EVGA Z590 FTW WIFI (121-RL-E597)
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Installing M.2 devices
Installing M.2 Key-M Socket 3 Devices
Securing an M.2 device to the motherboard requires a few extra steps compared to other
current drive or slot-based connectors. M.2 devices used on this motherboard - Socket 3
(for SSDs) and Socket 1 (for WiFi/Bluetooth) – are installed differently.
Below are images from an installation of an SSD on a Socket 3 Key-M 110mm slot of
the Z590 FTW WIFI. This motherboard has three (3) M.2 slots, each covered by a
heatsink to provide additional cooling.
1. Remove the M.2 Cover
Begin by removing the heatsink over PM1, as
shown in the image to the right. If you plan
on installing additional M.2 devices at this
time, then also remove the larger heatsink.
The upper heatsink is secured with two (2)
screws, while the larger heatsink is secured by
four (4) screws.
Before you can install an M.2 device, you
must first remove the screw that comes pre-
attached to the Socket 3’s retention standoff;
this will be used to keep the M.2 device in
place. The standoff is placed at the 80mm
interval for PM1 and PM3, and 60mm for
PM2, but can be adjusted depending on the
length of the SSD.
If you plan to install a 110mm M.2 device, or
an 80mm M.2 device on PM2, then you will
not use the pre-attached screw to secure your
M.2 Device. Store this screw in a safe place in
case it is needed in the future.
Next add one thermal pad – included with the Z590 FTW WIFI accessories – to the
outlined area above and to the right. This thermal pad will assist with cooling your M.2
Key-M device.