It functions properly with older BIOS versions.
It functions properly with older BIOS versions.
Hello, I purchased a used Z790 Apex Encore with bent pins. I straightened them completely. Initially, Mobo wasn’t active. The system looped between code 98, then B4 (USB Hot Plug), and back again. I attempted various fixes—removing heatsinks, stripping the board, using different BIOS versions (0220, 0506, 0507). Anything after 0801 or 2001 models tends to cause this issue. I reached out to ASUS, but they said it won’t be resolved even under warranty. BIOS 0507 doesn’t support 24GB DIMMs, so I’m using 16GB and knowing none of the solutions address CPU degradation. I’ve tried flashing every available BIOS from overclock.net, stripped the board, used 14900KS on another Z790 Apex (white) and 14900K on this one, but the same problem persists. I also tried updating via BIOS, but it still reports BIOS update. I don’t have access to lower-end LGA 1700 CPUs for testing. My thoughts are focusing on checking if pin adjustments on the CPU affecting USB Hot Plug work. Any other ideas? I have two Z790 Apex Encore units; one works perfectly, the other white model does too.
Ensure no bent pins are touching each other. Because they shift slightly during operation, a small movement could lead to a short circuit when they connect.
They might touch other pins, and in the earlier BIOS versions where those pins weren't active, they wouldn't get power, but when the BIOS is active they begin to short.
Nevertheless, guidance comes with guidance. I’ll bring my USB Microscope and perform a fifth verification to confirm. I also purchased the i3 14100f because it seems to require fewer pins, which might help with booting.