Thermalright AX120 Series CPU Cooler User Manual

1. Introduction

The Thermalright AX120 series CPU coolers are high-performance air cooling solutions designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your Central Processing Unit (CPU). Featuring a tower heatsink design with multiple heatpipes and a 120mm PWM fan, these coolers provide excellent thermal performance for a wide range of Intel and AMD processors. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your cooler.

Image: Thermalright AX120 R SE PLUS CPU cooler highlighting compatibility with Intel LGA115x/1200/1700 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets, and a size of 120x148x46mm.

2. Package Contents

Please check the contents of your package to ensure all components are present. The exact components may vary slightly depending on the specific AX120 model purchased.

• CPU Heatsink Tower
• 120mm PWM Fan(s) (quantity varies by model, e.g., Plus models include two fans)
• Mounting Brackets for Intel (LGA 115x/1200/1700/2011/2066)
• Mounting Brackets for AMD (AM4/AM5)
• Intel Backplate
• Fan Clips
• Thermal Paste (syringe)
• Mounting Screws and Spacers

Image: Example package contents for the Assassin X 120 Refined SE WHITE ARGB model.

3. Specifications

Below are the general specifications for the Thermalright AX120 series. Note that dimensions and weight may vary slightly between specific models (e.g., Refined, Plus, SE, ARGB versions).

Image: Overview of different Assassin X 120 models including Refined SE WHITE ARGB, Refined SE ARGB, Refined SE, Plus, Standard, and Refined.

4. Installation Guide

This section provides general installation steps. Specific bracket usage may vary slightly based on your CPU socket type. Always refer to the diagrams for visual guidance.

4.1. Preparation

1. Power off your computer and disconnect all cables.
2. Open your PC case and locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
3. Remove any existing CPU cooler. Clean the CPU surface thoroughly to remove old thermal paste.

4.2. Mounting Bracket Installation

For Intel Sockets (LGA 115x/1200/1700/2011/2066):

1. Attach the appropriate Intel backplate to the rear of the motherboard, aligning the holes with the CPU socket.
2. Secure the standoffs through the motherboard holes into the backplate.
3. Place the Intel mounting arms onto the standoffs and secure them with screws.

For AMD Sockets (AM4/AM5):

1. Ensure the original AMD backplate is installed on your motherboard.
2. Remove the plastic retention clips from the stock AMD mounting system.
3. Attach the AMD mounting arms to the existing AMD backplate's screw holes.

Image: Top view of an Assassin X 120 Refined SE ARGB cooler, illustrating the mounting points.

4.3. Thermal Paste Application

• Apply a small, pea-sized amount of the included thermal paste to the center of your CPU's Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS). Do not spread it manually; the pressure from the heatsink will distribute it evenly.

4.4. Heatsink Mounting

1. Carefully place the heatsink onto the CPU, aligning the base with the mounting arms.
2. Secure the heatsink to the mounting arms using the provided spring-loaded screws. Tighten screws in an alternating diagonal pattern until snug to ensure even pressure.

4.5. Fan Installation

1. Attach the 120mm fan(s) to the heatsink using the provided fan clips. Ensure the fan is oriented to push air through the heatsink towards the rear or top exhaust of your PC case.
2. Connect the 4-pin PWM fan connector(s) to the CPU_FAN header on your motherboard.
3. If you have an ARGB model, connect the 3-pin 5V ARGB connector to an available ARGB header on your motherboard.

Image: Assassin X 120 cooler installed on a motherboard, demonstrating proper fit and RAM clearance.

5. Operating Instructions

• Once installed, power on your computer. The fan should begin spinning.
• The 4-pin PWM connector allows your motherboard to automatically control the fan speed based on CPU temperature, optimizing for both cooling performance and noise levels.
• For ARGB models, you can control the lighting effects through your motherboard's RGB software (if compatible) or a dedicated ARGB controller (if included/purchased separately).
• Monitor your CPU temperatures using system monitoring software to ensure the cooler is functioning effectively.

6. Maintenance

• Dust Cleaning: Regularly inspect the heatsink fins and fan blades for dust accumulation. Use compressed air or a soft brush to gently remove dust. Excessive dust can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
• Thermal Paste Reapplication: If you remove the cooler for any reason, or after several years of continuous use, it is recommended to clean off the old thermal paste from both the CPU and the cooler base and apply a fresh layer.
• Fan Inspection: Periodically check the fan for any unusual noises or wobbling, which could indicate bearing wear.

7. Troubleshooting

• Fan Not Spinning or Incorrect Speed:
  • Ensure the 4-pin PWM fan connector is securely plugged into the CPU_FAN header on your motherboard.
  • Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings for fan control. Ensure PWM mode is enabled and fan curves are set appropriately.
  • Verify that the fan cable is not damaged.
• High CPU Temperatures:
  • Confirm that the heatsink is securely mounted and making good contact with the CPU.
  • Ensure thermal paste was applied correctly and is not dried out. Reapply if necessary.
  • Check fan orientation to ensure it's pushing air through the heatsink, not pulling it away.
  • Verify adequate airflow within your PC case.
• ARGB Lighting Not Working (for ARGB models):
  • Ensure the 3-pin 5V ARGB connector is correctly plugged into a compatible ARGB header on your motherboard.
  • Check your motherboard's RGB software or dedicated controller for lighting settings.
  • Do NOT connect a 3-pin 5V ARGB connector to a 4-pin 12V RGB header, as this can damage the LEDs.

8. User Tips

• Check Compatibility: Before purchasing and installing, always verify that the cooler is compatible with your specific CPU socket (e.g., Intel LGA115x, 1700, 2011, 2066, AMD AM4, AM5) and that your PC case has sufficient clearance for the cooler's height (H148mm or H154mm depending on model).
• Thermal Paste Application: For optimal heat transfer, apply a pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of the CPU. The pressure from the heatsink will spread it evenly.
• Fan Orientation: Ensure the fan is oriented correctly to push air through the heatsink towards the rear or top exhaust of your PC case for efficient heat removal.
• Cable Management: Route fan and ARGB cables neatly to avoid interference with other components and improve overall airflow within your PC case.

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, terms, and conditions, please refer to the official Thermalright website or contact their customer support directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.