be quiet! Dark Rock TF 2 CPU Cooler Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your be quiet! Dark Rock TF 2 CPU Cooler. Designed for high cooling performance with a 230W TDP and virtually inaudible operation, this cooler is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect power from your computer before installing or servicing any components.
• Handle components with care to avoid damage.
• Wear an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touch a grounded metal object to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD).
• Keep the product away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
• Ensure all screws are tightened securely but do not overtighten.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your package:

• Dark Rock TF 2 CPU Cooler (Heatsink with pre-applied thermal paste)
• 2x Silent Wings 135mm PWM Fans
• Fan clips for fan mounting
• Intel Mounting Kit (Backplate, mounting arms, standoffs, screws)
• AMD Mounting Kit (Mounting arms, standoffs, screws)
• Thermal Grease (syringe)
• User Manual

4. Setup and Installation

The Dark Rock TF 2 features an optimized mounting system for easy installation. Please follow the steps carefully for your specific CPU socket type.

4.1 General Installation Overview

For a visual guide on the installation process, please refer to the official installation video:

4.2 Intel Socket Installation (LGA 1700 / 1200 / 2066 / 1150 / 1151 / 1155 / 2011-3 Square ILM)

1. Prepare Backplate: Attach the appropriate screws to the Intel backplate. Ensure the screws are oriented correctly for your socket type.
2. Install Backplate: Position the backplate on the rear side of the motherboard, aligning the screws with the mounting holes around the CPU socket.
3. Attach Standoffs: From the front side of the motherboard, thread the appropriate standoffs onto the backplate screws. Tighten them by hand until snug.
4. Apply Thermal Paste: Clean the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol. Apply a small, pea-sized amount of the included thermal paste to the center of the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).
5. Mount Heatsink: Carefully place the Dark Rock TF 2 heatsink onto the CPU, ensuring the pre-applied thermal paste spreads evenly. Align the heatsink's mounting holes with the standoffs.
6. Secure Heatsink: Use the provided mounting screws to secure the heatsink to the standoffs. Tighten screws in a diagonal pattern (e.g., top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left) until the heatsink is firmly seated. Do not overtighten.

4.3 AMD Socket Installation (AM5 / AM4)

1. Remove Stock Brackets: Remove the original AMD plastic retention brackets from the motherboard, but keep the motherboard's stock backplate in place.
2. Attach Standoffs: Thread the appropriate standoffs onto the stock backplate screws. Tighten them by hand until snug.
3. Apply Thermal Paste: Clean the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol. Apply a small, pea-sized amount of the included thermal paste to the center of the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).
4. Mount Heatsink: Carefully place the Dark Rock TF 2 heatsink onto the CPU, ensuring the pre-applied thermal paste spreads evenly. Align the heatsink's mounting holes with the standoffs.
5. Secure Heatsink: Use the provided mounting screws to secure the heatsink to the standoffs. Tighten screws in a diagonal pattern (e.g., top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left) until the heatsink is firmly seated. Do not overtighten.

4.4 Fan Installation

1. Attach Fan Clips: Secure the two Silent Wings 135mm fans to the heatsink using the provided fan clips. Ensure the fans are oriented to push air through the heatsink fins.
2. Connect Fans: Connect the 4-pin PWM fan cables to the CPU_FAN headers on your motherboard. If your motherboard has only one CPU_FAN header, use a Y-splitter (not included) or connect one fan to a SYS_FAN header.

5. Operating Instructions

The Dark Rock TF 2 CPU Cooler operates automatically via the 4-pin PWM connection to your motherboard. The fan speed will adjust based on CPU temperature, ensuring optimal cooling performance and quiet operation.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Periodically clean the heatsink fins and fan blades to prevent dust buildup, which can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure fans are not spinning during cleaning.
• Thermal Paste: If you remove the heatsink for any reason, it is recommended to clean off the old thermal paste from both the CPU and the heatsink base and apply new thermal paste before reinstallation.

7. Troubleshooting

• High CPU Temperatures:
  • Check if the heatsink is securely mounted and making proper contact with the CPU.
  • Verify that thermal paste was applied correctly and evenly.
  • Ensure fans are spinning and connected to the correct motherboard headers.
  • Clean any dust buildup on the heatsink and fans.
• Fan Not Spinning:
  • Check fan cable connections to the motherboard.
  • Verify fan headers are enabled in the motherboard BIOS/UEFI.
  • Inspect fan blades for any obstructions.
• Excessive Fan Noise:
  • Check for loose fan clips or vibrations.
  • Ensure no cables are interfering with fan blades.
  • Adjust fan curves in motherboard BIOS/UEFI for quieter operation if temperatures allow.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

be quiet! products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information and technical support, please visit the official be quiet! website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.