DARKROCK D240 CPU Liquid Cooler Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your DARKROCK D240 CPU Liquid Cooler. Please read this guide thoroughly before beginning installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance. The DARKROCK D240 is an all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooling system designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your CPU, featuring a 240mm radiator, addressable RGB lighting, and a pure copper pump base.

Image: The DARKROCK D240 CPU Liquid Cooler integrated into a computer system, showcasing its RGB lighting effects.

2. Setup and Installation

2.1 Package Contents

Before installation, verify that all components are present in the package:

• 1x Radiator with Integrated Pump and Tubing
• 2x 120mm ARGB PWM Cooling Fans
• Intel Mounting Bracket (LGA1851/1700/1200/115X)
• AMD Mounting Bracket (AM5/AM4)
• Backplate for Intel Sockets
• Mounting Screws and Standoffs for Intel/AMD
• Thermal Paste
• Fan Screws
• 1 to 3 Fan Splitter Cable
• RGB Controller (if included with your model)

Image: A detailed view of all parts and accessories included in the DARKROCK D240 CPU Liquid Cooler package.

2.2 Pre-Installation Steps

1. Prepare your Motherboard: Ensure your motherboard is compatible with the cooler. The D240 supports Intel LGA1851/1700/1200/115X and AMD AM5/AM4 sockets.
2. Remove Old Cooler: If replacing an existing cooler, carefully remove it and clean any old thermal paste from the CPU surface using isopropyl alcohol.
3. Identify Mounting Hardware: Select the appropriate mounting bracket and screws for your CPU socket type (Intel or AMD).

Image: Visual representation of the cooler's compatibility with various AMD and Intel CPU sockets.

2.3 Mounting the Radiator and Fans

1. Attach the two 120mm fans to the radiator using the provided fan screws. Ensure the fan airflow direction is appropriate for your case (typically exhausting air out of the case).
2. Mount the radiator assembly to an available 240mm fan mount in your PC case (e.g., top, front, or side).

Image: Illustration of the 120mm PWM/ARGB cooling fans and the radiator, highlighting their features.

Image: A close-up view of the radiator's fin structure, designed for optimal heat dissipation.

2.4 Installing the Pump Head

1. Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the center of your CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).
2. Attach the correct mounting bracket to the pump head. Ensure the protective film is removed from the copper base before installation.
3. Carefully place the pump head onto the CPU, aligning the mounting holes with the standoffs on the motherboard.
4. Secure the pump head with the thumb screws, tightening them in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

Image: A visual representation of the pure copper base of the pump and the liquid circulation path.

2.5 Wiring Connections

Connect the pump and fan cables to your motherboard or an RGB controller as follows:

• Pump Power: Connect the pump's 3-pin or 4-pin connector to the dedicated AIO_PUMP or CPU_OPT header on your motherboard.
• Fan Power: Connect the fan cables to the 1-to-3 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 head to a 5V 3-pin ARGB header on your motherboard or to the included RGB controller. Ensure correct pin alignment to prevent damage.
• RGB Controller Power: If using an RGB controller, connect it to a SATA power connector from your power supply.

Image: A comprehensive diagram illustrating the electrical connections for the pump, fans, and ARGB lighting.

2.6 Installation Video

For a visual guide on the installation process, please refer to the official installation video:

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Initial Power-On

After completing the installation and wiring, power on your computer. The fans and pump should start operating, and the ARGB lighting should illuminate. Monitor your CPU temperatures using system monitoring software to ensure proper cooling.

3.2 ARGB Lighting Control

The DARKROCK D240 features addressable RGB lights on both the fans and the water-cooling head. These can be controlled via:

• Motherboard Software: If connected to a compatible 5V 3-pin ARGB header, you can synchronize and customize lighting effects using your motherboard's RGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync).
• Included RGB Controller: If your model includes a dedicated RGB controller, use its buttons or remote control to cycle through various lighting modes, colors, and effects.

Image: A computer case interior illuminated by the customizable addressable RGB lighting of the DARKROCK D240 cooler and other components.

Image: The RGB controller and its remote, used for adjusting the cooler's lighting effects.

3.3 PWM Smart Control

The adjustable PWM fans (800 RPM - 1800 RPM) automatically adjust their speed based on CPU temperature. This provides efficient cooling when needed and reduces noise during lighter loads. You can often fine-tune fan curves through your motherboard's BIOS settings or dedicated software.

3.4 Product Showcase Video

Observe the DARKROCK D240 in action with its dynamic RGB lighting and cooling capabilities:

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your liquid cooler:

• Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean the radiator fins and fan blades to prevent dust buildup, which can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
• Inspect Tubing and Connections: Occasionally check the tubing for any signs of leaks or kinks. Ensure all electrical connections are secure.
• Thermal Paste: While not frequently required, if you ever remove the pump head from the CPU, you will need to clean off the old thermal paste and apply new paste before reinstallation.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your DARKROCK D240 CPU Liquid Cooler, consider the following:

• No Power/No Lights:
  • Check all power connections (pump, fans, RGB controller) to ensure they are securely plugged in.
  • Verify that the motherboard headers are supplying power (check BIOS settings).
  • If using an RGB controller, ensure it is receiving SATA power.
• High CPU Temperatures:
  • Confirm the pump is running (you might feel a slight vibration or hear a low hum).
  • Ensure the pump head is securely mounted to the CPU and thermal paste was applied correctly.
  • Check fan operation and ensure they are spinning and providing adequate airflow.
  • Clean any dust from the radiator fins.
• Abnormal Noise:
  • Identify if the noise is coming from the fans or the pump.
  • For fans, check for obstructions or loose mounting.
  • For pump noise, ensure it's not running dry (though unlikely with a sealed AIO).
• RGB Not Working/Incorrect Colors:
  • Verify the ARGB cables are connected to a 5V 3-pin header, not a 12V 4-pin RGB header, as this can cause damage.
  • Check motherboard RGB software settings or RGB controller mode.
  • Ensure all ARGB connections are firm.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official DARKROCK website or contact their customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Optional protection plans may be available for extended coverage. Please check with your retailer for details on available protection plans.