Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS Desktop Motherboard - Intel Z790 Chipset - Socket LGA-1700 - Micro ATX

Discover the Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS, a compact yet capable motherboard engineered for modern PCs built around the Intel Z790 chipset. This Micro ATX board brings together robust power delivery, expansive memory support, and versatile I/O to deliver dependable performance for gaming, content creation, and daily multitasking. Designed for 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors, plus compatible Pentium Gold and Celeron CPUs through the LGA-1700 socket, it’s a flexible platform that grows with your needs. The Z790M-PLUS emphasizes sustainable cooling, strong storage options, and a rich connectivity suite, all while fitting comfortably in smaller chassis where space and airflow can be at a premium. If you want a compact motherboard that doesn’t compromise on features, this Asus model is a compelling choice that blends reliability with modern essentials.

• Power design and cooling for consistent performance: A well-engineered VRM setup, large heatsinks, and effective thermal management work in concert to support sustained workloads, light overclocking, and smooth system operation under load.
• DDR5 memory capacity up to 128 GB: Four DDR5 DIMM slots provide generous headroom for memory-intensive applications, creative workflows, and heavy multitasking, enabling faster data access and better responsiveness.
• Flexible storage with M.2 and SATA: Dual M.2 slots deliver fast NVMe SSD performance for OS and apps, while four SATA ports accommodate additional HDD/SSD storage for multimedia libraries and backups.
• Rich I/O and display options: HDMI and DisplayPort outputs support multi-monitor setups, complemented by Gigabit Ethernet and a broad mix of USB ports for peripherals, external drives, and accessories.
• Easy tuning with BIOS features: The UEFI BIOS includes user-friendly tools and AI-assisted options to optimize performance, cooling, and stability, making it easier to tailor the system to your needs.

Technical Details of Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS

• Form Factor: Micro ATX
• Chipset: Intel Z790
• Socket: LGA 1700
• CPU Compatibility: Supports 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors, plus compatible Pentium Gold and Celeron CPUs
• Memory: DDR5 SDRAM, 4 x DIMM slots, maximum 128 GB
• Memory Speed: Supports DDR5 memory with broad speed support and overclocking headroom; actual speeds depend on CPU and memory modules
• Storage: 2 x M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs and 4 x SATA 6 Gb/s ports
• PCIe: PCIe 5.0-ready primary x16 slot for graphics card; additional PCIe 4.0/3.0 slots for expansion cards (configurations vary by CPU)
• Networking: Gigabit Ethernet for reliable wired connectivity
• Display Outputs: HDMI and DisplayPort for integrated display support or multi-monitor setups
• USB Connectivity: A broad array of USB ports on rear I/O and headers for front-panel USB devices, including USB 3.x generations
• Cooling Features: Comprehensive cooling design with large heatsinks and efficient heat dissipation paths to keep VRMs and key components cool under load
• BIOS and Features: UEFI BIOS with EZ Flash and AI-assisted tuning options to simplify overclocking, cooling profiles, and system stability

How to Install Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS

Installing the Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS is straightforward when you follow a careful sequence. Start with a clean workspace, a compatible case, and a PSU that meets your power needs. Gather your CPU, memory, storage, and GPU, along with the appropriate cooling solution. This guide assumes you are installing into a standard ATX-compatible case with discrete components. Always consult the motherboard manual for precise layouts and safety precautions before touching any hardware.

• Prepare the case: Install the motherboard standoffs in the correct locations for a Micro ATX board, then verify the case supports the I/O shield and expansion slots you’ll use. Ensure power supply cables are accessible and organized to promote airflow.
• Install the CPU: Open the LGA 1700 socket lever, align the CPU with the socket notch, and gently place it into position. Secure the socket, then apply appropriate thermal paste as needed and install your cooler, following the cooler’s mounting instructions for optimal contact and clearance.
• Attach memory: Open the DDR5 DIMM slots by pushing the retaining clips outward. Insert each DIMM at a slight angle and press firmly until the modules seat with a click. Use the slots recommended by the motherboard manual to enable dual-channel operation.
• Mount the motherboard: Carefully align the I/O shield with the case I/O opening, slide the motherboard into the case, and secure it with the provided screws. Connect the 24-pin ATX power and the 8-pin (or 4+4-pin) CPU power connectors from the PSU, ensuring solid, clean cable routing for airflow.
• Configure storage and add-on cards: Install NVMe SSDs into the M.2 slots and secure them with screws. Seat your graphics card in the PCIe x16 slot, and connect any required PCIe power cables. Attach additional PCIe cards if needed, then connect case fans and front-panel USB/audio headers as described in the user manual.
• First boot and BIOS setup: Power on and press the key to enter the BIOS (often Del or F2). Verify detected CPU, memory, and storage drives. Enable profiles for memory XMP/DOCP if available, set boot priority, and configure cooling profiles and any AI-based tuning features you wish to apply.
• Install operating system and drivers: After exiting BIOS, install your preferred OS. Once the OS is installed, use the included or official Asus software to update drivers for chipset, audio, LAN, and graphics (if applicable). Reboot as needed and verify system stability with stress tests or typical workloads.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What CPUs does the Asus Prime Z790M-PLUS support? It supports 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors, along with compatible Pentium Gold and Celeron CPUs through the LGA 1700 socket.
• How much memory can I install? The board supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM across four DIMM slots, enabling robust multitasking and memory-intensive workloads.
• How many M.2 slots and SATA ports are available? There are two M.2 slots for fast NVMe SSDs and four SATA ports for additional storage and data backups.
• Is PCIe 5.0 supported? Yes, the motherboard includes PCIe 5.0-ready lanes for the primary expansion slot, with additional PCIe lanes available for other slots and devices, depending on the CPU configuration.
• Does this model include Wi‑Fi? This version emphasizes wired connectivity with Gigabit Ethernet; if you need wireless, you can add a PCIe Wi‑Fi card or a USB Wi‑Fi adapter.