Asus PRIME Z270-K User manual

Motherboard
PRIME Z270-K

ii
E11864
First Edition
September 2016
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suchrepair,modicationofalterationisauthorizedinwritingbyASUS;or(2)theserialnumberofthe
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archives, etc. to this email address).

iii
Contents
Safety information ...................................................................................... iv
About this guide ......................................................................................... iv
Package contents ....................................................................................... vi
PRIME Z270-K specications summary ................................................... vi
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Motherboard overview................................................................. 1-1
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................. 1-10
1.4 System memory ......................................................................... 1-11
1.5 Software support........................................................................ 1-12
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1
2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 2-6
2.3 My Favorites ............................................................................... 2-14
2.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 2-16
2.5 Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................ 2-18
2.6 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-26
2.7 Monitor menu ............................................................................. 2-35
2.8 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-39
2.9 Tool menu................................................................................... 2-44
2.10 Exit menu.................................................................................... 2-46
Appendix
Notices.......................................................................................................A-1
ASUS contact information .......................................................................A-4

iv
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.
 Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power
cables are unplugged.
 Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
 Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
 Ifthepowersupplyisbroken,donottrytoxitbyyourself.Contactaqualiedservice
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
 Before installing the motherboard and adding components, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
 Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables
are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
 To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
 Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
where it may be exposed to moisture.
 Place the product on a stable surface.
 Ifyouencountertechnicalproblemswiththeproduct,contactaqualiedservice
technician or your retailer.
About this guide
Thisuserguidecontainstheinformationyouneedwheninstallingandconguringthe
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
 Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports. It includes descriptions of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the
motherboard.
 Chapter 2: BIOS information
This chapter discusses changing system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions for the BIOS parameters are also provided.

v
Where to nd more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional documentation
Yourproductpackagemayincludeoptionaldocumentation,suchaswarrantyyers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the
standard package.
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when
completing a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when
completing a task
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a
task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics Usedtoemphasizeawordoraphrase.
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).

vi
PRIME Z270-K specications summary
(continued on the next page)
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard ASUS PRIME Z270-K motherboard
Cables 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables
Accessories 1 x ASUS Q-Shield
2 x M.2 screws
Application DVD Support DVD
Documentation User Guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
Specications
CPU
LGA1151 socket for Intel®7th/6th Generation Core™ i7 / i5 / i3, Pentium®, and
Celeron®processors
Supports Intel®14nm CPU
Supports Intel®Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
* The Intel®Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU types.
** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel®CPU support list.
Chipset Intel®Z270 Chipset
Memory
4 x DIMMs, max. 64GB, DDR4 3866(O.C.)*/ 3733(O.C.)*/ 3600(O.C.)*/
3466(O.C.)*/ 3400(O.C.)*/ 3333(O.C.)*/ 3300(O.C.)*/ 3200(O.C.)*/ 3000(O.C.)*/
2800(O.C.)*/2666(O.C.)*/2400(O.C.)*/2133MHz,non-ECC,un-buffered
memory
Dual-channel memory architecture
Supports Intel®ExtremeMemoryProle(XMP)
* The maximum memory frequency supported varies by processor.
** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List).
Expansion
slots
1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot (at x16 mode)
1 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot (max. at x4 mode, compatible with PCIe x1, x2
and x4 devices)
2 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slots
2 x PCI slots
Multi-GPU
Support Supports AMD®Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
Graphics
Integrated graphics processor - Intel®HD Graphics support
Multi-VGA output support: HDMI, DVI-D, RGB ports
-SupportsHDMI1.4bwithmaximumresolutionof4096x2160@24Hz/2560
x1600@60Hz
-SupportsDVI-Dwithmaximumresolutionof1920x1200@60Hz
-SupportsRGBwithmaximumresolutionof1920x1200@60Hz
Supports Intel® InTruTM 3D, Quick Sync Video, Intel® Clear Video HD Technology,
and Intel® InsiderTM
Maximum shared memory of 1024 MB (for iGPU exclusively)
Supports up to three displays simultaneously

vii
PRIME Z270-K specications summary
(continued on the next page)
Specications
Storage
Intel®Z270 Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 and Intel Rapid Storage Technology 15
support
- 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices
support (both SATA & x4 PCIE mode)*
- 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support (both
SATA & x4 PCIE mode)**
- 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (gray)
- Ready for Intel® Optane Memory***
- Supports Intel®Smart Response Technology****
* When a device in SATA mode is installed on the M.2_1 socket, SATA_1 port cannot be
used.
** When a device is installed on the M.2_2 socket, SATA_5/6 ports cannot be used.
*** Intel®Optane Technology is only supported when using 7th Generation Intel®processors.
Before using Intel®Optane memory modules, ensure that you have updated your
motherboard drivers and BIOS to the latest version from ASUS support website.
**** This function will work depending on the CPU installed.
LAN
Intel®I219-V Gigabit LAN
- Dual interconnection between the integrated Media Access Controller (MAC) and
physical layer (PHY)
Audio
Realtek®ALC8878-channelHighDenitionAudioCODEC
- LED-illuminated design: Brighten up your build with the gorgeous illuminated audio
trace path
- Audio Shielding: Ensures precision analog/digital separation and greatly reduced
multi-lateral interference
- Dedicated audio PCB layers: Separate layers for left and right channels to guard the
quality of the sensitive audio signals
- Premium Japanese audio capacitors: Provide warm, natural and immersive sound
withexceptionalclarityanddelity
- Supports jack-detection, and front panel jack-retasking
USB
ASMedia USB 3.1 controllers
- 2 x 10Gb/s USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 port at rear panel (teal blue, Type A)
Intel®Z270 Chipset
- 1 x 5Gb/s USB Type C port (@back panel) support 3A power output
-6xUSB3.0/2.0ports(4ports@mid-board;2 ports @ back panel, blue, Type A)
-6xUSB2.0/1.1ports(4ports@mid-board;2ports@backpanel)
ASUS
unique
features
ASUS 5X PROTECTION III
- ASUSSafeSlotCore-FortiedPCIeSlotpreventsdamage
- ASUS LANGuard - Protects against LAN surges, lightning strikes and static-
electricity discharges
- ASUS Overvoltage Protection - World-class circuit-protecting power design
- ASUS Stainless Steel Back I/O - 3X corrosion-resistance for greater durability
- ASUS DIGI+ VRM - 7 Phase digital power design
Superb Performance
M.2 onboard
- The latest transfer technologies with up to 32Gb/s data transfer speeds
ASUS Fan Xpert 4 Core
- Advanced fan and liquid controls for ultimate cooling and quietness

viii
PRIME Z270-K specications summary
Specications
ASUS
unique
features
ASUS EPU
- EPU
UEFI BIOS
- Most advanced options with fast response time
Gaming Scenario
Audio Features
- Audiothatroarsonthebattleeld
ASUS Exclusive Features
- ASUS AI Charger
- ASUS AI Suite 3
EZ DIY
UEFI BIOS EZ Mode
- Featuring friendly graphics user interface
- ASUS O.C. Tuner
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash 3
Q-Design
- ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-DIMM
- ASUS Q-Slot
ASUS quiet
thermal
solution
Quiet Thermal Design
- ASUS Fan Xpert 4 Core
- Stylish Fanless Design: PCH heatsink and MOS heatsink solution
ASUS
Exclusive
Overclocking
Features
Precision Tweaker 2:
- vCore: Adjustable CPU Core voltage at 0.005V increment
- iGPU: Adjustable CPU Graphics voltage at 0.005V increment
- vCCIO: Adjustable Analog and Digital I/O voltage at 0.005V increment
- vCCSA: Adjustable CPU System Agent voltage at 0.1V increment
- vDRAM Bus: 160-step Memory voltage control
- vPCH: 3-step Chipset voltage control
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)
- BCLK/PCIEfrequencytuningfrom98MHzupto538MHzat0.1MHzincrement
Overclocking Protection
- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)
(continued on the next page)

ix
PRIME Z270-K specications summary
(continued on the next page)
Specications
Rear panel I/O
ports
1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port
1 x HDMI port
1 x DVI-D port
1 x RGB port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
2 x 10Gb/s USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 ports (teal blue, Type A)
1 x 5Gb/s USB Type C port
2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue, type A)
2 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
3 x Audio jacks support 8-channel audio output*
* Use a chassis with HD audio module in the front panel to support a 8-channel audio
output.
Internal
connectors
2 x USB 3.0 / 2.0 connector support additional 4 USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports (19-pin)
2 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports
6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (gray)
2 x M.2 Socket 3 (for M Key)
1 x 4-pin CPU Fan connector for both 3-pin (DC mode) and 4-pin (PWM mode)
CPU coolers control*
2 x 4-pin Chassis Fan connectors for 3-pin (DC mode) and 4-pin (PWM mode)
coolers control*
1 x AIO Pump Fan header
1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)
1 x System panel connector
1 x S/PDIF out header
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 8-pin EATX 12V power connector
1 x COM connector
1 x Clear CMOS header
* By default, the CPU/Chassis Q-Fan control setting is set to Auto mode, which detects
the CPU and chassis fans installed and changes the control mode automatically.
BIOS features
128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI3.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI
6.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning
Wizard,F6QfanControl,F3MyFavorites,LastModiedlog,F12PrintScreenand
ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information
Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 3.0, WOL by PME, PXE

x
Specicationsaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice.
PRIME Z270-K specications summary
Specications
Support DVD
Drivers
ASUS utilities
EZ Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
OS support
Windows®10 (64-bit)
Windows®8.1 (64-bit)*
Windows®7 (64-bit/32-bit)*
* Windows®8.1 64-bit and Windows® 7 32/64-bit are only supported when using 6th
Generation Intel®processors.
Form factor ATX form factor: 12.0 in. x 8.9 in. (30.5 cm x 22.6cm)

ASUS PRIME Z270-K 1-1
Product introduction
1
1.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.
 Unplugthepowercordfromthewallsocketbeforetouchinganycomponent.
 Beforehandlingcomponents,useagroundedwriststraportouchasafelygrounded
objectorametalobject,suchasthepowersupplycase,toavoiddamagingthemdue
to static electricity.
 Beforeyouinstallorremoveanycomponent,ensurethattheATXpowersupplyis
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
maycauseseveredamagetothemotherboard,peripherals,orcomponents.
1.2 Motherboard overview
Unplugthepowercordbeforeinstallingorremovingthemotherboard.Failuretodosocan
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
Place this
side towards
the rear of the
chassis
PRIME Z270-K
PCIEX16_1
PCIEX16_2
PCI2
PCI1
PCIEX1_2
ALC
887
PCIEX1_1
M.2_1(SOCKET3)
M.2_2(SOCKET3)
Intel
I219V
ASM
1083
ASM
1142
USB1112 USB1314
AAFP
SPDIF_OUT
CLRTC
EATXPWR
BATTERY
Super
I/O
22110
2280 2260 2242
2280 2260 2242
KBMS
_USB910
DVI VGA
22.6cm(8.9in)
DDR4 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 288-pin module) DDR4 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 288-pin module) DDR4 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 288-pin module) DDR4 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 288-pin module)
SATA6G_2 SATA6G_1
LAN_USB3_56
USB3.1_E12
USB3_C7
HDMI
CHA_FAN2
CPU_FAN
AIO_PUMP FAN
CHA_FAN1
30.5cm(12in)
LGA1151
DIGI
+VRM
COM
EATX12V
USB3_12
USB3_34
Intel®
Z270
128Mb
BIOS
ASM1480
PANEL
AUDIO
SATA6G_6 SATA6G_5
SATA6G_4 SATA6G_3
LANGuard
PCIE SATA
M.2_2
IRST
X4 V V
PCIE SATA
M.2_1
IRST
X4 V V
21 3 42
85 91013 12 11
1
2
5
6
7
6
7
16
15
15
16
14
14

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.2.1 Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page
1. ATXpowerconnectors(24-pinEATXPWR,8-pinEATX12V) 1-2
2. CPU,chassis,andAIOpumpfanfanconnectors(4-pinCPU_FAN,4-pinCHA_FAN1~2,
4-pinAIO_PUMPFAN) 1-3
3. Intel®LGA1151CPUsocket 1-3
4. DDR4DIMMslots 1-3
5. USB3.0connectors(20-1pinUSB3_12,USB3_34) 1-3
6. M.2Socket3 1-4
7. Intel®Z270SerialATA6.0Gb/sconnector(7-pinSATA6G_1~6) 1-4
8. Systempanelconnector(20-5pinPANEL) 1-4
9. ClearRTCRAM(2-pinCLRTC) 1-5
10. USB2.0connectors(10-1pinUSB1112,USB1314) 1-5
11. Serialportconnectors(10-1pinCOM) 1-5
12. Digitalaudioconnector(4-1pinSPDIF_OUT) 1-5
13. Frontpanelaudioconnector(10-1pinAAFP) 1-6
14. PCIslots 1-6
15. PCIExpress3.0/2.0x1slots 1-6
16. PCIExpress3.0/2.0x16slots 1-6
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin
EATX12V)
CorrectlyorienttheATXpowersupplyplugsintothese
connectorsandpushdownrmlyuntiltheconnectors
completelyt.
EATX12V
+12V DC
+12V DC
+12V DC
+12V DC
GND
GND
GND
GND
EATXPWR
PIN 1
PIN 1
GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND
-12 Volts
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts
+5V Standby
Power OK
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
 Forafullyconguredsystem,werecommendthatyouuseapowersupply
unit(PSU)thatcomplieswithATX12VSpecication2.0(orlaterversion)
andprovidesaminimumpowerof350W.ThisPSUtypehas24-pinand
8-pinpowerplugs.
 WerecommendthatyouuseaPSUwithhigherpoweroutputwhen
conguring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 inadequate.
 Ifyouareuncertainabouttheminimumpowersupplyrequirementforyour
system,refertotheRecommendedPowerSupplyWattageCalculator
at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.
aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

ASUS PRIME Z270-K 1-3
CPU, chassis, and AIO pump fan
connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin
CHA_FAN1~2, 4-pin AIO_PUMP FAN)
Connect the fan cables to the fan
connectorsonthemotherboard,
ensuring that the black wire of each
cable matches the ground pin of the
connector.
AIO_PUMP PWM
AIO_PUMP IN
AIO_PUMP PWR
GND
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
CHA_FAN1
CHA FAN PWM
CHA FAN IN
CHA FAN PWR
GND
CHA_FAN2
GND
CHA FAN PWR
CHA FAN IN
CHA FAN PWM
AIO_PUMP FAN
Donotforgettoconnectthefancablestothefanconnectors.Insufcientair
owinsidethesystemmaydamagethemotherboardcomponents.Theseare
notjumpers!Donotplacejumpercapsonthefanconnectors!TheCPU_FAN
connectorsupportsaCPUfanofmaximum1A(12W)fanpower.
Intel®LGA1151 CPU socket
InstallIntel®LGA1151CPUintothissurfacemountLGA1151socket,whichis
designedfor7th/6thGenerationIntel®Corei7/i5/i3,Pentium®,andCeleron®
processors.
Formoredetails,refertoCentral Processing Unit (CPU).
DDR4 DIMM slots
Install2GB,4GB,8GB,and16GBunbufferednon-ECCDDR4DIMMsintothese
DIMMsockets.
Formoredetails,refertoSystem memory
USB 3.0 connectors (20-1 pin USB3_12, USB3_34)
ConnectaUSB3.0moduletoanyoftheseconnectors
foradditionalUSB3.0frontorrearpanelports.These
connectorscomplywithUSB3.0specicationsand
providesfasterdatatransferspeedsofupto5Gbps,faster
chargingtimeforUSB-chargeabledevices,optimizedpower
efciency,andbackwardcompatibilitywithUSB2.0
USB3_12
USB3+5V
IntA_P1_SSRX-
IntA_P1_SSRX+
GND
IntA_P1_SSTX-
IntA_P1_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P1_D-
IntA_P1_D+
GND
PIN 1
USB3+5V
IntA_P2_SSRX-
IntA_P2_SSRX+
GND
IntA_P2_SSTX-
IntA_P2_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P2_D-
IntA_P2_D+
USB3_34
USB3+5V IntA_P1_SSRX- IntA_P1_SSRX+ GND IntA_P1_SSTX- IntA_P1_SSTX+ GND IntA_P1_D- IntA_P1_D+ GND
PIN 1
USB3+5V
IntA_P2_SSRX-
IntA_P2_SSRX+
GND
IntA_P2_SSTX-
IntA_P2_SSTX+
GND
IntA_P2_D-
IntA_P2_D+

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction
M.2 socket 3
These sockets allow you to install M.2(NGFF)SSDmodules.
M.2(SOCKET3)
 M.2_1socketsupportsMKeyand2242/2260/2280storagedevices.
 M.2_2socketsupportsMKeyand2242/2260/2280/22110storagedevices.
 WhenusingIntel®DesktopResponsivenesstechnologieswithPCIe/SATA
M.2device,ensuretosetuptheWindows®UEFIoperatingsystemunder
RAIDmode.
 Intel®OptaneTechnologyonlysupportedwhenusing7thGenerationIntel®
processors.BeforeusingIntel®Optanememorymodules,ensurethatyou
haveupdatedyourmotherboarddriversandBIOStothelatestversion
fromASUSsupportwebsite.
 TheM.2slotssupportdatatransferspeedupto32Gb/s.
 WhenadeviceinSATAmodeisinstalledontheM.2_1socket,SATA_1
port cannot be used.
 WhenadeviceisinstalledontheM.2_2socket,SATA_5/6portscannotbe
used.
Intel®Z270 Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin
SATA6G_1~6)
TheseconnectorsconnecttoSerialATA6.0Gb/sharddisk
drivesviaSerialATA6.0Gb/ssignalcables.
GND
RSATA_TXP
RSATA_TXN
GND
RSATA_RXN
RSATA_RXP
GND
SATA6G
System panel connector (20-5 pin F_PANEL)
Thisconnectorsupportsseveralchassis-mounted
functions.
 System power LED (4-pin PWR_LED)
 This4-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.
PLED+ PLED- PWRBTN# GND +5V GND GND Speaker
HDD_LED+
HDD_LED-
GND
RSTCON#
NC
PLED+
PLED-
PIN 1
+PWR_LED-
+PWR_LED-
SPEAKER
PANEL
+HDD_LED-
PWR_SW
RESET
 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asheswhendatais
readfromorwrittentotheHDD.

ASUS PRIME Z270-K 1-5
 System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
 This4-pinconnectorisforthechassis-mountedsystemwarningspeaker.
The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
 ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWR_SW)
This connector is for the system power button.
 Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system
reboot without turning off the system power.
Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC)
ThisheaderallowsyoutocleartheCMOSRTCRAMdataofthe
systemsetupinformationsuchasdate,time,andsystempasswords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. TurnOFFthecomputerandunplugthepowercord.
2. Useametalobjectsuchasascrewdrivertoshortthetwopins.
3. PlugthepowercordandturnONthecomputer.
4. Holddownthe<Del> key during the boot process and enter
BIOSsetuptore-enterdata.
CLRTC
+3V_BAT GND
PIN 1
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.
USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB1112, USB1314)
Connecta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specicationsandsupportsupto
480Mbpsconnectionspeed.
USB+5V USB_P11- USB_P11+ GND NC
USB+5V
USB_P12-
USB_P12+
GND
USB1112
PIN 1
USB+5V USB_P13- USB_P13+ GND NC
USB+5V
USB_P14-
USB_P14+
GND
USB1314
PIN 1
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
COM
DCD
TXD
GND
RTS
RI
RXD
DTR
DSR
CTS
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
ThisconnectorisforanadditionalSony/PhilipsDigitalInterface
(S/PDIF)port.ConnecttheS/PDIFOutmodulecabletothis
connector,theninstallthemoduletoaslotopeningatthebackof
the system chassis.
SPDIF_OUT
+5V
SPDIFOUT
GND

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction
 InsingleVGAcardmode,usethePCIe3.0x16_1slot(gray)foraPCIExpressx16
graphics card to get better performance.
 WerecommendthatyouprovidesufcientpowerwhenrunningCrossFireXmode.
 ConnectachassisfantothemotherboardconnectorlabeledCHA_FAN1/2when
usingmultiplegraphicscardsforbetterthermalenvironment.
VGA conguration PCI Express operating mode
PCIe 3.0 x16_1 (gray) PCIe 3.0 x16_2
Single VGA/PCIe card x16(Recommendedforsingle
VGAcard) N/A
Dual VGA/PCIe cards x16 x4
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
AGND NC SENSE1_RETUR SENSE2_RETUR
PORT1 L
PORT1 R PORT2 R
SENSE_SEND
PORT2 L
HD-audio-compliant
pin definition
PIN 1
AGND NC NC NC
MIC2
MICPWR
Line out_R
NC
Line out_L
Legacy AC’97
compliant definition
 Werecommendthatyouconnectahigh-denitionfrontpanelaudio
moduletothisconnectortoavailofthemotherboardshigh-denitionaudio
capability.
 Ifyouwanttoconnectahigh-denitionfrontpanelaudiomoduleto
thisconnector,settheFrontPanelTypeitemintheBIOSsetupto[HD
Audio].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
Audio].
PCI slots
ThePCIslotssupportcardssuchasLANcard,SCSIcard,USBcard,andother
cardsthatcomplywiththePCIspecications
PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x1 slots
ThismotherboardhastwoPCIExpress3.0/2.0x1slotsthatsupportPCIExpress
x1networkcards,SCSIcards,andothercardsthatcomplywiththePCIExpress
specications.
PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots
ThismotherboardsupportstwoPCIExpress3.0/2.0x16graphiccardsthatcomply
withthePCIExpressspecications.

ASUS PRIME Z270-K 1-7
ABCD
HDAudioController shared – – –
XHCI shared – – –
SATAController shared – – –
LANController shared – – –
PCIEx1_1 – – shared –
PCIEx1_2 – – – shared
PCIEx16_1 shared – – –
PCIEx16_2 shared – – –
M.2_1 shared – – –
M.2_2 shared – – –
AsmediaPCIEtoPCI
Controller – – shared –
AsmediaUSB3.1
Controller shared – – –
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
11 6810 7912
24 53
1
1. PS/2 Mouse/Keyboard combo port.ThisportconnectstoaPS/2mouseorPS/2
keyboard.
2. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.This15-pinportisforaVGAmonitororother
VGA-compatibledevices.
WhenusingPCIcardsonsharedslots,ensurethatthedriverssupportShareIRQorthat
thecardsdonotneedIRQassignments.Otherwise,conictswillarisebetweenthetwoPCI
groups,makingthesystemunstableandthecardinoperable.
1.2.2 Rear panel connectors

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction
4. Line In port (light blue).Thisportconnectstothetape,CD,DVDplayer,orother
audio sources.
5. Line Out port (lime).Thisportconnectstoaheadphoneoraspeaker.Inthe4.1,5.1
and7.1-channelcongurations,thefunctionofthisportbecomesFrontSpeakerOut.
6. Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.
Refertotheaudiocongurationtableforthefunctionoftheaudioportsin2.1,4.1,5.1,or
7.1-channelconguration.
LAN port
Speed
LED
Activity Link
LED
Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description
Off Nolink OFF 10Mbpsconnection
Orange Linked ORANGE 100Mbpsconnection
Orange
(Blinking)
Dataactivity GREEN 1Gbps connection
Orange
(Blinkingthen
steady)
Readytowake
upfromS5mode
Audio 2.1, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel conguration
Port Headset
2.1-channel 4.1-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel
LightBlue(Rearpanel) LineIn RearSpeakerOut RearSpeakerOut RearSpeakerOut
Lime(Rearpanel) LineOut FrontSpeakerOut FrontSpeakerOut FrontSpeakerOut
Pink(Rearpanel) MicIn MicIn Bass/Center Bass/Center
Lime(Frontpanel) - - - SideSpeakerOut
To congure a 7.1-channel audio output:
 UseachassiswithHDaudiomoduleinthefrontpaneltosupporta7.1-channelaudio
output.
7. USB 3.0 ports (blue, Type A).These9-pinUniversalSerialBus(USB)portsarefor
USB3.0devices.
 USB3.0devicescanonlybeusedfordatastorage.
 WestronglyrecommendthatyouconnectUSB3.0devicestoUSB3.0portsforfaster
andbetterperformancefromyourUSB3.0devices.
 DuetothedesignoftheIntel®200serieschipset,allUSBdevicesconnectedtothe
USB2.0andUSB3.0portsarecontrolledbythexHCIcontroller.SomelegacyUSB
devicesmustupdatetheirrmwareforbettercompatibility.
3. LAN (RJ-45) port.ThisportallowsGigabitconnectiontoaLocalAreaNetwork(LAN)
through a network hub.
LAN port LED indications

ASUS PRIME Z270-K 1-9
8. USB 3.1 ports (teal blue, Type A).These9-pinUniversalSerialBus3.1(USB3.1)
portsareforUSB3.1devices.
 DuetothelimitationofUSB3.1andUSB3.0controller,USB3.1andUSB3.0devices
canonlybeusedunderWindowsOSenvironmentandaftertheUSB3.1andUSB3.0
driverinstallation.
 WestronglyrecommendthatyouconnectUSB3.1andUSB3.0devicestoUSB3.1
andUSB3.0portsforfasterandbetterperformancefromyourUSB3.1andUSB3.0
devices.
9. HDMI port.ThisportisforaHigh-DenitionMultimediaInterface(HDMI)connector,
andisHDCPcompliantallowingplaybackofHDDVD,Blu-ray,andotherprotected
content.
10. USB 5Gb/s Type C port.This24-pinUniversalSerialBus(USB)portisforUSB(Type
C)devices.
11. DVI-D port.ThisportisforanyDVI-Dcompatibledevice.
DVI-DcannotbeconvertedtooutputfromRGBSignaltoCRTandisnotcompatiblewith
DVI-I.
12. USB 2.0 ports.These4-pinUniversalSerialBus(USB)portsareforUSB2.0/1.1
devices.

1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
ThismotherboardcomeswithasurfacemountLGA1151socket
designedforthe7th/6thGenerationIntel®Corei7/Corei5/
Corei3,Pentium®andCeleron®processors.
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.
Installing the CPU
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4
ApplytheThermalInterfaceMaterialtotheCPUheatsinkandCPUbeforeyouinstallthe
heatsink and fan if necessary.
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3
A
B
A
B
C
D
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4
4
5