Need Help with QCode 53 on ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero Build with Known Compatible RAMs

[YukonXLDenalli]

Hi,

I recently built a PC using the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero motherboard, and I'm encountering an issue with my RAM. Below are the relevant specs (full parts list available here)

• CPU: Intel Core i9-12900K 3.2 GHz 16-Core Processor
• RAM: G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series (Intel XMP 3.0) DDR5 64GB (2x32GB) 6400MT/s CL32-39-39-102 1.40V (F5-6400J3239G32GX2-TZ5RK) – confirmed on the motherboard’s QVL and compatible with 12th Gen CPUs.

However, on boot, I’m getting QCode 53, which indicates an incompatible RAM issue.

What I’ve Tried:

• BIOS Update: Updated to the latest version (2801) via USB FlashBack (BIOS link).
• Intel ME Firmware: One customer support angent @Jiaszzz_ROG suggested in one post to update Intel ME, but my BIOS already includes it.

Despite these steps, the issue persists. Any insights or troubleshooting tips would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help.

[Jiaszzz_ROG]

Hello @YukonXLDenalli 

Thank you for reaching out to us.
May I ask if you have clear CMOS after updating the BIOS?
Based on the symptoms you described, we recommend referring to the ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO user manual to ensure all hardware components are correctly installed. This includes checking that the CPU pins are not bent, the CPU cooler is neither too loose nor too tight, and the memory modules are installed in the recommended DIMM_A2 and B2 slots.
If needed, you may also try a minimal hardware test by removing the system from the chassis and installing only the i9-12900K CPU with integrated graphics output, a single memory module in the DIMM_A2 slot, and the PSU. After performing a CMOS clear, please check if the issue persists.

Thank you.