EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard (Model: 134-KS-E379-KR). Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and to maximize the performance and longevity of your system.

The EVGA Z370 Classified K is designed for Intel Core 8th Generation processors, featuring the Intel Z370 chipset, DDR4 memory support, and various connectivity options including USB 3.1 and SATA 6Gb/s.

Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions:

• Disconnect power before installing or removing any components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to components.
• Handle the motherboard by its edges to avoid touching sensitive components.
• Ensure proper ventilation within your computer case to prevent overheating.
• Keep the motherboard away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your product package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer or EVGA support.

• EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard
• I/O Shield
• SATA Data Cables (typically 2-4)
• SLI Bridge
• M.2 Screws
• Driver CD/USB (for initial driver installation)
• User Manual / Quick Installation Guide

Image: Contents of the EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard package, including the manual cover, various accessories, and a driver CD.

Image: A closer look at the rear I/O panel of the motherboard and additional accessories such as SATA cables, M.2 screws, and an SLI bridge.

Motherboard Layout

Familiarize yourself with the various components and connectors on the motherboard before installation.

Image: Top-down view of the EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard, highlighting the CPU socket, DIMM slots, PCIe slots, and various headers.

Image: Angled view of the EVGA Z370 Classified K Motherboard, showing the heatsinks, CPU socket, and memory slots.

Key Components:

• LGA 1151 CPU Socket: For Intel Core 8th Generation Processors.
• DDR4 DIMM Slots: Four slots supporting up to 64GB of DDR4 memory at speeds up to 4133MHz+.
• PCIe x16 Slots: Multiple slots for graphics cards and other expansion cards.
• M.2 Slots: For high-speed NVMe or SATA M.2 SSDs.
• SATA 6Gb/s Ports: For connecting SATA storage devices.
• USB Headers: Internal headers for front panel USB ports.
• Rear I/O Panel: Includes USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1 (Type-A, Type-C), HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio jacks.

Setup and Installation

Follow these steps for proper installation of your motherboard and components.

1. CPU Installation

1. Open the CPU socket lever and lift the load plate.
2. Carefully align the CPU with the socket, ensuring the gold triangle on the CPU matches the triangle on the socket.
3. Gently place the CPU into the socket without forcing it.
4. Close the load plate and secure it with the lever.
5. Install the CPU cooler according to its manufacturer's instructions.

2. RAM Installation

1. Open the clips on both ends of the DIMM slots.
2. Align the notch on the DDR4 memory module with the key in the DIMM slot.
3. Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.
4. For dual-channel operation, refer to your motherboard's specific manual for recommended slot population.

3. Motherboard Installation into Case

1. Install the I/O shield into the case's rear opening.
2. Align the motherboard with the standoffs in your computer case.
3. Secure the motherboard with screws, ensuring it is firmly seated.

4. Storage Device Installation (M.2 / SATA)

1. M.2 SSD: Insert the M.2 SSD into the appropriate slot, then secure it with the provided M.2 screw. Note that using M.2 devices may disable certain SATA ports. Refer to the full manual for details.
2. SATA Drives: Connect SATA data cables from the motherboard's SATA ports to your hard drives or SSDs. Connect power cables from your power supply to the drives.

5. Graphics Card and Expansion Card Installation

1. Open the retention clip on the desired PCIe x16 slot.
2. Insert the graphics card firmly into the slot until the clip snaps into place.
3. Secure the card to the case with a screw.
4. Connect PCIe power cables from the power supply to the graphics card if required.

6. Power Supply Connections

1. Connect the 24-pin ATX power cable from the power supply to the motherboard's main power connector.
2. Connect the 8-pin (or 4+4-pin) EPS 12V CPU power cable to the motherboard's CPU power connector.
3. Ensure all connections are secure.

7. Front Panel Connections

Connect the case's front panel cables (power button, reset button, HDD LED, power LED, front USB, front audio) to the corresponding headers on the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard diagram for exact pin locations.

Operating Instructions

1. Initial Boot and BIOS Setup

1. After assembling your system, connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
2. Power on your system. Press the DEL key repeatedly during startup to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility.
3. In the BIOS, configure boot order, set system time, and enable/disable features as needed. Save changes and exit.
4. For advanced settings like overclocking, consult the detailed EVGA Z370 Classified K manual available on the EVGA website.

2. Operating System and Driver Installation

1. Insert your operating system installation media (USB drive or DVD).
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install your operating system.
3. Once the OS is installed, install the necessary drivers for the motherboard chipset, audio, LAN, and any other integrated components. Use the provided driver CD/USB or download the latest drivers from the EVGA website.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

• Regularly clean dust from inside your computer case using compressed air.
• Ensure fans (CPU, case, GPU) are free from obstructions.
• Always power off and unplug the system before cleaning.

2. BIOS Updates

Periodically check the EVGA website for BIOS updates. BIOS updates can improve system stability, add support for new hardware, or fix bugs. Follow the instructions provided by EVGA carefully when updating the BIOS to avoid system damage.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

1. No Power / System Does Not Boot

• Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS 12V, PCIe power).
• Ensure the power supply switch is in the ON position.
• Verify that the front panel power button is correctly connected to the motherboard header.
• Test the power supply with another system or a power supply tester.

2. No Display Output

• Ensure the monitor is connected to the graphics card (or motherboard if using integrated graphics) and is powered on.
• Reseat the graphics card and memory modules.
• Try a different display cable or monitor.
• If your motherboard has a POST code display, note the code and refer to the EVGA manual for its meaning.

3. System Instability / Crashes

• Check CPU and GPU temperatures. Overheating can cause instability.
• Ensure all drivers are up to date.
• Run memory diagnostic tools to check for faulty RAM.
• Reset BIOS settings to default.

4. NVMe SSD Not Detected

• Verify the M.2 SSD is correctly seated and secured.
• Check BIOS settings to ensure the M.2 slot is enabled and configured correctly (e.g., PCIe mode).
• Be aware that M.2 usage may disable certain SATA ports. Refer to the full manual for specific port sharing details.

Specifications

Warranty Information

EVGA products are covered by a limited warranty. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary by region and product. Please register your product on the official EVGA website after purchase to ensure full warranty coverage. For detailed warranty information, please visit the EVGA support website or refer to the warranty card included with your product.

Support

For technical assistance, driver downloads, BIOS updates, or further information, please visit the official EVGA support website:

EVGA Support Website

You may also contact EVGA customer service directly for personalized support.