO Voltage: Adjustable CPU VCCIO Voltage at 0.0125V increment
- CPU System Agent Voltage: Adjustable CPU System Agent Voltage at
0.0125V increment
- DRAM Voltage: 152-step Memory voltage control
- PCH Core Voltage: 88-step Chipset voltage control
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)
- BCLK/PCIE frequency tuning from 40MHz up to 500MHz at 0.01MHz
increment
Overclocking Protection:
- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)
1 x PS/2 Keyboard/mouse combo port
1 x DisplayPort
1 x HDMI port
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
1 x Intel LAN (RJ45) ports
1 x USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports (teal blue, Type A)
1 x USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports (Type C)
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)
2 x USB 2.0 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 connectors support additional 4 USB ports (19-pin)
2 x USB 2.0/1/1 connectors support additional 4 USB ports
1 x M.2 Socket 3 (for M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices)
1 x SATA Express connectors (gray)
4 x SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (gray)
1 x CPU Fan connector (4-pin) for both 3-pin(DC mode) and 4-pin(PWM mode)
CPU coolers control with auto detection support
1 x CPU OPT Fan connector (4-pin)
1 x Water Pump header (3-pin)
4 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin) for both 3-pin(DC mode) and 4-pin(PWM
mode) coolers control
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
(continued on the next page)
xi
Z170-AR specifications summary
1 x BIOS Flashback header
1 x S/PDIF out header
1 x Thunderbolt header (5-pin) for ASUS ThunderboltEX series support
1 x TPM connector
1 x COM port
1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector
Internal I/O
Connectors
BIOS Features
Manageability
Accessories
Support DVD
Operating
System
Support
Form Factor
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector
1 x System Panel(Q-Connector)
1 x MemOK! button
1 x Clear CMOS jumper
1 x DRCT(Direct Key) connector
1 x TPU switch (advanced two-stage adjustments)
1 x EZ XMP switch
1 x Power-on button
1 x 5-pin EXT_FAN(Extension Fan) connector
128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI3.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI
5.0, Multi-language BIOS,
ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control,
F3 My Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modied log,
F12 PrintScreen and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory
information
WfM 2.0, DMI 3.0, WOL by PME, PXE
2 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s cables
1 x ASUS SLI bridge connector
1 x 2 in 1 Q-connector
1 x M.2 screw package
1 x CPU installation tool
1 x User’s manual
1 x Z170 Series Exclusive Feature manual
Drivers
ASUS Utilities
EZ Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Windows® 10*
Windows® 8.1*
Windows® 7
*64-bit supported only
ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)
Specications are subject to change without notice.
xii
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Product Introduction
1
1.1 Before 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.
1.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the
motherboard ts.
Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can
cause you physical injury and damage to motherboard components.
1.2.1 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge
with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis.
1.2.2 Screw holes
Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the
chassis.
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-1
Place this side towards the
rear of the chassis
1.2.3 Motherboard layout
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.2.4 Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page
1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)
2. Intel® LGA1151 CPU socket 1-4
3. CPU, water pump, CPU optional, extension, and chassis fan connectors
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 3-pin W_PUMP; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin
CHA_FAN1-4)
4. DDR4 DIMM slots 1-8
5. MemOK! button 1-36
6. USB 3.0 connectors (20-1 pin USB3_12, USB3_34)
7. Intel® Z170 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12,
SATA6G_34, SATA6G_56, SATA Express)
8. M.2 Socket 3 1-28
9. TPU switch 1-37
10. Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC) 1-19
11. System panel connector (20-3 pin PANEL) 1-30
12. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT) 1-28
13. EZ XMP switch 1-38
14. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314) 1-29
15. Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER) 1-32
16. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) 1-29
17. Power-on button 1-38
18. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) 1-23
19. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-27
20. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-27
21. Flashback header (12-1 pin FLBK_HEADER) 1-33
22. T_Sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) 1-32
23. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) 1-20
1-26
1-25
1-31
1-24
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-3
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1151 socket designed for the 6th
Generation Intel® Core™ i7 / Intel® Core™ i5 / Intel® Core™ i3, Pentium®, and Celeron®
processors.
Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install
a CPU designed for other sockets on the LGA1151 socket.
• 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
LGA1150 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.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.1 Installing the CPU
Top of CPU
Bottom of CPU
ASUS Z170-AR Series
Bottom of CPU
1-5
Top of CPU
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.3.2 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation
Apply the Thermal Interface Material
to the CPU heatsink and CPU
before you install the heatsink and
fan, if necessary.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-7
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
1.4 System memory
1.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual 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.
1-8
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Recommended memory configurations
1.4.2 Memory configurations
You may install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, 8GB, and 16 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into
the DIMM sockets. You can refer to the recommended memory population below.
• 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 conguration. Any
excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel
operation.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimal compatibility, we
recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or date code (D/C)
from the same vendor. Check with the retailer to get the correct memory modules.
• 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.
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512 Mb (64 MB) chips or less.
• 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. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 2.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (4 DIMMs).
• Visit the ASUS website at: www.asus.com for the latest QVL.
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-9
Z170-AR Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR4 3400 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4B3400C16
ver. 4.23
16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-18-18-38 1.35V •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support (Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 3333 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip
G.SKILL F4-3333C16D-8GTZ 8GB(4GB*2) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-18-18-38 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3333C16Q-16GRKD 16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-16-16-36 1.35V •
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4B3333C16
ver4.23
A-DATA AX4U3333W4G16 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V •
16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support (Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 3300 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip
G.SKILL F4-3300C16Q-16GRK 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F4-3300C16D-8GTZ 8GB(4GB*2) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-18-18-38 1.35V • •
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4B3300C16 16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support (Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 3200 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip
G.SKILL F4-3200C16Q-16GRR 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK
G.SKILL F4-3200C16Q-16GRB 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK
G.SKILL F4-3200C16Q-16GRRK 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK
AVEXIR AVD4U32001604G-4BZ1 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK
AVEXIR AVD4U32001604G-4CIR 16GB(4GB*4) SS 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A3200C16 16GB(4GB*4) SS 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
GEIL GPR416GB3200C15QC 16GB(4GB*4) SS 15-15-15-35 1.35V •
Kingston HX432C16PB2K4/16 16GB(4GB*4) SS 16-16-16-39 1.35V •
Panram PUD43200C164G4NJW 16GB(4GB*4) SS 16-18-18-39 1.35V •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V • •
Hynix
H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V • •
Hynix
H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V • •
Hynix
H5AN4G8NMFR 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
Hynix
support (Optional)
1 2 4
1-10
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
DDR4 3000 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-32GRR 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-32GRB 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-32GRK 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C16Q-32GRR 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C16Q-32GRB 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C16Q-32GRK 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-16-16-36 1.35V •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-16GRR 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-16GRB 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-16GRK 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q2-32GRK 32GB(4GB*8) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F4-3000C15D-8GTZ 8GB(4GB*2) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
AVEXIR AVD4U30001604G-4CI 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-18-18-36 1.35V • •
AVEXIR AVD4U30001504G-4BZ1 16GB(4GB*4) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.35V • •
AVEXIR AVD4U30001608G-4CI 32GB(8GB*4) DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 16-18-18-36 1.35V •
Kingston HX430C15PB2K4/16 16GB(4GB*4) SS 15-16-16-39 1.35V • •
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4B3000C15 16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-17-17-35 1.35V • •
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4B3000C15 16GB(4GB*4) SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-17-17-35 1.35V • •
Panram PUD43000C154G4NJW 16GB(4GB*4) SS 15-17-17-35 1.35V • •
Asint SLB404G08-EWWHMX 16GB(8GB*2) SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-44 1.35V •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support
(Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 2800 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
ADATA AX4U2800W4G17 32GB(4GB*8) DS - - 17-17-17-36 1.2 • • •
ADATA AX4U2800W8G17 8GB DS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Apacer 78.BAGM8.AF20B(XMP) 4GB SS - - 17-17-17-36 - • • •
Apacer 78.CAGM8.AF30B(XMP) 8GB DS - - 17-17-17-36 - • • •
AVEXIR AVD4U28001504G-4CIR(XMP) 4GB SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.35 • • •
AVEXIR AVD4U28001608G-4CIR(XMP) 32GB(4GB*8) DS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • •
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2800C16(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2800C16(Ver5.29) 16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-18-18-36 1.2 • • •
CORSAIR CMD32GX4M4A2800C16(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2800C16(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-18-18-36 1.2 • • •
32GB(8GB*4) DS - - 18-18-18-36 1.2 • • •
16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-16-18-36 1.2 • • •
(continued on the next page)
Brand
Chip
Timing Voltage DIMM socket
NO.
support (Optional)
1 2 4
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-11
DDR4 2800 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2800C16(Ver5.29) 16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-18-18-36 1.2 • • •
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2800C16(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
G.SKILL F4-2800C15Q2-64GRK(XMP) 64GB(8GB*8) DS - - 15-16-16-35 1.25 • • •
G.SKILL F4-2800C16Q-16GRR(XMP) 16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
G.SKILL F4-2800C16Q-32GRR(XMP) 32GB(8GB*4) DS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
Kingston HX428C14PBK4/16(XMP) 16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 14-15-15-40 1.35 • • •
Panram PUD42800C164G4NJW(XMP) 16GB(4GB*4) SS - - 16-18-18-36 1.25 • • •
32GB(8GB*4) DS - - 16-18-18-36 1.2 • • •
Brand
Chip
Timing Voltage DIMM socket
NO.
support (Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 2666 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
AVEXIR AVD4U26661504G-4CIR(XMP) 4GB SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
AVEXIR AVD4U26661608G-4CIR(XMP) 32GB
CORSAIR CMD128GX4M8A2666C15(Ver4.31)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2666C15(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2666C16(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2666C16(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD32GX4M4A2666C15(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD32GX4M4A2666C15(Ver5.29) 32G
CORSAIR CMD32GX4M4A2666C16(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2666C15(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2666C15(Ver5.29) 16GB
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2666C16(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2666C16(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2666C15(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2666C15(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2666C16(Ver5.29)
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2666C16R(Ver4.23)
(XMP)
G.SKILL F4-2666C15Q-16GRR(XMP) 16GB
G.SKILL F4-2666C15Q-32GRR(XMP) 32GB
DS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
(4GB*8)
128GB
DS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*16)
16GB
SS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
DS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
SS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 15-17-17-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 16-16-18-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 16-18-18-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
DS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
(continued on the next page)
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support
(Optional)
1 2 4
1-12
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
DDR4 2666 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
G.SKILL F4-2666C16Q2-64GRB
(XMP)
ISDT IMA41GU6MFR8N-CF0
(XMP)
ISDT IMA451U6MFR8N-CF0
(XMP)
Team TCD44G2666C15ABK(XMP) 4GB SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
Team TCD48G2666C15ABK(XMP) 32GB
64GB
DS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
(8GB*8)
8GB DS ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
4GB SS ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
DS Team TCD48G2666C15ABK 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support
(Optional)
1 2 4
DDR4 2400 (O.C.) MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
AVEXIR AVD4U24001604G-4CIR
(XMP)
AVEXIR AVD4U24001608G-4M 32GB
AVEXIR AVD4U24001608G-4M
(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2400C14
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMD32GX4M4A2400C14
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2400C14
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2400C14
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
Crucial BLS4G4D240FSA.8FAD 4GB SS - - 16-16-16-40 1.2 • • •
Crucial BLS4G4D240FSA.8FAR
(XMP)
Crucial BLS8G4D240FSA.16FAD 8GB DS - - 16-16-16-40 1.2 • • •
Crucial BLS8G4D240FSA.16FAR
(XMP)
G.SKILL F4-2400C15Q-16GRR 16GB
G.SKILL F4-2400C15Q2-128GRK
(XMP)
G.SKILL F4-2400C15Q-32GRR 32GB
Kingston HX424C12PB2K4/16 16GB
Panram PUD42400C154G4NJW 16GB
Panram PUD42400C158G4NJW 32GB
Team TED44GM2400C16BK 4GB SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-16-16-39 1.2 • • •
Team TED48GM2400C16BK 8GB DS Samsung K4A4G085WD 16-16-16-39 1.2 • • •
V-color TD4G8C17-UH 4GB SS V-color DW3J0460HM 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
4GB SS - - 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 16-16-16-39 1.2 • • •
(4GB*8)
32GB
DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 16-16-16-36 1.2 • • •
(4GB*8)
16GB
SS - - 14-16-16-31 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 14-16-16-31 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
16GB
SS - - 14-16-16-31 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 14-16-16-31 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
4GB SS - - 17-16-16-39 1.2 • • •
8GB DS - - 17-16-16-39 1.2 • • •
SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
128GB
DS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(16GB*8)
DS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
SS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
DS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support
(Optional)
1 2 4
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-13
DDR4 2133 MHz capability
Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip
ADATA AD4U2133W4G15-B 4GB SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 - • • •
ADATA AD4U2133W8G15 8GB DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Apacer 78.B1GM3.AF00B 4GB SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Apacer 78.C1GM3.AF10B 8GB DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
AVEXIR AVD4U21331504G-4M 4GB SS AVEXIR 512X8DDR4 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
Century CD8G-D4U2133 8GB DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 - • • •
CORSAIR CMK16GX4M4A2133C13
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK32GX4M4A2133C13
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMK64GX4M8A2133C13
(Ver4.23)(XMP)
CORSAIR CMV4GX4M1A2133C15 4GB SS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
CORSAIR CMV8GX4M1A2133C15 8GB DS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
G.SKILL F4-2133C15Q-16GRR 16GB
G.SKILL F4-2133C15Q-32GRR 32GB
ISDT IMA41GU6MFR8N-TF0 8GB DS ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
ISDT IMA451U6MFR8N-TF0 4GB SS ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
Panram PUD42133C134G4NJW 16GB
Panram PUD42133C138G4NJW 32GB
Panram PUD42133C154G2VS 8GB
Panram PUD42133C154GNJK 4GB SS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Panram PUD42133C158G2VS 16GB
Panram PUD42133C158GNJK 8GB DS - - 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Samsung M378A1G43DB0-CPB 8GB DS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-36 - • • •
SanMax SMD-4G28HP-21P 4GB SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-37 - • • •
SanMax SMD-8G28HP-21P 8GB DS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-37 - • • •
SK Hynix HMA82GU6MFR8N-TF 16GB DS SK Hynix H5AN8G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 - • • •
SUPER
FBU2B008GM 8GB DS Micron D9RGQ 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
TALENT
Team TED44GM2133C15ABK 4GB SS SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
Transcend TS1GLH64V1H 8GB DS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-37 - • • •
Transcend TS512MLH64V1H 4GB SS Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-37 - • • •
UMAX 84G44G93MC-
21OMCALGF15
UMAX 84G48G93MC-
21OMCGNGF15
16GB
SS - - 13-15-15-28 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
32GB
DS - - 13-15-15-28 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
64GB
DS - - 13-15-15-28 1.2 • • •
(8GB*8)
SS - - 15-15-15-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
DS - - 15-15-15-35 - • • •
(8GB*4)
SS - - 13-13-13-35 1.2 • • •
(4GB*4)
DS - - 13-13-13-35 1.2 • • •
(8GB*4)
SS SK Hynix H5AN4GBNMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
(4GB*2)
DS SK Hynix H5AN4GBNMFRTFC 15-15-15-36 1.2 • • •
(8GB*2)
4GB SS Micron D9RGQ 15-15-15-36 - • • •
8GB DS Micron D9RGQ 15-15-15-36 - • • •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket
Brand
support
(Optional)
1 2 4
1-14
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.4.3 DIMM installation
ASUS Z170-AR Series
1-15
To remove a DIMM
1.5 Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.5.1 Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card:
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later
use.
4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is completely
seated on the slot.
5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.
6. Replace the system cover.
1-16
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.5.2 Configuring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings:
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that
the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
1.5.3 PCI slot
The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that
comply with PCI specications.
1.5.4 PCI Express 3.0 / 2.0 x1 slots
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that
comply with the PCI Express specications.
1.5.5 PCI Express 3.0 / 2.0 x16 slots
This motherboard supports PCI Express x16 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that
comply with the PCI Express specications.
ASUS Z170-AR Series
Slot No. Expansion slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1_1 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1_2 slot
PCI slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1_3 slot
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot
1-17
VGA configuration
PCI Express 3.0 operating mode
PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2
Single VGA/PCIe card
Dual VGA/PCIe card x8 x8
• We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode.
• Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when
using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
x16 (single VGA
recommended)
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A B
PCIE x16_1 Shared – – –
PCIE x16_2 Shared – – –
PCIE x16_3 Shared – – –
PCIE x1_1 – Shared – –
PCIE x1_2 – – Shared –
PCIE x1_3 – – – Shared
SMBUS Controller Shared – – –
Intel SATA Controller Shared – – –
Intel LAN Shared – – –
Intel xHCI Shared – – –
HD Audio Shared – – –
ASMedia Controller Shared – – –
PCI Slot – – Shared –
D
C
N/A
1-18
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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