Asus Prime Z690-A Desktop Motherboard: Intel Z690 Powerhouse for DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 Builds

The Asus Prime Z690-A is a high-performance ATX motherboard built around the Intel Z690 chipset and the LGA 1700 socket, designed to elevate a modern PC build with premium power delivery, PCIe 5.0 readiness, and expansive storage options. It supports the 12th Gen Intel Core processors, enabling robust performance for gaming, content creation, and multitasking. With four M.2 slots, DDR5 memory compatibility, advanced networking, and a suite of connectivity features, this board is a versatile foundation for enthusiasts and professionals who demand reliability, overclocking headroom, and stunning visuals through integrated display outputs.

• Intel Z690 chipset with LGA 1700 socket compatible with 12th Gen Intel Core processors, delivering a balanced blend of performance, efficiency, and platform longevity for current and upcoming CPU generations.
• PCIe 5.0 readiness for graphics cards and PCIe storage, enabling bandwidth headroom to take full advantage of the latest GPUs and ultrafast NVMe SSDs as they become available.
• DDR5 memory support delivers higher bandwidth and improved efficiency for modern workloads, helping you squeeze more frames in games and faster data throughput for creative tasks.
• Four M.2 slots provide ample NVMe storage expansion, enabling multiple high-speed drives for fast game libraries, OS installations, and scratch/workspace storage with RAID options for performance and redundancy.
• Comprehensive connectivity includes HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for integrated graphics, Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for fast wired networking, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C and front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, plus Thunderbolt 4 support and Aura Sync RGB lighting for vibrant, synchronized builds.

Technical Details of Asus Prime Z690-A Desktop Motherboard

• Chipset: Intel Z690
• Socket: LGA 1700 (Ready for 12th Gen Intel Core processors)
• Memory: DDR5 support (high-speed memory with improved bandwidth and efficiency)
• Main storage: Four M.2 slots for ultrafast NVMe solid-state drives
• Graphics outputs: HDMI and DisplayPort for integrated GPU output
• PCIe: PCIe 5.0 readiness for next-gen GPUs and storage devices
• Power delivery: Robust DrMOS-based VRM design (16+1 stage) to support high-performance CPUs
• Networking: Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for fast, stable wired connections
• USB connectivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C and front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C for versatile portable devices
• Thunderbolt: Thunderbolt 4 support for fast, versatile peripheral connectivity
• RGB lighting: Aura Sync RGB lighting to customize and synchronize lighting across compatible components

How to install Asus Prime Z690-A

Follow these steps to install the Asus Prime Z690-A on a compatible case and build. Begin with a static-free workspace, aligned screws, and an organized toolkit. Before starting, verify you have a compatible power supply with sufficient wattage for your CPU and GPU, and ensure the CPU, memory, and cooling solution are ready for an LGA 1700 setup.

• Place the motherboard in the chassis and align it with the rear I/O cutout. Secure it with the appropriate screws, ensuring the board sits flat without bending.
• Install the CPU into the LGA 1700 socket. Lift the retention arm, align the processor with the socket notches, and gently seat it. Lower the arm to secure the CPU in place. Apply thermal paste if your cooler requires it, then install the CPU cooler according to its specific mounting mechanism.
• Insert DDR5 memory modules into the DDR5 DIMM slots. Align the notches, press firmly on both ends until the modules click into place, and check that the locking latches are secured.
• Connect the power supply cables: 24-pin ATX to the motherboard and 8-pin (or 4+4) CPU power. Attach any necessary 4-pin or 8-pin power cables to the motherboard’s power connectors. If you plan to use PCIe devices or a high‑end graphics card, ensure the appropriate PCIe power connectors are plugged in on the GPU as well.
• Install NVMe SSDs into the M.2 slots. Secure each drive with a screw and confirm they are properly seated. If BIOS features or BIOS update is required for optimal compatibility, prepare a USB flash drive to perform a firmware update after first boot.
• Connect front-panel and case wires (power button, reset button, LEDs, audio) to the motherboard following the user manual’s labeled headers. Attach USB front-panel connectors if your case provides them, and connect USB Type-C front-panel cables as needed for easy access to high-speed ports.
• Power on and enter the BIOS to verify hardware alignment, memory speed, and boot order. Enable desired features such as XMP (for DDR5 profiles), PCIe settings, and Aura Sync if you want customized lighting. Save changes and reboot to complete the initial setup.
• Install your operating system and drivers. Visit Asus support or the motherboard’s product page to download the latest chipset drivers, audio, LAN, and firmware updates. If you’re leveraging Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C front ports, install the corresponding software or driver packages to ensure full functionality.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is the Asus Prime Z690-A compatible with 12th Gen Intel CPUs?
  A: Yes. The LGA 1700 socket and Intel Z690 chipset are designed to support 12th Gen Intel Core processors, with features to enable robust performance, PCIe 5.0 readiness, and DDR5 memory support. Always check the motherboard’s CPU support list and update the BIOS to the latest version before installing a new processor.
• Q: How many M.2 drives can I install?
  A: Four M.2 slots are available, offering ample NVMe storage expansion for OS, games, and data. Depending on the drive sizes and cooling, you may configure multiple drives in RAID or run separate drives for different purposes.
• Q: Does this motherboard support DDR5 memory?
  A: Yes. The board is designed to support DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth and improved performance in modern workloads, while maintaining compatibility with a range of DDR5 modules.
• Q: What networking options are included?
  A: The board includes Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for fast, reliable wired network connectivity, ideal for online gaming, streaming, and large file transfers. Thunderbolt 4 support adds versatility for external devices and fast data transfer when used with compatible hardware.
• Q: Can I control lighting and accessories?
  A: Yes. Aura Sync RGB lighting lets you synchronize the motherboard’s lighting with compatible components and peripherals, creating a cohesive and personalized aesthetic across your build.