1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Thermalright TL-ARGB HUB Controller REV.A. This device is designed to centralize and synchronize the lighting effects of up to 10 Addressable RGB (ARGB) devices within your computer system. Powered by a SATA connector, it provides a stable and reliable power supply for your ARGB components, ensuring a clean and organized build.
Image 1.1: Thermalright TL-ARGB HUB Controller REV.A
2. Safety Information
- Voltage Compatibility: This hub is designed exclusively for 5V 3-pin ARGB devices. It is NOT compatible with +12V 4-pin RGB devices. Plugging in incompatible devices may cause damage to the hub, your ARGB components, or your motherboard.
- Correct Insertion: Always align the arrow mark on the ARGB device plug with the 5V direction indicator on the hub's port when inserting. Incorrect insertion direction may damage the device.
- Power Source: Ensure the hub is powered only by a SATA power connector from your PC's power supply.
- Installation: Ensure your PC is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet before installing or removing any components.
Image 2.1: ARGB port with 5V indicator. Always align the arrow on the plug with the 5V mark.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon unboxing:
- 1x Thermalright TL-ARGB HUB Controller REV.A
- 1x 3-pin ARGB Sync Cable (for motherboard connection)
- 1x 4-pin PWM Cable (for motherboard connection, if applicable for fan control)
- Double-sided Adhesive Pads (for mounting)
Image 3.1: Package contents including the hub, cables, and adhesive.
4. Installation and Setup
Follow these steps to install your ARGB hub:
4.1. Mounting the Hub
The hub features built-in strong double-sided adhesive. Peel off the protective film and firmly press the hub onto a clean, flat surface inside your PC chassis. Choose a location that allows for easy cable management and access to all ports.
Image 4.1: Securing the hub to the chassis with double-sided adhesive.
4.2. Connecting ARGB Devices
The hub supports up to 10 ARGB devices. Connect your 5V 3-pin ARGB fans, light strips, or other compatible devices to the ports labeled "L-1" through "L-8" on the hub. Ensure correct orientation by aligning the arrow on the plug with the 5V indicator on the port.
Image 4.2: Connecting multiple ARGB devices to the hub.
4.3. Connecting to Motherboard (for Synchronization)
To synchronize lighting effects with your motherboard's software, connect the included 3-pin ARGB sync cable from the hub's "ARGB INPUT" port to a 5V 3-pin ARGB header on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard manual for the exact location of this header.
Image 4.3: Connecting the ARGB hub to the motherboard's 5V 3-pin ARGB header.
If your hub model includes PWM fan control, connect the included 4-pin PWM cable from the hub's "PWM INPUT" port to a 4-pin PWM fan header on your motherboard. This allows the motherboard to control fan speeds connected to the hub (if applicable).
4.4. Power Connection
Connect a SATA power cable from your PC's power supply to the "POWER INPUT" port on the hub. This provides the necessary power for all connected ARGB devices.
Image 4.4: Connecting SATA power to the hub.
A comprehensive wiring diagram is provided below for reference:
Image 4.5: Full wiring instructions for the ARGB and Fan Hub.
5. Operation
The Thermalright TL-ARGB HUB Controller REV.A can be controlled either via a remote control (if included with your specific model) or through your motherboard's ARGB software.
5.1. Remote Control Operation (if applicable)
If your package includes a wireless remote control, you can use it to manage lighting effects and fan speeds (for PWM-enabled hubs). Refer to Image 4.5 for the remote control layout.
- Indicator Light: Shows remote activity.
- Turn ON/OFF: Power on or off the lighting.
- R/M (Switch Mode): Toggles between Motherboard control and Remote control mode.
- Speed +/-: Increase or decrease fan speed (if connected to PWM ports).
- Mode +/-: Cycle through previous or next built-in lighting modes.
- Brightness +/-: Increase or decrease lighting brightness.
- R, G, B Buttons: Shortcut buttons for red, green, and blue static colors.
- Color Shortcut Buttons: Select various single colors directly.
- Auto Lighting Effect Loop: Automatically cycles through built-in lighting effects.
5.2. Motherboard Software Synchronization
When the hub is connected to your motherboard's 5V 3-pin ARGB header and set to Motherboard control mode (via the R/M button on the remote, if applicable), you can control the lighting effects of all connected ARGB devices using your motherboard's proprietary RGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync). Refer to your motherboard's user guide for specific instructions on using its lighting control software.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the hub if it accumulates dust. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Environment: Ensure the hub is installed in a well-ventilated area within your PC case to prevent overheating.
- Connections: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Lights or Incorrect Colors:
- Ensure the SATA power cable is securely connected to the hub and your power supply.
- Verify that all ARGB device cables are correctly plugged into the hub with the correct orientation (arrow alignment).
- Check the 3-pin ARGB sync cable connection between the hub and your motherboard.
- If using motherboard software, ensure the hub is set to Motherboard control mode (if applicable) and that the software is correctly configured.
- Confirm that your ARGB devices are 5V 3-pin compatible.
- Fans Not Spinning or Incorrect Speed (for PWM-enabled hubs):
- Ensure fan power cables are correctly connected to the hub's fan ports.
- Verify the 4-pin PWM cable connection between the hub and your motherboard.
- Check your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or fan control software.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Model | TL-ARGB HUB Controller REV.A |
| Type | Light Controller/HUB |
| RGB Support | A-RGB (5V 3-pin) |
| ARGB Ports | 10 (5+5 3-Pin 5V ARGB Ports) |
| Power Input | SATA Power |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 90mm x 46mm x 16mm |
| Weight | 50g |
| Material | Plastic |
| Mounting | Built-in Strong Double-Sided Adhesive |
| Compatibility | 5V 3-pin ARGB devices only. Not compatible with 12V 4-pin RGB. |
9. User Tips
- Aesthetics: Users report that the hub is aesthetically pleasing and functions perfectly as described, contributing to a clean build.
- Cable Management: Utilize the hub's compact size and adhesive mounting to effectively manage ARGB cables, reducing clutter inside your PC case.
- Motherboard Software: For the most customizable lighting effects, leverage your motherboard's dedicated RGB software once the hub is connected and set to motherboard control.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Thermalright website or contact your retailer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
A PDF version of the user manual may also be available for download from the manufacturer's website.