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Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA

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Summary of Contents for Asus Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA

  • Page 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Ai Tweaker menu ................ 2-19 Advanced menu ................. 2-28 Monitor menu ................2-37 Boot menu .................. 2-42 Tool menu ................... 2-47 2.10 Exit menu ..................2-49 2.11 Installing an operating system ..........2-50 Appendix Notices .......................A-1 ASUS contact information ...............A-5...
  • Page 4: Safety Information

    Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
  • Page 5: Conventions Used In This Guide

    Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.
  • Page 6: Package Contents

    * Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Please refer to Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List) for details. ** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List). Integrated graphics processor - Intel HD Graphics support ®...
  • Page 7: Performance Optimization

    ® Anti-surge LANGuard GameFirst technology ASMedia USB 3.1 Controller - supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost: ® - 2 x USB 3.1 ports (1 Type-A, red; 1 Type-C, black at back panel) Intel Z170 Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost: ®...
  • Page 8 - CrashFree BIOS 3 - EZ Flash 3 Q-Design - ASUS Q-Shield - ASUS Q-DIMM - ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) - ASUS Q-Slot ASUS Exclusive Features - USB 3.1 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.1 transmission - AI Suite 3...
  • Page 9 1 x ROG extension (ROG_EXT) connector 128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 3.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 BIOS features EZ Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My Favorites, F9 Quick Note, Last...
  • Page 11: Chapter 1 Product Introduction

    1.2.2 Screw holes Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 12: Motherboard Layout

    Place this side towards the rear of the chassis 1.2.3 Motherboard layout 24.4cm(9.6in) KBMS _USB1314 EATX12V CPU_FAN RGBLED DIGI CPU_OPT +VRM BOOT_DEVICE_LED VGA_LED 1442K DRAM_LED CPU_LED LGA1151 USB3_3456 USB3.1_EC1 1542 1142 LAN_USB3.1_EA1 AUDIO CHA_FAN1 PCIEX1_1 Intel I219V PCIEX16_1 Intel ® Z170 Super PCIEX1_2...
  • Page 13: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    18. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM) 1-17 19. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-20 20. 3D Mount holes 1-14 21. SupremeFX LED 1-25 22. PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots 1-11 23. PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots 1-11 Central Processing Unit (CPU) This motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1151 socket designed for 6th Generation Intel Core™ i7 / i5 / i3, Pentium , and Celeron processors. ® ® ® Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA CPU socket LGA1151 ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 14: Installing The Cpu

    Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU. • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for the LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1150, LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1151 socket. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. • Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1151 socket. • The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP cap. 1.3.1 Installing the CPU Top of CPU Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 15 Bottom of CPU Bottom of CPU Top of CPU ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 16: Cpu Heatsink And Fan Assembly Installation

    Ensure that the CPU is firmly clicked into place before installing it onto the CPU socket on the motherboard. • Use the CPU Installation Tool for installing the CPU only. DO NOT damage or bend the CPU Installation Tool. • Always firmly hold both sides of the CPU Installation Tool when installing, removing, or picking up the CPU Installation Tool. • ASUS will not cover damages resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, incorrect CPU orientation/placement, or other damages resulting from negligence by the user. 1.3.2 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary. To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly...
  • Page 17 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 18: System Memory

    System memory 1.4.1 Overview This motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot. According to Intel CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65 V is recommended to protect the ® CPU. Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 288-pin DDR4 DIMM sockets 1.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, and 16 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. You can refer to the recommended memory population below. Recommended memory configurations Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 19 I nstall a 64-bit Windows OS if you want to install 4GB or more on the ® motherboard. F or more details, refer to the Microsoft support site at http://support.microsoft. ® com/kb/929605/en-us. • The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked or at a higher frequency, refer to section 2.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency adjustment. • Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules. • We highly recommend to use 4-DIMM/2-DIMM kit for full DIMM configuration. Full DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs or Memory. • For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 20: Installing A Dimm

    1.4.3 Installing a DIMM To remove a DIMM 1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 21: Expansion Slots

    Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is completely seated on the slot. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier. Replace the system cover. 1.5.2 Configuring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for information on BIOS setup. Assign an IRQ to the card. Install the software drivers for the expansion card. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. 1.5.3 PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express 3.0 x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. 1.5.4 PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots This motherboard has three PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express 3.0 x16 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express specifications. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-11...
  • Page 22: Irq Assignments For This Motherboard

    PCI Express operating mode VGA configuration PCIe 3.0 x16_1 PCIe 3.0 x16_2 PCIe 3.0 x16_3 Single VGA/PCIe x16 (Recommended for card single VGA card) Dual VGA/PCIe cards Triple VGA/PCIe cards • In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance. • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running SLI™ or CrossFireX™ mode. See page 1-19 for details. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIE x16_1 Shared –...
  • Page 23: Headers / Jumpers / Holes

    Headers / Jumpers / Holes Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC) This header allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. CLRTC PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Clear RTC RAM To erase the RTC RAM: Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. Use a metal object such as a screwdriver to short the two pins. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re- enter data. • If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and short the two pins again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery. • You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R.) feature.
  • Page 24 CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2. CPU_OV Disable Enable (default setting) Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA CPU_OV setting 3D Mount holes Create a 3D printout and secure it to these 3D Mount holes for a personalized motherboard. 3D MOUNT Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 3D MOUNT • Download 3D source files at http://www.asus.com. • Use the bundled 3D mount printing screws to install the 3D printouts. 1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 25: Connectors

    Center / Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a 4.1 channel, 5.1 channel, or 7.1 channel audio configuration. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources. Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In the 4.1, 5.1, and 7.1 channel configurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-15...
  • Page 26 Audio 2, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel configuration Headset Port 4.1-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel 2-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Side Speaker Out Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Optical S/PDIF out port. This port allows you to connect your PC to amplified speakers, headphones, or Sony/Phillips Digital Interconnect Format (S/PDIF) compliant devices. USB 3.1 Type A port. This 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type A port is for USB 3.1 devices.
  • Page 27: Internal Connectors

    1.7.2 Internal connectors Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Serial port (COM) connector The COM module is purchased separately. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance the network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity. PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA TPM connector ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 28 CPU_FAN CPU_OPT CHA_FAN3 CHA FAN PWR CHA FAN IN CHA_FAN1 CHA_FAN2 EXT_FAN PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Fan connectors • Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure that the CPU fan cable is securely installed to the CPU fan connector. • The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 1 A (12 W) fan power. •...
  • Page 29 +5 Volts Power OK -5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts PSON# +3 Volts -12 Volts +3 Volts +3 Volts PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA ATX power connectors • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W. • DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system will not boot up. • We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices or when you intend to install additional devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is...
  • Page 30 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. AAFP PIN 1 HD-audio-compliant Legacy AC’97 pin definition compliant definition Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Front panel audio connector • We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability. • If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]. If you want to connect an AC’97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this connector is set to [HD]. See section 2.6.8 Onboard Devices Configuration for details. ROG Extension - ROG_EXT connector (18-1 pin ROG_EXT) This connector is for the Front Base.
  • Page 31 PIN 1 USB3+5V USB3+5V IntA_P1_SSRX- IntA_P2_SSRX- IntA_P1_SSRX+ IntA_P2_SSRX+ IntA_P1_SSTX- IntA_P2_SSTX- IntA_P1_SSTX+ IntA_P2_SSTX+ IntA_P1_D- IntA_P2_D- IntA_P1_D+ IntA_P2_D+ Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA USB3.0 Front panel connector The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately. • This connector is based on xHCI specification. We recommend you to install the related driver to fully use the USB 3.0 ports under Windows ® • The plugged USB 3.0 device will run on xHCI mode. • These USB 3.0 ports support native UASP transfer standard in Windows 8.1 and ® Turbo Mode when using USB 3.0 Boost feature. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-21...
  • Page 32 RSATA_TXP3 RSATA_TXP4 RSATA_TXN3 RSATA_TXN4 RSATA_RXN3 RSATA_RXN4 RSATA_RXP3 RSATA_RXP4 SATA6G_5 SATA6G_6 RSATA_TXP5 RSATA_TXP6 RSATA_TXN5 RSATA_TXN6 RSATA_RXN5 RSATA_RXN6 RSATA_RXP5 RSATA_RXP6 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Intel SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors ® • These connectors are set to [AHCI] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID]. Refer to section 2.6.6 PCH Storage Configuration for details. • Before creating a RAID set, refer to the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD. 1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 33: System Panel Connector

    System panel connector (20-5 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PANEL +PWR_LED- SPEAKER PWR_SW PIN 1 +HDD_LED- RESET +PWR_LED- * Requires an ATX power supply Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA System panel connector • System power LED (2-pin +PWR_LED-) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. • Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +HDD_LED-) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector. The HDD LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. • System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker...
  • Page 34 • This socket supports M Key and type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices. • The M.2 (NGFF) SSD module is purchased separately. • When the M.2 Socket 3 is operating in SATA mode, SATA port 1 will be disabled. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specifications and supports up to 480Mbps connection speed. USB78 USB910 USB1112 PIN 1 PIN 1 PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA USB2.0 connectors Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately. 1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 35: Onboard Led

    SB_PWR Standby Power Powered Off Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Onboard LED SupremeFX LED The SupremeFX LED lights up in the following three ways to bring you an ultimate lighting effect. This LED also outlines the separation of the audio components from the rest of your motherboard. SupremeFX LED Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA SupremeFX LED Lighting Lit mode Description Breathing mode The LED blinks intermittently. Flowing mode The LED lights up and dims like flowing water. Still mode The LED becomes solid red. You can turn off the SupremeFX LED or change the lit modes from the BIOS or the LED Control app in Ai Suite 3. To change the setting in BIOS, go to Advanced > Onboard Devices Configuration >...
  • Page 36 VGA_LED DRAM_LED CPU_LED Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA CPU/DRAM/ BOOT_DEVICE/VGA LED RGB LED The RGB LED lighting control provides several lighting schemes, which allow you to customize your favorite LED effect. You can set your favorite LED effect to cast a stunning multi-color glow across your build, change shades to indicate CPU temperature, pulsate in time to the beat of your music, or set your favorite color for each pair of LEDs. RGB1 RGB2 RGB3 RGB4 RGB5 RGB LED(Bottom) RGB6 RGB7 RGB8 RGB9 RGB10 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA RGB LED Lighting You can change the lighting schemes from the LED Control app named AURA 1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 37: Software Support

    To run the Support DVD Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the DVD automatically displays the lists of the unique features of your ASUS motherboard. Click the Driver, Utilities, Manual, or Special tabs to display their respective menus. The following screen is for reference only. Click an icon to display a tab Click to install Tick an item and click Install to install it If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to locate the file Setup.exe in the root folder. Double-click the Setup.exe to run the DVD. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-27...
  • Page 38 1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 39: Chapter 2 Bios Information

    Managing and updating your BIOS Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility.
  • Page 40: Asus Ez Flash

    2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 The ASUS EZ Flash 3 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS‑based utility. • Ensure that you load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.10 Exit Menu for details.
  • Page 41: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS file.
  • Page 42 ENTER to select boot device ESC to boot using defaults P2: ST3808110AS (76319MB) aigo miniking (250MB) UEFI: (FAT) ASUS DRW-2014L1T(4458MB) P1: ASUS DRW-2014L1T(4458MB) UEFI: (FAT) aigo miniking (250MB) Enter Setup When the booting message appears, press <Enter> within five (5) seconds to enter FreeDOS prompt.
  • Page 43 DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failaure. Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 2.10 Exit Menu for details. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑5...
  • Page 44: Bios Setup Program

    The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this • motherboard.
  • Page 45 Click the button to manually Saves the changes tune the fans and resets the Selects the boot Loads optimized system device priority default settings The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑7...
  • Page 46: Advanced Mode

    2.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end‑users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the EZ Mode, click EzMode(F7) or press <F7>. EZ Tuning MyFavorite Q-Fan control...
  • Page 47: Menu Bar

    This button above the menu bar allows you to view and tweak the overclocking settings of your system. It also allows you to change the motherboard’s SATA mode from AHCI to RAID mode. Refer to section 2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard for more information. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 48: Hot Keys

    Search on FAQ Move your mouse over this button to show a QR code. Scan this QR code with your mobile device to connect to the ASUS BIOS FAQ web page. You can also scan the QR code below. Scroll bar A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on the screen.
  • Page 49: Qfan Control

    Click to select a fan Click to activate DC to be configured Mode Select a profile to apply Click to apply to your fans the fan setting Click to undo Click to the changes go back to main menu ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-11...
  • Page 50 Configuring fans manually Select Manual from the list of profiles to manually configure your fans’ operating speed. Click to manually Speed points configure your fans To configure your fans: Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’...
  • Page 51: Ez Tuning Wizard

    Select the CPU fan type (Box cooler, Tower cooler, or Water cooler) that you installed then click Next. If you are not sure of the CPU fan type, click I’m not sure. The system automatically detects the CPU fan type. Click Next then click Yes to confirm auto‑tuning. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑13...
  • Page 52: Creating Raid

    Creating RAID To create RAID: Press <F11> on your keyboard or click from the BIOS screen to open EZ Tuning Wizard screen. Click RAID then click Yes to enable RAID. • Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes. •...
  • Page 53 Next. After selecting the type of RAID, click Yes to continue the RAID setup. After the RAID setup is done, click Yes to exit the setup then click OK to reset your system. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑15...
  • Page 54: My Favorites

    My Favorites MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. My Favorites comes with several performance, power saving, and fast boot related items by default. You can personalize this screen by adding or removing items. Adding items to My Favorites To add BIOS items: Press <F3>...
  • Page 55: Main Menu

    RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.6 Headers/Jumpers/Holes for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default • Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑17...
  • Page 56: Administrator Password

    Administrator Password If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator password for accessing the system. To set an administrator password: Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>. From the Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click OK.
  • Page 57: Ai Tweaker Menu

    Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system automatically. [Manual] Allows you to assign the BCLK (base clock) frequency manually. The following items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual]. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-19...
  • Page 58 [Normal(800MHz)] [1GHz] [400MHz] 2.5.3 ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto] [Auto] This item allows you to maximize the oveclocking performance optimized by ASUS core ratio settings. [Disabled] This item allows you to set to default core ratio settings. 2.5.4 CPU Core Ratio [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU core ratio limit per core or synchronize automatically to all cores.
  • Page 59 2.5.8 EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) sets the CPU in its minimum power consumption settings. Enable this item to set lower CPU VCCIN and Vcore voltages and achieve the best energy saving condition. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.5.9...
  • Page 60: Dram Timing Control

    2.5.10 DRAM Timing Control The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key. Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings.
  • Page 61 Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 250KHz to 500KHz with a 50KHz interval. CPU Graphics Power Phase Control [Auto] This item allows you to set the power phase control of GT. Configuration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑23...
  • Page 62 2.5.12 Internal CPU Power Management The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and their features. Intel SpeedStep [Auto] ® This item allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores frequency, resulting to a decreased average power consumption and decreased average heat production.
  • Page 63 Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from ‑0.635V to +0.635V with a 0.005V interval. The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode]. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑25...
  • Page 64 Offset Mode Sign [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. Additional Turbo Mode CPU Core Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the CPU cores when running in turbo mode.
  • Page 65 The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM reference voltage on the control lines from the memory bus. You can use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.39500V to 0.63000V with a 0.00500V interval. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑27...
  • Page 66: Advanced Menu

    Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. 2.6.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU‑related information that the BIOS automatically detects.
  • Page 67: Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch

    This item allows you to set the a C‑state support for the CPU package. Configuration options: [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [C7] [C7s] [C8] [Auto] [Enabled] CFG lock [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the CFG lock. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-29...
  • Page 68: Platform Misc Configuration

    ASPM to take effect. Configuration options: [Disabled] [L1] PEG ASPM [Disabled] This item allows you to select the ASPM state for energy‑saving conditions, or use the ASUS optimized energy saving profile. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASPM L0s] [ASPM L1] [ASPM L0sL1] 2.6.3...
  • Page 69: Graphics Configuration

    [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3] Memory Configuration Allows you to configure the memory configuration parameters. Memory Remap [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to support DRAM address remapping for 64‑bit operating systems. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑31...
  • Page 70: Pch Configuration

    SATA Port items show Empty if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port. Hyper Kit Mode [Disabled] Disables this option for M.2 devices. Enables this option for ASUS Hyper Kit card. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA Controller(s) [Enabled] Enables or disables onboard the SATA device.
  • Page 71: Usb Configuration

    This item allows you to enable or disable the individual USB ports. Refer to section 1.2.3 Motherboard layout for the location of the USB ports. 2.6.8 Onboard Devices Configuration HD Audio Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the HD Audio Device. [Disabled] Disables the HD Audio Device. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑33...
  • Page 72 The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to [Enabled]. Front Panel Type [HD Audio] Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high‑definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.
  • Page 73: Serial Port Configuration

    This item allows you to enable or disable the RTC (Real‑Time Clock) to generate a wake event and configure the RTC alarm date. When enabled, you can set the days, hours, minutes, or seconds to schedule an RTC alarm date. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑35...
  • Page 74: Network Stack Configuration

    2.6.10 Network Stack Configuration Network Stack [Disabled] This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following two items appear only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. Ipv4 / Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE wake event.
  • Page 75: Monitor Menu

    CPU System Agent Voltage, CPU VCCIO Voltage, DRAM Voltage, CPU Standby Voltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignore] if you do not want to detect this item. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑37...
  • Page 76 2.7.4 Q-Fan Configuration The subitems in this menu allows you to configure the Q‑Fan features. Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan. CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Auto] Enables the CPU Q‑Fan control for 4‑pin CPU fan.
  • Page 77 Use the <+> or <‑> keys to set the value for Chassis Fan Middle Temperature. Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Middle Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the chassis fan middle duty cycle. The values range from 60% to 100%. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑39...
  • Page 78 Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Lower Temperature [40] Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the chassis fans’ lower temperature. The values range from 0°C to 75°C. Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 0% to 100%.
  • Page 79 Allows the fan to run at 0% duty cycle when the temperature of the source is dropped below the lower temperature. 2.7.7 Anti Surge Support [On] This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function. Configuration options: [On] [Off] ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-41...
  • Page 80: Boot Menu

    Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. 2.8.1 Fast Boot [Enabled] [Enabled] Select to accelerate the boot speed. [Disabled] Select to go back to normal boot speed. The following five items appear when you set Fast Boot to [Enabled].
  • Page 81 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS] [Force BIOS] The third‑party ROM messages will be displayed during POST. [Keep Current] Disables the ROM messages and displays only the ASUS logo during POST. 2.8.7 Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] This item allows you to trap Interrupt 19 by the option ROMs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.8.8...
  • Page 82: Secure Boot

    Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy Only] Allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Ignore] [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first] Boot from PCI-E Expansion Devices [Legacy Only] Allows you to select the type of PCIe/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first] 2.8.10 Secure Boot...
  • Page 83: Boot Option Priorities

    Boot Option Priorities These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑45...
  • Page 84: Boot Override

    OS in Safe Mode, press <F8 > after POST (Windows 8 not supported). • To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears. 2.8.12 Boot Override These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system.
  • Page 85: Tool Menu

    <Enter> to display the submenu. 2.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 3 screen. For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3. 2.9.2 Secure Erase SSD speeds may lower over time as with any storage medium due to data processing.
  • Page 86: Asus Overclocking Profile

    Setup Animator [Disabled] Enables or disables the Setup animator. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.9.4 ASUS Overclocking Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. The Overclocking Profile items show Not assigned if no profile is created.
  • Page 87: Exit Menu

    <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to discard changes and exit. Launch EFI Shell from USB drives This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available USB devices. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-49...
  • Page 88: Installing An Operating System

    Connect the USB ODD or USB storage device to your 100 series platform. Insert the ASUS support DVD into a SATA ODD on your 100 series platform. Power on your system and press F8 during POST (Power‑On Self Test) to enter the boot screen.
  • Page 89 The USB 3.0 driver will be loaded automatically during installation startup. The “Setup is starting...” screen will show up if the USB 3.0 driver is loaded correctly. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Windows 7 installation. ® ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑51...
  • Page 90 ® source using a third‑party ISO software. Copy both “Auto_Unattend.xml” and “Auto_Unattend” folder from the root directory of the ASUS supporting DVD to your system. Edit the ISO file and add both “Auto_Unattend.xml” and “Auto_Unattend” folder into the ISO file.
  • Page 91 1 x USB storage device (8 GB or more) Insert the Windows 7 installation DVD. ® Launch the ASUS EZ Installer located on the ASUS support DVD. Select a method of creating a modified Windows 7 installation file: ® •...
  • Page 92 7 installation disk then click Next. ‑ Select the source of the Windows ® ‑ Select the USB storage device and click next. Click the refresh icon if the USB storage device is not displayed. ‑ Click Yes to clear the contents on the USB storage device and create a bootable USB device.
  • Page 93 ® - Select Windows 7 OS disk to ISO file then click Next. ‑ Check I agree and then click Next. 7 installation disk then click Next. ‑ Select the source of the Windows ® ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 2‑55...
  • Page 94 ‑ Select the folder to save the modified Windows 7 installation ISO file and click ® Next. ‑ Once completed, click OK to finish. ‑ Burn this ISO file onto an empty DVD to create a modified Windows ® installation DVD. Insert the modified Windows 7 installation DVD into an ODD or connect the USB ®...
  • Page 95: Appendix

    Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA...
  • Page 96: Canadian Department Of Communications Statement

    IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
  • Page 97 ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials.
  • Page 98 доступний на: www.asus.com/support Cijeli tekst EU izjave o sukladnosti dostupan je na: www.asus.com/support Türkçe AsusTek Computer Inc., bu aygıtın temel gereksinimlerle ve ilişkili Čeština Společnost ASUSTeK Computer Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že toto Yönergelerin diğer ilgili koşullarıyla uyumlu olduğunu beyan eder.
  • Page 99: Asus Contact Information

    +1-510-739-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.com/us/ Technical Support Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959931 Web site http://www.asus.com/de Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales Technical Support Telephone +49-2102-5789555 Support Fax...
  • Page 100: Declaration Of Conformity

    800 Corporate Way, Fremont Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 hereby declares that the product Product Name : Motherboard Model Number : Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Conforms to the following specifications: FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators Supplementary Information: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the...

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