ASUS Motherboard Prime Z390-A

Introduction

The ASUS Motherboard Prime Z390-A is a high-performance motherboard designed for enthusiasts and overclockers, specifically tailored for Intel's 9th and 8th Gen Core processors. Launched in 2018, this motherboard is part of ASUS's Prime series, known for its robust build quality, extensive feature set, and reliable performance. The estimated price of the ASUS Prime Z390-A is around $300, making it a mid-to-high-end option in the market.

This motherboard is ideal for those looking to build a powerful gaming PC, a workstation, or an overclocking rig. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, multiple PCIe slots, and a range of storage options including SATA, PCIe NVMe, and U.2. The Prime Z390-A also features advanced cooling solutions, high-quality audio, and robust power delivery.

Detailed Specifications (Key Features)

The ASUS Prime Z390-A boasts several key features that make it a standout in its class. Here are some of the detailed specifications:

• Socket: LGA 1151 (supports 9th and 8th Gen Intel Core processors)
• Chipset: Intel Z390
• RAM: Up to 64GB DDR4, 4400MHz (OC), Dual Channel
• Expansion Slots: 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), 4 x PCIe 3.0 x1
• Storage: 6 x SATA 6Gb/s, 2 x M.2 (NVMe & SATA), 1 x U.2 (NVMe)
• USB: 10 x USB 3.1 Gen 2, 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 6 x USB 2.0
• AUDIO: SupremeFX S1220 with DTS Sound Unbound
• LAN: Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN
• Power Delivery: 12+2 Phase Power Design

Description

The ASUS Prime Z390-A is built with durability and performance in mind. The motherboard features a robust power delivery system with a 12+2 phase design, ensuring stable power to the CPU and other components. It also includes advanced cooling solutions such as comprehensive fan controls and heat sinks to keep temperatures under control during intense usage.

The audio system, powered by SupremeFX S1220, offers high-quality sound with DTS Sound Unbound technology. The motherboard also includes high-speed networking with Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN and extensive USB connectivity options.

Setup Guide

To set up the ASUS Prime Z390-A, follow these steps:

1. Unpack the motherboard and other components from their packaging.
2. Install the CPU onto the motherboard, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening of the CPU cooler.
3. Add the RAM modules into the DIMM slots, making sure they are securely locked in place.
4. Connect the storage devices (HDD/SSD) to the SATA and M.2 ports.
5. Install the power cables from the power supply unit to the motherboard.
6. Connect any additional components such as graphics cards and sound cards to their respective slots.
7. Configure the BIOS settings as needed for your specific setup.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your ASUS Prime Z390-A, here are some common problems and solutions:

• No Power: Check if all power cables are properly connected and if the power supply unit is functioning.
• No Display: Ensure that the graphics card is seated correctly and that the display cable is securely connected to both the monitor and the graphics card.
• Verify that all fans are working correctly and that heat sinks are properly installed.

Always refer to the user manual for detailed troubleshooting instructions and warnings.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Robust power delivery system for stable performance
• Excellent cooling solutions with comprehensive fan controls
• High-quality audio with SupremeFX S1220
• Extensive expansion and storage options
• Durable build quality with high-grade components

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to budget motherboards
• Complex setup process for beginners
• Limited RGB lighting compared to some other models

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the ASUS Prime Z390-A for its solid build quality, excellent performance, and robust feature set. However, some users have noted that the motherboard can be quite expensive and may require a bit of a learning curve for those new to building PCs.

Common complaints include the complexity of the BIOS interface and the lack of extensive RGB lighting options.