1. Introduction
The NZXT Kraken X63 RGB is an all-in-one liquid CPU cooler designed to provide efficient cooling performance for your processor while offering customizable RGB lighting. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your cooler.
Image 1.1: NZXT Kraken X63 RGB 280mm Liquid Cooler (Black)
Key Features
- Incredible Performance: Aer RGB V2 radiator fans feature a chamfered intake and fluid dynamic bearing for silent operation and powerful cooling.
- Infinity Mirror Design: Re-designed cap with a larger infinity mirror ring LED allows for adjusting the pump head orientation without affecting the logo direction.
- Enhanced RGB: 10% bigger infinity mirror cap provides more vivid RGB lighting.
- CAM Integration: Full NZXT CAM software integration for precise performance management and RGB control.
- Durable Construction: Fine nylon mesh sleeves strengthen the rubber tubing, offering durability and protection.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:
- Kraken X63 RGB Liquid Cooler (Pump and Radiator with pre-attached tubing)
- 2x Aer RGB V2 140mm Radiator Fans
- Intel Mounting Bracket (pre-installed)
- AMD Mounting Bracket
- Intel Backplate
- AMD Retention Brackets
- Various Mounting Hardware (screws, standoffs, washers)
- USB Micro-B to 9-pin USB Header Cable
- Fan Splitter Cable
- NZXT RGB Connector Cable
Image 2.1: Top view of the Kraken X63 RGB radiator and pump unit.
3. Installation Guide
Before You Begin
- Ensure your motherboard and CPU are compatible with the Kraken X63 RGB.
- Gather necessary tools: Phillips head screwdriver.
- Consult your motherboard manual for CPU socket and fan header locations.
- It is recommended to install the cooler before installing the motherboard into the case, especially for backplate installation.
CPU Socket Compatibility
| Platform | Compatible Sockets |
|---|---|
| Intel | LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 2066, 2011-3, 2011 |
| AMD | AM5, AM4, TR4 (TR4 bracket not included, sold separately) |
Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare CPU: Ensure your CPU is correctly seated in its socket. Clean the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove any residue.
- Install Backplate (Intel): For Intel sockets, place the appropriate backplate behind the motherboard, aligning the holes. For AMD AM4, use the stock AMD backplate.
- Mount Standoffs: Screw the correct standoffs for your CPU socket into the backplate/motherboard. Hand-tighten only.
- Install Radiator and Fans: Attach the two Aer RGB V2 140mm fans to the radiator using the long fan screws. Ensure the fan airflow direction is as desired (typically intake or exhaust). Mount the radiator assembly to an available fan mount in your PC case (e.g., front, top).
Image 3.1: Radiator with Aer RGB V2 fans attached.
- Apply Thermal Paste: The Kraken X63 RGB pump comes with pre-applied thermal paste. If you need to re-apply, ensure the CPU surface is clean and apply a pea-sized amount to the center of the CPU IHS.
- Mount Pump: Align the pump over the CPU, ensuring the mounting bracket holes align with the standoffs. Place the retention screws over the pump bracket and tighten them in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten. The pump head can be rotated to orient the NZXT logo correctly after installation.
Image 3.2: Close-up of the Kraken X63 RGB pump head with infinity mirror effect.
- Connect Cables:
- Connect the pump's 3-pin cable to the CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard.
- Connect the fans to the fan splitter cable, then connect the splitter to a fan header on your motherboard or an NZXT fan controller.
- Connect the NZXT RGB connector cable from the pump to the first Aer RGB V2 fan, then daisy-chain to the second fan.
- Connect the USB Micro-B cable from the pump to an available internal USB 2.0 header on your motherboard.
- Connect the SATA power connector from the pump to a SATA power cable from your power supply.
- Cable Management: Route all cables neatly to ensure proper airflow and a clean build aesthetic.
Image 3.3: Kraken X63 RGB installed in a PC system, showcasing RGB lighting.
4. Operation and Software
NZXT CAM Software
The NZXT Kraken X63 RGB is fully integrated with the NZXT CAM software, which allows you to monitor system performance, customize RGB lighting effects, and control pump and fan speeds. To utilize the full features of your cooler, download and install the CAM software.
- Monitoring: View CPU temperature, pump speed, and fan speed in real-time.
- Performance Control: Adjust pump and fan curves to optimize cooling performance and noise levels.
- RGB Customization: Personalize the infinity mirror and fan RGB lighting with various effects, colors, and synchronization options.
Download the latest version of NZXT CAM from the official NZXT website: www.nzxt.com/cam
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your liquid cooler.
- Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean dust from the radiator fins and fans using compressed air. Ensure the fans are not spinning during cleaning to prevent damage.
- Fan Inspection: Check fan blades for any obstructions or signs of wear.
- Tubing Inspection: Inspect the tubing for any kinks, leaks, or damage.
- Thermal Paste: While the pre-applied thermal paste is durable, if you ever remove the pump, clean off old paste and apply new high-quality thermal paste before re-installation.
6. Troubleshooting
Refer to the table below for common issues and their potential solutions.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| High CPU Temperatures | Improper pump mounting, insufficient thermal paste, clogged radiator, fans not spinning. | Verify pump is securely mounted. Check thermal paste application. Clean radiator fins. Ensure fans are connected and spinning. Check pump and fan speeds in CAM software. |
| RGB Lighting Not Working | Loose RGB cable connections, CAM software issue, power issue. | Ensure all RGB cables are securely connected. Restart CAM software. Check SATA power connection to the pump. Update CAM software. |
| Pump Noise / Grinding Sound | Air bubbles in the loop, pump running at maximum speed. | Orient the radiator higher than the pump to allow air to settle in the radiator. Adjust pump speed in CAM software to a lower, stable setting. |
| Fans Not Spinning | Loose fan connections, incorrect fan header, CAM software settings. | Verify fan cables are securely connected to the splitter and motherboard header. Check fan curves in CAM software. Ensure sufficient power is supplied. |
7. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 12.4"L x 1.1"W x 5.6"H (Radiator) |
| Item Model Number | RL-KRX63-R1 |
| Brand | NZXT |
| Power Connector Type | 3-Pin (Pump) |
| Voltage | 5 Volts |
| Wattage | 3.6 watts |
| Cooling Method | Fan, Liquid |
| Noise Level | 33 dB (Max) |
| Material | Nylon, Rubber (Tubing) |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1800 RPM (Fans) |
Image 7.1: Dimensions of the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB cooler.
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
NZXT products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For detailed warranty information specific to your region and product, please refer to the official NZXT website or the warranty card included with your purchase.
Customer Support
If you encounter any issues or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact NZXT customer support. Our team is available to assist you with technical support, troubleshooting, and warranty claims.
Visit the official NZXT support page for FAQs, knowledge base articles, and contact options:
