EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

The EVGA CLC 120 CL11 is a closed-loop liquid cooling solution designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your CPU, ensuring stable performance for your desktop system.

2. Safety Information

Always follow these safety guidelines to prevent damage to the product or injury to yourself:

• Ensure your system is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet before installation or maintenance.
• Handle components with care to avoid static discharge. Consider using an anti-static wrist strap.
• Do not open the liquid cooler's sealed loop. It contains a pre-filled coolant that does not require refilling.
• Keep the cooler away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and high humidity.
• Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. Refer to the troubleshooting section or contact EVGA support.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in your package:

• EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler (Pump and Radiator with attached tubing)
• 120mm Fan
• Mounting Hardware for Intel Sockets (LGA 115X/1200/1700, 2011/2066)
• Mounting Hardware for AMD Sockets (AM4/AM5)
• Thermal Paste (pre-applied or in a tube)
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 3.1: EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler and its retail box, illustrating the product as it appears when unboxed.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps for proper installation of your EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your motherboard and case.

4.1 Prepare Your System

1. Power off your computer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Open your computer case to access the motherboard and CPU area.
3. Remove any existing CPU cooler. Clean the CPU surface thoroughly to remove old thermal paste.

4.2 Install the Radiator and Fan

1. Attach the 120mm fan to the radiator using the provided screws. Ensure the fan's airflow direction is appropriate for your case's cooling setup (typically exhausting air out of the case).
2. Mount the radiator assembly to an available 120mm fan mount in your computer case. Common locations include the rear exhaust, top, or front intake. Secure it with the appropriate screws.

Figure 4.1: The EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler, ready for installation, highlighting its compact design.

4.3 Install the CPU Block/Pump

1. Select the correct mounting bracket for your CPU socket type (Intel or AMD). Attach it to the pump block.
2. If thermal paste is not pre-applied, apply a small pea-sized amount to the center of your CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).
3. Carefully align the pump block with the CPU socket and gently lower it onto the CPU.
4. Secure the pump block to the motherboard using the appropriate standoffs and thumb screws, tightening them in a cross pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

Figure 4.2: Underside view of the cooler, showing the copper cold plate for CPU contact and the radiator fins for heat dissipation.

4.4 Connect Cables

1. Connect the pump's 3-pin or 4-pin power cable to an available CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard. Consult your motherboard manual for the correct header.
2. Connect the 120mm fan's 4-pin power cable to a CPU_FAN or SYS_FAN header on your motherboard.
3. Route cables neatly to avoid interference with other components or airflow.

Once all connections are made, close your computer case and reconnect the power cord.

5. Operation

After successful installation, power on your computer. The EVGA CLC 120 CL11 Liquid CPU Cooler will begin operating automatically.

5.1 Initial Boot and Monitoring

• During the first boot, monitor your CPU temperatures using motherboard BIOS/UEFI or third-party software (e.g., HWMonitor, Core Temp).
• Ensure the pump and fan are spinning. You may hear a slight hum from the pump or fan noise.
• CPU temperatures should be significantly lower than with stock air coolers, especially under load.

5.2 Fan and Pump Control

The fan and pump speeds are typically controlled by your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or dedicated software provided by your motherboard manufacturer. You can adjust fan curves to balance cooling performance and noise levels.

• Pump Speed: It is generally recommended to run the pump at its maximum speed for optimal cooling performance and to prevent air bubbles from settling.
• Fan Speed: Adjust fan speeds based on CPU temperature. Higher temperatures warrant higher fan speeds.

6. Maintenance

The EVGA CLC 120 CL11 is a closed-loop system, requiring minimal maintenance. However, periodic cleaning is recommended to maintain optimal performance.

• Dust Removal: Every 3-6 months, or as needed, power off your system and use compressed air to clean dust from the radiator fins and fan blades. Dust accumulation can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
• Tubing and Connections: Periodically inspect the tubing and connections for any signs of leaks or damage. While rare, addressing issues early can prevent system damage.
• No Coolant Refill: Do not attempt to open the cooler or refill the coolant. The system is factory-sealed and designed to be maintenance-free in terms of fluid.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please visit the official EVGA website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

EVGA Official Website: www.evga.com

Product Registration: Registering your product on the EVGA website may be required for warranty validation and to receive product updates.