Fractal Design Pop Silent ATX PC Case User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Fractal Design Pop Silent ATX PC Case. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning assembly to ensure correct installation and optimal performance. The Pop Silent series is designed to offer a quiet computing experience with effective sound damping and flexible component support.

Figure 1: Assembled Fractal Design Pop Silent ATX PC Case, black with clear tempered glass side panel, showcasing its sleek design.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect the power supply from the wall outlet before performing any installation or maintenance inside the case.
• Handle components with care to avoid damage from electrostatic discharge. Consider using an anti-static wrist strap.
• Be cautious of sharp edges inside the case.
• Do not obstruct ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the case.
• Keep the case away from liquids and extreme temperatures.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before proceeding with installation:

• Fractal Design Pop Silent ATX PC Case
• Accessory box with screws, standoffs, and cable ties
• Three 120mm Aspect fans (pre-installed)
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 2: Exploded view of the Fractal Design Pop Silent case, illustrating its various removable panels, internal frame, fans, and drive trays.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Removing Side Panels

The tempered glass side panel can be easily removed by unscrewing the captive thumbscrews at the rear and gently pulling the panel away. The solid steel side panel is removed similarly. Store panels safely to prevent damage.

4.2 Motherboard Installation

1. Install the I/O shield into the rear opening of the case.
2. Align the motherboard with the pre-installed standoffs. Additional standoffs may be required for certain motherboard form factors (ATX, mATX, Mini ITX).
3. Secure the motherboard with the appropriate screws from the accessory box.

Figure 3: Interior view of the Fractal Design Pop Silent case, highlighting the spacious motherboard tray area and fan mounts.

4.3 Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation

1. Mount the PSU to the removable bracket at the rear of the case.
2. Slide the PSU with the bracket into the designated compartment at the bottom rear of the case.
3. Secure the bracket with screws. Ensure the PSU fan faces downwards for optimal cooling, drawing fresh air from the bottom filter.

4.4 Storage Drive Installation

The case supports up to three 3.5" HDDs and six 2.5" SSDs (or two 3.5" HDDs and five 2.5" SSDs with one optical bay in use).

• 2.5" SSDs: Mount SSDs to the dedicated trays behind the motherboard tray.
• 3.5" HDDs: Install HDDs into the removable drive cages located under the PSU shroud.
• 5.25" Devices: Two concealed 5.25" bays are available behind the front panel, accessible by removing the magnetic cover. One bay includes a storage drawer.

Figure 4: Illustrates the process of installing a 3.5" HDD into one of the removable drive trays.

Figure 5: Close-up view of the 5.25" bay, showing the integrated storage drawer and magnetic cover.

4.5 Cable Management

The Pop Silent case features dedicated cable routing channels and Velcro straps behind the motherboard tray to facilitate clean and efficient cable management, improving airflow and aesthetics.

Figure 6: Rear interior view of the Fractal Design Pop Silent case, showcasing the cable management channels and 2.5" drive mounts.

Figure 7: Detailed view of the cable management routes and pre-installed Velcro straps for organizing cables.

4.6 Front I/O Connections

Connect the front panel cables (USB, audio, power, reset) to the corresponding headers on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard manual for specific header locations.

Figure 8: Top view of the Fractal Design Pop Silent case, displaying the front I/O panel with USB ports, audio jacks, and power button.

5. Operating the PC Case

Once all components are installed and cables are connected, you can power on your system using the power button on the top I/O panel. The pre-installed Aspect fans provide efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels due to the case's sound-damped design.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and longevity. Use a soft, dry cloth for exterior surfaces. For interior dust, use compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

6.2 Dust Filters

The Pop Silent case includes removable dust filters at the front, top, and bottom (for the PSU intake). Regularly clean these filters by rinsing them with water and allowing them to dry completely before reinstallation. This prevents dust buildup and maintains airflow.

7. Troubleshooting

• System not powering on: Check all power connections, including the 24-pin motherboard power, CPU power, and front panel power switch header. Ensure the PSU is switched on.
• No display: Verify that the graphics card is properly seated and connected to power, and that the monitor cable is securely attached to the graphics card.
• Excessive noise: Ensure all fans are securely mounted and free from obstructions. Check for loose cables or components.
• Overheating: Confirm that all fans are spinning correctly and that dust filters are clean. Ensure proper thermal paste application on the CPU cooler.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Fractal Design products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or to download the latest drivers and manuals, please visit the official Fractal Design website or contact their customer support. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Thank you for choosing Fractal Design.