This brace also indicates the slots most suited for GPUs. The first two full-length PCIe slots feature a metal brace that assists in rigidity, preventing wrapping and damage due to excessive force, weight, or the combination of the two. This switch allows the user to force the RAM modules to activate their XMP settings regardless of any BIOS settings, removing the need to go into the BIOS (which very few users do).

The only exceptions are the internal Thunderbolt header and one of the USB 2.0 headers, which are right above the third full-length PCIe slot.Ī physical switch right above the headers at the lower right corner of the motherboard is an interesting addition. They hit the nail on the head with the placement of the headers and connectors, placing all of the internal headers across the bottom and the SATA connectors to the lower right corner of the motherboard. Visual InspectionĪsus’s designers had to make the Prime Z270-A a motherboard that is both functional and also aesthetically pleasing, given the price and the target market. Three is an interesting number not often seen in motherboard bundles, but facilitates a set of boot SSD, storage HDD and optional ODD. The rest of the items consist of the typical DVD with the drivers and other software, a standard I/O shield, and three black SATA cables. The quick connector (Q-Connector) is a simple but handy item for users that allows them to connect all of the case’s cables in a single move. Asus also includes a “CPU installation tool”, which is just a plastic holder that can be used to place the CPU into the socket without touching it with bare hands. A QR code at the front of the manual brings the user to a basic but adequate DIY guide. The user’s manual is only printed in English but is very detailed. Three black SATA cables (two straight, one with a 90° connector)Īsus is not particularly generous with their bundled items but that is understandable considering the price range of the Prime Z270-A.On the other hand, we can see that the engineers are focused on boosting the primary selling points of the motherboard.ġ x Type-A on back panel, ASMedia ASM2142ġ x Type-C on back panel, ASMedia ASM2142 In order to keep the retail price competitive, Asus’s engineers did not install any features and/or technologies that are of little interest to the average user - such as those that currently display very low adoption rates like SATA Express and U.2 connectors. This particular design from Asus appears to be an attempt to entice the bulk of advanced users, gamers and overclockers alike, by attempting to combine practical features, RGB lighting, and advanced configurability.

Asus z 270a cpu installation