Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO is a high-performance CPU air cooler designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your processor. It features a dual-tower heatsink design, seven advanced heat pipes, and two TL-K12 PWM fans for optimal cooling and quiet operation. This cooler is compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets.

Image 1.1: Overview of the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler, showcasing its dual-tower design and fans.

Key Features:

• Dual-Tower Heatsink: Provides a large surface area for heat dissipation.
• 7x6mm AGHP Heat Pipes: Advanced Gravity Heat Pipe technology ensures efficient heat transfer regardless of orientation.
• Dual TL-K12 PWM Fans: 120mm fans with a maximum speed of 2150 RPM and low noise levels (≤27dB(A)).
• Anodic Black Matte Finish: Enhances aesthetics and corrosion resistance.
• Wide Compatibility: Supports Intel LGA1700/115x/1200/2011/2066 and AMD AM4/AM5 sockets.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all components are present before proceeding with the installation.

• Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler (Heatsink with pre-installed fans)
• Intel Mounting Brackets and Backplate
• AMD Mounting Brackets
• Mounting Screws and Spacers
• Thermal Paste
• Fan Clips (if not pre-installed)
• User Manual

3. Installation Guide

Before starting, ensure your system is powered off and unplugged. Refer to your motherboard manual for CPU and RAM installation if not already done.

3.1 Prepare the Motherboard

1. Remove any existing CPU cooler and clean off old thermal paste from the CPU IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader) using isopropyl alcohol.
2. Identify your CPU socket type (Intel LGA or AMD AM).

3.2 Install Mounting Hardware

For Intel Sockets (LGA1700/115x/1200/2011/2066):

1. Place the Intel backplate behind the motherboard, aligning the holes with the CPU socket mounting holes.
2. Insert the appropriate standoffs through the motherboard from the front, screwing them into the backplate.
3. Attach the Intel mounting brackets to the standoffs using the provided screws.

For AMD Sockets (AM4/AM5):

1. Remove the plastic retention clips from the stock AMD backplate (keep the backplate).
2. Install the AMD standoffs onto the stock backplate.
3. Attach the AMD mounting brackets to the standoffs using the provided screws.

Image 3.1: Diagram showing compatible motherboard sockets for Intel (LGA115X/1200/1700/2011/2066) and AMD (AM4/AM5).

3.3 Apply Thermal Paste

Apply a small, pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of the CPU IHS. Do not spread it; the pressure from the cooler will distribute it evenly.

3.4 Mount the Heatsink

1. Carefully place the heatsink onto the CPU, aligning the mounting holes on the cooler base with the mounting brackets.
2. Secure the heatsink by tightening the spring-loaded screws in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

3.5 Install Fans and Connect Cables

1. Attach the two TL-K12 fans to the heatsink using the provided fan clips. Ensure the airflow direction is correct (typically blowing towards the rear of the case).
2. Connect the 4-pin PWM fan cables to the CPU_FAN and CPU_OPT (or CHA_FAN) headers on your motherboard. The Y-splitter cable can be used if only one CPU fan header is available.

Image 3.2: Illustration of the dual-tower heatsink and dual fans, demonstrating how they contribute to efficient CPU cooling.

4. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO operates automatically, controlled by your motherboard's PWM fan headers.

4.1 Fan Speed Control (PWM)

The TL-K12 fans utilize Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology, allowing your motherboard to dynamically adjust fan speeds based on CPU temperature. This ensures optimal cooling performance while minimizing noise during lighter loads.

• You can configure fan curves in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or through compatible software provided by your motherboard manufacturer.
• The fans operate at a maximum speed of 2150 RPM ±10% and produce a maximum noise level of ≤27dB(A).

Image 4.1: Close-up view of the TL-K12 120mm high-performance fan, highlighting its design and RGB lighting.

4.2 Initial System Check

After installation, power on your system and enter the BIOS/UEFI to verify that the CPU temperature is within normal operating limits and that the fans are spinning correctly.

5. Maintenance

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

5.1 Cleaning the Heatsink and Fans

Dust accumulation can impede cooling performance. It is recommended to clean the cooler every 6-12 months, or more frequently in dusty environments.

1. Power off your computer and unplug it from the wall outlet.
2. Carefully remove the fans from the heatsink by detaching the fan clips.
3. Use compressed air to blow dust out of the heatsink fins. Hold the can upright and use short bursts.
4. Clean the fan blades with a soft cloth or compressed air. Hold the fan blades to prevent them from spinning rapidly during cleaning, which can damage the bearings.
5. Reattach the fans to the heatsink.

5.2 Thermal Paste Reapplication

While not frequently required, reapplying thermal paste every few years can help maintain optimal thermal conductivity. If you notice significantly higher CPU temperatures, consider reapplying thermal paste.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your CPU cooler, refer to the following common problems and solutions.

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler.

Image 7.1: Dimensional drawing of the Phantom Spirit 120 EVO, showing its height (157mm), width (135mm), and length (125mm).

8. Warranty Information

Thermalright products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. This product is covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. The warranty does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, accident, abuse, misuse, natural disaster, or unauthorized modification.

For specific warranty duration and terms, please refer to the official Thermalright website or contact your local distributor.

9. Support

If you require technical assistance or have questions regarding the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 EVO CPU Cooler, please contact Thermalright customer support.

• Website: Visit the official Thermalright website for FAQs, updated manuals, and support resources.
• Email: Refer to the Thermalright website for customer service email addresses.
• Local Distributor: Contact your point of purchase or local Thermalright distributor for regional support.