Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB All-in-one Liquid CPU Cooler. Designed for high-performance computing systems, this cooler features an 8th generation Asetek pump, magnetic daisy-chainable ARGB fans, and a customizable 3.5-inch LCD display for real-time system monitoring and personalization.
Key Features
- 3.5-inch LCD Display: Instant hardware information monitoring and customizable GIF animations.
- 8th Gen Asetek Pump: Delivers ultimate cooling performance with increased flow, lower impedance, and reduced noise.
- Embedded VRM Fan: New ring-shaped frame design with advanced airflow channels to reduce heat around the VRM area.
- Premium ROG ARGB Magnetic Fans: Daisy-chainable design with Gen 2 LED for customizable lighting effects and simplified cable management.
- Armoury Crate Software: Comprehensive control over pump, embedded fan, and radiator fan speeds, custom animations, and system stats.
- AIDA64 License: Includes a free one-year AIDA64 license for advanced system monitoring.
1. Setup and Installation
1.1 Pre-Installation Checks
Before beginning installation, ensure your system is powered off and disconnected from the power source. Verify compatibility with your CPU socket (Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115x; AMD AM5, AM4). Unpack all components and confirm all parts are present according to the packing list.
Figure 1: Overview of the ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler with its radiator, pump, and fans.
1.2 Component Breakdown
The cooler consists of a water block with an integrated pump and LCD display, a 360mm radiator, and three 120mm ARGB fans. The water block features an 8th Gen Asetek pump and an embedded VRM fan for enhanced cooling around the CPU socket area.
Figure 2: Exploded view illustrating the 3.5" LCD, fan vents, 8th Gen Asetek pump, embedded VRM fan, aluminum bezel, cold plate, and retention kit.
1.3 Fan Installation
The ROG MF-12S ARGB fans feature a magnetic daisy-chain design for easy installation and clean cable management. Attach the fans to the radiator using the provided screws. Ensure the fan orientation is correct for desired airflow (intake or exhaust).
Figure 3: Close-up of a magnetic daisy-chainable ROG MF-12S ARGB fan, highlighting its specifications: 2200 RPM fan speed, 36.45 dB(A) fan noise, 3.88 mmH2O air pressure, and 70.07 CFM airflow.
1.4 Pump and Water Block Mounting
Install the appropriate mounting bracket for your CPU socket onto the water block. Apply thermal paste to the CPU IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader) if not pre-applied on the cold plate. Carefully place the water block onto the CPU and secure it with the retention kit, ensuring even pressure.
Video 1: Official ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB E-Tail video demonstrating product features and installation process.
1.5 Cable Connections
Connect the pump's power cable to the designated CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard. Connect the ARGB cables from the fans to the motherboard's ARGB header or a compatible controller. The magnetic daisy-chain design minimizes cable clutter.
2. Operating Instructions
2.1 Software Control (Armoury Crate)
Download and install the ASUS Armoury Crate software from the official ASUS website. This software provides centralized control over the cooler's functions, including pump speed, embedded fan speed, radiator fan speeds, and ARGB lighting effects. You can also customize the content displayed on the 3.5-inch LCD.
Figure 4: The 3.5-inch LCD display on the pump head showing real-time CPU temperature and frequency, customizable via Armoury Crate.
2.2 LCD Display Customization
The LCD display supports various preset animations, custom GIF uploads (with doubled file volumes up to 32MB), and real-time system statistics (CPU/GPU temperature, frequency, voltage). Use Armoury Crate to select and upload your preferred content.
Figure 5: The LCD display showcasing a custom GIF animation, demonstrating the personalization options available.
2.3 AIDA64 Integration
A free one-year AIDA64 Extreme license is included for advanced system monitoring. Install AIDA64 Extreme to access detailed hardware information and further customize your monitoring experience, which can be displayed on the LCD screen.
3. Maintenance
3.1 Radiator and Fan Cleaning
Regularly inspect the radiator fins and fan blades for dust accumulation. Use compressed air or a soft brush to gently remove dust. Ensure fans are free from obstructions to maintain optimal airflow and cooling performance.
Figure 6: The complete cooler assembly, showing the radiator and fans. Regular cleaning of these components is crucial for maintaining performance.
3.2 Pump and Tubing Inspection
Periodically check the pump housing and tubing for any signs of leaks or damage. While AIO coolers are sealed systems, visual inspection can help identify potential issues early. Ensure tubing is not kinked or excessively bent, which could impede coolant flow.
4. Troubleshooting
4.1 High CPU Temperatures
- Check Pump Connection: Ensure the pump is securely connected to the motherboard's CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header and is receiving power.
- Verify Thermal Paste: Confirm that thermal paste was correctly applied and the water block is making good contact with the CPU.
- Inspect Fans: Ensure all radiator fans are spinning and oriented correctly for optimal airflow. Clean any dust buildup on the radiator fins.
- Software Settings: Check Armoury Crate to ensure pump and fan speeds are set appropriately for your cooling needs.
4.2 LCD Display Not Working
- USB Connection: Ensure the USB cable from the pump is securely connected to an internal USB 2.0 header on the motherboard.
- Armoury Crate: Verify that Armoury Crate is installed and running, and that the display settings are configured correctly.
- Driver Updates: Ensure all motherboard and cooler-related drivers are up to date.
4.3 Fan RGB Not Synchronizing
- ARGB Connections: Confirm that the ARGB cables are correctly connected to the motherboard's 3-pin 5V ARGB header or a compatible controller.
- Armoury Crate: Use Armoury Crate's Aura Sync feature to synchronize lighting effects across all compatible components.
Video 2: Official ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB E-tail video showcasing the cooler's features and RGB synchronization, useful for troubleshooting lighting issues.
5. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 16.8"L x 8.5"W x 5.2"H |
| Item Model Number | ROG RYUJIN III 360 ARGB |
| Brand | ASUS |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop Computers |
| Noise Level | 36.45 Decibels |
| Material | Aluminum, Copper |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2200 RPM |
| Pump Type | Asetek 8th Gen 3-phase motor |
| Display | 3.5-inch LCD |
| Fan Type | ROG MF-12S ARGB Magnetic Daisy-Chainable Fans |
6. Warranty and Support
The ASUS ROG Ryujin III 360 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler comes with a 6-year warranty from the manufacturer. For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please visit the official ASUS support website or contact their customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.
Figure 7: Product packaging highlighting the 6-year warranty and ASUS Aura Sync compatibility.
