ASUS Pro WS W680M-ACE SE Workstation Motherboard: features and specs

The ASUS Pro WS W680M-ACE SE is a micro-ATX workstation motherboard for Intel LGA 1700 processors. It combines DDR5 memory with ECC support, a remote management controller and fast storage and network connections, and is aimed at professional and small-server builds.

Socket and chipset

The LGA 1700 socket takes 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, as well as Pentium Gold and Celeron chips, according to ASUS. The W680 chipset in the name is Intel's workstation-class option, which typically allows ECC memory with compatible processors. Check ASUS's CPU support list for the exact processor and BIOS version you plan to use.

Memory and ECC

The listing names DDR5 and ECC memory support. ECC (error-correcting code) memory can detect and correct certain single-bit errors, which is why it is commonly used for servers, long computing jobs and data that must stay accurate. It needs a compatible processor and ECC modules.

Remote management with the AST2600

An AST2600 baseboard management controller (BMC) provides IPMI remote management through a dedicated LAN port. In general, that lets an administrator monitor and control a machine over the network, even when the operating system is not running. ASUS adds hardware and software-level management, real-time monitoring and its Control Center Express software.

Expansion, storage and network

The board has a PCIe 5.0 x16 Safeslot for a graphics card or accelerator; PCIe 5.0 doubles the per-lane bandwidth of PCIe 4.0. Two M.2 slots run at PCIe 4.0 for NVMe drives. A SlimSAS connector is a compact port that typically links to storage drives through a cable. Networking is two Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ports. ASUS also lists a front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C connection and a TPM header for a security module.

Power and cooling

ASUS lists DrMOS power stages, a ProCool connector, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power delivery. Cooling includes a VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsinks, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 4 fan control.

Size and use

The board is micro-ATX, which fits many compact and standard cases. The listed package size is about 9.6 inches square. ASUS positions it for AI training, deep learning, animation, 3D rendering and media production.

What to check before you buy

• Processor: confirm compatibility with the exact CPU and BIOS version.
• ECC: you need a CPU and modules that support it.
• Case and cooler: check micro-ATX support and LGA 1700 cooler mounting.
• Memory: DDR5 modules are not interchangeable with DDR4.
• Management: IPMI needs network setup and a separate management connection.
• What's in the box: check cables, brackets and driver downloads.

The short version

• Micro-ATX LGA 1700 workstation board for 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors.
• DDR5 with ECC memory support.
• AST2600 BMC with a dedicated IPMI LAN port.
• PCIe 5.0 x16, two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, SlimSAS and dual 2.5Gb Ethernet.

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