1. Introduction
The Thermalright TL-C12RW-S V2 is a high-performance 120mm chassis fan designed for optimal PC cooling and aesthetic enhancement. Featuring Addressable RGB (ARGB) lighting and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control, this fan offers efficient heat dissipation and customizable visual effects. Its unique reverse wind design is ideal for specific airflow configurations within your PC case.
Figure 1: Thermalright TL-C12RW-S V2 ARGB Fan
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect power from your PC before installing or handling internal components.
- Handle the fan by its frame to avoid damaging the blades or wiring.
- Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical hazards.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the fan.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- 1 x Thermalright TL-C12RW-S V2 ARGB Chassis Fan
- 4 x Mounting Screws
4. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | TL-C12RW-S V2 |
| Fan Dimensions | L120mm x W120mm x H25mm |
| Rated Speed | 1500 RPM (±10%) |
| Noise Level | 25.6 dBA (MAX) |
| Air Volume | 58 CFM (MAX, Reverse Air Discharge) |
| Wind Pressure | 1.53 mm H2O |
| Fan Interface | 4-PIN PWM |
| ARGB Interface | +5V 3-PIN |
| Operating Voltage | 12V DC |
| Rated Current | 0.20A |
| Bearing Type | S-FDB Bearing (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) |
| Fan Life | 100,000 hours |
| Blade Quantity | 9 |
| Material | Industrial strength PBT+PC |
| Safety Insulation | UL Class A |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Figure 2: Fan Rear View with Specifications Label
5. Installation Guide
5.1 Physical Installation
- Identify the desired mounting location(s) within your PC chassis (e.g., front, top, rear, bottom).
- Align the fan with the screw holes on your chassis or radiator.
- Secure the fan using the provided mounting screws. Do not overtighten.
- Ensure the silicone foot pads are correctly positioned to reduce vibration and noise.
Figure 3: Fan Features (Silicone Pads, Wire Length)
5.2 Airflow Direction (Reverse Wind)
The TL-C12RW-S V2 is a reverse wind fan. This means the fan blades rotate counter-clockwise, and the fan blade face is in the direction of exhaust air. It pulls air from the front (where the label is typically visible) and exhausts it from the back (where the motor hub is visible). This is crucial for maintaining optimal airflow in specific case configurations, often used as intake fans where the aesthetic front of the fan is desired to face inwards.
Figure 4: Reverse Airflow Direction Indication
5.3 Wiring Connections
The fan requires two connections: one for power/speed control and one for ARGB lighting.
- 4-PIN PWM Connection: Connect the 4-pin fan cable to an available 4-pin fan header on your motherboard. This allows for automatic fan speed control based on system temperature.
- +5V 3-PIN ARGB Connection: Connect the 3-pin ARGB cable to a compatible +5V Addressable RGB header on your motherboard. Do NOT connect to a +12V RGB header, as this will damage the LEDs.
Figure 5: ARGB Connection Details and Notes
Important ARGB Notes:
- You can use motherboard pins to operate in synchronous light effect mode. Refer to your motherboard's user guide for specific instructions.
- The power supply of the ARGB port on the mainboard has an upper limit. When the mainboard is connected to the synchronous mode, a single port on the mainboard can connect no more than six devices in series. Exceeding this limit may damage your motherboard or ARGB devices.
6. Operation
6.1 Fan Speed Control (PWM)
The 4-pin PWM connection allows your motherboard to dynamically adjust the fan speed (0-1500 RPM) based on CPU or system temperatures. This ensures optimal cooling performance while minimizing noise when not under heavy load. You can typically configure fan curves in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or through manufacturer-provided software.
6.2 ARGB Lighting Control
The fan's ARGB lighting can be controlled via your motherboard's ARGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync). Ensure your motherboard has a compatible +5V 3-pin ARGB header. The fan supports up to 17 ARGB 'Water Magic' modes for diverse visual effects.
Video 1: Demonstration of ARGB lighting effects in a PC case.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean dust from the fan blades and frame using compressed air or a soft, dry cloth. Ensure the PC is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
- Inspection: Periodically check the fan for any signs of wear, loose connections, or unusual noises.
- Avoid Liquids: Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the fan or its electrical components.
8. Troubleshooting
8.1 Fan Not Spinning
- Check if the 4-pin PWM cable is securely connected to the motherboard fan header.
- Ensure the PC is powered on and the fan header is receiving power.
- Verify fan settings in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI; some headers may be disabled or set to a very low RPM.
8.2 ARGB Lighting Not Working
- Confirm the +5V 3-pin ARGB cable is correctly connected to a compatible +5V ARGB header on your motherboard.
- Ensure it is NOT connected to a +12V RGB header.
- Check your motherboard's ARGB software to ensure lighting effects are enabled and configured.
- Verify that the total number of ARGB devices connected to a single header does not exceed the motherboard's power limit (typically 6 devices in series).
8.3 Excessive Noise
- Ensure all mounting screws are tightened appropriately.
- Check for any cables or obstructions touching the fan blades.
- Clean any dust buildup on the fan blades.
- If the noise persists and is unusual, it may indicate a bearing issue.
9. User Tips
- Airflow Configuration: Due to its reverse wind design, this fan is excellent for intake positions where you want the aesthetically pleasing front of the fan to be visible from inside the case, while still pulling cool air in. Plan your case airflow carefully to maximize cooling efficiency.
- Cable Management: Utilize the 55cm long fan wire for easier cable routing and a cleaner build.
- ARGB Synchronization: For synchronized lighting effects across multiple ARGB components, ensure all devices are connected to compatible ARGB headers and controlled by the same software.
10. Warranty and Support
The Thermalright TL-C12RW-S V2 ARGB Chassis Fan comes with a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support, warranty claims, or further inquiries, please contact your retailer or visit the official Thermalright website for contact information.
