Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your GIGABYTE AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 Liquid CPU Cooler. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference.
The AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 is an all-in-one liquid CPU cooling solution designed for efficient heat dissipation from high-performance CPUs. It features a 360mm radiator, three 120mm ARGB fans, and a 60x60mm LCD display for customizable monitoring and visuals.
Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in the package before proceeding with installation.
- AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 Liquid CPU Cooler (Radiator, Pump, Waterblock, Tubing)
- 3x 120mm ARGB Fans
- Mounting Hardware for Intel Sockets (LGA115x, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1851)
- Mounting Hardware for AMD Sockets (TR4, AM5, AM4, sTR5)
- Thermal Paste (pre-applied or included)
- Cables for Fan, Pump, and ARGB connections
- User Manual (this document)
Image: AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 Liquid CPU Cooler and its components as packaged.
Key Features
- EZ-Chain Magnet Fan Design: Features a magnetic interlocking mechanism and daisy-chain capability for simplified fan installation and cable management.
- LCD Edge View: A circular full-color LCD display on the waterblock supports video playback and custom text, allowing for real-time monitoring of system parameters or personalized visuals.
- Optimized Fan Blades: New fan blade design enhances both airflow and static pressure while minimizing operational noise.
- Addressable RGB Lighting: The waterblock features gradient lighting, and the ARGB fans offer customizable lighting effects, synchronizable via GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC) software.
- Broad Compatibility: Universal design for fan and pump RPM control, compatible with various motherboard brands.
Image: Detail of the EZ-Chain Magnet fan design, showing the magnetic interlocking mechanism.
Image: The circular LCD Edge View display on the waterblock, showing customizable content.
CPU Socket Compatibility
The AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 supports a wide range of CPU sockets from both Intel and AMD platforms.
- Intel Sockets: LGA115x, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1851
- AMD Sockets: TR4, AM5, AM4, sTR5
Image: Illustrations of mounting brackets for AMD and Intel CPU sockets.
Setup and Installation
This section outlines the general steps for installing the AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360. Refer to the detailed diagrams in the included quick installation guide for specific instructions for your CPU socket type.
- Prepare Motherboard: Install the appropriate backplate and standoffs for your CPU socket (Intel or AMD).
- Mount Fans to Radiator: Attach the three 120mm ARGB fans to the 360mm radiator using the provided screws. Ensure the fan cables are routed correctly for daisy-chaining.
- Install Radiator: Secure the radiator assembly to your PC case in a suitable mounting location (e.g., top, front).
- Apply Thermal Paste: If not pre-applied, apply a thin, even layer of thermal paste to the center of your CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).
- Mount Waterblock: Carefully place the waterblock onto the CPU, aligning it with the standoffs. Secure it with the retention screws, tightening them in a cross pattern until snug.
- Connect Cables:
- Connect the pump power cable to the designated CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard.
- Connect the fan power cables (daisy-chained) to a fan header on your motherboard or a fan controller.
- Connect the ARGB lighting cables to a 5V 3-pin ARGB header on your motherboard.
- Connect the internal USB cable from the waterblock to an available USB 2.0 header on your motherboard for LCD control.
- Connect the SATA power connector for the pump and fans.
- Cable Management: Organize cables to ensure proper airflow and a tidy build.
Image: The AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 cooler with its RGB fans and waterblock, ready for installation.
Installation Overview Video
Video: An overview demonstrating the unboxing and assembly of the AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 Liquid CPU Cooler, including fan attachment and RGB lighting effects.
Operating Instructions
Once installed, the AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 operates automatically to cool your CPU. Further customization and monitoring are available through software.
GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC) Software
Download and install the latest version of GIGABYTE Control Center (GCC) from the official GIGABYTE website. This software allows you to:
- Monitor CPU temperature, pump speed, and fan RPM.
- Customize the content displayed on the LCD Edge View, including system information, images, or videos.
- Adjust ARGB lighting effects and synchronize them with other AORUS components.
- Control fan and pump speeds for optimal cooling performance and noise levels.
- Rotate the LCD display orientation by 360 degrees.
Image: The three 120mm ARGB fans showcasing their customizable lighting effects.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your liquid CPU cooler.
- Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean dust from the radiator fins and fan blades using compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure fans are not spinning during cleaning.
- Inspect Tubing: Check the tubing for any signs of kinks, leaks, or damage.
- Monitor Performance: Use the GCC software to monitor CPU temperatures and cooler performance. Significant increases in temperature may indicate an issue.
- No Coolant Refill Required: This is a closed-loop AIO system and does not require coolant refills or maintenance.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360, consider the following common solutions:
- High CPU Temperatures:
- Verify that the waterblock is securely mounted to the CPU and thermal paste is properly applied.
- Check if the pump is running (listen for a faint hum or check RPM in GCC).
- Ensure fans are spinning and oriented correctly for airflow (intake or exhaust, depending on case setup).
- Clean any dust buildup on the radiator fins.
- Fans Not Spinning or RGB Not Working:
- Check all power connections (SATA, fan headers) and ARGB connections to the motherboard.
- Ensure GCC software is installed and running, and that fan/RGB settings are configured correctly.
- Verify that the magnetic daisy-chain connections between fans are secure.
- LCD Display Not Working:
- Confirm the internal USB 2.0 header cable is securely connected to both the waterblock and the motherboard.
- Ensure GCC software is installed and updated.
- Restart the GCC software or your computer.
If issues persist, consult the GIGABYTE support website or contact customer service.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | GP-AORUS WATERFORCE X II 360 |
| Radiator Size | 360mm |
| Fan Size | 3x 120mm ARGB Fans |
| Cooling Method | Liquid (All-in-One) |
| Compatible Intel Sockets | LGA115x, LGA1200, LGA1700, LGA1851 |
| Compatible AMD Sockets | TR4, AM5, AM4, sTR5 |
| Product Dimensions | 14.17"L x 14.17"W x 14.17"H (Note: This dimension seems generic, likely for packaging or a component, not the full cooler) |
| Noise Level | 37.5 Decibels (Max) |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 5200 RPM (Pump) |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin (Fan/Pump), SATA (Power) |
| Wattage | 100 watts |
| Item Weight | 6.23 pounds |
| UPC | 810075658972 |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official GIGABYTE website. Technical support and driver downloads (including GIGABYTE Control Center) can be found on the GIGABYTE support page.
GIGABYTE Official Website: www.gigabyte.com
