ASUS unveils wide range of AI-optimized Z890 motherboards for Intel Core Ultra processors
Digital Edge Bureau 10 Oct, 2024 0 comment(s)With Intel launching its latest Core Ultra processors (Series 2) in the global market, ASUS has come out with AI-optimized motherboards based on Intel Z890 chipsets. The motherboards unveiled by ASUS cut across its function-specific brands such as ROG Maximus, ROG Strix, TUF Gaming, Prime and ProArt.
Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) use the new LGA 1851 socket. Users of these processors will need an Intel 800 series motherboard to use one, and a Z890 motherboard specifically to take advantage of CPU overclocking. These options feature up to 24 cores in a new disaggregated architecture. Performance-cores, aka P-cores, take center stage with their high clock rates, while a cluster of Efficient-cores, aka E-cores, provide high-end multithreaded performance.
To help users do even more with the integrated NPU, ASUS Z890 motherboards feature NPU Boost. This BIOS feature overclocks the NPU with just few steps, increasing performance in AI-powered apps and features by up to 24% so that users can freely explore, dream and create.
With this new generation of CPUs, Intel is also increasing integrated graphics performance with its Xe LPG architecture. Equipped for DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 (FRL), this iGPU lets users connect a high-resolution display without installing a graphics card.
ASUS Z890 motherboards also include a wealth of connectivity options: abundant USB ports, high-speed networking, plentiful M.2 slots and more. The expanded I/O provided by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and the latest chipset makes it possible. Up to 20 PCIe® 5.0 lanes from the CPU and increased PCIe 4.0 lanes from the chipset enable ASUS to offer users even more options for connecting hardware to their new system.
Ready for advanced AI PCs
ASUS Z890 motherboards prepare users for everything AI has to offer. They are armed with support for high-performance DDR5 memory modules, and they offer the options users need for constructing a spacious and speedy storage array. Since many AI workflows can leverage the power of multiple graphics cards working in tandem, ASUS offers four motherboards with a pair of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots that can be run in an x8/x8 configuration: the ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme, ROG Maximus Z890 Apex and ProArt Z890-Creator WiFi.
But an AI PC does not just run AI apps and assistants. It uses AI (and similar technologies) behind the scenes to streamline everything about using a PC. For the Z890 series, ASUS has harnessed the power of AI to give users a dedicated technical assistant that is always available to answer questions: the ASUS AI Advisor.
Owners of compatible ASUS motherboards can interact with this AI-powered technology using natural language to learn more about their hardware. For DIY beginners, it can provide easy-to-understand explanations of one-click optimization features like AI Overclocking and AI Cooling II. And for seasoned PC-building veterans, it can offer guidance and instructions on the latest features offered by ASUS.
The smart controls available with ASUS Z890 motherboards let users to optimize the performance of their PC with just one click.
• AI Overclocking: Powered by exhaustive research and characterization of the performance potential of actual CPUs in ASUS testing labs, this tool boosts CPU clocks with just one click. AI Overclocking’s sophisticated intelligence also monitors the efficiency of a CPU cooler and changes in the operating environment of a system to tune its parameters over time for the best performance with a system’s unique set of components.
• AI Cooling II: AI Cooling II gives users an easy tool for getting effective airflow under load and quiet operation during light tasks, even for builders who opt for higher-RPM case fans. It uses CPU monitoring information and data from a brief stress test to calculate the lowest fan speed required to effectively cool a system — while minimizing noise levels. This fan control system can reduce system fan noise by up to 5.7dB(A) under sustained loads.
• AI Networking II: Through AI Networking II, an AI PC can optimize network settings to ensure smooth online gameplay, uninterrupted creativity and seamless sharing. Integrated into the Armoury Crate app, AI Networking II uses AI-enhanced identification and boost technology to ensure faster and smarter network optimization. The new Traffic Monitor feature tracks current WiFi channel usage and makes it easy to switch to a less-congested channel.