ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero AM5 ATX Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, configuration, and operation of the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero AM5 ATX Motherboard. Designed for AMD Ryzen™ 9000 Series processors, this motherboard integrates advanced power delivery, thermal management, and high-speed connectivity features, including PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or operation.

Image: The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero motherboard, its retail packaging, and included Wi-Fi antenna.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your motherboard package. If any item is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

Image: An overview of the items included in the motherboard package, such as the motherboard, manual, ROG stickers, ROG VIP card, SATA cables, and Wi-Fi Q-Antenna.

• ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero Motherboard
• User Manual
• Wi-Fi Q-Antenna
• SATA Cables
• ROG Stickers
• ROG VIP Card
• Additional accessories (e.g., M.2 screws, standoffs)

3. Setup and Installation

Follow these general guidelines for installing your ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero motherboard. Refer to the detailed manual for specific component placement and connection diagrams.

3.1. Component Compatibility

• CPU Socket: AMD AM5, compatible with Ryzen™ 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series Desktop Processors.
• Memory: Supports DDR5 RAM up to 192GB. Utilize AEMP (ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile) for optimized performance.
• Storage: Three onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots.
• Expansion Slots: Two PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots.

3.2. DIY Friendly Features

The motherboard incorporates several features to simplify the PC building process:

Image: Visual representation of the EZ PC DIY features, including the PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim, M.2 Q-Release, M.2 Q-Latch, and M.2 Q-Slide mechanisms.

• PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim: A mechanism to automatically unlock the graphics card from the PCIe slot with a simple tilt.
• M.2 Q-Release: Tool-free unlocking of M.2 heatsinks.
• New M.2 Q-Latch: Tool-free installation or removal of M.2 SSDs with a single press.
• M.2 Q-Slide: Sliding M.2 latch design supporting various SSD sizes (2242, 2260).
• Q-Antenna: Simplifies Wi-Fi antenna connection.
• Pre-mounted I/O Shield: For easier installation into the PC case.

3.3. Power and Thermal Management

The motherboard features a robust power solution and optimized thermal design for stable performance.

Image: A diagram highlighting the motherboard's thermal components, including VRM and aluminum I/O heatsinks, high-conductivity thermal pads, M.2 heatsinks and backplates, and the chipset heatsink.

• Power Stages: 18(110A)+2(110A)+2 power stages with ProCool II power connectors.
• Cooling: Massive heatsinks integrated with the I/O cover, L-shaped heatpipe, and high-conductivity thermal pads.

4. Operating the Motherboard

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero offers intelligent controls and advanced connectivity for an optimized user experience.

4.1. Intelligent Control Features

Image: A visual explanation of ASUS AI Intelligence features, including AI Networking II for optimized network performance, AI Overclocking for intelligent tuning, and AI Cooling II for thermal and acoustic balance.

• AI Overclocking: Profiles the CPU and cooling to predict optimal configurations.
• AI Cooling II: Balances thermal performance and acoustics with a single click.
• AI Networking: Optimizes network performance for reliable connectivity, especially with Wi-Fi 7.
• AEMP (ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile): Enhances DDR5 memory performance.

4.2. Connectivity

Image: A close-up view of the rear I/O panel, showing various ports including USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi antenna connectors, and audio jacks.

• USB Ports: Dual USB4 Type-C, two USB 20Gbps Type-C front-panel connectors (one with Quick Charge 4+ and USB Wattage Watcher), eight additional USB 10Gbps ports.
• Networking: On-board Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) with ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and Realtek 5 Gb Ethernet.
• Audio: ROG SupremeFX with Dolby Atmos support.
• Video Output: HDMI port.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your motherboard.

• BIOS Updates: Regularly check the ASUS support website for the latest BIOS updates to ensure compatibility and performance improvements. Use the BIOS FlashBack button for convenient updates without a CPU or memory installed.
• Driver Updates: Keep all drivers (chipset, graphics, audio, network) updated to their latest versions.
• Cleaning: Periodically clean dust from the motherboard and cooling components using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the motherboard within recommended temperature and humidity ranges to prevent damage.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides guidance for common issues. For more complex problems, refer to the ASUS support website or contact technical support.

• No Display/Boot:
  • Check all power connections (24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU).
  • Reseat RAM modules. Ensure they are correctly seated in the DIMM slots.
  • Verify CPU installation and cooler mounting.
  • Utilize the Q-Code display and Q-LED indicators on the motherboard to diagnose boot issues. The Q-Code provides a two-digit hexadecimal code, and Q-LEDs illuminate to indicate issues with CPU, DRAM, VGA, or Boot devices.
  • Try clearing CMOS using the Clear CMOS button on the rear I/O panel.
• Memory Training Issues: If the system takes a long time to boot after installing new RAM or changing memory settings, it might be undergoing memory training. Allow the system to complete this process.
• Peripheral Detection: Ensure all cables for storage devices, USB peripherals, and expansion cards are securely connected.
• Network Connectivity: Verify Wi-Fi Q-Antenna is properly connected and Ethernet cables are secure. Check driver installation.

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero Motherboard.

8. Warranty and Support

ASUS provides a limited warranty for its products. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included in your product package or visit the official ASUS support website. You can find drivers, utilities, and further support resources at www.asus.com/support.

For technical assistance, contact ASUS customer service through their official channels. Keep your product's serial number and proof of purchase readily available when seeking support.