I’m attempting to install ZimaOS v1.4.1 on my recently purchased hardware setup:
Motherboard: ASUS TUF GAMING Z890-PLUS WIFI (BIOS version 0407, built 08/30/2024)
CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 265K Desktop Processor
NVIDIA RTX 2000, 16GB GDDR6 ECC, PCI-E 4.0, 4x Mini DisplayPort 1.4a, Dual Slot, Ada Lovelace
Storage: Samsung 990 PRO 2TB NVMe SSD
RAM: DDR5 memory
Issue Experienced:
When booting from a correctly flashed ZimaOS USB installe
The BIOS correctly recognizes the USB.
The ZimaOS installer briefly flashes on the screen.
Then the system gets stuck indefinitely at a black screen with a flashing cursor.
No installer menu or further progress occurs.
Secure boot is disabled.
UEFI-only mode (no CSM) is set.
Windows drives disconnected completely; no competing EFI boot entries.
This strongly suggests a compatibility issue between ZimaOS’s current kernel or drivers and the latest ASUS Z890 chipset or related hardware components (Intel CPU, NVMe controller, etc.).
Steps taken already
Thoroughly wiped and reflashed USB installer multiple times (Balena Etcher, Rufus, dd from Ubuntu).
Verified hardware health: booted successfully into Ubuntu 24.04.2 Live USB.
Adjusted BIOS settings extensively: Secure boot disabled, Fast Boot disabled, UEFI mode only, UEFI Variable Protection disabled, and removed any conflicting boot entries.
Physically disconnected secondary drives to avoid conflicts.
Actual outcome:
Black screen, blinking cursor immediately after the “Booting ZimaOS Installer” message.
I’m posting this to seek advice or updates on compatibility/support timelines for newer Intel Z890 chipset motherboards.