ASRock Z390 EXTREME4 Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your ASRock Z390 EXTREME4 motherboard. This ATX motherboard supports 9th and 8th Generation Intel Core Processors with an LGA1151 socket and features the Intel Z390 chipset.

Key features include DDR4 memory support, multiple PCI-Express slots, Quad CrossFireX and Quad SLI multi-graphics capabilities, SATA3, USB 3.1, and M.2 storage options.

Figure 1: Overview of the ASRock Z390 EXTREME4 Motherboard. This image displays the general layout of the motherboard, including the CPU socket, DIMM slots, PCIe slots, and various heatsinks.

2. Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure your system is powered off and disconnected from the power source. Handle the motherboard by its edges to avoid static discharge.

2.1 Package Contents

• ASRock Z390 EXTREME4 Motherboard
• Accessory pack (cables, screws, etc. - specific items may vary)

2.2 CPU Installation

1. Open the LGA1151 CPU socket lever.
2. Carefully align your 9th or 8th Generation Intel Core Processor 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 socket lever to secure the CPU.

2.3 Memory (RAM) Installation

The motherboard features four DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting dual-channel, non-ECC, unbuffered memory up to a maximum capacity of 64GB.

1. Open the clips at both ends of the DIMM slot.
2. Align the memory module with the slot, ensuring the notch on the module matches the key in the slot.
3. Press down firmly on both ends of the memory module until the clips snap into place.

2.4 Expansion Card Installation

The motherboard includes 3x PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots and 3x PCI-Express 3.0 x1 slots. These support multi-graphics configurations such as AMD Quad CrossFireX and NVIDIA Quad SLI.

1. Select an appropriate PCI-Express slot for your expansion card (e.g., graphics card, sound card).
2. Remove the corresponding metal bracket from your PC case.
3. Align the card with the slot and press down firmly until it is seated correctly.
4. Secure the card with a screw to the PC case.

2.5 Storage Device Connections

Connect SATA storage devices (HDDs, SSDs) to the SATA3 ports. M.2 SSDs can be installed in the dedicated M.2 slots on the motherboard.

2.6 Rear I/O Panel Connections

Connect peripherals such as keyboards, mice, monitors, and network cables to the appropriate ports on the rear I/O panel.

Figure 2: Rear I/O Panel of the ASRock Z390 EXTREME4 Motherboard. This image shows the various ports available for connecting external devices, including USB, display outputs, audio jacks, and network ports.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Power On and Initial Boot

After all components are installed and connected, power on your system. The motherboard will perform a Power-On Self-Test (POST). You may access the BIOS/UEFI setup utility during this phase.

3.2 BIOS/UEFI Setup

To enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility, press the Delete or F2 key during the POST process. The BIOS provides options for configuring system settings, boot order, and hardware parameters. The ASRock BIOS is designed to be user-friendly.

3.3 Operating System Installation

Once BIOS settings are configured, you can proceed with installing your preferred operating system, such as Windows, from a bootable USB drive or optical media.

3.4 RGB Lighting Control

The motherboard features integrated RGB lighting. Control and customize these lighting effects using the ASRock Polychrome SYNC software, available for download from the ASRock website.

4. Maintenance

4.1 General Cleaning

Regularly clean your PC case and motherboard to prevent dust buildup, which can lead to overheating and component failure. Use compressed air to gently remove dust from heatsinks, fans, and other components.

4.2 CMOS Battery

The motherboard uses a CR2032 coin cell battery to retain BIOS settings when the system is powered off. If BIOS settings are frequently lost, the battery may need replacement. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before replacing the battery.

4.3 BIOS Updates

Periodically check the ASRock website for BIOS updates. BIOS updates can improve system stability, add support for new hardware, or fix known issues. Follow the instructions provided by ASRock carefully when performing a BIOS update.

5. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter.

5.1 System Does Not Power On

• Verify all power cables are securely connected to the motherboard and power supply.
• Ensure the power supply switch is in the ON position.
• Check front panel power button connections to the motherboard.

5.2 No Display Output

• Ensure your monitor is connected to the correct graphics output (either integrated graphics or a dedicated graphics card).
• Reseat the graphics card and memory modules.
• Try booting with only one memory module installed.

5.3 BIOS Settings Not Saving / System Freezes

• Replace the CMOS battery (CR2032).
• Clear the CMOS: Locate the Clear CMOS jumper (often near the top PCIe x16 slot) and follow the instructions in the full manual to reset BIOS settings. Note that accessing this jumper may require removing the graphics card.
• If experiencing freezing related to disk access, ensure all SATA cables are secure and consider updating storage drivers or BIOS.

5.4 Coil Whine

If you experience a high-pitched noise (coil whine), try disabling C-states or other power-saving features in the BIOS. Consult the ASRock support website for specific recommendations.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official ASRock website. Warranty coverage typically varies by region and retailer.

8. Support

For technical support, driver downloads, BIOS updates, and additional product information, please visit the official ASRock support website:

ASRock Official Support

You may also find helpful resources and community forums on the ASRock brand store page: ASRock Store on Amazon.