1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the JONSBO ZK-120 ARGB Series Computer Case Fan. This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your new fan. The ZK-120 series features innovative wire-free splicing, vibrant ARGB lighting, and efficient cooling performance for your PC case or radiator.
Figure 1: JONSBO ZK-120 Wire-Free Splicing Fan (Regular and Reverse Versions)
Video 1: Product demonstration showcasing ARGB lighting and wire-free splicing.
2. Key Features
- Wire-Free Splicing: Modular design allows multiple fans to connect directly without additional cables, simplifying installation and improving aesthetics.
- Addressable RGB (ARGB) Lighting: Customizable lighting effects that can be synchronized with your motherboard (3PIN 5V ARGB interface required).
- Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB): Ensures quiet operation, stable performance, and extended lifespan.
- High Efficiency Cooling: Designed for optimal airflow and static pressure, suitable for both case and radiator applications.
- Shock Absorption: Equipped with 8 shock-absorbing pads to minimize resonance and noise.
- Wind Guide Spoiler: Improved blade design for converged and fused air volume, high efficiency, and anti-turbulence.
- Infinity Mirror Effect: Side and axis center double infinity mirror effect for enhanced visual appeal.
3. Specifications
Figure 2: JONSBO ZK-120 Fan Dimensions and Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ZK-120 |
| Fan Size | 123mm (L) x 120mm (W) x 28mm (H) |
| Fan Speed | 800-2200 RPM (±10%) (Regular Version) 800-1800 RPM (±10%) (Reverse Version) |
| Air Volume | 20.95-65.26 CFM (Regular Version) 18.75-47.71 CFM (Reverse Version) |
| Wind Pressure | 0.45-3.20 mmH2O (Regular Version) 0.33-1.66 mmH2O (Reverse Version) |
| Noise | 20.3-36.6 dBA (Regular Version) 16.4-30.7 dBA (Reverse Version) |
| Bearing Type | Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) |
| Fan Life (MTTF) | ≥50000h (at Room Temp: 25°C) |
| Rated Voltage (Fan) | 12V |
| Rated Current (Fan) | 0.10A |
| Power (Fan) | 1.2W |
| Rated Voltage (LED) | 5V |
| Rated Current (LED) | 0.83A |
| Power (LED) | 4.15W |
| Power Interface | 4PIN PWM, 5V-3PIN ARGB |
| Blade Quantity | 7 |
| Used For | Case, Radiator |
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the fan(s) from the packaging. Inspect for any visible damage. Ensure all components are present:
- JONSBO ZK-120 ARGB Fan(s)
- Mounting Screws
- Extension Cable (if included for segmented connections)
4.2 Wire-Free Splicing Connection
The ZK-120 fans feature a unique wire-free splicing design, allowing multiple fans to connect directly to each other, reducing cable clutter.
- Align the male and female connectors on the sides of two fans.
- Gently push the fans together until they click into place, ensuring a secure connection. The recessed plug design ensures stability and maintains the aesthetic integrity.
- Repeat for additional fans.
Figure 3: Line-Free Splicing Mechanism
4.3 Power and ARGB Connection
After splicing the fans, connect the primary fan unit to your motherboard or fan controller:
- PWM Power: Connect the 4-PIN PWM cable from the fan unit to an available 4-PIN fan header on your motherboard. This allows for speed control.
- ARGB Lighting: Connect the 5V-3PIN ARGB cable from the fan unit to a compatible 5V-3PIN ARGB header on your motherboard. This enables synchronization of lighting effects with your system. Do NOT connect to a 12V-4PIN RGB header, as this will damage the LEDs.
Figure 4: Motherboard ARGB Synchronization Connection
4.4 Mounting the Fans
Mount the assembled fan unit(s) into your PC case or onto your radiator using the provided mounting screws. Ensure the fan direction is appropriate for your desired airflow (intake or exhaust).
- Regular Version: Typically used for intake, pushing air into the case.
- Reverse Version: Designed for exhaust, pulling air out of the case, while maintaining the aesthetic front-facing appearance.
Figure 5: Airflow Direction for Reverse Cooling Blades
The fans are equipped with 8 shock-absorbing pads on the corners to reduce vibration and noise during operation. Ensure these pads make contact with the mounting surface.
Figure 6: Shock Absorption Pads
5. Operation
5.1 Fan Speed Control (PWM)
The 4-PIN PWM connection allows your motherboard or fan controller to dynamically adjust the fan speed based on system temperature. You can configure fan curves through your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or dedicated software provided by your motherboard manufacturer.
5.2 ARGB Lighting Control
The 5V-3PIN ARGB connection enables control over the fan's lighting effects. You can customize colors, patterns, and synchronization with other ARGB components using your motherboard's ARGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync) or a dedicated ARGB controller.
Figure 7: Double Infinity Mirror ARGB Effect
6. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your JONSBO ZK-120 fans, regular maintenance is recommended:
- Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean the fan blades and frame to remove dust buildup. Use compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure the system is powered off before cleaning.
- Bearing Longevity: The Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) is designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation with a Mean Time To Failure (MTTF) of over 50,000 hours. No lubrication is required.
Figure 8: FDB Dynamic Hydraulic Bearing for long life
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Fan Not Spinning
- Check if the 4-PIN PWM cable is securely connected to the motherboard fan header.
- Ensure the fan header is enabled in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Verify that the power supply is providing adequate power to the system.
- If multiple fans are spliced, ensure the primary fan connected to the motherboard is functioning correctly.
7.2 ARGB Lighting Not Working or Incorrect
- Confirm that the 5V-3PIN ARGB cable is correctly connected to a compatible 5V-3PIN ARGB header on your motherboard. Do not connect to a 12V-4PIN RGB header.
- Check your motherboard's ARGB software or dedicated controller settings to ensure lighting effects are configured and enabled.
- Ensure all spliced fans have a proper connection for ARGB signal transmission.
- Restart your system and check for software updates for your motherboard's ARGB control utility.
7.3 Excessive Noise
- Ensure all mounting screws are tightened securely to prevent vibrations.
- Verify that the shock-absorbing pads are properly seated between the fan and the mounting surface.
- Check for any cables or obstructions touching the fan blades.
- Dust buildup can cause imbalance and noise; clean the fans as described in the Maintenance section.
8. User Tips
- Optimize Airflow: When installing multiple fans, consider using a combination of regular and reverse versions to create a balanced airflow path within your case. For example, regular fans for intake and reverse fans for exhaust can maintain a clean aesthetic while optimizing cooling.
- Cable Management: Leverage the wire-free splicing feature to minimize visible cables. For longer runs or separated fan groups, use the provided extension cord for a clean 'partition transfer' application.
- ARGB Customization: Experiment with your motherboard's ARGB software to create unique lighting effects that match your build's theme. The infinity mirror effect offers a wide range of visual possibilities.
- Regular Cleaning: A quick blast of compressed air every few months can significantly extend the life and maintain the quiet operation of your fans.
Figure 9: Direct vs. Partition Transfer Connection
9. Warranty and Support
JONSBO ZK-120 ARGB Series fans come with a 5-year warranty on the Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB), ensuring long-term reliability and performance. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please contact your retailer or visit the official JONSBO website for contact information.
