ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme Motherboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme motherboard. It covers essential setup procedures, BIOS configuration, and troubleshooting tips to ensure optimal performance and stability. Please read this manual thoroughly before installing or using your motherboard.

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme is an E-ATX gaming motherboard designed for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series Desktop Processors, featuring the AMD X870E chipset. It supports DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, Wi-Fi 7, and advanced AI technologies for enhanced control and performance.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect the power cable from the wall socket before touching any internal components.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to components.
• Handle components by their edges to avoid touching sensitive parts.
• Ensure proper ventilation within your PC case to prevent overheating.
• Keep the motherboard away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your motherboard package:

• ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme Motherboard
• ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna
• SATA 6Gb/s cables
• M.2 screw packages and rubber pads
• Q-DIMM.2 card (for additional M.2 slots)
• User Manual and documentation
• Support DVD/USB drive with drivers and utilities
• Other accessories (e.g., thermal pads, fan cables, RGB extension cables)

Image: ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme motherboard and its complete set of accessories.

4. Motherboard Layout

Familiarize yourself with the key components and connectors on your motherboard.

Image: Top-down view of the motherboard, showing the CPU socket, DIMM slots, and PCIe slots.

Image: Detailed view of the rear input/output panel, including USB, LAN, and audio ports.

5. Setup

5.1 CPU Installation

The motherboard features an AMD AM5 socket. Carefully align your AMD Ryzen processor with the socket, ensuring the triangle mark on the CPU matches the mark on the socket. Gently lower the CPU into place and secure it with the retention arm.

Image: Angled view of the motherboard, focusing on the AM5 CPU socket.

5.2 Memory (DDR5) Installation

Install DDR5 memory modules into the DIMM slots. Open the clips on both ends of the DIMM slot, align the memory module with the slot key, and press down firmly until the clips snap into place. Refer to your motherboard manual for recommended dual-channel or quad-channel configurations.

Image: Illustration showing DDR5 memory modules installed in the motherboard slots.

5.3 Storage (M.2 and SATA) Installation

The motherboard supports three onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and two additional PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots via the Q-DIMM.2 card. To install an M.2 SSD, locate the desired M.2 slot, remove the heatsink (if present), insert the SSD at an angle, and secure it using the M.2 Q-Latch mechanism or screw. Connect SATA drives to the available SATA 6Gb/s ports.

Image: Demonstration of the M.2 Q-Latch for tool-less SSD installation.

5.4 Graphics Card (PCIe) Installation

Insert your graphics card into one of the two PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots. Ensure the card is fully seated and the PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim mechanism locks it into place. Secure the card to your chassis with screws.

5.5 Power Connections

Connect the 24-pin ATX power connector and the 8-pin + 8-pin (or 8-pin + 4-pin) CPU power connectors from your power supply to the motherboard. Ensure all connections are secure.

5.6 Front Panel Connections

Connect your chassis's front panel cables (power button, reset button, USB ports, audio jacks, etc.) to the corresponding headers on the motherboard. Refer to the motherboard layout diagram for exact header locations.

6. Operating

6.1 Initial Boot and BIOS/UEFI Configuration

Upon first boot, the system may take longer to initialize as it detects new hardware. Press the DEL key during startup to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup utility. Here you can configure system settings, boot order, and enable features like AI Overclocking and AI Cooling II for optimized performance and thermal management.

Image: BIOS screen showing Core Performance Boost settings.

6.2 Driver Installation

After installing your operating system, install the necessary drivers from the provided support DVD/USB or download the latest versions from the ASUS support website. This includes chipset drivers, LAN drivers (Realtek 5Gb Ethernet, Marvell AQtion 10Gb Ethernet), Wi-Fi 7 drivers, and audio drivers (ROG SupremeFX ALC4082).

6.3 Software Utilities

Utilize ASUS-exclusive software for system monitoring, customization, and performance tuning:

• Armoury Crate: Centralized software for managing drivers, utilities, Aura Sync RGB lighting, and Fan Xpert 4.
• Aura Sync: Customize the full-color 5-inch LCD screen and connected Gen 2 ARGB headers for personalized lighting effects.
• AI Networking II: Optimizes network traffic for gaming and streaming.

Image: Fan Xpert 4 interface within Armoury Crate, showing fan control and AI Cooling II.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

Regularly clean your PC case and motherboard to prevent dust buildup, which can lead to overheating. Use compressed air to remove dust from heatsinks, fans, and other components. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

7.2 BIOS Updates

Periodically check the ASUS support website for the latest BIOS updates. BIOS updates can improve system stability, compatibility, and performance. Use the BIOS FlashBack feature for convenient updates without a CPU or memory installed.

7.3 Driver Updates

Keep your drivers updated to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with new hardware and software. Use ASUS DriverHub or Armoury Crate to manage and update drivers.

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

8.1 No Display / No Boot

• Check all power connections to the motherboard and graphics card.
• Reseat memory modules and graphics card.
• Verify that your monitor is connected to the graphics card output, not the motherboard's integrated graphics (unless using an APU).
• Consult the Q-Code display and Q-LED indicators on the motherboard for diagnostic codes. Refer to the manual for code meanings.

8.2 Memory Issues

• Ensure memory modules are installed in the correct slots for dual-channel operation.
• Try booting with only one memory module installed.
• Check the Qualified Vendor List (QVL) on the ASUS website for compatible memory.

8.3 Network Connectivity Problems

• Ensure LAN cables are securely connected.
• Install the latest LAN and Wi-Fi drivers.
• Check network settings in your operating system.
• Verify the ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna is properly connected and positioned for optimal signal.

Image: Diagram showing the adjustable angles of the ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna for improved signal reception.

8.4 BIOS Reset

If system instability occurs after BIOS changes, use the Clear CMOS button on the rear I/O panel to reset BIOS settings to default.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

ASUS provides a limited warranty for this product. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package or visit the official ASUS website for detailed warranty terms and conditions. For technical support, driver downloads, and further assistance, please visit the ASUS Support Page or contact your local ASUS service center.