Antec DP301M Micro-ATX Gaming Case Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Antec DP301M is a compact Micro-ATX gaming case designed for high-performance components. It features an ARGB boomerang front-panel design and a tempered glass side panel, combining aesthetics with functionality. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your DP301M chassis.

2. Product Features

• ARGB Minimalism: Sleek and sharp design for a simple gaming style with addressable RGB lighting.
• LED Mode I/O Button: Controls the colors and modes of the LED strip on the front panel.
• Water-Cooling Ready: Supports 1 x 280 mm radiator in the front and 1 x 120 mm radiator in the rear.
• Full-Screen View: Display your internal components through the crystal-clear tempered glass side panel.
• Motherboard Support: Compatible with Micro-ATX and ITX motherboards.
• Materials: Constructed from SPCC steel and plastic.

3. Package Contents

Please verify that all listed components are present in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer or Antec customer support.

• Antec DP301M Micro-ATX Gaming Case
• Accessory Box (containing screws, standoffs, cable ties, etc.)
• User Manual (this document)
• Pre-installed 1 x 120mm fan (rear)

4. Component Overview

Familiarize yourself with the external and internal layout of the Antec DP301M case.

Figure 4.1: Various external views of the Antec DP301M case, showing the front panel with ARGB lighting, the rear panel with I/O cutouts, the tempered glass left side panel, and the solid right side panel.

Figure 4.2: Close-up of the top I/O panel, indicating the Power button, LED Mode Control button, USB 3.0 x 2 ports, Mic/Audio (HD) jacks, and Reset button.

5. Specifications

6. Setup Guide

Follow these steps for proper installation of your components into the Antec DP301M chassis.

6.1 Internal Layout and Component Clearance

Figure 6.1: Internal layout showing support areas for Motherboard (A: up to Micro-ATX), Storage (B: 2.5"/3.5" bays), Graphics Card (C: up to 360mm), CPU Cooler (D: up to 160mm), and PSU (E: up to 170mm).

6.2 Motherboard Installation

1. Remove the tempered glass side panel by unscrewing the four thumb screws. Carefully set the panel aside on a soft, flat surface.
2. Install the I/O shield (if not pre-attached to your motherboard) into the rear opening of the case.
3. Align your Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX motherboard with the standoffs inside the case. Ensure the screw holes on the motherboard match the standoffs.
4. Secure the motherboard with the provided screws. Do not overtighten.

6.3 Storage Device Installation

The case supports 2 x 3.5" HDDs and 2 x 2.5" SSDs.

1. For 3.5" HDDs: Locate the drive cage at the bottom front of the case. Slide the HDD into the drive tray and secure it with screws.
2. For 2.5" SSDs: Mount the SSDs onto the dedicated 2.5" brackets located behind the motherboard tray or on top of the PSU shroud. Secure with screws.

6.4 Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation

1. Position the PSU at the bottom rear of the case, ensuring the fan faces downwards (if there's a bottom vent) or upwards.
2. Secure the PSU to the rear of the chassis with screws.

6.5 Graphics Card and Expansion Card Installation

1. Remove the necessary expansion slot covers from the rear of the case.
2. Insert your graphics card or other expansion cards into the appropriate PCIe slots on the motherboard.
3. Secure the cards with screws.

6.6 Cooling System Installation (Fans & Radiators)

The DP301M offers flexible cooling options:

Figure 6.2: Diagram illustrating fan and radiator support: Top (2x 120mm or 2x 140mm), Rear (1x 120mm fan, 1x 120mm radiator), Front (3x 120mm or 2x 140mm fans, 1x 280mm radiator). Includes details on magnetic dust filters and removable bottom dust filter.

• Front: Supports up to three 120mm fans or two 140mm fans, or a 280mm radiator.
• Top: Supports up to two 120mm fans or two 140mm fans.
• Rear: One 120mm fan is pre-installed. Supports a 120mm radiator.

Install fans and radiators in desired locations, securing them with appropriate screws. Ensure proper airflow direction for optimal cooling.

6.7 Cable Management

Utilize the cutouts and tie-down points behind the motherboard tray to route and secure cables. This improves airflow and maintains a clean interior aesthetic.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1 Powering On/Off

• Power Button: Press the power button on the top I/O panel to turn your system on or off.
• Reset Button: Press the reset button to restart your system.

7.2 ARGB Lighting Control

The Antec DP301M features an ARGB LED strip on the front panel. You can control its lighting effects using the dedicated LED Mode Control button.

Figure 7.1: Close-up of the LED Mode Control button on the top I/O panel, used to cycle through various ARGB lighting modes and colors.

• Press the LED Mode Control button to cycle through different pre-set ARGB lighting modes and colors.
• Hold the button for a few seconds to turn off the ARGB lighting. Press again to resume.
• If your motherboard supports ARGB synchronization, you may connect the case's ARGB cable to your motherboard's 3-pin 5V ARGB header to control the lighting via motherboard software. Refer to your motherboard manual for details.

7.3 USB and Audio Ports

• USB 3.0 Ports: Use the two USB 3.0 ports on the top I/O panel for high-speed data transfer with compatible devices.
• Mic/Audio (HD) Jacks: Connect your headphones, speakers, or microphone to the respective audio jacks.

8. Product Video Overview

Watch the official product video for a visual overview of the Antec Dark Phantom series, including the DP301M, showcasing its design and ARGB lighting features.

9. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your PC components.

• Dust Filters: The DP301M includes magnetic dust filters on the top and front, and a removable filter for the PSU at the bottom. Regularly remove and clean these filters to prevent dust buildup and maintain good airflow.
• Interior Cleaning: Periodically open the side panel and use compressed air to remove dust from internal components, especially CPU coolers, GPU heatsinks, and case fans.
• Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Tempered Glass Panel: Clean the tempered glass with a microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner designed for electronics.

10. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Antec DP301M case.

10.1 System Not Powering On

• Ensure the power supply unit (PSU) is switched on and properly connected to the wall outlet.
• Verify that the 24-pin ATX power cable and 8-pin CPU power cable are securely connected to the motherboard.
• Check that the front panel power switch cable is correctly connected to the motherboard's front panel header (refer to your motherboard manual).

10.2 ARGB Lighting Not Working

• Ensure the ARGB cable from the front panel is properly connected to the case's internal ARGB controller or your motherboard's 3-pin 5V ARGB header.
• If connected to a motherboard header, ensure the motherboard's ARGB software is correctly configured.
• Try pressing the LED Mode Control button on the top I/O panel to cycle through modes.

10.3 Poor Airflow or High Temperatures

• Check and clean all dust filters (front, top, bottom).
• Ensure case fans are installed with correct airflow direction (intake at front, exhaust at rear/top).
• Verify that all cables are neatly managed to avoid obstructing airflow.
• Ensure CPU cooler and GPU fans are functioning correctly.

11. Warranty and Support

Antec products are covered by a limited warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Antec website. For technical support, product registration, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Antec customer service through their official website or the contact information provided in your product packaging.

Website: www.antec.com