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The revision number on your motherboard looks like this: "REV: X.X." For example, "REV: 1.0" means the revision of the motherboard is 1.0. Check your motherboard revision before updating motherboard BIOS, drivers, or when looking for technical information.
Example:
(Note 1) The connector/chip is on the back of the motherboard.
(Note 2) The connector is on the back of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
Temperature sensor
(Note 1) The connector/chip is on the back of the motherboard.
(Note 2) The connector is on the back of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
(Note) Actual support may vary by CPU.
The motherboard contains numerous delicate electronic circuits and components which can become damaged as a result of electrostatic discharge (ESD). Prior to installation, carefully read the user's manual and follow these procedures:
CPU |
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Chipset |
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Onboard Graphics |
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Audio |
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LAN |
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Wireless Communication Module |
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Expansion Slots |
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Storage Interface |
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USB |
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Internal Connectors |
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Back Panel Connectors |
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I/O Controller |
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Hardware Monitor |
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BIOS |
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Unique Features |
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Bundled Software |
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Operating System |
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Form Factor |
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*GIGABYTE reserves the right to make any changes to the product specifications and product-related information without prior notice
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for support lists of CPU, memory modules, SSDs, and M.2 devices.
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z690I-AORUS-ULTRA-PLUS-rev-10?m=dl#support-dl
https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z690I-AORUS-ULTRA-PLUS-DDR4-rev-10?m=dl#support-dl
Please visit the SERVICE/SUPPORT\Utility page on GIGABYTE's website to download the latest version of apps.
https://www.gigabyte.com/Support/Utility/Motherboard?m=ut
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the CPU:
Note the alignment keys on the motherboard CPU socket and the notches on the CPU.
Do not remove the CPU socket cover before inserting the CPU. It may pop off from the load plate automatically after you insert the CPU and close the load plate.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on hardware installation.
http://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/210/quick-guide.html?m=sw
Follow the steps below to correctly install the CPU into the motherboard CPU socket.
Do not force to engage the CPU socket locking lever when the CPU is not installed correctly as this would damage the CPU and CPU socket.
Be sure to install the CPU cooler after installing the CPU. (Actual installation process may differ depending the CPU cooler to be used. Refer to the user's manual for your CPU cooler.)
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install the memory:
This motherboard provides two memory sockets and supports Dual Channel Technology. After the memory is installed, the BIOS will automatically detect the specifications and capacity of the memory. Enabling Dual Channel memory mode will double the original memory bandwidth.
The two memory sockets are divided into two channels and each channel has one memory socket as following:
Channel A: DDR5 AIO,DDR4 AIO
Channel B: DDR5 BIO,DDR4 BIO
Due to CPU limitations, read the following guidelines before installing the memory in Dual Channel mode.
Read the following guidelines before you begin to install an expansion card:
Follow the steps below to correctly install your expansion card in the expansion slot.
State | Description |
Green | 2.5 Gbps data rate |
Orange | 1 Gbps data rate |
Off | 100 Mbps data rate |
State | Description |
Blinking | Data transmission or receiving is occurring |
On | No data transmission or receiving is occurring |
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on configuring the audio software.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/699/realtek4080-audio.html
(Note 1) The DisplayPort does not support HDMI connection by adapter.
(Note 2) To enable the Q-Flash Plus function, please navigate to the "Unique Features" page of GIGABYTE's website for more information.
(Note 1) The connector is on the front of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
(Note 2) The connector is on the back of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
Read the following guidelines before connecting external devices:
ATX_12V_2X4/ATX (2x4 12V Power Connector and 2x12 Main Power Connector)
With the use of the power connector, the power supply can supply enough stable power to all the components on the motherboard. Before connecting the power connector, first make sure the power supply is turned off and all devices are properly installed. The power connector possesses a foolproof design. Connect the power supply cable to the power connector in the correct orientation.
The 12V power connector mainly supplies power to the CPU. If the 12V power connector is not connected, the computer will not start.
To meet expansion requirements, it is recommended that a power supply that can withstand high power consumption be used (500W or greater). If a power supply is used that does not provide the required power, the result can lead to an unstable or unbootable system.
ATX_12V_2X4:
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) |
2 | GND (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) |
3 | GND |
4 | GND |
5 | +12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) |
6 | +12V (Only for 2x4-pin 12V) |
7 | +12V |
8 | +12V |
ATX:
Pin No. | Definition | Pin No. | Definition |
1 | 3.3V | 13 | 3.3V |
2 | 3.3V | 14 | -12V |
3 | GND | 15 | GND |
4 | +5V | 16 | PS_ON (soft On/Off) |
5 | GND | 17 | GND |
6 | +5V | 18 | GND |
7 | GND | 19 | GND |
8 | Power Good | 20 | NC |
9 | 5VSB (stand by +5V) | 21 | +5V |
10 | +12V | 22 | +5V |
11 | +12V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) | 23 | +5V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) |
12 | 3.3V (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) | 24 | GND (Only for 2x12-pin ATX) |
EXT_PWR (Note) (External Power Connector)
Connect one end of the EXT_PWR cable to this connector and the other end to your power supply.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | VCC |
2 | GND |
3 | GND |
4 | +12V |
CPU_FAN/SYS_FAN1/SYS_FAN2 (Note) (Fan Headers)
All fan headers on this motherboard are 4-pin. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design. For optimum heat dissipation, it is recommended that a system fan be installed inside the chassis.
CPU_FAN
SYS_FAN1/2
Fan power extension cable
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | GND |
2 | Voltage Speed Control |
3 | Sense |
4 | PWM Speed Control |
(Note)
The connector is on the front of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
CPU_OPT (Water Cooling CPU Fan Header)
The fan header is 4-pin and possesses a foolproof insertion design. Most fan headers possess a foolproof insertion design. When connecting a fan cable, be sure to connect it in the correct orientation (the black connector wire is the ground wire). The speed control function requires the use of a fan with fan speed control design.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | GND |
2 | Voltage Speed Control |
3 | Sense |
4 | PWM Speed Control |
CPU_OPT
Fan power extension cable
Connector | CPU_FAN | SYS_FAN1 | SYS_FAN2 | CPU_OPT |
Maximum Current | 2A | 2A | 2A | 2A |
Maximum Power | 24W | 24W | 24W | 24W |
D LED(Note) (Addressable LED strip Header)
The header can be used to connect a standard 5050 addressable LED strip, with maximum power rating of 5A (5V) and maximum number of 1000 LEDs.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | V (5V) |
2 | Data |
3 | No Pin |
4 | GND |
Connect your addressable LED strip to the header. The power pin (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the LED strip must be connected to Pin 1 of the addressable LED strip header. Incorrect connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.
(Note)
The connector is on the front of GC-Z690I BTB PLUG.
LED C (RGB LED strip Header)
The header can be used to connect a standard 5050 RGB LED strip (12V/G/R/B), with maximum power rating of 2A (12V) and maximum length of 2m.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | 12V |
2 | G |
3 | R |
4 | B |
Connect one end of the RGB LED strip extension cable to the header and the other end to your RGB LED strip. The black wire (marked with a triangle on the plug) of the extension cable must be connected to Pin 1 (12V) of this header. The 12V pin (marked with an arrow) on the other end of theRGB LED extension cable must be lined up with the 12V of the LED strip. Be carefulStrip with the connection orientation of the LED strip; incorrect connection may lead to the damage of the LED strip.
For how to turn on/off the lights of the LED strip, please navigate to the "Unique Features" page of GIGABYTE's website.
Before installing the devices, be sure to turn off the devices and your computer. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet to prevent damage to the devices.
SATA3 0/1 , SATA3 0/1/2/3
(SATA 6Gb/s Connectors)
The SATA connectors conform to SATA 6Gb/s standard and are compatible with SATA 3Gb/s and SATA 1.5Gb/s standard. Each SATA connector supports a single SATA device. The Intel@Chipset supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 , and RAID 10
. Please navigate to the "Configuring a RAID Set" page of GIGABYTE's website for instructions on configuring a RAID array.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | GND |
2 | TXP |
3 | TXN |
4 | GND |
5 | RXN |
6 | RXP |
7 | GND |
To enable hot-plugging for the SATA ports, please visit the "BIOS Setup," "SATA And RST Configuration," webpage of GIGABYTE's website for more information.
M2A_CPU (Note 1) /M2P_SB (Note 2) (M.2 Socket 3 Connectors)
There are two types of M.2 SSDs: M.2 SATA SSDs and M.2 PCIe SSDs. This motherboard only supports M.2 PCIe SSDs. Be sure to verify the type of M.2 SSDs you want to use. Please note that an M.2 PCIe SSD cannot be used to create a RAID set with a SATA hard drive. Please navigate to the "Configuring a RAID Set" page of GIGABYTE's website for instructions on configuring a RAID array.
Follow the steps below to correctly install an M 2 SSD in the M.2 connector on GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG
Step 1
Use a screwdriver to unfasten the screw on the heatsink and then remove the heatsink
Step 2
M2A CPU:
M2P SB:
Remove protective films A and B
Step 3
Locate the proper mounting hole based on the length of your M 2 SSD drive
If needed, move the standoff to the desired mounting hole. Insert the M 2 SSD into the M 2 connector at an angle. Press the M 2 SSD down and then use the included screw to secure it in the connector.
Step 4
M2A CPU:
Insert GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG vertically into the BTB connectors and secure it with the screw. Then screw the heatsink back on
M2P SB:
Screw the heatsink back on
* Types of M.2 SSDs supported by each M.2 connector:
M.2 PCIe x4 SSD | M.2 PCIe x2 SSD | M.2 SATA SSD | |
M2A_CPU | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
M2P_SB | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
(Note 1) The connector is on the back of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
(Note 2) The connector is on the front of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
F_PANEL (Front Panel Header)
Connect the power switch, reset switch, and system status indicator on the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below. Note the positive and negative pins before connecting the cables.
SPEAKER (Speaker Header)
The system reports system startup status by issuing a beep code. One single short beep will be heard if no problem is detected at system startup. This header can also provide audio output in the operating system.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | SPK+ |
2 | SPK- |
F_U32C (USB Type-C ® Header with USB 3.2 Gen 2 Support)
The header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 2 specification and can provide one USB port.
Pin No. | Definition | Pin No. | Definition |
1 | VBUS | 11 | VBUS |
2 | TX1+ | 12 | TX2+ |
3 | TX1- | 13 | TX2- |
4 | GND | 14 | GND |
5 | RX1+ | 15 | RX2+ |
6 | RX1- | 16 | RX2- |
7 | VBUS | 17 | GND |
8 | CC1 | 18 | D- |
9 | SBU1 | 19 | D+ |
10 | SBU2 | 20 | CC2 |
F_U32 (USB 3.2 Gen 1 Header)
The header conforms to USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 2.0 specification and can provide two USB ports. For purchasing the optional 3.5" front panel that provides two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, please contact the local dealer.
Pin No. | Definition | Pin No. | Definition |
1 | VBUS | 11 | D2+ |
2 | SSRX1- | 12 | D2- |
3 | SSRX1+ | 13 | GND |
4 B_ | GND | 14 | SSTX2+ B S S |
5 | SSTX1- | 15 | SSTX2- 1 |
6 | SSTX1+ | 16 | GND |
7 | GND | 17 | SSRX2+ |
8 | D1- | 18 | SSRX2- |
9 | D1+ | 19 | VBUS |
10 | NC | 20 | No Pin |
F_USB (Note) (USB 2.0/1.1 Header)
Connect one end of the front USB header extension cable to this header and the other ends to two USB brackets. The header conforms to USB 2.0/1.1 specification. Each USB header can provide two USB ports via an optional USB bracket. For purchasing the optional USB bracket, please contact the local dealer.
Front USB header extension cable
CLR CMOS (Clear CMOS Jumper)
Use this jumper to clear the BIOS configuration and reset the CMOS values to factory defaults. To clear the CMOS values, use a metal object like a screwdriver to touch the two pins for a few seconds.
(Note)
The connector is on the front of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
BAT (Battery)
The battery provides power to keep the values (such as BIOS configurations, date, and time information) in the CMOS when the computer is turned off. Replace the battery when the battery voltage drops to a low level, or the CMOS values may not be accurate or may be lost.
You may clear the CMOS values by removing the battery
Pin No. | Definition |
1 (+) | RTC Power |
2 (-) | GND |
RST_SW (Note) /RST (Reset Button/Reset Jumper)
The reset button (RST_SW) allows users to quickly turn on/off the computer in an open-case environment when they want to change hardware components or conduct hardware testing. The reset jumper (RST) can connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to perform a normal restart.
Pin No. | Definition |
1 | Reset |
2 | GND |
The reset button (RST_SW)/rest jumper (RST) provides you with several functions to use. To remap the button to perform different tasks, please navigate to the "BIOS Setup" page of GIGABYTE's website and search for "RST_SW (MULTIKEY)" for more information.
(Note)
The connector is on the front of GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG.
F_AUDIO (Front Panel Audio Header)
The front panel audio header supports High Definition audio (HD). You may connect your chassis front panel audio module to this header. Make sure the wire assignments of the module connector match the pin assignments of the motherboard header. Incorrect connection between the module connector and the motherboard header will make the device unable to work or even damage it.
Suggested F_AUDIO header routing:
Step 1
Use a screwdriver to unfasten the screw on the heatsink and then remove the heatsink
Step 2:
Use a screwdriver to remove the screw from GC-Z690I BTB PLUG. Lift the GC-Z690I BTB PLUG upwards and remove it.
Step 3
Move the F AUDIO header out of its default location and route it via the BTB connector to the bottom edge of the motherboard as shown on the left
Step 4
Insert GC-Z6901 BTB PLUG vertically into the BTB connectors and secure it with the screw. Then screw the heatsink back on
Pin No. | Definition | Pin No. | Definition |
1 | MIC L | 6 | MIC Detection |
2 | GND | 7 | SENSE_SEND F_ |
3 | MIC R | 8 | No Pin |
4 | NC | 9 | Head Phone L |
5 | Head Phone R | 10 | Head Phone Detection |
Some chassis provide a front panel audio module that has separated connectors on each wire instead of a single plug. For information about connecting the front panel audio module that has different wire assignments, please contact the chassis manufacturer.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on using the front panel audio header.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/876/Z690I-AORUS-ULTRA-DDR4-audio.html
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) records hardware parameters of the system in the CMOS on the motherboard. Its major functions include conducting the Power-On Self-Test (POST) during system startup, saving system parameters and loading operating system, etc. BIOS includes a BIOS Setup program that allows the user to modify basic system configuration settings or to activate certain system features.
When the power is turned off, the battery on the motherboard supplies the necessary power to the CMOS to keep the configuration values in the CMOS.
To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key during the POST when the power is turned on.
To upgrade the BIOS, use either the GIGABYTE Q-Flash or BIOS utility.
For instructions on using the Q-Flash and BIOS utilities, please navigate to the "Unique Features" page of GIGABYTE's website and search for "BIOS Update Utilities."
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on configuring BIOS Setup.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/819/z690-bios.html
The following startup Logo screen will appear when the computer boots.
<DEL>: BIOS SETUP\Q-FLASH
Press the <Delete> key to enter BIOS Setup or to access the Q-Flash utility in BIOS Setup.
<F12>: BOOT MENU
Boot Menu allows you to set the first boot device without entering BIOS Setup. In Boot Menu, use the up arrow key <↑> or the down arrow key <↓> to select the first boot device, then press <Enter> to accept. The system will boot from the device immediately.
Note: The setting in Boot Menu is effective for one time only. After system restart, the device boot order will still be based on BIOS Setup settings.
<END>: Q-FLASH
Press the <End> key to access the Q-Flash utility directly without having to enter BIOS Setup first.
With the correct BIOS settings, you are ready to install the operating system.
If you want to install an operating system on a RAID volume, you need to install the Intel@ RST VMD Controller driver first during the OS installation process. Refer to the steps below:
Step 1:
Go to GIGABYTE's website, browse to the motherboard model's web page, download the Intel SATA Preinstall driver file on the Support\Download\SATA RAID/AHCI page, unzip the file and copy the files to your USB thumb drive.
Step 2:
Boot from the Windows setup disc and perform standard OS installation steps. When the screen requesting you to load the driver appears, select Browse.
Step 3:
Insert the USB thumb drive and then browse to the location of the driver. When a screen as shown below appears, select Intel RST VMD Controller 467F and click Next to load the driver and continue the OS installation.
After you install the operating system, a dialog box will appear on the bottom-right corner of the desktop asking if you want to download and install the drivers and GIGABYTE applications via APP Center. Click Install to proceed with the installation. (In BIOS Setup, make sure Settings\lO Ports\APP Center Download & Install Configuration\APP Center Download & Install is set to Enabled.)
When the End User License Agreement dialog box appears, press <Accept> to install APP Center. On the APP Center screen, select the drivers and applications you want to install and click Install.
Before the installation, make sure the system is connected to the Internet.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for more software information.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/817/z690-app.html
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for more troubleshooting information.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/351/faq.html
RAID 0 | RAID 1 | RAID 5![]() | RAID 10![]() | |
Minimum Number of Hard Drives | ≥2 | 2 | ≥3 | 4 |
Array Capacity | Number of hard drives * Size of the smallest drive | Size of the smallest drive | (Number of hard drives -1) * Size of the smallest drive | (Number of hard drives/2) * Size of the smallest drive |
Fault Tolerance | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Before you begin, please prepare the following items:
This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. Prepare the correct number of hard drives as indicated in the table above before configuring a RAID array.
Please visit GIGABYTE's website for details on configuring a RAID array.
https://www.gigabyte.com/WebPage/818/z690-raid.html
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download GIGABYTE Z690I AORUS ULTRA PLUS, Z690I AORUS ULTRA PLUS DDR4 - Motherboard Manual
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