MSI MAG CoreLiquid I240 Black AIO ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your MSI MAG CoreLiquid I240 Black AIO ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference. This liquid cooler is designed to provide efficient thermal management for your CPU, ensuring stable performance under various workloads.

Figure 1: MSI MAG CoreLiquid I240 Black AIO ARGB CPU Liquid Cooler.

2. Safety Information

Observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the product or injury to yourself:

• Ensure your system is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet before installation or maintenance.
• Handle components with care to avoid damage.
• Do not open the liquid cooler's sealed loop. Tampering with the unit will void the warranty and may cause leaks.
• Keep the product away from liquids and extreme temperatures.
• If any component is damaged, do not attempt to install or operate the cooler. Contact MSI support.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• MSI MAG CoreLiquid I240 AIO Cooler (Radiator with integrated pump, 2x 120mm ARGB PWM Fans, and CPU block with pre-applied thermal paste)
• Mounting Hardware Kit for Intel (LGA 1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/1851/1366/2011/2011-3/2066)
• Mounting Hardware Kit for AMD (AM5/AM4/FM2+/FM2/FM1/AM3+/AM3/AM2+/AM2)
• Fan Splitter Cable
• ARGB Controller Cable (if applicable)
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 2: Included mounting hardware for various CPU sockets.

4. Setup and Installation

Before proceeding, ensure your system is powered off and unplugged. Refer to your motherboard manual for specific CPU socket details.

4.1. Prepare the Radiator and Fans

The two 120mm ARGB PWM fans are typically pre-installed on the radiator. If not, attach them using the provided screws, ensuring airflow direction is appropriate for your case (usually exhausting air out of the case).

Figure 3: EZ Connect fan wiring for simplified installation.

4.2. Install the UNI-Bracket

The cooler features a UNI-Bracket for broad compatibility. Select the appropriate mounting hardware for your CPU socket (Intel or AMD).

Figure 4: The UNI-Bracket design for universal CPU socket compatibility.

4.2.1. Intel Socket Installation (LGA 1700/1851/1200/115x/20xx)

1. Attach the Intel backplate to the rear of your motherboard, aligning the holes with the CPU socket.
2. Insert the Intel standoffs through the motherboard from the front, securing them to the backplate.
3. Ensure the CPU block has thermal paste applied (it usually comes pre-applied). If not, apply a small pea-sized amount to the center of the CPU IHS.
4. Carefully place the CPU block onto the CPU, aligning the mounting holes on the UNI-Bracket with the standoffs.
5. Secure the CPU block with the Intel thumbscrews, tightening them in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

4.2.2. AMD Socket Installation (AM5/AM4/FMx/AMx)

1. Remove the plastic retention clips from the stock AMD backplate, but keep the backplate in place.
2. Insert the AMD standoffs into the holes of the stock AMD backplate.
3. Ensure the CPU block has thermal paste applied (it usually comes pre-applied). If not, apply a small pea-sized amount to the center of the CPU IHS.
4. Carefully place the CPU block onto the CPU, aligning the mounting holes on the UNI-Bracket with the standoffs.
5. Secure the CPU block with the AMD thumbscrews, tightening them in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

4.3. Mount the Radiator

Mount the radiator to an available 240mm fan mount location in your PC case (e.g., top, front, or rear). Use the long screws provided to secure the radiator and fans to the case.

4.4. Connect Cables

• Pump Power: Connect the pump's 3-pin or 4-pin connector to the motherboard's "AIO_PUMP" or "CPU_FAN" header. Refer to your motherboard manual for the recommended header.
• Fan Power: Connect the two 120mm fan cables to the included fan splitter cable, then connect the splitter to a "CPU_FAN" or "SYS_FAN" header on your motherboard.
• ARGB Lighting: Connect the ARGB cables from the fans and pump block to an available 3-pin 5V ARGB header on your motherboard. Ensure correct pin alignment to prevent damage.

5. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the MSI MAG CoreLiquid I240 operates automatically to cool your CPU. The pump and fan speeds are typically controlled by your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or dedicated software.

• Fan Speed Control: Adjust fan curves in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI or using MSI Dragon Center/MSI Center software for optimal balance between cooling performance and noise levels.
• ARGB Lighting Control: The Addressable RGB lighting can be customized using MSI Mystic Light software (part of MSI Center) or compatible motherboard RGB software. This allows for synchronization with other ARGB components.
• Initial Startup: After installation, power on your system and monitor CPU temperatures using monitoring software. Ensure the pump and fans are operating correctly. A slight gurgling sound may be heard initially as air bubbles settle; this should subside.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your liquid 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.
• Tubing Inspection: Occasionally inspect the tubing for any signs of wear, kinks, or leaks. The evaporation-proof tubing is designed for durability, but visual checks are recommended.
• Thermal Paste: The pre-applied thermal paste is effective for initial installation. If you remove the CPU block for any reason, it is recommended to clean off the old thermal paste and apply new, high-quality thermal paste before reinstallation.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

Figure 5: Enlarged copper base surface for improved heat transfer.

Figure 6: High efficiency pump design for reliable coolant circulation.

9. Warranty and Support

MSI provides a limited warranty for the MAG CoreLiquid I240. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official MSI website or the warranty card included with your product.

For technical support, driver downloads, or further assistance, please visit the official MSI support website:

www.msi.com/support

When contacting support, please have your product model (MAG CORELIQUID I240) and serial number ready.