How to install PCIe SSDs to run Windows 10 - MOBO: Z270E

[Live_Ammo]

Hi,

It's my first build which is almost complete. I picked up the ASUS Z270E mobo and a 500GB Samsung 960 PCIe SSD to run Windows 10 (64 bit).

Problem is I can't seem to find a step-by-step guide showing how to enable/configure all the settings in BIOS/UEFI to get the m.2 SSD to work. I have seen some other list of instructions how to do this but those were written some years ago and were basically representative of other older branded mobos. Is there a guide from ASUS available with easy instructions to follow?

I also understand once the M.2 SSD is recognised with the correct configurations in BIOS, the Windows driver for the storage device is limited and does not allow the M.2 SSD to run at max R/W speeds. To add the fix, I understand I need to download the manufacturers driver. Not sure if this is correct as the 2 articles I read were both written in 2015.

[Korth]

http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-3460538/nvme-installation-asus-z270f-rog-strix.html

The guides for 100/200 Series STRIX or MAXIMUS mobos are still applicable, not much about M.2 has changed in subsequent BIOS except the addition of support for additional M.2 slot(s) or Hyper M.2 cards (along with some multi-M.2 complexities involving RAID) on some mobos.

At worst you somehow misconfigure settings and the M.2 won't work. And you can always reinstall what you originally installed. Nothing you do in BIOS can really "break" the M.2 hardware.

[Live_Ammo]

Korth wrote:
http://www.tomshardware.com/answers/id-3460538/nvme-installation-asus-z270f-rog-strix.html

The guides for 100/200 Series STRIX or MAXIMUS mobos are still applicable, not much about M.2 has changed in subsequent BIOS except the addition of support for additional M.2 slot(s) or Hyper M.2 cards (along with some multi-M.2 complexities involving RAID) on some mobos.

At worst you somehow misconfigure settings and the M.2 won't work. And you can always reinstall what you originally installed. Nothing you do in BIOS can really "break" the M.2 hardware.

With skies gloomy, the oceans turned red, when hope is almost dead.....THE KORTH EMERGES AND SAVES THE DAY!!!!!!!

LOL.....thanks a bunch bro! That was probably the last hurdle for my build, i should be able to fly through those easy-to-follow instructions.

I have a quick question though. The article informs that the M.2_1 will disable SATA 1, to double check with you, I read using the PCIe-mode does not disable any of the SATA PORTS when using the M.2_1 connector. Is that correct?

[oiishiii]

I too would also like to say thanks. Built my PC last night and got too late to install windows. I will also be installing windows on a M.2. Thanks for linking that guide!

[Korth]

I agree, page 46 of the STRIX Z270E user manual (under "M.2_1 Configuration") does seem backwards explaining when SATA6G_1 is disabled.
Maybe an editing or translation error.

These user manuals don't seem to ever get revised when the BIOS gets revised, so they eventually become inaccurate anyhow.

On the plus side, the wrong (AUTO/SATA/PCIE) setting will only mean your BIOS can't recognize the M.2 device during POST. System will do nothing (except maybe complain about a missing boot drive) and wait for you to go back into BIOS to change this setting.

If you're using SATA drive(s) then just don't plug into SATA6G_1, use SATA6G_2/etc.

[Live_Ammo]

Hey Korth,

I was just running through my threads for a recap.

The link you provided, lol i thought I googled that link myself. Thanks a bunch mate, it helped hugely and worked a treat!! Boot up and shut down times are like nothing i've experienced before - too fast, too furious!