Introduction
The Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 14 RGB PC Cooling Fan features an innovative magnetic connection design and swappable fan blades, offering enhanced flexibility for PC cooling configurations. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your SWAFAN EX 14 RGB fans.
Each fan is designed for optimal airflow and includes RGB lighting for aesthetic customization. The magnetic connection system simplifies installation and cable management, allowing up to three fans to be daisy-chained per cable.
Image: Three Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 14 RGB fans showcasing their illuminated blades.
Setup and Installation
Included Components
Verify that all components are present in your package:
- 3 x Fan Frames (140mm)
- 3 x Standard Fan Blades (Pre-installed)
- 3 x Reverse Fan Blades
- 3 x Magnetic Cables
- 1 x Controller
- Mounting Screws and other accessories
Installation Steps
- Prepare Fan Blades: The SWAFAN EX features swappable fan blades. Determine your desired airflow direction (push or pull) for each fan. The standard blades are pre-installed. To change, gently remove the pre-installed blade and install a reverse blade. Ensure the blade clicks securely into place.
- Mount Fans: Securely mount the fan frames to your PC case using the provided screws. Ensure proper orientation for optimal airflow within your system.
- Connect Fans: Utilize the magnetic connection points on the fan frames to daisy-chain up to three fans together. The magnetic cables provide both power and signal for RGB lighting and fan control.
- Connect to Controller: Connect the daisy-chained fan unit to the included controller using one of the magnetic cables.
- Controller Power & Data: Connect the controller to your PC's power supply via a Molex connector and to a motherboard USB 2.0 internal header (9-pin) for data communication.
Image: Diagram showing three fans connected via magnetic points for simplified wiring.
Image: Illustration of how swappable fan blades allow for both push and pull airflow directions.
Operation
Software Control
The Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 14 RGB fans are controlled via the TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software. This software allows for customization of RGB lighting effects and fan speed adjustments.
- Download Software: Download the latest TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software from the official Thermaltake website.
- System Compatibility: The software is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11 operating systems.
- Launch Software: After installation, launch the TT RGB PLUS 2.0 application. The software should automatically detect the connected controller and fans.
- Customize RGB: Utilize the software interface to select from various lighting modes, colors, and effects for the dual-zone RGB lighting on each fan.
- Adjust Fan Speed: The software allows you to set fan speeds within the 500 to 2000 RPM range.
Image: A comparison showing a PC build with and without SWAFAN EX fans, emphasizing the RGB illumination.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Fans
Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your fans. The swappable blade design makes cleaning convenient.
- Power Off: Always power off your PC and disconnect the fans from the power source before cleaning.
- Remove Blades: Gently remove the fan blades from the fan frames.
- Clean Blades: The fan blades can be rinsed with water to remove dust and debris. Use a soft cloth or brush for stubborn dirt.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the fan blades are completely dry before reinstallation. Any moisture can damage the fan motor or bearings.
- Apply Lubricant (If Needed): If the fan bearings become noisy or stiff, apply a small amount of bearing lubricant (not included, but commonly available for PC fans) to the bearing area before reattaching the blades.
- Clean Frames: Use a soft, dry cloth or compressed air to clean the fan frames and any other accessible areas.
- Reinstall Blades: Carefully reattach the dry fan blades to the frames, ensuring they click securely into place.
Image: A close-up of a fan blade being cleaned with water, demonstrating the ease of maintenance.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
- Fans or RGB not detected by TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software:
- Ensure the controller is correctly connected to a motherboard USB 2.0 internal header.
- Verify the controller has power via the Molex connector.
- Check that the magnetic cables between the fans and the controller are securely connected.
- Try reinstalling the TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software.
- Test the controller and fans on a different USB header or PC if possible to rule out hardware issues.
- Fans are not spinning or RGB is off:
- Confirm all power connections (Molex to controller, magnetic cables between fans).
- Check for any physical obstructions preventing fan rotation.
- Ensure the fan blades are correctly installed and not loose.
- Inconsistent RGB lighting or colors:
- Verify the TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software is running and the correct lighting profile is selected.
- Check for software updates for TT RGB PLUS 2.0.
- Ensure all magnetic connections are firm.
- Fans are noisy:
- Check for dust buildup on fan blades or frames and clean as per the maintenance section.
- Ensure fan blades are securely attached and not loose.
- Verify that the fan is not vibrating against the PC case.
If issues persist after following these steps, please contact Thermaltake customer support for further assistance.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | CL-F162-PL14SW-A |
| Fan Dimensions | 140 x 140 x 25 mm (5.51"L x 0.98"W x 5.51"H) |
| Interface | USB 2.0 (9-Pin Connector) |
| System Compatibility | Windows 10 / 11 |
| Fan Started Voltage | 9.0 V |
| Fan Rated Voltage | 12 V & 5 V |
| Rated Current (one fan) | 12 V - 0.23 A, 5 V - 0.72 A |
| Power Input (one fan) | 12 V - 2.76 W, 5 V - 3.6 W |
| Fan Speed | 500 ~ 2000 R.P.M |
| Max. Air Pressure (Standard Blade) | 2.39 mm-H2O |
| Max. Air Pressure (Reverse Blade) | 2.02 mm-H2O |
| Max Air Flow (Standard Blade) | 57.11 CFM |
| Max Air Flow (Reverse Blade) | 56.26 CFM |
| Noise Level (Standard Blade) | 30.6 dB-A |
| Noise Level (Reverse Blade) | 32.5 dB-A |
| Bearing Type | Hydraulic Bearing |
| Life Expectation | 40,000 hrs at 25℃ |
| Material | Neodymium (magnets) |
| Item Weight | 3.21 pounds (total package) |
| UPC | 841163087268 |
Warranty Information
Thermaltake products are manufactured to high quality standards. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Thermaltake website or the warranty card included with your product. Typically, warranty coverage addresses manufacturing defects under normal use.
Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Thermaltake customer support:
- Website: Visit the official Thermaltake website for support resources, FAQs, and contact information.
- Online Support: Many issues can be resolved by consulting the support section or submitting a ticket online.
- Contact Information: Refer to the Thermaltake website for regional phone numbers or email support.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (CL-F162-PL14SW-A) and proof of purchase readily available.
