Thermalright AE240 ARGB All-in-One Water Cooling Radiator User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Thermalright AE240 ARGB All-in-One Water Cooling Radiator. This high-performance CPU liquid cooler is designed to provide efficient heat dissipation for your processor while adding vibrant ARGB lighting to your system. This manual will guide you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your new cooler to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The AE240 features a 240mm radiator, two ARGB fans, and a pump with an ARGB-lit top, all designed for seamless integration and aesthetic appeal.

2. Safety Precautions

• Always disconnect power from your PC before installation or maintenance.
• Handle components with care to avoid damage.
• Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrostatic discharge.
• Do not open the pump or radiator as it contains liquid coolant.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Refer to your motherboard manual for specific header locations and voltage requirements.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• Thermalright AE240 All-in-One CPU Cooler (Radiator, Pump, and pre-installed fans)
• Mounting Brackets for Intel and AMD sockets
• Backplates for compatible sockets
• Screws and standoffs for installation
• Thermal Paste
• ARGB 3-pin cable for cold head/fan light effect interface
• User Manual

4. Specifications

5. Installation Guide

Before you begin, ensure your PC is powered off and unplugged. Refer to your motherboard and PC case manuals for specific instructions on component placement and cable routing.

5.1. Prepare the CPU and Motherboard

1. Clean CPU: If replacing an existing cooler, carefully remove the old cooler and clean any residual thermal paste from the CPU surface using isopropyl alcohol.
2. Apply Thermal Paste: Apply a small, pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of your CPU's Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS).

5.2. Install Mounting Hardware

The AE240 supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. Select the appropriate backplate and mounting brackets for your CPU socket.

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

1. Attach the correct Intel backplate to the rear of your motherboard, aligning the holes.
2. Secure the standoffs through the motherboard holes into the backplate.
3. Attach the Intel mounting brackets to the pump unit.

For AMD Sockets (AM4/AM5):

1. Remove the plastic retention clips from the stock AMD backplate (if present), but keep the stock backplate.
2. Attach the AMD mounting brackets to the pump unit.
3. Secure the standoffs to the motherboard's existing backplate.

5.3. Mount the Radiator and Fans

The fans are pre-installed on the radiator for convenience.

1. Determine the best mounting location for the 240mm radiator in your PC case (e.g., top, front).
2. Secure the radiator to your case using the provided screws. Ensure proper airflow direction (typically intake or exhaust depending on case configuration).

5.4. Install the Pump Unit

1. Carefully place the pump unit onto the CPU, aligning the mounting brackets with the standoffs.
2. Secure the pump unit with the provided thumb screws or nuts, tightening them in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

5.5. Connect Cables

1. Pump Power: Connect the pump's 3-pin power cable to the motherboard's dedicated AIO_PUMP or CPU_OPT header. If neither is available, use a SYS_FAN header and ensure it's set to run at full speed in the BIOS.
2. Fan Power: Connect the 4-pin PWM fan cables (from the pre-installed fans) to the motherboard's CPU_FAN header or a fan hub.
3. ARGB Lighting: Connect the 5V-3pin ARGB cables from both the fans and the pump to a compatible 5V-3pin ARGB header on your motherboard or an ARGB controller. Ensure correct pin alignment to avoid damage.

6. Operation

6.1. Initial Power On

After installation, double-check all connections. Power on your PC. The fans and pump should start operating, and the ARGB lighting should illuminate.

6.2. ARGB Lighting Control

The AE240 features Addressable RGB (A-RGB) lighting on both the fans and the pump head. This allows for synchronized lighting effects with compatible motherboards or external ARGB controllers.

• Motherboard Software: If connected to a 5V-3pin ARGB header on your motherboard, you can control the lighting effects using your motherboard manufacturer's RGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync).
• External Controller: If your motherboard lacks an ARGB header, you may use an external ARGB controller (not included) to manage lighting effects.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your cooler.

• Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean dust from the radiator fins and fan blades using compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure fans are not spinning during cleaning.
• Check Tubing: Inspect the tubing for any signs of kinks, leaks, or damage.
• Pump Check: Listen for any unusual noises from the pump, which could indicate an issue.
• Thermal Paste: While not frequently required for AIOs, if you ever remove the pump from the CPU, you must clean and reapply thermal paste before reinstallation.

8. Troubleshooting

8.1. No Power to Fans/Pump

• Ensure all power cables (3-pin for pump, 4-pin for fans) are securely connected to the correct headers on the motherboard.
• Check BIOS settings to ensure fan headers are enabled and configured correctly (e.g., not set to 0 RPM).

8.2. ARGB Lighting Not Working

• Verify that the 5V-3pin ARGB cables are correctly connected to a compatible ARGB header on your motherboard or controller. Ensure the arrow on the connector aligns with the +5V pin on the header.
• Check your motherboard's RGB software or external controller settings.
• Ensure the ARGB header on your motherboard is enabled in the BIOS.

8.3. High CPU Temperatures

• Ensure the pump is running. You should feel a slight vibration or hear a low hum.
• Verify that the pump unit is securely mounted to the CPU and making good contact.
• Check if thermal paste was applied correctly and evenly.
• Ensure fans are spinning and oriented correctly for optimal airflow through the radiator.
• Clean any dust buildup on the radiator fins.

8.4. Unusual Noises

• Gurgling/Bubbling: This can be normal during initial startup as air settles. If it persists, gently tilt your PC case to help trapped air move to the radiator.
• Fan Noise: Check for obstructions or loose fan blades. Ensure fan screws are tight.
• Pump Noise: If the pump makes a loud grinding or whining noise, it may indicate an issue. Ensure it's receiving adequate power.

9. User Tips

• Check Compatibility: Always verify your motherboard's CPU socket type (e.g., LGA1700, AM5) and case clearance for a 240mm radiator before purchasing and installing.
• Cable Management: Take time to route cables neatly for better airflow and aesthetics.
• BIOS Settings: Configure your motherboard's BIOS to control fan speeds (PWM) based on CPU temperature for optimal cooling and noise levels. Ensure the pump header is set to run at 100% speed.
• ARGB Software: Experiment with your motherboard's ARGB software to find your preferred lighting effects and synchronization.

10. Warranty and Support

Thermalright provides a 3-year quality assurance for the AE240 All-in-One Water Cooling Radiator. For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please contact Thermalright customer service through their official channels.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.