ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC

ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard User Manual

Model: Z490 PRO4/AC | Brand: ASRock

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC motherboard. Designed for Intel LGA 1200 processors, this motherboard offers robust performance and a comprehensive set of features for various computing needs, including gaming, audio/video editing, and office applications. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

2. Specifications

Below are the key technical specifications for the ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard:

Feature Specification
Chipset Intel Z490
Socket Type LGA1200
CPU Compatibility Intel Core (10th Gen: i5-10400F, i7-10700F, i3-10320, i9-10900K)
Memory Type DDR4
Number of Memory Slots 4
Maximum RAM Capacity 128 GB
Memory Channel Double
Form Factor ATX
Storage Interface Type SATA 3
Number of SATA Ports 6
Number of M.2 Slots 2
PCI-E Standards PCI-E 3.0
Number of PCIe x16 Slots 2
Back I/O Ports HDMI 1.0, USB 3.1 Gen1, Audio Jacks, LAN, WiFi Antenna Connectors
Onboard LAN WIFI (AC)
ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard overview
Figure 1: ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard overview, highlighting Intel Z490 chipset, LGA 1200 socket, 4 DDR4 slots, SATA3 ports, and ATX form factor.

3. Setup and Installation

Before you begin, ensure your workspace is clean, well-lit, and static-free. Gather all necessary components, including the motherboard, CPU, CPU cooler, RAM, storage devices, power supply, and PC case.

3.1. Preparing the Motherboard

  1. Unpack the Motherboard: Carefully remove the motherboard from its anti-static bag and place it on a non-conductive surface, such as the motherboard box.
  2. Install the CPU:
    • Locate the LGA 1200 socket on the motherboard.
    • Open the CPU socket lever and lift the load plate.
    • Align the CPU with the socket, ensuring the golden triangle on the CPU matches the triangle on the socket. Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
    • Close the load plate and push down the lever until it locks into place.
  3. Install the CPU Cooler: Follow the instructions provided with your CPU cooler to install it securely onto the motherboard, ensuring proper contact with the CPU and thermal paste application.
  4. Install RAM Modules:
    • Locate the four DDR4 DIMM slots. For dual-channel configuration, refer to your CPU cooler's manual for recommended slot population (usually A2/B2 or slots 2 and 4).
    • Open the clips on both ends of the DIMM slot.
    • Align the RAM module with the slot, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot.
    • Press down firmly on both ends of the RAM module until the clips snap into place.
  5. Install M.2 SSDs (Optional):
    • Locate the M.2 slots on the motherboard.
    • Remove the M.2 standoff screw.
    • Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle.
    • Gently push down the SSD and secure it with the standoff screw.
ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard top-down view
Figure 2: Top-down view of the ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard, showing CPU socket, RAM slots, and M.2 slots.

3.2. Installing into the PC Case

  1. Install I/O Shield: If your case requires it, install the motherboard's I/O shield into the case's rear opening.
  2. Install Motherboard Standoffs: Ensure the correct standoffs are installed in your PC case, matching the ATX mounting points on the motherboard.
  3. Mount the Motherboard: Carefully place the motherboard into the case, aligning the screw holes with the standoffs. Secure the motherboard with screws.
  4. Connect Power Cables:
    • Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector from your power supply to the motherboard.
    • Connect the 8-pin (or 4+4-pin) CPU power connector to the motherboard.
  5. Connect Front Panel Connectors: Connect the power switch, reset switch, HDD LED, and USB/audio headers from your PC case to the corresponding pins on the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard manual for exact pin layouts.
  6. Install Graphics Card (Optional): Insert your graphics card into the primary PCIe x16 slot and secure it. Connect any necessary PCIe power cables from your power supply.
  7. Connect SATA Devices: Connect SATA data cables from your SATA SSDs/HDDs to the SATA3 ports on the motherboard. Connect SATA power cables from your power supply to these devices.
  8. Connect WiFi Antennas: Screw the included WiFi antennas onto the connectors on the rear I/O panel.
ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard rear I/O panel
Figure 3: Close-up of the ASRock Z490 PRO4/AC Motherboard's rear I/O panel, showing various ports and WiFi antenna connectors.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. First Boot

After completing the hardware installation, connect your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Power on your system. The system should display the ASRock logo and enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility or begin the operating system installation process.

4.2. BIOS/UEFI Setup

To enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility, press the Del or F2 key repeatedly during the boot process. Here you can configure system settings such as boot order, CPU/RAM frequencies, and enable/disable various onboard components. Save changes before exiting.

4.3. Driver Installation

Once your operating system is installed, install the necessary drivers for the motherboard's components (chipset, LAN, audio, WiFi, etc.). These drivers are typically provided on a support CD/USB or can be downloaded from the ASRock official website.

5. Maintenance

  • Keep it Clean: Regularly clean dust from inside your PC case, especially from fans and heatsinks, to prevent overheating. Use compressed air for best results.
  • BIOS Updates: Periodically check the ASRock website for BIOS/UEFI updates. Updates can improve stability, add new features, or enhance compatibility. Follow the update instructions carefully to avoid system damage.
  • Driver Updates: Keep your drivers updated to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with new software and hardware.

6. Troubleshooting

  • No Power/No Boot:
    • Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU, PCIe power).
    • Ensure the power supply is switched on.
    • Verify front panel power switch connection.
  • No Display:
    • Ensure the monitor is connected to the graphics card (or motherboard if using integrated graphics) and powered on.
    • Reseat the graphics card and RAM modules.
    • Try booting with only one RAM stick.
  • Component Not Detected:
    • Check physical connections for the component (e.g., SATA cables for drives, M.2 SSD seating).
    • Ensure drivers are installed for the component.
    • Check BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure the component is enabled.
  • System Instability/Crashes:
    • Check CPU and GPU temperatures.
    • Ensure RAM is properly seated and compatible.
    • Update BIOS/UEFI and drivers.

7. User Tips

  • CPU Purchase: Please note that this motherboard does NOT come with a CPU. You will need to purchase a compatible Intel LGA 1200 processor separately (e.g., i5-10400F, i7-10700F, i3-10320, i9-10900K).
  • Compatibility Check: Always verify the compatibility of all your components (CPU, RAM, GPU, etc.) with the motherboard before purchase and installation.
  • Static Discharge: Always ground yourself before handling internal PC components to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and driver downloads, please visit the official ASRock website. You will find detailed FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for customer service.

ASRock Official Website: www.asrock.com

Ask a question about this manual

Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.