Asus Maximus X Hero Unboxing

Z370 Series Chipset

With the launch of the new 8700K CPU from Intel, and it's incompatibility with current Z270 chipsets (not even possible via BIOS update), manufacturers have been forced to create completely new boards to cater to this new CPU series. It's given ASUS the chance to slightly improve their already solid Hero IX Motherboard.

Hero X differences

What are the differences between the Hero IX and the Hero X?

Added Internal USB 2.0 Port.

Added Support for Intel 8Gen CPUs (8700K).

Added a heat sink for M2 SSD cooling.

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USB 2.0 Internal Connectors

ASUS have added a 2nd older style USB 2.0 port but I can see why. Manufacturers for AIO Water pumps such as the Corsair H100i V2 still use USB 2.0 connectors on their pumps for Software control. That means if you add a Bluetooth Card which also has internal USB, or one of the "i" series Corsair PSUs, you are forced to choose one or the other. You could always get an an Internal USB hub though.

How to connect AIO Water / Liquid Cooling

See diagram for details. If you want the Hero X Motherboard to provide 100% of the power for your Cooler, then I've found it's best to plug it in as follows:

• Plug the pump into AIO_Pump.
• Plug the fan(s) into CPU_FAN & CPU_OPT.

If you're running a 7700K or 8700K you're probably best to set the pump to 100% & fan speed curve to turbo or manually set fan speed to run at 100% @ 70 degrees.