New motherboards from ASUS. New motherboards from ASUS

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ASUS Socket-AM4 ROG CROSSHAIR VI HERO X370 is a gaming-grade motherboard belonging to the well-known ROG line. It can become the basis of a powerful gaming computer in conjunction with AM4 processors. The board has a unique design and a whole range of advantages. Support for fast DDR4 memory, customizable AURA lighting RGB lighting that will interest modding enthusiasts, Supreme FX sound card with exclusive codec, well-thought-out cooling system (including water-cooling by design), one-click easy overclocking, support for M.2 connectors are its main advantages.
USB 3.1 ports, including type-C, high-quality components and ruggedized PCI-E slots, ESD protection are just some of the features of the board. In a separate line, we can mention the support for design elements for the board, which can be printed on a 3d printer - 3d Printing Friendly.

Small, quiet and powerful computer - the dream of any user. Slots on ATX and EATX boards are mostly empty, one or two PCI Express, two or three SATA and one M.2 are used. So why buy a big tin box, put a huge motherboard in it, if more than half of the space will be unused? That's right, no need. Under powerful systems, small-sized, but multifunctional motherboards are needed. Such as ASUS ROG Strix X470-I Gaming

Specifications

Form factor: Mini ITX, 170 x 170 mm
Processor socket: Socket AM4
System logic: AMD X470
RAM: 2x DIMM, DDR4-3600 up to 32 GB
Sound: 7.1 HD audio
Network wired: 1 Gb Ethernet (Intel I211-AT)
Wireless network: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth v4.2
Expansion slots: 1x PCI-Ex16
Storage: 4x SATA III 6Gb/s, 2x M.2
Rear: HDMI, RJ45, 2x USB 3.1 Type-A, 4x USB 3.0, 3x 3.5mm audio jack, 1x ASUS Wi-Fi GO!
Price: 15,000 rubles

Equipment

The box is modest in size, four times smaller than a regular cardboard box for an ATX board.

A standard set of accessories was included - instructions, stickers, a cover for the rear panel, a disk with drivers, SATA cables, an antenna, a backlight connection cable. Yes, trends have already made their way into all form factors, and even if the little finger does not fit between the connectors on the textolite, then there will always be a place for a good dozen LEDs.

Appearance

A full-size gaming board shrunk down to the size of a Mini ITX looks like this:

Installation is very tight. Everything that did not fit on the main board is mounted on separate small ones one above the other. These ITX mothers are similar to power supplies - in cheap and weak series everything fits on one piece of textolite, while in expensive ones whole blocks are placed on separate printed circuit boards to save space.

An interesting point is that the board is for AMD processors. Socket AM4 took up a lot of space, but near the plastic mounting supports there is enough free space for overall coolers.

All Ryzens are supported, including the 2700X with a TDP of 105 watts. It needs a powerful power converter, and it's there, right between the socket and the back panel. Only six phases, controlled by the IR3555 controller.

A large radiator is installed on the power transistors, shifted towards the rear panel, so as not to interfere with CO on the processor.

There are only two slots for RAM. The distance between the slots is enough to fit the bars with large radiators. Modules with frequencies up to DDR4-3600 inclusive are supported.

Below the DIMM slots are the connectors for the second and third USB, two of the four SATA, and the indicator pins for the front panel of the case.

To the right of the ATX24 power socket, there are four LEDs that indicate the stages of the POST. This, of course, is not a two-digit indicator, but you can understand the course of the process.

There is one PCI Express slot, with sixteen lines, for a video card. They placed it at the very edge, which is not quite a “classic” for ITX boards, but there is no other way.

Immediately behind PCIEx16 is a multi-storey structure crowned with a heatsink of one of the M.2 slots. To the right of it are two more SATA. The ROG logo on the heatsink is illuminated, power is supplied through a seven-pin connector.

Below it is a small printed circuit board, on which is mounted an M.2 connector, an audio codec and three minijacks.

The second M.2 is on the back of the board, right under the system logic.

On the "first floor" - a chipset with a small heatsink, a TPU control chip and a "multic" (I / O controller) IT8760E.

This is how you can simply and reliably place both a drive with a heatsink and a sound card on a minimal area, and do not interfere with the wiring for the chipset on the main board.
The rear panel is a bit poor - six different versions of USB, HDMI and wired network, three audio card jacks and two high-frequency sockets for Wi-Fi 802.11ac antenna and Bluetooth.

In general, a wireless network on ITX boards is much more common than on ATX. The reason for this selectivity is not very clear. Many users are willing to forego wires with a high-speed "wireless" with an external antenna that guarantees good reception in concrete boxes.

There are three four-pin connectors for fans, one of them can power a powerful consumer (a CBO pump, for example). Nearby is a four-pin block for a regular RGB tape and a three-pin block for an address one.

The UEFI BIOS menu has undergone minor reductions compared to that on full-sized ATX boards.

In the Ai Tweaker section, there are still many options for changing voltages, frequencies and timings.

The Advanced section allows you to fine-tune the operating modes of the processor, slots, and interfaces.

Temperature monitoring is available in full, as well as setting the fan speed.

The Tools section contains small, but very useful utilities for setting up the system. Can quickly find out the contents of the SPD random access memory, view video card data, "remember" the settings in one of the profiles, or vice versa, load them.

In general, I liked the board. The Ryzen 7 2700X picked up without any problems and worked as part of the gaming platform together with the GTX 1080 Ti Poseidon card for a week. I did not feel any disadvantages associated with a decrease in size. You can complain about the lack of quick start, reboot and BIOS reset buttons, but such boards rarely work on open test benches, and there is no particular need for them.

Summing up

The ASUS ROG Strix X470-I Gaming is a great small motherboard for the latest AMD Ryzen processors. It is great for building both a gaming and work system in a small-sized case. It will not be difficult for the power supply system to feed the top AMD stones for Socket AM4, and the motherboard will not cause problems with installing large video cards. Everything you need for overclocking and tuning is in the BIOS, and, perhaps, the only objective drawback of the board is a small number of USB connectors, both on the rear panel and under the pads.

The price is adequate - building a full-fledged motherboard in Mini ITX format using high-quality components is not cheap, and it is unlikely that other manufacturers can offer something similar in terms of functionality and dimensions for less money.

pros

Small board dimensions
Powerful power subsystem
Support for the entire line of Ryzen processors
Built-in Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth modules
Possibility to install two M.2 drives.
RGB backlight

Might not like it

Few USB ports

ASUS has unveiled a complete line of gaming motherboards, which includes updated versions - Maximus IX Extreme, Maximus IX Formula and Maximus IX Hero, and two completely new models - Maximus IX Code and Maximus IX Apex. In addition, the 2017 lineup includes motherboards that are absolutely new series ROG Strix.

Based on the Intel® Z270 chipset, the ROG series motherboards for gamers are able to unleash the full potential of the latest 7th Gen Intel® Core™ ('Kaby Lake') processors. Innovative technologies and exclusive ROG solutions incorporated into these motherboards deliver the high levels of performance and flexible upgrade options that modders, overclockers, professional gamers, enthusiasts, and hobbyists need.

Of particular note is the high-quality SupremeFX audio system and efficient air and water cooling systems implemented in the 2017 ASUS motherboard range. In addition, these motherboards offer many special solutions for overclockers: special board design, proprietary utilities and technologies. ROG series motherboards open new era computer-aided component customization: for the first time in the world, they support synchronized Aura Sync RGB LED lighting system and installation of 3D printed parts.

The ROG Maximus IX motherboard series includes five models. The Extreme version is equipped with a water cooling system and a range of innovative technologies. The Formula version is suitable for gamers and modders who value high performance or want to equip their PC with a water cooling system. The Hero model is perfect for gamers. The new Code motherboard has an affordable price tag and special features that modders will appreciate. With its high level of performance, Apex is the perfect choice for overclockers and enthusiasts.

Maximus IX Extreme: the best of the best

Maximus IX Extreme is ROG's flagship high-performance water-cooled motherboard. She became the first in the world motherboard with a built-in water block (a single design for cooling the processor and power circuit) developed by Bitspower.

The innovative ROG technologies implemented on this motherboard are an improvement on traditional solutions: the water block detects the flow rate of the coolant, has a special function for monitoring the temperature inlet and outlet, as well as a leak detection function. In addition, it integrates an M.2 interface heatsink to ensure reliability and enhance the performance of the board.

Maximus IX Code: affordable luxury

The all-new Maximus IX Code motherboard is based on the popular ROG Maximus Formula. Gamers will be attracted by the aesthetic appearance of the Aura Sync RGB LED lighting system, combined with the convenience of built-in Wi-Fi and high reliability of components.

The name of the Code model has its roots in the name of the main layer of "thermal armor" ROG Armor, which serves to protect the board - the Latin word "codex", which is the forerunner of the modern book. Distinctive feature"Code" is a unique durable cover. Using ROG Armor technology, the Maximus IX Code sets a new standard in motherboard quality.

Maximus IX Apex: new speed standards

The all-new ROG Maximus IX Apex motherboard is the latest addition to the ROG series. The novelty returns players to the origins of the very concept of the Republic of Gamers brand as an elite community of computer enthusiasts seeking to achieve maximum results in overclocking and computer games.

The Maximus IX Apex motherboard gives you incredible overclocking capabilities. The special DIMM.2 module implemented on this motherboard allows you to install two M.2 SSDs next to the DDR4 slots. The asymmetric PCB shape sets the Maximus IX Apex apart from the mainstream models and further enhances the built-in Aura Sync LED lighting.

ROG Strix: a new line of devices for gamers

ROG Strix is a completely new line of devices for gamers. It includes ROG Strix Z270E Gaming, ROG Strix Z270F Gaming, ROG Strix Z270H Gaming motherboards in ATX form factor, as well as ROG Strix Z270G Gaming (mATX) and ROG Strix Z270I Gaming (mini-ITX).

Powered by the Z270 chipset, ROG Strix motherboards deliver bold design, premium performance and incredible sound. In other words, everything that a modern gamer needs. Unique contrasting Republic of Gamers signature patterns and a bold gaming series logo complete the PCB's stylish look. The Aura RGB lighting system with Aura Sync technology brings you an unforgettable experience.

Support for 7th Gen Intel Core processors and exclusive innovations in the ROG Strix Z270 series motherboards give you the edge in the game.

The latest cooling technology

The new ROG Maximus IX and ROG Strix Z270 motherboards feature the latest and most innovative water and air cooling technologies.

Of particular note is the M.2 SSD cooling solution. For Efficient Cooling motherboard Maximus IX Extreme meets the water block with an integrated heatsink for cooling the M.2 socket. A special DIMM.2 module implemented on this motherboard allows you to install two M.2 SSDs, where they will be cooled with maximum efficiency. The ROG Strix Z270I Gaming Motherboard features an innovative dual-layer passive cooling design, with an M.2 SSD installed between its own heatsink and the PCH (Platform Controller Hub) heatsink. Moreover, both heatsinks are completely isolated from each other, so that neither the PCH nor the SSD can affect the operation of each other. This two-layer design of the cooling system is not only stylish and frees up space on a compact PCB, but also greatly improves cooling efficiency, helping to reduce the temperature of the SSD by 20°C, which guarantees improved stability and improved system performance. In addition, the ROG Z270 motherboard supports the installation of 3D printed parts.

The Maximus IX Formula motherboard is equipped with EKWB's highly efficient CrossChill EK II hybrid cooling block, which demonstrates its maximum efficiency when connected to a water cooling loop: lowering the temperature of transistors installed on the motherboard will be up to 23 degrees, which is 4 degrees more efficient compared to the previous generation version. In addition, the noise level has been reduced due to the use of thinner radiator fins.

ROG's exclusive Water Cooling Zone lets you track both fan speeds and water pump power. All coolant temperature and flow rate data is displayed in the exclusive ROG Fan Xpert 4 utility, with which the user can set the desired temperature of the video card or adjust the dynamic cooling of the system depending on the current loads.

Overclocking: Innovative Processor Overclocking Technologies

ROG motherboards have long been known to overclockers for their outstanding overclocking capabilities. Maximus IX series models will open a new era of overclocking and will allow you to achieve outstanding results.

The ROG engineers have put all their experience into the Maximus IX Apex to make this motherboard as performant as possible, and the results that overclockers have already achieved with it are proof of their success. In particular, with its help, the highest frequencies of the Intel Core processor since the X58 platform were achieved: 7.383 GHz (one core and one thread) and 7.328 GHz (four cores, eight threads). It also received a BCLK frequency of 584 MHz and a memory frequency of 5041 MHz. In total, the Maximus IX Apex motherboard has set 8 world records and 13 global first places.

SupremeFX: a new codec for flexible sound customization

The sound system of ROG and ROG Strix series motherboards is based on the S1220 and S1220A codecs, which have excellent performance. So, the signal-to-noise ratio of this audio solution is 120 dB for a stereo line-out and 113 dB for a line-in. When headphones are connected, the gain level is automatically adjusted to provide the optimal sound volume range.

As a software addition to motherboards, an improved Sonic Studio III utility is offered, which allows you to set many settings for the built-in audio system. With its help, you can create and apply profiles with different sets of parameters, optimized for specific applications. A new feature in this version of Sonic Studio is the ability to direct audio streams from different applications to different audio outputs (headphones, external speakers, etc.).

Developed by ASUS, Sonic Radar III gives you the ability to visualize sound sources in a game even if they are not in line of sight. In this case, the direction to the position of the enemy is indicated by an arrow.

Aura Sync: Synchronized LED lighting system

Exclusive ASUS Aura Sync technology allows multiple Aura LED devices, such as compatible motherboards, graphics cards or accessories, to be used together, ensuring visuals are perfectly synchronized with a single control center from a convenient app. The Aura LED backlight can illuminate your computer in an almost infinite number of different colors, and the color of the backlight can also change to the beat of the music being played or depending on the temperature of the processor. Of particular note is the 4-pin RGB strip connector (12 V), which will help to make the design of the computer unique.

3D printing: personalization

ASUS has always strived to simplify the process of customizing the appearance of computers and components for its users. ASUS is now the first motherboard manufacturer to offer motherboard models that support the installation of unique 3D-printed replacement parts. This means that the user can create various parts on the 3D printer to help personalize the look or expand the functionality of the device. The motherboard has special mounting holes for installing 3D printed accessories. They are mounted with the same screws as M.2 drives, so the user can easily attach a nameplate, cable holder, SLI™ bridge cover, ROG font text panel, or even a fan. All this will allow you to create a completely individual design of your system.

In partnership with Shapeways, a global leader in 3D printing services, ASUS has opened the ASUS 3D Printing Store, where users around the world can download 3D drawings of interchangeable parts and then print them themselves on a 3D printer, or order ready-made replacement parts.

Extensive networking options: for a comfortable game over the Internet

The Intel Gigabit Ethernet Network Controller found on ROG and ROG Strix series motherboards provides high speed TCP and UDP packet processing and reduces CPU load. Thanks to LANGuard technology, the wired network connector on the motherboard is specially protected against static electricity and surges, while the resistance to static electricity and surges is increased by 1.9 times and 2.5 times, respectively.

As the demand for device networking and bandwidth increases, ASUS and Aquantia are partnering with ROG Areion 10G, the world's first network controller card to support the latest PCIe 3.0 interface. A distinctive feature of this board is a large heatsink, which guarantees stable operation even at maximum speeds up to 10 Gbps.

Exclusive GameFirst IV technology optimizes network traffic and ensures online games run as fast as possible without annoying lag. In her new version included the Multi-Gate Teaming function, which allows you to combine channels of different networks in order to increase the overall throughput. In addition, GameFirst IV supports a special intelligent mode of operation, which automatically generates a database of applications to monitor network activity and optimize game traffic.

Select models include a dual-band 802.11ac (2.4/5GHz) Wi-Fi module with a maximum data rate of 867 Mbps and support for MU-MIMO technology, which allows multiple client devices to connect to a wireless network at once on their maximum speed.

Modern interfaces: high data transfer rate

The new ROG and ROG Strix motherboards based on the Z270 chipset are equipped with USB 3.1 Type-A ports for compatibility with legacy devices. The bandwidth of the USB 3.1 interface reaches 10 Gb / s. Most models also feature a modern USB Type-C™ (USB-C) port, convenient for connecting USB peripherals. Users can even bring the USB 3.1 Type-C port to the front of the computer case, where it will always be at hand.

Two PCIe-based M.2 ports with transfer rates up to 32 Gb/s are ideal for connecting modern SSDs.

Maximu Series Motherboard Specifications

	Maximus IX Extreme	Maximus IX Formula		Maximus IX Code	Maximus IX Apex	Maximus IX Hero
CPU	LGA 1151 socket for Intel® Core™ i7/Core™ i5/Core™ i3/Pentium®/Celeron® processors
Chipset
RAM			4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB, DDR4, 4133 MHz (OC)	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB, DDR4, 4133 MHz (OC)	2 x DIMMs, max. 32 GB, DDR4, 4266 MHz (OC)		4x DIMMs, max. 64 GB, DDR4, 4133 MHz (OC)
Expansion slots	1 x PCIe 3.0 x 16 slot (PCH) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x 4 (PCH)		2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlots (CPU) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH) 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH)	2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlots (CPU) 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH)	3 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlots (CPU) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH) 2 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH)		2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlots (CPU) 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH)
Sound	ROG SupremeFX S1220 Codec		ROG SupremeFX S1220 Codec ESS® ES9023P D/A Converter	ROG SupremeFX S1220 Codec ESS® ES9023P D/A Converter	ROG SupremeFX S1220A Codec		ROG SupremeFX S1220 Codec ESS® ES9023P D/A Converter

SATA	6 x SATA 6Gb/s		6 x SATA 6Gb/s	6 x SATA 6Gb/s	4 x SATA Gb/s		6 x SATA 6Gb/s
M.2
WiFi					not available		M.2 (E-Key) slot for Wi-Fi expansion cards
USB	1 x USB 3.1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.1 (Type-C)		1 x USB3.1 (front panel) 1 x USB3.1 (Type-A) 1 x USB3.1 (Type-C)	1 x USB3.1 (Type-A) port 1 x USB3.1 (Type-C) port 6 x USB 3.0 ports 6 x USB 2.0 ports	1 x USB 3.1 (Type A) 1 x USB 3.1 (Type C) 8 x USB 3.0 ports		1 x USB3.1 (front panel) 1 x USB3.1 (Type-A) 1 x USB3.1 (Type-C)
Aura Sync
4-pin led strip
Thunderbolt 3	built-in			Thunderbolt expansion card support	Not available		Thunderbolt expansion card support
Technology	lBuilt-in ROG waterblock l Liquid-cooled heatsink for M.2 lAudio outputs with LED illumination		lROG ARMOR lCrossChill EK II l Pre-installed I/O interface panel		lDIMM.2 lPossibility to mount a nameplate lCES Innovation Award		lCES Innovation Award

ROG Strix Series Motherboard Specifications

	ROG Strix Z270E Gaming		ROG Strix Z270F Gaming	ROG Strix Z270H Gaming	ROG Strix Z270G Gaming	ROG Strix Z270I Gaming
CPU		LGA 1151 socket for Intel® Core™ i7/Core i5/Core i3/Pentium/Celeron processors
Chipset
RAM Expansion slots		4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB DDR4, 3866 MHz (OC)	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB DDR4, 4000 MHz (OC)	4 x DIMMs, max. 32 GB
RAM Expansion slots		DDR4, 3866 MHz (OC)	DDR4, 3866 MHz (OC)	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB DDR4, 3866 MHz (OC)	4 x DIMMs, max. 64 GB DDR4, 4000 MHz (OC)	DDR4, 4266 MHz (OC)
Sound		1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 4 x PCIe 3.0 x1(PCH)	2 x PCIe 3.0×16 SafeSlots (CPU) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH) 4 x PCIe 3.0 x1(PCH)	2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlots (CPU) 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 (PCH) 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH)	2 x PCIe 3.0×16 SafeSlots (CPU) 2 x PCIe 3.0 x1 (PCH)	1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 SafeSlot (CPU)
Network controller (Gbit LAN)		SupremeFX S1220A	SupremeFX S1220A	SupremeFX S1220A	SupremeFX S1220A	SupremeFX S1220A
SATA
M.2		6 x SATA 6Gb/s	6 x SATA 6Gb/s	6 x SATA 6Gb/s	6 x SATA 6Gb/s	4 x SATA 6Gb/s
WiFi
USB		2×2 MU-MIMO 802.11AC Wi-Fi	Not available	Not available	2×2 MU-MIMO 802.11AC Wi-Fi	2×2 MU-MIMO 802.11AC Wi-Fi
Aura Sync		1x USB3.1 on the front panel 1 x USB 3.1 Type-A 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C	1 x USB 3.1 Type-A 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C	1 x USB 3.1 Type-A 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C	1 x USB 3.1 Type-A 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C	1x USB 3.1 on the front panel
4-pin led strip				Not available
Thunderbolt 3
Technology		Not available	Not available	Not available	Not available	Not available
CPU		Ability to install parts printed on a 3D printer	Ability to install parts printed on a 3D printer	Ability to install parts printed on a 3D printer	Ability to install parts printed on a 3D printer	Two-level radiator

Motherboards for gamers of the Republic of Gamers series are presented in the electronic discounter "Citylink":

Happy shopping at Citylink!

New question

In this article, we will review the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming motherboard from the Asus ROG (Republic Of Gamers) series based on the Intel Z370 chipset for Coffee Lake processors.

Completion and packaging

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming comes in a small box.

The package includes a user manual, a DVD with drivers and utilities, cable stickers, four SATA cables (all connectors are latched, two cables have an angled connector on one side), a blank for the rear panel of the board, an SLI bridge for two video cards , an antenna for a Wi-Fi module, a cable for connecting an RGB strip, a cable for connecting an addressable RGB strip, one thermal sensor, a set of cable ties, a holder for installing an additional 40 × 40 or 50 × 50 mm fan on the board (itself fan not included) and a plastic frame for secure installation of the processor into the socket.

Hardware configuration of the board

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board has a summary table of specifications below, and then we will look at all its features and functionality.

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board is made in the ATX form factor (305 × 244 mm). For its installation in the case, standard nine holes are provided.

The board is based on the new Intel Z370 chipset. Accordingly, the board only supports 8th generation Intel Core processors (codenamed Coffee Lake) with an LGA1151 socket.

Since Coffee Lake processors have an integrated graphics core, there are Display Port 1.2, DVI-D and HDMI 1.4 video outputs on the back of the board to connect a monitor.

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board has four DIMM slots for installing memory modules. Unbuffered DDR4 (non-ECC) memory is supported, and the maximum memory capacity is 64 GB (using 16 GB modules).

To connect drives or optical drives, the board provides six SATA 6 Gb / s ports, which are implemented on the basis of a controller integrated into the Intel Z370 chipset. These ports support the ability to create RAID levels 0, 1, 5, 10.

One of the features of the board is a large number of implemented USB ports. So, there are six USB 3.0 ports, six USB 2.0 ports and three USB 3.1 ports.

All USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are implemented directly through the Intel Z370 chipset. Two USB 2.0 ports and two USB 3.0 ports are brought to the rear panel of the board, and to connect four more USB 2.0 ports and four USB 3.0 ports, the board has two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 connectors (two ports per connector).

Two USB 3.1 ports on the rear panel of the board are based on the ASMedia ASM3142 controller, which is connected to the chipset via two PCIe 3.0 lanes. One of these ports has a Type-A connector, and the other has a Type-C connector.

The board also has one more vertical-type connector (a connector typical for Asus motherboards) for connecting the front USB 3.1 port, which is implemented on the basis of another ASMedia ASM3142 controller.

To connect to the network, the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board provides a gigabit network interface and a wireless Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n / ac interface. The gigabit network interface is implemented on the basis of the Intel I219-V physical layer controller (used in combination with the MAC-level chipset controller). The Wi-Fi module is based on the Realtek RTL8822BE controller. This module is installed in a vertical type M.2 connector.

To install video cards, expansion cards and drives, the board provides three slots with the PCI Express x16 form factor, four PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots and two M.2 connectors.

The first (counting from the processor socket) PCI Express x16 form factor slot (PCIE_X16/X8_1) is based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines and is a PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot. This is a switchable slot that can operate at x16 / x8 speeds (multiplexers-demultiplexers of PCIe 3.0 ASMedia ASM1480 lines are responsible for switching lines).

The second PCI Express x16 slot (PCIE_X8_2) is also based on PCIe 3.0 processor lanes, but always runs at x8 speed. In other words, it's a PCI Express 3.0 x8 slot, but in a PCI Express x16 form factor.

The third slot with the PCI Express x16 form factor (PCIE_X4) is based on the PCIe 3.0 chipset lines and is a PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot, but in the PCI Express x16 form factor.

The mode of operation of the PCIE_X4 slot based on PCIe 3.0 chipset lines is in no way related to the operation of other slots based on PCIe 3.0 processor lines. The operating modes of PCIE_X16/X8_1/PCIE_X8_2 slots, that is, slots based on 16 PCIe 3.0 processor lines, can be as follows: x16/—, x8/x8.

The board supports Nvidia SLI and AMD CrossFireX technologies and allows the installation of two Nvidia video cards (x8/x8 symmetrical mode), as well as two or three AMD video cards (in x8/x8/x4 mode).

PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots are implemented through the Intel Z370 chipset.

In addition to the PCI Express slots, the board has two M.2 connectors, which are designed for SSD drives with a size of 2242/2260/2280. One connector (M2_1) supports PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA drives, and the other (M2_2) only supports PCIe 3.0 x4 drives.

Like most boards, the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming model has 24-pin and 8-pin power supply connectors. The on-board CPU voltage regulator is controlled by an ASP1400BT PWM controller in combination with six MOSFET drivers. The power paths themselves use SiRA12DP and SiRA14DP MOSFETs from Vishay Intertechnology.

The cooling system of the board consists of three radiators. Two heat sinks are located on two adjacent sides of the processor socket and are designed to remove heat from the MOSFET transistors of the processor voltage regulator. Another radiator consists of two parts. One part is designed to cool the chipset, and the second is to cool the SSD-drive installed in the M.2_1 slot.

In addition, in order to create effective system The heat sink on the board has six four-pin connectors for connecting fans. Two connectors are for the CPU cooler, two more for additional case fans. One connector can be used to connect a CBO pump, and another one can be used for an SSD cooling fan installed in the M.2 slot. In addition, there is a connector for connecting the Asus Fan Extension board (not included in the package), as well as a connector for a temperature sensor.

The audio subsystem of the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board is based on the Realtek ALC1220 codec and is isolated at the PCB layer level from other board components. The rear panel of the board has five mini-jack audio connectors (3.5 mm) and one optical S/PDIF connector (output).

How it works

Now, after a brief introduction to technical specifications Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming boards, let's see what is shared with what (if it is shared at all), that is, whether the capabilities of the Intel Z370 chipset are enough to implement the entire set of ports, slots and controllers that was discussed above, without separating them from each other with a friend.

Recall that the Intel Z370 chipset has 30 high-speed I / O ports (HSIO), which can be PCIe 3.0, USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb / s ports. Some of the ports are strictly fixed, but there are HSIO ports that can be configured as USB 3.0 or PCIe 3.0, SATA or PCIe 3.0. And in total there can be no more than 10 USB 3.0 ports, no more than 6 SATA ports and no more than 24 PCIe 3.0 ports.

Through the chipset, the board implements: a PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot, four PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots, two M.2 connectors, a network controller, a Wi-Fi module, and two ASMedia ASM3142 controllers. All this together requires 22 PCIe 3.0 ports. In addition, six SATA ports and six USB 3.0 ports are used, and this is another 12 HSIO ports. In other words, there are 34 HSIO ports in total. And we have not yet taken into account that one M.2 connector can work in SATA mode. It is clear that one cannot do without separation of ports and connectors.

The M.2_1 connector is split along the SATA line with the SATA#1 port, that is, if the M.2 connector is used in SATA mode, then the SATA#1 port will be unavailable. Conversely, if a SATA#1 port is used, then the M.2 connector is only available in PCIe 3.0 x4 mode.

The M.2_2 connector is shared with SATA ports#5 and SATA#6 as follows. The chipset's two HSIO ports can be configured as either two SATA ports (SATA#5, SATA#6) or two PCIe 3.0 ports. If these ports are configured as two PCIe 3.0 ports, then in combination with two more PCIe 3.0 chipset ports, we get four PCIe 3.0 ports, which are used for the M.2_2 connector in PCIe mode. If the SATA#5 and SATA#6 ports are used (that is, the two HSIO ports of the chipset are configured as two SATA ports), then the M.2_2 connector is available only in PCIe 3.0 x2 mode. The mode of operation of the M.2_2 connector is set in the BIOS settings.

In addition, one ASMedia ASM3142 controller, based on which a vertical connector for connecting the front USB 3.1 port is implemented, is shared with two PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots (PCIE_x1_2 and PCIE_x1_4). The operating mode (PCIE_x1_2 and PCIE_x1_4 slots or ASMedia ASM3142 controller) is set in the BIOS settings.

Taking into account these divisions, all 30 high-speed ports of the chipset are used on the board: 18 PCIe 3.0 ports, 4 SATA ports and 6 USB 3.0 ports. Two more chipset HSIO ports can be configured as either two SATA ports or two PCIe 3.0 ports.

The block diagram of the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board is shown in the figure.

Additional features

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board does not belong to the top segment and does not have many additional features. There is no indicator of POST codes, nor any buttons. There is only a CLRTC jumper for resetting BIOS settings and a two-position CPU_OV jumper that allows you to set higher voltage values on the processor when overclocking it.

The only thing that can be noted is the implementation of the RGB illumination of the connector panel casing. The illumination of the casing is quite bright and expressive. The backlight is configured traditionally using the Asus Aura Sync utility, which allows you to select the color of the backlight and various effects.

But nothing else is highlighted on the board.

In addition to lighting the cover of the connector panel, the board has three connectors for connecting LED strips. Two four-pin connectors (12V/G/R/B) are designed to connect LED strips powered by 12V type 5050 RGB LED, and one three-pin (5V/D/G) connector is for connecting a WS2812B digital strip with individually addressable LEDs. The LED strips are controlled through the same Asus Aura Sync utility that is used to control the backlighting of the board.

Among the additional features, one can also note the presence of a five-pin connector for connecting the Fan Extension board, which allows you to connect additional fans and thermal sensors, as well as the presence of a connector for connecting a COM port (although it is unlikely that anyone needs it today).

And the last thing worth mentioning is the presence of special mounting holes for attaching modding elements made on a 3D printer to the board.

UEFI BIOS

Of course, there is nothing special that other Asus motherboards based on the Intel Z370 chipset do not have in the UEFI BIOS of the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board. Actually, that's how it should be. Everything is standard, typical and functional.

Diagnosis

The Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming board can be considered a classic solution based on the Intel Z370 chipset. On the one hand, it is quite simple (for a solution based on the Intel Z370 chipset), on the other hand, everything you need and even more is on the board.

Indeed, in addition to traditional SATA ports, there are two M.2 connectors, which will allow you to create a very high-performance storage subsystem. For example, two M.2 drives with PCIe 3.0 x4 interface can be combined into RAID 0 and used as a system drive, while slower but capacious HDDs can be connected to SATA ports. However, even one M.2 drive with a PCIe 3.0 x4 interface will be enough for a high-performance PC.

Let's add here the presence of modern USB 3.1 ports, the ability to install two video cards in Nvidia SLI or AMD CrossFireX mode, as well as the presence of a wireless Wi-Fi module.

If a K-series processor is used in combination with the board, then the board's UEFI BIOS provides excellent overclocking options for the processor. In addition, you can create an efficient, customizable cooling system.

What distinguishes this board from top solutions is the absence of sophisticated backlighting, which, by the way, is not needed by everyone. However, the absence of sophisticated lighting in this case does not mean, of course, that it cannot be created. There are already three connectors on the board for connecting LED strips. So lovers of transparent cases will have something to do here.

If you need a productive, functional computer without unnecessary show-offs, then the Asus ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming is a great option. The retail price of the board at the time of publication of the article was about 16 thousand rubles.

We have already received several new Asus Prime series motherboards based on the Intel X299 chipset. But we will start our acquaintance with the new generation models with the ROG Strix series gaming board - Asus ROG Strix X299-E Gaming.