The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA LGA 1851 Mini-ITX Motherboard is a compact yet powerful choice for enthusiasts looking to build a high-performance system in a small form factor. Featuring the latest Intel Z890 chipset and supporting the LGA 1851 CPU socket, this motherboard is designed to handle the latest Intel processors with ease.
With 2x 288-Pin memory slots, the motherboard supports a wide range of DDR5 memory speeds from 5600 MT/s up to an impressive 8800 MT/s, ensuring that you can take full advantage of the latest memory technologies. The dual-channel architecture and support for up to 128 GB of RAM provide ample memory capacity for demanding applications.
Storage options are robust, with two M.2 slots supporting both PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 interfaces for high-speed SSDs. Additionally, there are 2x SATA III ports for traditional storage devices, and the motherboard offers comprehensive RAID support for both M.2 and SATA drives, including RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations.
The board is equipped with a single PCIe 5.0 x16 expansion slot, allowing for the installation of high-performance graphics cards or other expansion cards. Connectivity is top-notch with the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring reliable and fast wireless connections. The back panel I/O features a range of ports, including USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 and Thunderbolt 4, for versatile connectivity options.
Designed with modern cooling solutions in mind, the motherboard supports both air and liquid cooling configurations, featuring dedicated headers for each. The inclusion of RGB LED headers allows for customizable lighting to match your system aesthetics. With its compact Mini-ITX form factor and dimensions of 6.7 x 6.7 inches, the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA is an ideal choice for building a high-performance yet space-efficient system.
We have carefully reviewed and analyzed user feedback from various websites worldwide, leading us to the following insights. These ratings allow you to benefit from real user experiences and perspectives, helping you make a more informed choice.
85% of users praised the build quality, noting that the motherboard feels robust and well-constructed. Many users appreciated the use of high-quality materials that contribute to a solid and durable design, which they found reliable for high-performance tasks.
15% of users expressed dissatisfaction with the build quality, mentioning issues such as flimsy components or parts becoming loose over time. Some also noted discrepancies in quality control, leading to varying experiences.
90% of users were satisfied with the performance, highlighting the motherboard's ability to handle demanding applications and multitasking without significant issues. The Mini-ITX form factor was also appreciated for maintaining performance in a compact design.
10% of users reported performance issues, such as occasional lag or incompatibility with certain high-demand applications. These users felt the performance did not meet their expectations for the price point.
80% of users found the installation process straightforward, appreciating clear instructions and a user-friendly layout that facilitated setup even for those with limited technical expertise.
20% of users faced difficulties during installation, citing inadequate documentation and tight spacing in the Mini-ITX form factor that made it challenging to connect various components.
75% of users were pleased with the BIOS features, particularly praising the intuitive interface and range of customization options, which allowed for fine-tuning performance settings.
25% of users were dissatisfied with the BIOS, pointing out occasional glitches and a lack of advanced features that they expected for overclocking and other performance enhancements.
85% of users appreciated the wide range of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports and support for various peripherals, which provided flexibility for different setups and needs.
15% of users felt the connectivity options were limited, particularly in terms of available PCI slots and outdated port types, which restricted their ability to connect newer devices.
70% of users felt the price to performance ratio was justified, noting that the motherboard's capabilities matched its cost, especially for those seeking a compact yet powerful solution.
30% of users believed the motherboard was overpriced, arguing that similar performance could be achieved with cheaper alternatives available in the market.
88% of users were satisfied with the aesthetic design, complimenting the sleek and modern look that fits well with various build themes, particularly in gaming setups.
12% of users were unimpressed with the design, finding it uninspired or not matching their specific aesthetic preferences for their setups.
65% of users had a positive experience with customer support, finding the representatives helpful and responsive in addressing issues and providing guidance.
35% of users were dissatisfied with customer support, reporting delayed responses, unhelpful service, or unresolved issues, which left them frustrated.
82% of users praised the motherboard's thermal management, noting efficient heat dissipation and stable performance even under heavy loads, thanks to well-designed heat sinks.
18% of users experienced problems with thermal management, such as overheating or inadequate cooling solutions, especially when overclocking or using high-performance components.
77% of users were satisfied with the audio quality, appreciating clear and rich sound output, which enhanced their multimedia and gaming experiences.
23% of users were dissatisfied with the audio quality, reporting issues like interference, poor sound clarity, or subpar performance compared to dedicated sound cards.
84% of users found the motherboard to be durable, withstanding daily use and environmental factors, which gave them confidence in its long-term reliability.
16% of users had concerns about durability, citing experiences with premature failure or parts that wore out faster than anticipated, leading to additional replacement costs.
80% of users were satisfied with network performance, noting stable and fast connections that met their needs for gaming and streaming without significant lag.
20% of users experienced network issues, such as dropped connections or inadequate Wi-Fi performance, which affected their overall satisfaction with the product.
78% of users found the motherboard compatible with a wide range of components, making it easy to build or upgrade systems without major compatibility issues.
22% of users faced compatibility issues, particularly with newer or high-end components, which limited their ability to fully utilize the motherboard's potential.
72% of users were pleased with the overclocking capabilities, finding it effective for boosting performance in games and other demanding applications.
28% of users were dissatisfied with overclocking, reporting unstable performance or limited options that did not meet their expectations for advanced tuning.
68% of users found the documentation helpful, providing necessary information for installation and troubleshooting, which eased the setup process.
32% of users found the documentation lacking, with missing details or unclear instructions that made it difficult to resolve issues independently.
81% of users enjoyed the lighting features, appreciating the customizable RGB options that added a visually appealing element to their systems.
19% of users were dissatisfied with the lighting features, finding them either too basic or experiencing issues with software control and synchronization.
87% of users praised the overall stability of the motherboard, noting few crashes or errors during use, which provided a smooth and reliable computing experience.
13% of users experienced stability issues, such as frequent crashes or system freezes, which disrupted their work and gaming activities.
74% of users found the BIOS update process straightforward, with clear steps and reliable updates that improved performance and resolved existing issues.
26% of users were frustrated with the BIOS update process, citing difficulties in execution or updates causing new problems rather than solving existing ones.
79% of users were satisfied with the warranty coverage, feeling secure in their purchase knowing that potential issues could be addressed without additional cost.
21% of users found the warranty coverage inadequate, either due to limited terms or difficulties in claiming their warranty rights when issues arose.
76% of users felt the motherboard offered good value for money, providing a balanced combination of features and performance for its price range.
24% of users believed the motherboard did not offer good value, feeling that the features and performance did not justify the cost compared to other options.
In the following sections, we will provide a detailed review of the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA LGA 1851 Mini-ITX Motherboard. We will thoroughly examine its specifications, highlighting both its strengths and potential drawbacks, to give you a complete understanding of this product.
Pros:
Cons:
Chipset | Intel Z890 |
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CPU Socket | LGA 1851 |
Chipset: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA features the Intel Z890 chipset, which is designed to support Intel's latest processors and provide enhanced performance and features. This chipset is crucial for managing data flow between the CPU, RAM, and other peripherals, ensuring optimal system performance. With advanced connectivity options and support for high-speed memory, the Z890 chipset allows users to take full advantage of the latest technologies in gaming and productivity.Show More
CPU Socket: This motherboard utilizes the LGA 1851 socket, which is specifically designed for Intel's latest generation of processors. The LGA (Land Grid Array) socket type allows for a secure connection between the CPU and the motherboard, facilitating efficient power delivery and thermal management. The choice of the LGA 1851 socket means that users can install powerful processors that can enhance multitasking capabilities and overall computing performance, making it an ideal choice for gamers and professionals alike.
USB | 3x USB-A (USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2) 2x USB-A (USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1) |
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Thunderbolt | 1x Thunderbolt 4 |
Display | 1x DisplayPort 1x HDMI |
Audio | 2x 1/8" / 3.5 mm |
Ethernet / Controller | 1x Realtek 2.5Gigabit |
Wi-Fi Antenna | 2x Connector |
Buttons | BIOS Flashback |
USB Ports: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard features multiple USB ports, including three USB-A ports that support USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 and two USB-A ports for USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1. These high-speed USB interfaces allow for fast data transfer rates, making it ideal for connecting external storage devices, peripherals, and other accessories. The inclusion of both Gen 2 and Gen 1 ports ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, enhancing the overall versatility of the system.Show More
Thunderbolt: This motherboard is equipped with one Thunderbolt 4 port, which provides exceptional data transfer speeds and the ability to connect multiple devices through a single cable. Thunderbolt technology supports high-resolution displays and fast storage solutions, making it a valuable addition for users who require high bandwidth for tasks such as video editing or gaming. This feature also supports daisy-chaining of devices, further expanding connectivity options.
Display Outputs: The inclusion of one DisplayPort and one HDMI output allows users to connect multiple monitors or high-definition displays. This is particularly beneficial for gamers, graphic designers, or anyone who requires extensive screen real estate. Both outputs support high resolutions and refresh rates, ensuring an optimal visual experience whether for gaming, professional work, or multimedia consumption.
Audio Ports: The motherboard offers two 1/8" / 3.5 mm audio jacks, which are standard for headphone and microphone connections. This allows for easy integration of audio devices, ensuring clear sound quality for gaming, video conferencing, or listening to music. The dedicated audio ports support a variety of audio formats, enhancing the overall multimedia experience.
Ethernet Controller: Featuring a Realtek 2.5Gigabit Ethernet controller, this motherboard ensures high-speed wired internet connectivity. The increased bandwidth supports faster data transfer and lower latency, which is particularly important for online gaming, streaming, and large file transfers. This feature is essential for users who prioritize stable and fast internet connections.
Wi-Fi Antenna: The motherboard is designed with two connectors for Wi-Fi antennas, enabling a strong wireless network connection. This is particularly useful for users who prefer or require wireless internet access. A dual-antenna setup can enhance signal strength and coverage, resulting in a more reliable and faster internet experience, especially in larger spaces.
Buttons: The inclusion of a BIOS Flashback button allows users to upgrade or restore the BIOS without the need for a CPU or RAM installed. This feature is beneficial for troubleshooting and ensures that users can easily recover from potential BIOS-related issues, providing peace of mind when making system updates or modifications.
Memory Slots | 2x 288-Pin |
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Memory Support | DDR5 5600, 5800, 6000, 6200, 6400, 6600, 6800, 7000, 7200, 7400, 7600, 7800, 7900, 7950, 8000, 8200, 8266, 8400, 8600, 8800 MT/s |
Maximum Capacity | 128 GB |
Channel Architecture | Dual Channel |
ECC Support | Non-ECC, ECC Unbuffered |
Memory Slots: The motherboard features 2x 288-Pin memory slots, which are designed to accommodate DDR5 RAM modules. The number of slots is crucial as it determines how much memory can be installed, affecting overall system performance. With two slots, users can configure their system with dual-channel memory for improved bandwidth and efficiency.Show More
Memory Support: This motherboard supports a wide range of DDR5 memory speeds, ranging from 5600 MT/s to 8800 MT/s. Higher memory speeds can lead to better performance in tasks that require significant memory bandwidth, such as gaming and content creation. The ability to support such a wide array of speeds allows users to choose memory that fits their performance needs and budget.
Maximum Capacity: With a maximum memory capacity of 128 GB, this motherboard is well-suited for high-performance applications and multitasking. Such capacity enables users to run demanding applications, virtual machines, or handle large datasets without experiencing slowdowns. This is particularly beneficial for gamers, designers, and professionals in fields like video editing.
Channel Architecture: The dual-channel architecture facilitates better memory performance by allowing simultaneous data access on two memory channels. This configuration can significantly enhance the bandwidth compared to a single-channel setup, leading to improved system responsiveness and faster data processing, especially in memory-intensive tasks.
ECC Support: The motherboard supports both Non-ECC and ECC Unbuffered memory. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory is essential for systems that require high reliability and stability, such as servers or workstations. While Non-ECC memory is typically used in consumer systems where error correction is less critical, the option for ECC support allows users to choose based on their specific needs for data integrity.
SATA | 2x SATA III |
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Storage Slots | 1x M.2 (M Key) 2280 (PCIe 5.0 x4, PCIe 5.0 x2) 1x M.2 (M Key) 2280 (PCIe 4.0 x4, PCIe 4.0 x2) |
Optane Memory Support | |
RAID Support | RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 (M.2) RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 (SATA) |
The SATA specification indicates the number and type of SATA ports available on the motherboard for connecting storage devices. In this case, the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA features 2 SATA III ports, which allow for fast data transfer speeds to and from SATA SSDs and HDDs. SATA III supports speeds of up to 6 Gbps, providing excellent performance for traditional storage solutions, making it suitable for a variety of applications including gaming and productivity.Show More
The Storage Slots section outlines the available M.2 slots for high-speed storage solutions. This motherboard includes one M.2 slot for PCIe 5.0 (up to x4 and x2 configurations) and one for PCIe 4.0 (also x4 and x2). These M.2 slots allow users to install NVMe SSDs, which can significantly enhance system performance due to their much faster read and write speeds compared to traditional SATA drives. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require quick data access, such as gaming and content creation.
Optane Memory Support indicates whether the motherboard is compatible with Intel's Optane memory technology, which is designed to improve system performance by caching frequently used data. In this case, the lack of Optane Memory Support means that users will not be able to take advantage of this specific technology on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA, but the high-speed M.2 slots and SATA III ports still provide ample performance options.
The RAID Support feature allows users to configure multiple drives in various RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) setups, which can provide benefits such as increased performance or data redundancy. This motherboard supports RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 for both M.2 and SATA drives. RAID 0 offers improved speed by striping data across multiple drives, while RAID 1 mirrors data for redundancy. RAID 5 combines data striping with parity for fault tolerance, and RAID 10 combines striping and mirroring for both performance and redundancy. This flexibility is advantageous for users who prioritize data security or performance in their storage solutions.
Expansion Slots | 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 |
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USB | 1x USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 Header (Supports 1 USB-C Port) 1x USB 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 Header (Supports 2 USB-A Port) 1x USB 2.0 Header (Supports 2 USB-A Port) |
Air Cooling | 1x 4-Pin CPU 1x 4-Pin System |
Liquid Cooling | 2x 4-Pin Pump |
Power Connectors | 1x 24-Pin Mainboard 1x 8-Pin ATX |
Security | TPM Header |
LED Header | 2x RGB |
Audio | 1x S/PDIF |
Diagnostics | Clear CMOS, Reset |
Expansion Slots: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard features one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, which allows for the installation of high-performance graphics cards and other expansion cards. PCIe 5.0 offers double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, which significantly enhances data transfer rates and overall system performance. This is particularly important for gaming, professional graphics work, and other demanding applications where speed and efficiency are paramount.Show More
USB Connectivity: This motherboard is equipped with multiple USB headers, including one USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 header that supports a USB-C port, one USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 Gen 1 header for two USB-A ports, and one USB 2.0 header for two additional USB-A ports. This variety allows users to connect a wide range of devices, from high-speed storage solutions to peripherals, enhancing the system's versatility and usability. The presence of USB-C is particularly beneficial for modern devices that require faster charging and data transfer.
Cooling Solutions: The motherboard supports both air and liquid cooling systems. It includes one 4-pin CPU fan header and one 4-pin system fan header for air cooling. For liquid cooling, there are two 4-pin pump headers. This flexibility allows users to choose their preferred cooling method, which is essential for maintaining optimal temperatures, especially during intensive tasks like gaming or heavy computational work.
Power Connectors: The power connectors on the motherboard include a 24-pin mainboard connector and an 8-pin ATX connector. These connectors are crucial for supplying power to the motherboard and ensure stability during operation. A reliable power connection is vital for the overall performance and longevity of the system.
Security Features: The motherboard is equipped with a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) header, which enhances system security by providing hardware-based security functions. This is particularly important for users who prioritize data protection and secure transactions, making it a valuable feature for business and enterprise environments.
LED Header: With two RGB LED headers, users can customize their system's lighting effects. This feature allows for greater aesthetic appeal and personalization, enabling users to create visually striking setups that match their style or mood.
Audio and Diagnostics: The motherboard includes an S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) for high-quality audio output, ensuring an immersive sound experience. Additionally, it provides diagnostic features such as Clear CMOS and Reset buttons, which facilitate troubleshooting and system recovery, making it easier to manage and maintain the motherboard’s performance.
ROM | 256 Mb |
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ROM: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard features 256 Mb of ROM, which is an essential component for storing firmware and system-level instructions. This memory is non-volatile, meaning it retains information even when the power is turned off. The capacity of 256 Mb is sufficient for housing the BIOS and other critical system firmware, enabling the motherboard to boot and operate effectively.Show More
Having a well-sized ROM allows for the storage of advanced features and updates, which can enhance system performance and compatibility with new hardware. It also enables users to access a variety of settings and utilities in the BIOS, promoting a customizable experience. The 256 Mb capacity ensures that users can benefit from firmware updates, security patches, and other improvements without running into limitations.
Audio Codec | Realtek (7.1-Channel) |
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DAC |
The Audio Codec of the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard is provided by Realtek, specifically supporting a 7.1-channel audio configuration. This means that the motherboard is capable of delivering surround sound with multiple audio channels, enhancing the audio experience whether you're gaming, watching movies, or listening to music. The 7.1-channel setup allows for more immersive sound positioning, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize audio quality in their computing needs.Show More
The mention of DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) as "No" indicates that this motherboard does not come with an integrated DAC for audio processing. While many high-end motherboards feature built-in DACs to improve sound quality, the absence of one in this model suggests that users may want to consider external DAC solutions if they are seeking superior audio performance. However, for most standard applications, the Realtek audio codec should still provide satisfactory sound quality.
Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be); Tri-Band (2.4, 5, & 6 GHz) with MU-MIMO Support |
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Bluetooth | 5.4 |
Wi-Fi: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard is equipped with Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), which represents the latest generation of wireless technology. This version significantly enhances wireless performance, offering faster speeds and improved reliability compared to its predecessors. The tri-band capability allows the motherboard to operate on three separate frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. This means that users can experience reduced congestion and interference, especially in environments with multiple devices connected to the network. Additionally, the MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) support enables the motherboard to handle multiple devices simultaneously, improving overall network efficiency and user experience.Show More
Bluetooth: The Bluetooth 5.4 feature of the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard enhances wireless communication capabilities with a variety of devices. This version of Bluetooth offers increased range, faster data transfer rates, and improved energy efficiency compared to earlier versions. With Bluetooth 5.4, users can connect a wide range of peripherals, such as headphones, keyboards, and mice, with minimal latency and stronger connectivity. This is particularly beneficial in gaming and multimedia scenarios, where responsiveness and stability are crucial for an optimal experience.
OS Compatibility | Windows 11 |
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The title OS Compatibility indicates the operating systems that the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard supports. In this case, it is compatible with Windows 11. This means that users can install and run Windows 11 on this motherboard without any significant issues. Compatibility with the latest operating system ensures that users can take advantage of the latest features, security updates, and performance enhancements that Windows 11 offers.Show More
Having Windows 11 as the compatible operating system signifies that the motherboard is designed to meet the requirements set by Microsoft for their latest OS. This includes support for advanced features such as DirectStorage, which enhances game loading times, and Auto HDR, which improves the visual quality of games and applications. Additionally, users will benefit from enhanced system security and a more intuitive user interface, making the overall computing experience smoother and more efficient.
Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
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Dimensions | 6.7 x 6.7" / 170 x 170 mm |
Form Factor: The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard is designed in a Mini-ITX form factor. This compact size is ideal for small form factor builds, making it suitable for users who want to create a powerful yet space-efficient system. Mini-ITX motherboards typically feature fewer expansion slots and connectors compared to larger form factors, but they often provide all the essential features needed for a high-performance setup, including sufficient power delivery and connectivity options.Show More
Dimensions: Measuring 6.7 x 6.7 inches (170 x 170 mm), the dimensions of this motherboard highlight its compact nature. This size allows it to fit into smaller cases, which can be an advantage for users looking to save desk space or build portable systems. However, the smaller dimensions may also limit the number of components you can install, such as RAM slots and PCIe slots, so it's essential to consider your specific needs and the components you plan to use when opting for a Mini-ITX motherboard.
How do I update the BIOS on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
To update the BIOS on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA, go to the Gigabyte website, download the latest BIOS version for your motherboard, extract the files to a USB drive, restart your computer, and enter the BIOS setup. Use the Q-Flash utility to update the BIOS using the files on your USB drive.
What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA supports a maximum RAM capacity of 64GB, using two DDR5 DIMM slots. Each slot can support up to 32GB modules.
Is the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA compatible with Intel 13th Gen processors?
Yes, the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA is compatible with Intel 13th Gen processors, as it supports the LGA 1851 socket designed for these CPUs.
How can I enable XMP on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
To enable XMP on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA, enter the BIOS setup by pressing the 'Delete' key during boot. Navigate to the 'Tweaker' or 'Advanced Frequency Settings' menu and look for the 'Extreme Memory Profile (XMP)' option. Enable it and select the desired XMP profile for your RAM.
Which type of storage interfaces are supported by the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA supports NVMe M.2 SSDs with two M.2 slots and SATA III devices with four SATA ports, allowing for versatile storage configurations.
Why is my Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA not booting?
If your Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA is not booting, check the power connections, ensure the RAM and CPU are properly seated, verify all cable connections, remove any unnecessary peripherals, and try clearing the CMOS to reset BIOS settings.
Does the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
Yes, the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA comes with integrated Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 support, providing wireless connectivity options out of the box.
What is the form factor of the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA motherboard?
The Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA is a Mini-ITX motherboard, designed to fit compact builds while providing high performance and features.
How can I troubleshoot audio issues on the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
To troubleshoot audio issues, check the audio driver installation, ensure the audio device is set as default in the OS, and verify connections to audio output devices. Also, check the BIOS settings to ensure onboard audio is enabled.
How can I connect RGB lighting to the Gigabyte Z890I AORUS ULTRA?
To connect RGB lighting, use the 5V Addressable RGB or 12V RGB headers on the motherboard. Connect your RGB devices to these headers and use the RGB Fusion software to control the lighting effects.