Montech AX120 PWM BLACK

Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan User Manual

Model: AX120 PWM BLACK | Brand: Montech

Product Overview

The Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan is designed to enhance your PC's cooling performance and aesthetic appeal. Featuring a modern hexagonal RGB ring with 20 LEDs, this fan offers vibrant illumination. It incorporates advanced PWM controls for smart fan speed adjustments based on system temperature, ranging from 600 RPM to 1600 RPM. Engineered for quiet operation, it maintains noise levels under 27.9 dB(A) through optimized frames and blades. The fan is built with a high-end HDB bearing, ensuring a lifespan of 40,000 hours, and includes integrated anti-vibration pads to reduce resonance noise.

Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan, front-side view with RGB lighting

Figure 1: Front-side view of the Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan, showcasing its hexagonal RGB lighting.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan, you will find the following components:

  • Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan (1 unit)
  • Mounting Screws (typically included for installation)

Setup and Installation

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare Your System

  • Ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet.
  • Open your PC case to access the fan mounting locations.

2. Mounting the Fan

Identify the desired mounting location within your PC case (e.g., front, rear, top, bottom). The fan can be configured for intake or exhaust airflow depending on its orientation.

Back view of Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan showing power connector and model details

Figure 2: Rear view of the fan, indicating the power connector and product information.

  • Position the fan against the mounting holes in your case.
  • Secure the fan using the provided mounting screws. Ensure they are tightened firmly but do not overtighten to avoid damaging the fan frame. The fan features integrated anti-vibration pads at each corner to minimize noise from resonance.
Close-up of Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan's anti-vibration pad

Figure 3: Detail of the integrated anti-vibration pads on the fan frame.

3. Connecting the Fan

The Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan uses a 4-pin connector for both power and PWM control, and a separate ARGB connector for lighting.

  • Connect the 4-pin fan cable to an available 4-pin fan header on your motherboard. This allows for PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control of the fan speed.
  • Connect the ARGB cable to a compatible 3-pin 5V ARGB header on your motherboard or an ARGB controller. Note: Do not connect to a 12V RGB header, as this may damage the LEDs.
Two Montech AX 120 ARGB Fans installed in a PC case

Figure 4: Example of Montech AX 120 ARGB Fans installed in a PC system.

Operating Instructions

Fan Speed Control (PWM)

The Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan supports PWM control, allowing your motherboard or fan controller to dynamically adjust the fan speed based on system temperature. This ensures efficient cooling when needed and quiet operation during lighter loads.

  • Speed Range: 600 RPM to 1600 RPM.
  • Configure fan curves in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or through compatible software provided by your motherboard manufacturer.
Illustration showing fan speed adjustment from 800 PWM to 1600 PWM

Figure 5: Visual representation of PWM fan speed adjustment.

ARGB Lighting Control

The fan's addressable RGB lighting can be controlled via your motherboard's ARGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, GIGABYTE RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync) or a dedicated ARGB controller. This allows for synchronization with other ARGB components and customization of lighting effects.

Silent Performance

The Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan is engineered for quiet operation, with noise levels typically under 27.9 dB(A) at maximum speed. This is achieved through optimized blade design and the inclusion of anti-vibration pads.

Illustration of fan with noise level meter showing 27.0 dB

Figure 6: The fan's low noise output, measured at approximately 27.0 dB.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your fan.

  • Cleaning: Periodically clean the fan blades and frame to remove dust buildup. Use compressed air or a soft brush. Ensure the fan is powered off and disconnected before cleaning.
  • Bearing Lifespan: The fan features a Hydro Dynamic Bearing (HDB) with an estimated lifespan of 40,000 hours, providing long-term reliability without requiring lubrication.
Exploded view of Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan components, showing fan blades, motor, and frame

Figure 7: Exploded view illustrating the fan's durable components, including the HDB bearing.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Montech AX 120 ARGB Fan, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Fan not spinning
  • Incorrect power connection.
  • Fan header disabled in BIOS.
  • Faulty fan or motherboard header.
  • Ensure 4-pin cable is securely connected to motherboard fan header.
  • Check BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure fan header is enabled and configured correctly.
  • Test the fan on a different fan header or with a known working fan controller.
ARGB lighting not working
  • Incorrect ARGB connection (e.g., connected to 12V RGB).
  • ARGB header not enabled or configured.
  • Software conflict or issue.
  • Verify ARGB cable is connected to a 3-pin 5V ARGB header.
  • Check motherboard BIOS/UEFI or ARGB software settings.
  • Try reinstalling or updating ARGB control software.
Excessive noise or vibration
  • Loose mounting screws.
  • Dust buildup on blades.
  • Fan operating at high RPM unnecessarily.
  • Ensure all mounting screws are tightened.
  • Clean fan blades thoroughly.
  • Adjust fan curve in BIOS/software to reduce RPM at lower temperatures.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberAX120 PWM BLACK
Dimensions4.72 x 4.72 x 0.98 inches (120mm x 120mm x 25mm)
Weight5.93 ounces
Fan Speed600 - 1600 RPM (PWM controlled)
Noise Level27.9 dB(A) (Max)
Airflow(Information not provided in source, typically measured in CFM)
Static Pressure(Information not provided in source, typically measured in mmH2O)
Bearing TypeHydro Dynamic Bearing (HDB)
Lifespan40,000 hours
Power Connector4-Pin PWM
ARGB Connector3-Pin 5V ARGB
Voltage12 Volts (Fan), 5 Volts (ARGB)
Wattage4.2 watts
MaterialPlastic
Compatible DevicesGaming PC

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Montech website or contact their customer service directly. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and retailer.

Montech Official Website: www.montechpc.com

© 2023 Montech. All rights reserved.

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