1. Product Overview
The Thermalright TL-C12C-S X5 is a high-performance 120mm computer case fan designed for efficient cooling and vibrant ARGB lighting. It features a 9-blade design, Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) for quiet operation and long life, and supports PWM control for precise speed adjustment. The fan is suitable for use in computer cases and radiators.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- Thermalright TL-C12C-S X5 Fan(s)
- Mounting Screws
- User Manual (this document)
3. Installation Guide
3.1 Mounting the Fan
- Identify the desired mounting location in your PC case or on your radiator. Ensure proper airflow direction (typically, the side with the fan hub label is exhaust).
- Align the fan with the screw holes.
- Use the provided mounting screws to secure the fan. The fan features silicone foot pads for vibration reduction.
3.2 Connecting the Cables
The TL-C12C-S X5 fan has two main connectors:
- 4-Pin PWM Connector: Connect this to an available 4-pin fan header on your motherboard. This allows for Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control of the fan speed.
- +5V 3-Pin ARGB Connector: Connect this to an available +5V 3-pin Addressable RGB (ARGB) header on your motherboard. Do NOT connect this to a 12V 4-pin RGB header, as this may damage the fan's LEDs.
The fan supports series control for PWM and ARGB, allowing multiple fans to be connected and controlled from a single header using appropriate splitters (not always included).
4. Operation
4.1 Fan Speed Control (PWM)
The fan speed can be controlled via the motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or through motherboard software. The fan operates within a range of 0 to 1550 RPM (±10%). Adjusting the PWM signal allows you to balance cooling performance and noise levels.
4.2 ARGB Lighting Control
The ARGB lighting can be controlled through 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 (if purchased separately). The fan supports up to 17 ARGB color flow modes, allowing for extensive customization of lighting effects.
5. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your fan, periodic maintenance is recommended:
- Dust Cleaning: Regularly clean dust accumulation from the fan blades and frame using compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure the fan is powered off before cleaning.
- Bearing: The S-FDB (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) is designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation. No lubrication is required.
6. Troubleshooting
- Fan Not Spinning:
- Check if the 4-pin PWM connector is securely plugged into the motherboard fan header.
- Verify that the fan header is enabled in the motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings.
- Ensure the power supply is functioning correctly.
- ARGB Lights Not Working/Incorrect Colors:
- Confirm the +5V 3-pin ARGB connector is correctly plugged into a +5V 3-pin ARGB header on the motherboard, not a 12V 4-pin RGB header.
- Check your motherboard's ARGB software for proper configuration and effects.
- Ensure all ARGB connections are secure, especially if using splitters or daisy-chaining multiple fans.
- Excessive Noise:
- Check for any cables or obstructions hitting the fan blades.
- Ensure the fan is securely mounted and screws are tightened.
- Dust accumulation can cause imbalance and noise; clean the fan thoroughly.
- Adjust fan speed settings in BIOS/UEFI or software to a lower RPM if noise is a concern.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Size | L120 mm x W120 mm x H25 mm |
| Weight | 120 g |
| Rated Speed | 1550 RPM±10% (MAX) |
| Noise Level | 25.6 dBA (MAX) |
| Air Flow | 66.17 CFM (MAX) |
| Air Pressure | 1.53mm H2O (MAX) |
| Ampere | 0.20 A |
| Working Voltage | 12V DC |
| Fan Interface | 4 PIN PWM |
| ARGB Interface | +5V 3PIN |
| Bearing Type | S-FDB Bearing |
| Fan Life | 100000 hrs |
| Blade Quantity | 9 |
| Used For | Case, Radiator |
| Certifications | CE, RoHS |
8. Warranty and Support
The Thermalright TL-C12C-S X5 fan comes with a 3-year warranty on its S-FDB bearings, ensuring long-term reliability. For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please contact Thermalright customer service through their official website or authorized distributors.
9. User Tips
- Airflow Direction: Pay attention to the arrows on the fan frame indicating airflow direction and blade rotation. Install fans to create a balanced intake and exhaust system for optimal cooling.
- Cable Management: Utilize the generous 55cm cable length for neat cable routing, which can improve airflow and aesthetics inside your PC case.
- ARGB Synchronization: For a cohesive lighting setup, ensure all ARGB components are connected to the same controller or motherboard software for synchronized effects.
- Fan Curve Optimization: Experiment with different fan curves in your motherboard's software to find the best balance between cooling performance and acoustic comfort for your specific system.
