Question: What does the orange RAM light indicate on an Asus Tuf Z690 board?
Question: What does the orange RAM light indicate on an Asus Tuf Z690 board?
I recently assembled a new PC with the following components:
Asus Tuf Z690
Intel 13600k
Corsair Vengeance 3600mhz RAM
Gigabyte 850w gold PSU
During boot, I noticed an orange RAM light. I understand I might need to update the BIOS for compatibility with this CPU, but is there any way to do this without using a compatible older CPU? I thought I could use USB in BIOS for an update and continue from there, but I can’t even access BIOS. The issue isn’t the RAM—it’s brand new, and I’ve tried another set from my previous PC. Since it’s an AMD build, I don’t have access to an older Intel CPU at the moment. What do you think is the problem here?
Did you place the RAM in the second and fourth slots instead of the first or third because the motherboard doesn’t accept them? Also, the ASUS TUF Z690 is compatible with both the 13th and 12th generation CPUs, so you don’t need to update the BIOS for the CPU. The motherboard packaging indicates it’s ready for the 13th generation.
it's found in models 2 and 4 too, and it has been out several times as well. I checked with various known working sticks and the same error occurred. I believe the Z690 is compatible, but a BIOS update might be necessary depending on whether the board originally came with one or not. I've also tried using Crashfree BIOS 3 with the latest BIOS, but it still doesn't load properly—it seems this issue no longer works on newer boards or BIOS versions. I might need to obtain a 12th generation CPU and update it, or take it to a shop for a BIOS update so it functions with the 13th generation.
Is it possible to use a 12th generation Intel Celeron 6900 to update the BIOS? I can obtain one for 60 pounds. It looks like buying a spare might be better than spending the same amount at a store to do the update.
If you recently purchased the motherboard, it shouldn't require a BIOS update since it's compatible with the 13th generation. Check the box for any instructions. Also, verify that the cooler is seated properly and the fans are running to ensure the CPU isn't overheating. Test the PSU by doing a paperclip test and try one RAM stick at a time.
I've completed all those steps. The motherboard supports the 13th generation, though not every model comes pre-installed—some older ones might require a BIOS update. It seems the timing depends on how long they've been sitting there. The box doesn't mention a 13th-gen release.
Psu is brand new, 850W gold Gigabyte with all fans spinning and RGB lighting enabled. It's getting power.
I've tested every possible RAM configuration using different sticks. I'm 99% confident a BIOS update is necessary, so I've ordered a 12th-gen CPU to try it out and will share the results later.
Confirmed it was a necessary bios update. I set the 12th gen CPU to boot directly into bios at version 0.6, which requires at least 1620 for the 13th gen. The bios installation also added my 13600k and it functions perfectly. Please be cautious with these boards—do not install new 13th gen CPUs on older boards without updating the bios first or keeping a 12th gen CPU nearby.
It seems you're looking for a way to upgrade your system by using an older motherboard that hasn't been updated recently, allowing you to run your 12th generation CPU alongside your new 13th generation one.