ASUS TUF GAMING Z890-PLUS WIFI Quick Start Guide

Motherboard Layout Overview

The motherboard features the LGA1851 CPU socket, DDR5 DIMM slots for memory, multiple M.2 slots for storage, PCIe slots for expansion cards (including PCIEX16, PCIEX4, PCIEX1), SATA ports, and various headers for system connections such as CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN, AIO_PUMP, F_AUDIO, F_PANEL, USB headers, ATX_PWR, and LEDs.

Step 1: Prepare the Components

Gather the necessary components for installation. These typically include:

• Chassis (Computer Case)
• CPU (Central Processing Unit)
• Memory (RAM Modules)
• M.2 SSD (Storage Drive)
• CPU Cooler
• SATA Device (e.g., Hard Drive, SSD)
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Graphics Card (GPU)

Note: The listed components are recommendations; prepare components according to your specific needs.

Step 2: Install Key Components

Install the CPU

Carefully align the CPU with the socket markings and gently place it in. Secure the CPU using the retention mechanism. Ensure the PnP cap is removed only after the CPU is properly installed. Refer to the motherboard manual for detailed instructions.

Install the Memory

Open the clips on the DIMM slots. Align the notch on the memory module with the notch in the slot and press down firmly on both ends until the module clicks into place. Refer to the motherboard manual for correct slot population.

Step 2 (Continued): Install the M.2 SSD

Locate an available M.2 slot on the motherboard. Insert the M.2 SSD at an angle into the slot and then secure it with the provided screw or M.2 Q-Latch mechanism. Some models may include optional M.2 rubber for single-sided modules. Ensure the M.2 Q-Slide clicks and locks the SSD securely.

Additional Information (on selected models): Some motherboards feature M.2 Q-Release mechanisms (Type-A, Type-B) for easier M.2 SSD removal.

Step 3: Install the Cooling System

Air Cooler

Mount the CPU cooler according to its specific instructions, ensuring proper contact with the CPU. Connect the cooler's fan cable to the CPU_FAN or CPU_OPT header on the motherboard.

AIO Cooler

Install the AIO cooler's pump and radiator. Connect the pump to the AIO_PUMP or W_PUMP header and the fan to the CPU_FAN or CPU_OPT header on the motherboard.

Note: Refer to the Cooler and Chassis manuals for detailed installation steps.

Step 4: Install the Motherboard into the Chassis

Carefully place the motherboard into the computer chassis, aligning it with the standoffs. Secure the motherboard using screws. This step may vary for chassis models with pre-mounted I/O shields. Refer to the Motherboard and Chassis manuals for specific guidance.

Step 5: Connect Chassis Cables

Connect chassis fans to the CHA_FAN headers. For RGB lighting, connect ARGB or RGB devices to the corresponding ARGB/RGB headers on the motherboard. Refer to the Motherboard and Chassis Fan manuals for header pinouts.

Step 6: Install and Connect the Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Mount the PSU securely into the chassis using screws, ensuring proper airflow. Connect the main ATX power cable and the CPU power cable (4-pin, 8-pin, or 4+4-pin) from the PSU to the corresponding connectors on the motherboard. Ensure the PSU is set to the correct voltage for your region (e.g., AC 100-240V).

Note: Refer to the Chassis and PSU manuals for more information.

Step 7: Connect Everything to the Motherboard

Connect the front panel connectors (power switch, reset switch, HDD LED, power LED) to the F_PANEL header. Connect USB headers (USB 2.0, USB 3.x, USB4) and the front panel audio header (F_AUDIO) to their respective connectors on the motherboard. Connect SATA power cables from the PSU to any SATA devices.

Note: Refer to the Motherboard and Chassis manuals for detailed connection diagrams.

Step 8: Install the Graphics Card

Open the retention clip on the primary PCIe x16 slot. Align the graphics card with the slot and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Secure the card to the chassis with screws. Ensure any necessary PCIe power connectors from the PSU are connected to the graphics card.

Note: Power connection may be required for selected models. Refer to the Motherboard, Chassis, and Graphics Card manuals.

Step 9: Connect to the Internet

Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN port on the rear I/O panel, or attach the Wi-Fi antennas to the designated connectors on the motherboard for wireless connectivity.

Note: Refer to the Motherboard manual for details.

Step 10: Connect Peripherals

Connect your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and other essential peripherals to the appropriate ports on the rear I/O panel or via internal headers.

Step 11: Turn on the PSU and Your PC

Ensure all connections are secure. Flip the power switch on the PSU to the ON position (usually marked 'I'). Press the power button on the chassis to turn on the computer. Observe any Q-LEDs or Q-LED Core indicators on the motherboard for system status. If errors occur, check CPU fan connection and refer to the motherboard manual or FAQ.

Step 12: Install Operating System and Drivers

After the system powers on, you will need to install your operating system (e.g., Windows, Linux) and the necessary drivers for your motherboard and components. This typically involves booting from installation media and following on-screen prompts. Driver and utility installation can often be done via a provided USB drive or downloaded from the ASUS support website.

Safety and Compliance Information

Please review the electrical safety, operation safety, and button/coin battery safety information provided in the full manual. This includes warnings about electrical shock, handling components, and battery disposal. The product complies with various regulations including FCC, HDMI, VCCI, and environmental standards like RoHS. For detailed information on compliance, recycling, and safety, please refer to the ASUS support website and the full product documentation.

Warranty Information

ASUS provides a voluntary manufacturer's Commercial Guarantee in addition to statutory legal guarantees. For complete warranty terms and conditions, please visit the ASUS support website for your region.

Contact and Support

For service and support, visit the ASUS multi-language website at https://www.asus.com/support/. You can also register your product for better support.

ASUS Contact Information:

• ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
• ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
• ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
• ASUSTeK (UK) LIMITED
• ASUS GLOBAL PTE. LTD.

Full addresses and contact details are available on the ASUS website.