ASUS Prime Z390-P Motherboard: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS Prime Z390-P is an ATX motherboard for Intel's LGA 1151 socket, designed for 8th and 9th Generation Core processors. The listing highlights Above 4G Decoding and six PCIe slots, features that suit multi-card setups, alongside the usual desktop features such as M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen 2. Here is what the specs mean.

Socket and processor support

LGA 1151 in this form supports Intel 8th and 9th Generation Core processors, and the Z390 chipset sits at the enthusiast end of that range. ASUS says the board maximises connectivity and speed with M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen 2. Check ASUS's support list for exact processor models, since this socket is not compatible with older or newer Intel generations.

The listing title and description are not fully consistent about the model (the description mentions the Prime Z370-P), so verify the model number printed on the product.

Above 4G Decoding and six PCIe slots

The listing is labelled for cryptocurrency mining, and mentions Above 4G Decoding and six PCIe slots. Above 4G Decoding is a BIOS setting that lets the system address memory above the 4 GB limit, which is needed when several cards with large amounts of memory are installed. More slots mean more expansion cards can be fitted, though the physical size and speed of each slot varies, and many boards share lanes between slots.

ASUS also lists SafeSlot Core, which it describes as fortified PCIe slots that prevent damage caused by heavyweight graphics cards.

Protection and cooling

ASUS lists 5X Protection III, a group of hardware-level safeguards including SafeSlot Core, LANGuard and overvoltage protection. The brand says this adds to component longevity and reliability.

For cooling, FanXpert 4 provides fan control and includes an AIO pump header for liquid cooler pumps.

Memory, audio and power

ASUS OptiMem II is a trace-routing design aimed at better DRAM overclocking stability by minimising interference between traces. Audio comes from an 8-channel Realtek ALC887 HD audio codec. The board has an enhanced power solution, which ASUS says uses premium components for better power efficiency.

Size

The listing gives dimensions of 12.9 x 2.1 x 10.4 inches and a weight of 2.5 lb, which reflect packaging. The board is ATX, so it needs a case that supports that form factor.

Who it suits

It suits builders working with 8th or 9th Gen Intel processors, including people reusing existing parts, and those wanting several expansion cards in one system.

What to check before you buy

• Processor: confirm that your CPU is 8th or 9th Gen, and check whether it needs a BIOS update.
• Memory type: boards of this generation use DDR4.
• Slot layout: check how many slots run at full speed and how lanes are shared.
• Case and power: make sure your case and supply handle the cards you plan to fit.
• Model: match the model number printed on the board to the one you want.
• Manual: follow ASUS's guide for installation.

The short version

• ATX board for Intel LGA 1151, 8th and 9th Gen Core processors.
• Above 4G Decoding and six PCIe slots, with SafeSlot Core protection.
• M.2, USB 3.1 Gen 2, and 8-channel Realtek ALC887 audio.
• 5X Protection III, FanXpert 4 with AIO pump header, and OptiMem II.

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