Introduction
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI motherboard is designed for 12th Gen Intel Core processors, offering robust performance and durability. It integrates advanced power delivery, comprehensive cooling, and high-speed connectivity features, making it suitable for demanding gaming and computing tasks. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your motherboard.
Figure 1: ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI Motherboard and its retail packaging.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for proper installation of your ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI motherboard into your system.
1. Processor and Memory Installation
This motherboard supports Intel LGA 1700 socket processors (12th Gen Intel Core) and DDR5 RAM. Ensure proper alignment and seating for both components.
- CPU Installation: Carefully align the CPU with the LGA 1700 socket, ensuring the triangular markers match. Lower the retention arm to secure the CPU.
- RAM Installation: Insert DDR5 memory modules into the DIMM slots. Press down firmly on both ends until the clips lock into place. The motherboard supports up to 128GB DDR5 RAM.
Figure 2: Key areas for processor, memory, and power connections, including 14+1 power stages, 4x DIMM slots for DDR5, and a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot.
2. Storage Devices
The motherboard features multiple M.2/NVMe SSD slots and SATA 3.0 ports for storage. Utilize the M.2 Q-Latch for tool-less M.2 installation.
- M.2 SSDs: Install M.2 NVMe SSDs into the available slots. The motherboard includes M.2 heatsinks for optimal performance.
- SATA Drives: Connect traditional SATA hard drives or SSDs to the SATA 3.0 ports using SATA cables.
3. Cooling System
Ensure adequate cooling for stable operation. The motherboard features comprehensive cooling solutions.
- Fan Headers: Connect case fans and CPU coolers to the 4-pin PWM fan headers. The Fan Xpert 4 utility allows for precise fan control.
- Heatsinks: The motherboard is equipped with VRM heatsinks, a PCH fanless heatsink, and M.2 heatsinks to dissipate heat effectively.
Figure 3: Overview of the motherboard's cooling system, showing VRM heatsinks, PCH passive cooling, and M.2 heatsinks.
4. Power Connections
Connect the main 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin/4-pin CPU power connectors from your power supply to the motherboard. ProCool sockets ensure a secure and reliable power delivery.
5. Peripheral Connections
Connect your peripherals to the appropriate ports.
- USB Ports: Utilize the various USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports on the rear I/O. Front panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C and Thunderbolt 4 headers are also available.
- Networking: Connect to your network via the Intel I225-V 2.5Gb LAN port or use the integrated WiFi 6 AX201 (802.11ax) for wireless connectivity.
- Audio: Connect audio devices to the 7.1-channel audio jacks. The Realtek S1200A codec provides high-quality audio.
Figure 4: Detailed view of the motherboard's connectivity options, including rear I/O ports (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB, LAN, WiFi) and internal headers (Front USB, SATA, Thunderbolt).
6. BIOS Configuration
Upon first boot, access the BIOS/UEFI settings (typically by pressing DEL or F2 during startup) to configure system settings, boot order, and enable specific features.
Operating Instructions
Once your system is assembled and the operating system is installed, you can begin using your computer. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI motherboard provides a stable and feature-rich platform.
- System Boot: Power on your system. The Q-LED indicators can help diagnose boot issues.
- Driver Installation: Install all necessary drivers for the motherboard components (chipset, LAN, WiFi, audio, etc.) from the ASUS support website or the provided support DVD.
- BIOS/UEFI Updates: Regularly check the ASUS support website for BIOS/UEFI updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Aura Sync: Customize the integrated RGB lighting and connected ARGB strips using ASUS Aura Sync software.
Figure 5: Features for immersive gaming, including pre-mounted I/O shield, RGB headers, and Realtek 7.1-CH audio with AI Noise Cancellation.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your motherboard and system.
- Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from inside your PC case, especially from heatsinks and fan blades, using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
- Software Updates: Keep your operating system, drivers, and BIOS/UEFI updated.
- Cable Management: Ensure internal cables are neatly managed to promote good airflow and prevent interference.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power/No Boot:
- Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin/4-pin CPU).
- Ensure the power supply is switched on.
- Verify CPU and RAM are correctly seated.
- Observe Q-LED indicators for diagnostic codes.
- No Display:
- Ensure your monitor is connected to the graphics card (if installed) or the motherboard's integrated graphics port.
- Reseat the graphics card and RAM modules.
- Test with a different display cable or monitor.
- WiFi/LAN Connectivity Issues:
- Install the latest WiFi and LAN drivers from the ASUS support website.
- Ensure the WiFi antenna is securely connected.
- Check network cable connections for LAN.
- M.2 SSD Not Detected:
- Ensure the M.2 SSD is fully seated in its slot.
- Check BIOS settings to confirm M.2 slots are enabled and configured correctly.
- Verify M.2 heatsink clearance, especially if using a third-party heatsink.
- BIOS Issues:
- If the system fails to POST after a BIOS change, clear the CMOS (refer to your motherboard's detailed manual for location of the CLRTC jumper).
- Update BIOS to the latest version if experiencing compatibility issues.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | ASUS |
| Model Name | TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Compatible Processors | 12th Gen Intel Core, Intel Celeron |
| Chipset Type | Intel Z690 |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR5 |
| Memory Speed | 2133 MHz |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 128 GB (Max) |
| Wireless Type | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 802.11ax (WiFi 6) |
| LAN | Intel I225-V 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| USB Ports | Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 2.0 |
| PCIe Slots | PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIe 4.0 x16, PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| M.2 Slots | 4x M.2/NVMe SSD slots |
| SATA Ports | 4x SATA 6Gb/s ports |
| Audio | Realtek S1200A 7.1-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 8.66 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Platform | Windows |
What's in the Box
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI motherboard package typically includes the following items:
Figure 6: Included accessories with the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI motherboard.
- ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WIFI Motherboard
- User Guide / Manual
- Support DVD
- ASUS 2x2 Dual Band WiFi Antenna
- 2x SATA 6Gb/s Cables
- M.2 Screw Package
- TUF Gaming Stickers
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, and driver downloads, please visit the official ASUS support website. You can find detailed product information, FAQs, and contact options there.
ASUS Support Website: www.asus.com/support/
When contacting support, have your motherboard model name (TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI) and serial number ready.
