ASROCK Z490 AQUA User Manual
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ASROCK Z490 AQUA User Manual

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Summary of Contents for ASROCK Z490 AQUA

  • Page 2 (including damages for loss of profits, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like), even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any defect or error in the documentation or product.
  • Page 3 You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure. If you require assistance please call ASRock Tel : +886-2-28965588 ext.123 (Standard International call charges apply) The terms HDMI®...
  • Page 4 CE Warning This device complies with directive 2014/53/EU issued by the Commision of the European Community. This equipment complies with EU radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator &...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Contents Chapter 1 Introduction Package Contents Specifications Motherboard Layout I/O Panel ASRock Thunderbolt™ 3 Module Chapter 2 Installation Removing the Water-cooling Module Installing the CPU Installing the Water-cooling Module Installing Memory Modules (DIMM) Installing the Motherboard Expansion Slots (PCI Express Slots)
  • Page 6 M.2_SSD (NGFF) Module Installation Guide (M2_3) Chapter 3 Software and Utilities Operation Installing Drivers ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) 3.2.1 Installing ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) 3.2.2 Using ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) ASRock Live Update & APP Shop 3.3.1 UI Overview 3.3.2 Apps 3.3.3 BIOS &...
  • Page 7 4.6.3 Storage Configuration 4.6.4 Intel(R) Thunderbolt 4.6.5 ACPI Configuration 4.6.6 USB Configuration 4.6.7 Trusted Computing Tools Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen Security Screen 4.10 Boot Screen 4.11 Exit Screen...

  • Page 8: Chapter 1 Introduction

    If you require technical support related to this mother- board, please visit our website for specific information about the model you are using. You may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support list on ASRock’s website as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com.

  • Page 9: Specifications

    • 4 x DDR4 DIMM Slots • Supports DDR4 4700+(OC)*/4666/4600/4500/4400/4333/42 66(OC)/4133(OC)/4000(OC)/3866(OC)/3800(OC)/3733(OC) /3600(OC)/3200(OC)/2933/2800/2666/2400/2133 non-ECC, un-buffered memory * Please refer to Memory Support List on ASRock's website for more information. (http://www.asrock.com/) * Core (i9/i7) support DDR4 up to 2933; Core (i5/i3), Pentium® and Celeron® support DDR4 up to 2666.
  • Page 10 Z490 AQUA * PCIE5, M2_3 and SATA3_3 share lanes. If either one of them is in use, the others will be disabled. * Supports NVMe SSD as boot disks • 2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slots • Supports AMD Quad CrossFireX...
  • Page 11 Thunder- • Intel® JHL7540 Thunderbolt 3 Controller (Titan Ridge) bolt • Supports Thunderbolt 3 interface with max. resolution of 5K (5120 x 2880) @ 60Hz for one display over a single cable connection • Supports Thunderbolt 3 interface with max. resolution of 4K x 2K (4096x2160) @ 60Hz for dual displays over a single cable connection • Supports up to two streams (eight lanes) of DisplayPort video...
  • Page 12 Z490 AQUA - Optimized Default Setting for Game, Browser, and Streaming Modes - User Customized Priority Control • Supports Wake-On-LAN • Supports Lightning/ESD Protection • Supports Energy Efficient Ethernet 802.3az • Supports PXE Wireless • Intel® 802.11ax WiFi Module • Supports IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ax • Supports Dual-Band (2.4/5 GHz)
  • Page 13 Express module up to Gen3 x4 (32 Gb/s)** ** Supports Intel® Optane Technology ** Supports NVMe SSD as boot disks ** Supports ASRock U.2 Kit Connector • 1 x SPI TPM Header • 1 x Power LED and Speaker Header • 2 x RGB LED Headers...
  • Page 14 Z490 AQUA • 1 x CPU Fan Connector (4-pin) * The CPU Fan Connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12W) fan power. • 1 x CPU/Water Pump Fan Connector (4-pin) (Smart Fan Speed Control) • 6 x Chassis/Water Pump Fan Connectors (4-pin) (Smart Fan...
  • Page 15 • ErP/EuP ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required) * For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking, including adjusting the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking Technology, or using third-party overclocking tools.

  • Page 16: Motherboard Layout

    Z490 AQUA 1.3 Motherboard Layout CPU_FAN2/WP_3A CLRC BIOS CPU_FAN1 _FB1 ADDR_LED2 ATX12V1 ATX12V2 RGB_LED2 M2_WIFI_1 Reset H D M I1 Power USB 3.2 Gen1 USB3_1234 USB 3.2 Gen2 Top: CHA_FAN5 T: USB31_TA_1 2.5GLAN B: USB31_TA_2 (Realtek RTL8125AG) CHA_FAN1 USB 3.2 Gen2...
  • Page 17 No. Description 8 pin 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1) 8 pin 12V Power Connector (ATX12V2) CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 2 x 288-pin DDR4 DIMM Slots (DDR4_A1, DDR4_B1) 2 x 288-pin DDR4 DIMM Slots (DDR4_A2, DDR4_B2) CPU/Water Pump Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2/WP_3A) Addressable LED Header (ADDR_LED2) RGB LED Header (RGB_LED2) Safe Boot Button (BFG_BTN1) Reset Button (RSTBTN1)

  • Page 18: I/O Panel

    Z490 AQUA 1.4 I/O Panel No. Description No. Description BIOS Flashback Button USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A Port Central / Bass (Orange) (USB31_TA_3) Rear Speaker (Black) USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C Port Line In (Light Blue) (USB31_TC_1) Front Speaker (Lime)* USB 3.2 Gen2 Ports (USB31_TA_12) 2.5G LAN RJ-45 Port...
  • Page 19 * If you use a 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”. See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use. Audio Output Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Line In Channels (No.
  • Page 20 Z490 AQUA **** Please choose regular mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort adapter cables instead of right angled ones if you use two mini DisplayPort input ports simultaneously. ***** ACPI wake-up function is not supported on USB3_123 ports.
  • Page 21 1.5 WiFi-802.11ax Module and ASRock WiFi 2.4/5 GHz Antenna WiFi-802.11ax + BT Module This motherboard comes with an exclusive WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ax + BT v5.1 module (pre-installed on the rear I/O panel) that offers support for WiFi 802.11 a/b/ g/n/ax connectivity standards and Bluetooth v5.1. WiFi + BT module is an easy-to- use wireless local area network (WLAN) adapter to support WiFi + BT.

  • Page 22: Asrock Thunderbolt™ 3 Module

    Controller • Intel® JHL7540 Thunderbolt 3 Controller (Titan Ridge) • Proprietary design for ASRock specific motherboard * Please note that plugging into other M.2 connector may damage the motherboard and this module • 2 x NGFF M Key Type M.2 Connectors • 2 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4 Input Ports...
  • Page 23 • Supports Thunderbolt 3 interface with max. resolution of 5K (5120 x 2880) @ 60Hz for one display over a single cable connection • Supports Thunderbolt 3 interface with max. resolution of Graphics 4K x 2K (4096x2160) @ 60Hz for dual displays over a single cable connection • Supports up to two streams (eight lanes) of DisplayPort video bandwidth;...
  • Page 24 Step 2 Connect one end of the Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort Adapter Cable to the Mini DisplayPort Input Port (A) on ASRock Thunderbolt 3 Module on I/O panel. Then connect the other end of the cable to the DisplayPort Output Port (B) on the...
  • Page 25 2. Please choose regular Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort Adapter Cables instead of right angled ones if you use two Mini DisplayPort Input Ports simultaneously. Step 4 Connect the Thunderbolt cable(s) from your Thunderbolt-enabled device(s) to the USB 3.2 Gen2 Thunderbolt 3 Type-C Port(s) on ASRock Thunderbolt 3 Module on I/O panel.

  • Page 26: Chapter 2 Installation

    Z490 AQUA Chapter 2 Installation This is an EATX form factor motherboard. Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Pre-installation Precautions Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

  • Page 27: Removing The Water-Cooling Module

    2.1 Removing the Water-cooling Module Removing the CPU Backplate...
  • Page 28 Z490 AQUA Please unscrew the eight screws from the bottom side of the motherboard to release the backplate and the water-cooling module. The positions are indicated as below.
  • Page 29 Water-cooling Module Removing the Unplug the LED Plug from the motherboard before removing the Water-cooling Module.
  • Page 30 Z490 AQUA Screw Assembly Schematic Front View...
  • Page 31 Bottom View Screw Specifications Screw Screw Screw Type Screw Locking Position Spec. M2*7L Countersunk head Screw For locking M.2 Heatsinks M2*5L Flat head Screw For locking MOS M3*9L Flat head Screw For locking CPU backplate...
  • Page 32 Z490 AQUA Removing the Protective Films Please make sure to peel the protective films from the water-cooling module before assembly. The positions are indicated as below. Water-cooling Module Bottom View...
  • Page 33 Cooling Water Inlet/Outlet Hole Outlet hole thread specification: G1/4 Inlet hole thread specification: G1/4 25mm...

  • Page 34: Installing The Cpu

    Z490 AQUA 2.2 Installing the CPU 1. Before you insert the 1200-Pin CPU into the socket, please check if the PnP cap is on the socket, if the CPU surface is unclean, or if there are any bent pins in the socket. Do not force to insert the CPU into the socket if above situation is found.
  • Page 36 Z490 AQUA Please save and replace the cover if the processor is removed. The cover must be placed if you wish to return the motherboard for after service.

  • Page 37: Installing The Water-Cooling Module

    2.3 Installing the Water-cooling Module Water-cooling Module Installing the...
  • Page 38 Z490 AQUA Installing the CPU Backplate...

  • Page 39: Installing Memory Modules (Dimm)

    2.4 Installing Memory Modules (DIMM) This motherboard provides four 288-pin DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4) DIMM slots, and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. 1. For dual channel configuration, you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip-type) DDR4 DIMM pairs. 2.
  • Page 40 Z490 AQUA...

  • Page 41: Installing The Motherboard

    2.5 Installing the Motherboard...

  • Page 42: Expansion Slots (Pci Express Slots)

    Z490 AQUA 2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI Express Slots) There are 5 PCI Express slots on the motherboard. Before installing an expansion card, please make sure that the power supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware settings for the card before you start the installation.

  • Page 43: Onboard Headers And Connectors

    2.7 Onboard Headers and Connectors Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage to the motherboard. System Panel Header Connect the power PLED+ PLED-...
  • Page 44 Z490 AQUA Power LED and Speaker Please connect the SPEAKER DUMMY Header chassis power LED and DUMMY (7-pin SPK_PLED1) the chassis speaker to this (see p.9, No. 27) header. PLED+ PLED+ PLED- Serial ATA3 Connectors These eight SATA3 (SATA3_0_1: connectors support SATA see p.9, No.
  • Page 45 USB 3.2 Gen1 Headers There are two headers on (19-pin USB3_5_6) this motherboard. Each Dummy IntA_PA_D+ (see p.9, No. 17) IntA_PB_D+ IntA_PA_D- USB 3.2 Gen1 header can IntA_PB_D- support two ports. IntA_PA_SSTX+ IntA_PB_SSTX+ IntA_PA_SSTX- IntA_PB_SSTX- IntA_PA_SSRX+ IntA_PB_SSRX+ IntA_PA_SSRX- IntA_PB_SSRX- Vbus Vbus (19-pin USB3_7_8) Vbus...
  • Page 46 Z490 AQUA Chassis/Water Pump Fan This motherboard Connectors provides six 4-Pin water (4-pin CHA_FAN1/WP) cooling chassis fan FAN_VOLTAGE CHA_FAN_SPEED (see p.9, No. 15) connectors. If you plan to FAN_SPEED_CONTROL connect a 3-Pin chassis water cooler fan, please (4-pin CHA_FAN2/WP) connect it to Pin 1-3.
  • Page 47 CPU/Water Pump Fan This motherboard Connector provides a 4-Pin water (4-pin CPU_FAN2/ cooling CPU fan FAN_VOLTAGE WP_3A) connector. If you plan CPU_F AN_SPEED FAN_SPEED_CONTROL (see p.9, No. 6) to connect a 3-Pin CPU water cooler fan, please connect it to Pin 1-3. ATX Power Connector This motherboard pro- (24-pin ATXPWR1)
  • Page 48 Z490 AQUA RGB LED Headers These two RGB headers are used (4-pin RGB_LED1) to connect RGB LED extension 12V G R (see p.9, No. 31) cable which allows (4-pin RGB_LED2) users to choose from various LED (see p.9, No. 8) lighting effects.

  • Page 49: Smart Switches

    2.8 Smart Switches The motherboard has six smart switches: Power Button, Reset Button, Clear CMOS Button, Retry Button, Safe Boot Button and BIOS Flashback Button, allowing users to quickly turn on/off the system, reset the system, clear the CMOS values or flash the BIOS.
  • Page 50 (BIOS_FB1) to flash the BIOS. (see p.11, No. 1) ASRock BIOS Flashback feature allows you to update BIOS without powering on the system, even without CPU. To use the USB BIOS Flashback function, Please follow the steps below. 1. Download the latest BIOS file from ASRock's website : http://www.asrock.com.

  • Page 51: Status Oled (On I/O Armor)

    2.9 Status OLED (on I/O Armor) Status OLED shows various information of the system on a new OLED screen. It displays information of the power on self test, fan speed, temperatures, frequencies and voltages on the motherboard. With the Status OLED, you can also check that if your CPU or DRAM is properly installed...

  • Page 52: Dr. Debug

    Z490 AQUA 2.10 Dr. Debug Dr. Debug is used to provide code information, which makes troubleshooting even easier. Please see the diagrams below for reading the Dr. Debug codes. Code Description 0x10 PEI_CORE_STARTED 0x11 PEI_CAR_CPU_INIT 0x15 PEI_CAR_NB_INIT 0x19 PEI_CAR_SB_INIT 0x31...
  • Page 53 0x63 DXE_CPU_INIT 0x68 DXE_NB_HB_INIT 0x69 DXE_NB_INIT 0x6A DXE_NB_SMM_INIT 0x70 DXE_SB_INIT 0x71 DXE_SB_SMM_INIT 0x72 DXE_SB_DEVICES_INIT 0x78 DXE_ACPI_INIT 0x79 DXE_CSM_INIT 0x90 DXE_BDS_STARTED 0x91 DXE_BDS_CONNECT_DRIVERS 0x92 DXE_PCI_BUS_BEGIN 0x93 DXE_PCI_BUS_HPC_INIT 0x94 DXE_PCI_BUS_ENUM 0x95 DXE_PCI_BUS_REQUEST_RESOURCES 0x96 DXE_PCI_BUS_ASSIGN_RESOURCES 0x97 DXE_CON_OUT_CONNECT 0x98 DXE_CON_IN_CONNECT...
  • Page 54 Z490 AQUA 0x99 DXE_SIO_INIT 0x9A DXE_USB_BEGIN 0x9B DXE_USB_RESET 0x9C DXE_USB_DETECT 0x9D DXE_USB_ENABLE 0xA0 DXE_IDE_BEGIN 0xA1 DXE_IDE_RESET 0xA2 DXE_IDE_DETECT 0xA3 DXE_IDE_ENABLE 0xA4 DXE_SCSI_BEGIN 0xA5 DXE_SCSI_RESET 0xA6 DXE_SCSI_DETECT 0xA7 DXE_SCSI_ENABLE 0xA8 DXE_SETUP_VERIFYING_PASSWORD 0xA9 DXE_SETUP_START 0xAB DXE_SETUP_INPUT_WAIT 0xAD DXE_READY_TO_BOOT 0xAE DXE_LEGACY_BOOT...
  • Page 55 0xAF DXE_EXIT_BOOT_SERVICES 0xB0 RT_SET_VIRTUAL_ADDRESS_MAP_BEGIN 0xB1 RT_SET_VIRTUAL_ADDRESS_MAP_END 0xB2 DXE_LEGACY_OPROM_INIT 0xB3 DXE_RESET_SYSTEM 0xB4 DXE_USB_HOTPLUG 0xB5 DXE_PCI_BUS_HOTPLUG 0xB6 DXE_NVRAM_CLEANUP 0xB7 DXE_CONFIGURATION_RESET 0xF0 PEI_RECOVERY_AUTO 0xF1 PEI_RECOVERY_USER 0xF2 PEI_RECOVERY_STARTED 0xF3 PEI_RECOVERY_CAPSULE_FOUND 0xF4 PEI_RECOVERY_CAPSULE_LOADED 0xE0 PEI_S3_STARTED 0xE1 PEI_S3_BOOT_SCRIPT 0xE2 PEI_S3_VIDEO_REPOST...
  • Page 56 Z490 AQUA 0xE3 PEI_S3_OS_WAKE 0x50 PEI_MEMORY_INVALID_TYPE 0x53 PEI_MEMORY_NOT_DETECTED 0x55 PEI_MEMORY_NOT_INSTALLED 0x57 PEI_CPU_MISMATCH 0x58 PEI_CPU_SELF_TEST_FAILED 0x59 PEI_CPU_NO_MICROCODE 0x5A PEI_CPU_ERROR 0x5B PEI_RESET_NOT_AVAILABLE 0xD0 DXE_CPU_ERROR 0xD1 DXE_NB_ERROR 0xD2 DXE_SB_ERROR 0xD3 DXE_ARCH_PROTOCOL_NOT_AVAILABLE 0xD4 DXE_PCI_BUS_OUT_OF_RESOURCES 0xD5 DXE_LEGACY_OPROM_NO_SPACE 0xD6 DXE_NO_CON_OUT 0xD7 DXE_NO_CON_IN...
  • Page 57 0xD8 DXE_INVALID_PASSWORD 0xD9 DXE_BOOT_OPTION_LOAD_ERROR 0xDA DXE_BOOT_OPTION_FAILED 0xDB DXE_FLASH_UPDATE_FAILED 0xDC DXE_RESET_NOT_AVAILABLE 0xE8 PEI_MEMORY_S3_RESUME_FAILED 0xE9 PEI_S3_RESUME_PPI_NOT_FOUND 0xEA PEI_S3_BOOT_SCRIPT_ERROR 0xEB PEI_S3_OS_WAKE_ERROR...

  • Page 58: Sli Tm Operation Guide

    Z490 AQUA 2.11 SLI Operation Guide ® This motherboard supports NVIDIA (Scalable Link Interface) technology that allows you to install up to two identical PCI Express x16 graphics cards. Requirements 1. You should only use identical SLI -ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA ®...
  • Page 59 Step 3 Align and insert the ASRock SLI_HB_ Bridge_2S Card to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure the ASRock SLI_ HB_Bridge_2S Card is firmly in place. SLI_HB_Bridge_2S Car d ASRock SLI_HB_Bridge_2S Card Step 4 Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the...
  • Page 60 Z490 AQUA 2.11.2 Driver Installation and Setup Install the graphics card drivers to your system. After that, you can enable the ® Multi-Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) in the NVIDIA nView system tray utility. Please follow the below procedures to enable the multi-GPU.

  • Page 61: Crossfirex Tm , 3-Way Crossfirex

    2.12 CrossFireX , 3-Way CrossFireX and Quad CrossFireX Operation Guide This motherboard supports CrossFireX , 3-way CrossFireX and Quad CrossFireX that allows you to install up to three identical PCI Express x16 graphics cards. 1. You should only use identical CrossFireX -ready graphics cards that are AMD certified.
  • Page 62 Z490 AQUA Step 3 Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.

  • Page 63: Installing Three Crossfirex Tm -Ready Graphics Cards

    2.12.2 Installing Three CrossFireX -Ready Graphics Cards Step 1 Insert one graphics card into PCIE1 slot, another graphics card to PCIE4 slot, and the other graphics card to PCIE5 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Step 2 Use one CrossFire Bridge to connect the graphics cards on PCIE1 and PCIE4...
  • Page 64 Z490 AQUA 2.12.3 Driver Installation and Setup Step 1 Power on your computer and boot into OS. Step 2 Remove the AMD drivers if you have any VGA drivers installed in your system. The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation.

  • Page 65: M.2_Ssd (Ngff) Module Installation Guide (M2_1, M2_2)

    2.13 M.2_SSD (NGFF) Module Installation Guide (M2_1, M2_2) The M.2, also known as the Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a small size and versatile card edge connector that aims to replace mPCIe and mSATA. The Ultra M.2 Socket (M2_1) supports M Key type 2260/2280 M.2 PCI Express module up to Gen3 x4 (32 Gb/s).
  • Page 66 Z490 AQUA M2_1 Step 3 Before installing a M.2 (NGFF) SSD module, please loosen the screws to remove the M.2 heatsink. *Please remove the protective films on the bottom side of the M.2 heatsink before you install a M.2 SSD module.
  • Page 67 XP941-512G (MZHPU512HCGL) SanDisk PCIe SD6PP4M-128G SanDisk PCIe SD6PP4M-256G TEAM PCIe3 x4 TM8FP2240G0C101 TEAM PCIe3 x4 TM8FP2480GC110 PCIe3 x4 WDS256G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) PCIe3 x4 WDS512G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) For the latest updates of M.2_SSD (NFGG) module support list, please visit our website for details: http://www.asrock.com...
  • Page 68 Z490 AQUA M.2_SSD (NGFF) Module Support List (M2_2) Vendor Interface ADATA SATA3 AXNS381E-128GM-B ADATA SATA3 AXNS381E-256GM-B ADATA SATA3 ASU800NS38-256GT-C ADATA SATA3 ASU800NS38-512GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX7000NP-128GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX8000NP-256GM-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX7000NP-256GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX8000NP-512GM-C ADATA PCIe3 x4...
  • Page 69 SATA3 VLM100-120G-2280B-RD V-Color SATA3 VLM100-240G-2280RGB V-Color SATA3 VSM100-240G-2280 V-Color SATA3 VLM100-240G-2280B-RD SATA3 WDS100T1B0B-00AS40 SATA3 WDS240G1G0B-00RC30 PCIe3 x4 WDS256G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) PCIe3 x4 WDS512G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) For the latest updates of M.2_SSD (NFGG) module support list, please visit our website for details: http://www.asrock.com...
  • Page 70 Z490 AQUA 2.14 M.2_SSD (NGFF) Module Installation Guide (M2_3) The M.2, also known as the Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a small size and versatile card edge connector that aims to replace mPCIe and mSATA. The Ultra M.2 Socket (M2_3) supports M Key type 2260/2280/22110 M.2 SATA3 6.0 Gb/s module and M.2 PCI Express module up to Gen3 x4 (32 Gb/s).
  • Page 71 Step 3 Before installing a M.2 (NGFF) SSD module, please loosen the screws to remove the M.2 heatsink. *Please remove the protective films on the bottom side of the M.2 heatsink before you install a M.2 SSD module. Step 4 Prepare the M.2 standoff that comes with the package.
  • Page 72 Z490 AQUA M.2_SSD (NGFF) Module Support List (M2_3) Vendor Interface ADATA SATA3 AXNS330E-32GM-B ADATA SATA3 AXNS381E-128GM-B ADATA SATA3 AXNS381E-256GM-B ADATA SATA3 ASU800NS38-256GT-C ADATA SATA3 ASU800NS38-512GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX7000NP-128GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX8000NP-256GM-C ADATA PCIe3 x4 ASX7000NP-256GT-C ADATA PCIe3 x4...
  • Page 73 SATA3 VLM100-120G-2280B-RD V-Color SATA3 VLM100-240G-2280RGB V-Color SATA3 VSM100-240G-2280 V-Color SATA3 VLM100-240G-2280B-RD SATA3 WDS100T1B0B-00AS40 SATA3 WDS240G1G0B-00RC30 PCIe3 x4 WDS256G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) PCIe3 x4 WDS512G1X0C-00ENX0 (NVME) For the latest updates of M.2_SSD (NFGG) module support list, please visit our website for details: http://www.asrock.com...

  • Page 74: Chapter 3 Software And Utilities Operation

    Z490 AQUA Chapter 3 Software and Utilities Operation 3.1 Installing Drivers The Support CD that comes with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and useful utilities that enhance the motherboard’s features. Running The Support CD To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD automatically displays the Main Menu if “AUTORUN”...

  • Page 75: Asrock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning)

    3.2.1 Installing ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) can be downloaded from ASRock Live Update & APP Shop. After the installation, you will find the icon “ASRock Mother- board Utility (A-Tuning)“ on your desktop. Double-click the “ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning)“...
  • Page 76 Z490 AQUA OC Tweaker Configurations for overclocking the system. System Info View information about the system. *The System Browser tab may not appear for certain models.
  • Page 77 Settings Configure ASRock ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning). Click to select "Auto run at Windows Startup" if you want ASRock Motherboard Utility (A-Tuning) to be launched when you start up the Windows operating system.

  • Page 78: Asrock Live Update & App Shop

    Double-click on your desktop to access ASRock Live Update & APP Shop utility. *You need to be connected to the Internet to download apps from the ASRock Live Update & APP Shop. 3.3.1 UI Overview Category Panel Hot News...

  • Page 79: Apps

    3.3.2 Apps When the "Apps" tab is selected, you will see all the available apps on screen for you to download. Installing an App Step 1 Find the app you want to install. The most recommended app appears on the left side of the screen. The other various apps are shown on the right.
  • Page 80 Z490 AQUA Step 3 If you want to install the app, click on the red icon to start downloading. Step 4 When installation completes, you can find the green "Installed" icon appears on the upper right corner. To uninstall it, simply click on the trash can icon...
  • Page 81 Upgrading an App You can only upgrade the apps you have already installed. When there is an available new version for your app, you will find the mark of "New Version" appears below the installed app icon. Step 1 Click on the app icon to see more details. Step 2 Click on the yellow icon to start upgrading.

  • Page 82: Bios & Drivers

    Z490 AQUA 3.3.3 BIOS & Drivers Installing BIOS or Drivers When the "BIOS & Drivers" tab is selected, you will see a list of recommended or critical updates for the BIOS or drivers. Please update them all soon. Step 1 Please check the item information before update.

  • Page 83: Setting

    3.3.4 Setting In the "Setting" page, you can change the language, select the server location, and determine if you want to automatically run the ASRock Live Update & APP Shop on Windows startup.

  • Page 84: Nahimic Audio

    Z490 AQUA 3.4 Nahimic Audio Nahimic audio software provides an incredible high definition sound technology which boosts the audio and voice performance of your system. Nahimic Audio interface is composed of four tabs : Audio, Microphone, Sound Tracker and Settings.

  • Page 85: Asrock Polychrome Sync

    3.5 ASRock Polychrome SYNC ASRock Polychrome SYNC is a lighting control utility specifically designed for unique indi- viduals with sophisticated tastes to build their own stylish colorful lighting system. Simply by connecting the LED strip, you can customize various lighting schemes and patterns, including Static, Breathing, Strobe, Cycling, Music, Wave and more.
  • Page 86 Z490 AQUA Connecting the Addressable RGB LED Strip Connect your Addressable RGB LED strips to the Addressable LED Headers (ADDR_LED1, ADDR_LED2) on the motherboard. ADDR_LED2 DO_ADDR VOUT ADDR_LED1 DO_ADDR VOUT 1. Never install the RGB LED cable in the wrong orientation; otherwise, the cable may be damaged.
  • Page 87 ASRock Polychrome SYNC Utility Now you can adjust the RGB LED color through the ASRock Polychrome SYNC Utility. Download this utility from the ASRock Live Update & APP Shop and start coloring your PC style your way! Drag the tab to customize your preference.

  • Page 88: Chapter 4 Uefi Setup Utility

    Z490 AQUA Chapter 4 UEFI SETUP UTILITY 4.1 Introduction This section explains how to use the UEFI SETUP UTILITY to configure your system. You may run the UEFI SETUP UTILITY by pressing <F2> or <Del> right after you power on the computer, otherwise, the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) will continue with its test routines.

  • Page 89: Ez Mode

    4.2 EZ Mode The EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program by default. EZ mode is a dashboard which contains multiple readings of the system’s current status. You can check the most crucial information of your system, such as CPU speed, DRAM frequency, SATA information, fan speed, etc.

  • Page 90: Advanced Mode

    Z490 AQUA 4.3 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides more options to configure the BIOS settings. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the EZ Mode, press <F6> or click the "EZ Mode" button at the upper right corner of the screen.

  • Page 91: Navigation Keys

    4.3.2 Navigation Keys Use < > key or < > key to choose among the selections on the menu bar, and use < > key or < > key to move the cursor up or down to select items, then press <Enter>...

  • Page 92: Main Screen

    Z490 AQUA 4.4 Main Screen When you enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY, the Main screen will appear and display the system overview. The availability and location of BIOS settings can be different for different models and BIOS versions. My Favorite...

  • Page 93: Oc Tweaker Screen

    4.5 OC Tweaker Screen In the OC Tweaker screen, you can set up overclocking features. Because the UEFI software is constantly being updated, the following UEFI setup screens and descriptions are for reference purpose only, and they may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
  • Page 94 Z490 AQUA CPU Configuration AVX2 Ratio Offset AVX Ratio Offset specifies a negative offset from the CPU Ratio for AVX workloads. AVX is a more stressful workload that lower the AVX ratio to ensure maximum possible ratio for SSE workloads.
  • Page 95 Dual Tau Boost Enable Dual Tau Boost feature. This is only applicable for CMLS 35W/65W/125W skus.This item is only supported with processors with Config TDP support. Long Duration Power Limit Configure Package Power Limit 1 in watts. When the limit is exceeded, the CPU ratio will be lowered after a period of time.
  • Page 96 Z490 AQUA Primary Timing CAS# Latency (tCL) The time between sending a column address to the memory and the beginning of the data in response. RAS# to CAS# Delay and Row Precharge (tRCDtRP) RAS# to CAS# Delay : The number of clock cycles required between the opening of a row of memory and accessing columns within it.
  • Page 97 Write to Read Delay (tWTR_S) The number of clocks between the last valid write operation and the next read command to the same internal bank. Read to Precharge (tRTP) The number of clocks that are inserted between a read command to a row pre- charge command to the same rank.
  • Page 98 Z490 AQUA tRDWR_dg Configure between module read to write delay. tRDWR_dr Configure between module read to write delay. tRDWR_dd Configure between module read to write delay. tWRRD_sg Configure between module write to read delay. tWRRD_dg Configure between module write to read delay.
  • Page 99 RTL (CH A) Configure round trip latency for channel A. RTL (CH B) Configure round trip latency for channel B. IOL (CH A) Configure IO latency for channel A. IOL (CH B) Configure IO latency for channel B. IOL Offset (CH A) Configure IO latency offset for channel A.
  • Page 100 Z490 AQUA ODT NOM (A2) Use this to change ODT (CH A2) Auto/Manual settings. The default is [Auto]. ODT NOM (B1) Use this to change ODT (CH B1) Auto/Manual settings. The default is [Auto]. ODT NOM (B2) Use this to change ODT (CH B2) Auto/Manual settings. The default is [Auto].
  • Page 101 Exit On Failure Configure the Exit On Failure for MRC training steps. Reset On Training Fail Reset system if the MRC training fails. MRC Fast Boot Enable Memory Fast Boot to skip DRAM memory training for booting faster. Voltage Configuration CPU Core/Cache Voltage Input voltage for the processor by the external voltage refulator.
  • Page 102 Z490 AQUA VCCIO Voltage Configure the voltage for the VCCIO. VCCSTG Voltage Configure the voltage for the VCCTG. VCCSTG_OUT Voltage Configure the voltage for the VCCTG_OUT. VCCPLL Voltage Configure the voltage for the VCCPLL. VCCST Voltage Configure the voltage for the VCCST.

  • Page 103: Advanced Screen

    4.6 Advanced Screen In this section, you may set the configurations for the following items: CPU Configuration, Chipset Configuration, Storage Configuration, Intel(R) Thunderbolt, ACPI Configuration, USB Configuration and Trusted Computing. Setting wrong values in this section may cause the system to malfunction. UEFI Configuration UEFI Setup Style Select the default mode when entering the UEFI setup utility.

  • Page 104: Cpu Configuration

    Z490 AQUA 4.6.1 CPU Configuration Intel Hyper Threading Technology Intel Hyper Threading Technology allows multiple threads to run on each core, so that the overall performance on threaded software is improved. Active Processor Cores Select the number of cores to enable in each processor package.
  • Page 105 Package C State Support Enable CPU, PCIe, Memory, Graphics C State Support for power saving. CFG Lock This item allows you to disable or enable the CFG Lock. C6DRAM Enable/Disable moving of DRAM contents to PRM memory when CPU is in C6 state.

  • Page 106: Chipset Configuration

    Z490 AQUA 4.6.2 Chipset Configuration Primary Graphics Adapter Select a primary VGA. Above 4G Decoding Enable or disable 64bit capable Devices to be decoded in Above 4G Address Space (only if the system supports 64 bit PCI decoding). VT-d Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O helps your virtual machine...
  • Page 107 PCIE2 Link Speed Select the link speed for PCIE2. PCIE3 Link Speed Select the link speed for PCIE3. PCIE4 Link Speed Select the link speed for PCIE4. PCIE5 Link Speed Select the link speed for PCIE5. PCI Express Native Control Select Enable for enhanced PCI Express power saving in OS.
  • Page 108 Z490 AQUA Onboard HD Audio Enable/disable onboard HD audio. Set to Auto to enable onboard HD audio and automatically disable it when a sound card is installed. Onboard HDMI HD Audio Enable audio for the onboard digital outputs. Onboard WAN Device Use this item to enable or disable the onboard WAN device.

  • Page 109: Storage Configuration

    4.6.3 Storage Configuration SATA Controller(s) Enable/disable the SATA controllers. SATA Mode Selection AHCI: Supports new features that improve performance. RAID: Combine multiple disk drives into a logical unit. SATA Aggressive Link Power Management SATA Aggressive Link Power Management allows SATA devices to enter a low power state during periods of inactivity to save power.
  • Page 110 Z490 AQUA Third Party SATA3 Hot Plug Enable or disable the third party SATA3 hot plug. Third Party SATA 3 Mode Enable or disable the third party SATA3 mode.

  • Page 111: Intel(R) Thunderbolt

    4.6.4 Intel(R) Thunderbolt Discrete Thunderbolt(TM) Support Enable or disable the Discrete Thunderbolt(TM) Support. Thunderbolt Boot Support Enabled to allow booting from Bootable devices which are present behind Thunderbolt. Thunderbolt Usb Support Enabled to allow booting from Usb devices which are present behind Thunderbolt. Titan Ridge Workaround for OSUP Enable or disable Titan Ridge Workaround for OSUP.

  • Page 112: Acpi Configuration

    Z490 AQUA 4.6.5 ACPI Configuration Suspend to RAM Select disable for ACPI suspend type S1. It is recommended to select auto for ACPI S3 power saving. PCIE Devices Power On Allow the system to be waked up by a PCIE device and enable wake on LAN.

  • Page 113: Usb Configuration

    4.6.6 USB Configuration XHCI Hand-off This is a workaround for OSes without XHCI hand-off support. The XHCI ownership change should be claimed by XHCI driver.

  • Page 114: Trusted Computing

    Z490 AQUA 4.6.7 Trusted Computing Security Device Support Enable or disable BIOS support for security device.

  • Page 115: Tools

    ASRock Polychrome RGB Select LED lighting color. UEFI Tech Service Contact ASRock Tech Service if you are having trouble with your PC. Please setup network configuration before using UEFI Tech Service. Easy RAID Installer Easy RAID Installer helps you to copy the RAID driver from the support CD to your USB storage device.
  • Page 116 Bios MEI Recovery Flash Starts BIOS recovery flash. Internet Flash - DHCP (Auto IP), Auto ASRock Internet Flash downloads and updates the latest UEFI firmware version from our servers for you. Please setup network configuration before using Internet Flash. *For BIOS backup and recovery purpose, it is recommended to plug in your USB pen drive before using this function.

  • Page 117: Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen

    4.8 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen This section allows you to monitor the status of the hardware on your system, including the parameters of the CPU temperature, motherboard temperature, fan speed and voltage. Fan Tuning Measure Fan Min Duty Cycle. Fan-Tastic Tuning Select a fan mode for CPU Fan, or choose Customize to set 5 CPU temperatures and assign a respective fan speed for each temperature.
  • Page 118 Z490 AQUA CPU Fan 2 Setting Select a fan mode for CPU Fan, or choose Customize to set 5 CPU temperatures and assign a respective fan speed for each temperature. CPU Fan 2 Temp Source Select a fan temperature source for CPU Fan 2.
  • Page 119 Chassis Fan 3 Setting Select a fan mode for Chassis Fan 3, or choose Customize to set 5 CPU temperatures and assign a respective fan speed for each temperature. Chassis Fan 3 Temp Source Select a fan temperature source for Chassis Fan 3. CHA_FAN4 / W_PUMP Switch Select Chassis Fan 4 or Water Pump mode.
  • Page 120 Z490 AQUA Chassis Fan 6 Setting Select a fan mode for Chassis Fan 6, or choose Customize to set 5 CPU temperatures and assign a respective fan speed for each temperature. Chassis Fan 6 Temp Source Select a fan temperature source for Chassis Fan 6.

  • Page 121: Security Screen

    4.9 Security Screen In this section you may set or change the supervisor/user password for the system. You may also clear the user password. Supervisor Password Set or change the password for the administrator account. Only the administrator has authority to change the settings in the UEFI Setup Utility. Leave it blank and press enter to remove the password.

  • Page 122: Boot Screen

    Z490 AQUA 4.10 Boot Screen This section displays the available devices on your system for you to configure the boot settings and the boot priority. Fast Boot Fast Boot minimizes your computer's boot time. In fast mode you may not boot from an USB storage device.
  • Page 123 Full Screen Logo Enable to display the boot logo or disable to show normal POST messages. AddOn ROM Display Enable AddOn ROM Display to see the AddOn ROM messages or configure the AddOn ROM if you've enabled Full Screen Logo. Disable for faster boot speed. Boot Failure Guard Message If the computer fails to boot for a number of times the system automatically restores the default settings.
  • Page 124 Z490 AQUA Launch Storage OpROM Policy Select UEFI only to run those that support UEFI option ROM only. Select Legacy only to run those that support legacy option ROM only. Select Do not launch to not execute both legacy and UEFI option ROM.

  • Page 125: Exit Screen

    4.11 Exit Screen Save Changes and Exit When you select this option the following message, “Save configuration changes and exit setup?” will pop out. Select [OK] to save changes and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY. Discard Changes and Exit When you select this option the following message, “Discard changes and exit setup?”...
  • Page 126 Contact Information If you need to contact ASRock or want to know more about ASRock, you’re welcome to visit ASRock’s website at http://www.asrock.com; or you may contact your dealer for further information. For technical questions, please submit a support request form at http://www.asrock.com/support/tsd.asp...
  • Page 127 13848 Magnolia Ave, Chino, CA91710 Phone/Fax No: +1-909-590-8308/+1-909-590-1026 hereby declares that the product Product Name : Motherboard Z490 AQUA Model Number : Conforms to the following speci cations: FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators Supplementary Information: is device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the...
  • Page 128 EU Declaration of Conformity For the following equipment: Motherboard (Product Name) Z490 AQUA / ASRock (Model Designation / Trade Name) ASRock Incorporation (Manufacturer Name) 2F., No.37, Sec. 2, Jhongyang S. Rd., Beitou District, Taipei City 112, Taiwan (R.O.C.) (Manufacturer Address) EMC —Directive 2014/30/EU (from April 20th, 2016)

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