1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 280 All-In-One (AIO) CPU Cooler. This high-performance liquid cooling solution is designed to efficiently dissipate heat from your CPU, ensuring stable and optimal performance for your system. It features a 280mm radiator, two 140mm fans, a PWM-controlled pump, and an integrated VRM fan, compatible with AMD AM5/AM4 and Intel LGA1851/1770 sockets.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect power from your computer before installation or maintenance.
- Handle components with care to avoid damage.
- Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD).
- Keep the cooler and its components away from liquids and extreme temperatures.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the sealed liquid cooling loop.
- Consult a professional if you are unsure about any installation steps.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:
- ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 280 AIO Cooler (Radiator with pre-installed fans, pump with integrated VRM fan, and tubing)
- Mounting hardware for AMD AM5/AM4 sockets
- Mounting hardware for Intel LGA1851/1770 sockets (including contact frame)
- ARCTIC MX-6 Thermal Paste (pre-applied or included separately)
- User Manual (this document, typically digital)
4. Setup and Installation
Before installation, ensure your PC case has adequate space for a 280mm radiator (317mm length, 38mm radiator thickness, 65mm total thickness with fans). Refer to your case manufacturer's specifications.
4.1. Pre-Installation Steps
- Prepare your system: Power off your computer and disconnect all cables. Open your PC case.
- Remove existing cooler: Carefully remove your current CPU cooler and clean any old thermal paste from the CPU IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader) using isopropyl alcohol.
- Identify mounting location: Determine where you will mount the 280mm radiator in your case (e.g., top, front).
4.2. Intel LGA1851 / LGA1700 Installation (with Contact Frame)
The Liquid Freezer III Pro 280 includes a contact frame for Intel LGA1851/1700 sockets to optimize contact pressure and heat dissipation.
- Install Intel Contact Frame:
- Carefully remove the CPU retention mechanism from your motherboard.
- Place the Intel contact frame over the CPU socket, aligning it with the screw holes.
- Secure the contact frame using the provided screws. Tighten screws evenly until snug, but do not overtighten to avoid damaging the motherboard or CPU socket.
- Apply Thermal Paste: If not pre-applied, apply a small amount of ARCTIC MX-6 thermal paste to the center of the CPU IHS.
- Mount Pump Block:
- Position the pump block onto the CPU, ensuring the cold plate makes full contact with the CPU IHS.
- Secure the pump block using the appropriate Intel mounting brackets and screws. Tighten screws in a diagonal pattern until firm.
4.3. AMD AM5 / AM4 Installation
The cooler utilizes native offset mounting for AMD sockets to align the cold plate with the CPU hotspot for improved heat transfer.
- Prepare AMD Backplate: Ensure the stock AMD backplate is installed on your motherboard.
- Apply Thermal Paste: If not pre-applied, apply a small amount of ARCTIC MX-6 thermal paste to the center of the CPU IHS.
- Mount Pump Block:
- Attach the AMD mounting brackets to the pump block.
- Position the pump block onto the CPU, ensuring the cold plate makes full contact. The offset design will naturally position the cold plate for optimal cooling.
- Secure the pump block to the stock AMD backplate using the provided thumb screws or nuts. Tighten screws in a diagonal pattern until firm.
4.4. Radiator and Fan Installation
- Mount Radiator: Secure the radiator with the pre-installed fans to your chosen mounting location in the PC case using the provided screws. Ensure proper airflow direction (typically intake or exhaust depending on case configuration).
- Cable Management: The PWM cables for the radiator fans are integrated into the hose sleeving. Connect the single visible cable from the pump block to the CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard. The integrated VRM fan also connects via this single cable.
5. Operating Instructions
The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 280 is designed for optimal performance with minimal user intervention after installation.
- PWM Control: The pump, radiator fans (ARCTIC P14 Pro), and integrated VRM fan are all PWM-controlled. This allows your motherboard or system software to dynamically adjust their speeds based on CPU temperature, providing efficient cooling and reduced noise levels when not under heavy load.
- BIOS/Software Configuration: Access your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or use compatible fan control software to configure the fan curve for the CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header. This allows you to customize the cooler's performance and noise profile to your preference.
- VRM Cooling: The integrated VRM fan actively cools the voltage regulator modules around the CPU socket, contributing to overall system stability and longevity, especially during high CPU loads.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your AIO 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.
- Check Connections: Occasionally check all cable connections (PWM, power) to ensure they are secure.
- Inspect Tubing: Visually inspect the tubing for any signs of kinks, leaks, or damage. While the loop is sealed and maintenance-free, external damage can occur.
- Thermal Paste: The pre-applied thermal paste is designed for long-term use. Re-application is generally not necessary unless the cooler is removed from the CPU. If re-applying, use a high-quality thermal compound like ARCTIC MX-6.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III Pro 280, refer to the following common solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| High CPU Temperatures |
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| Excessive Noise |
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| Cooler Not Detected / Fans Not Spinning |
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| Physical Fit Issues |
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8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ACFRE00179A |
| Product Dimensions (Radiator) | 12.4"L x 5.4"W x 1.5"H (approx. 315mm x 137mm x 38mm) |
| Total Product Dimensions (with fans) | Approx. 12.48 x 5.51 x 2.66 inches (approx. 317mm x 140mm x 67.5mm) |
| Weight | 4.2 Pounds (approx. 1.9 kg) |
| Cooling Method | Liquid |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop CPUs (AMD AM5/AM4, Intel LGA1851/1770) |
| Radiator Material | Aluminium |
| Cold Plate Material | Copper (Micro Skived fins) |
| Fan Type | 2 x 140mm ARCTIC P14 Pro PWM Fans |
| Fan Speed | 400 - 2500 RPM (P14 Pro Fans) |
| Airflow | 110 CFM (186 m³/h) per fan |
| Static Pressure | 5.2 mm H₂O per fan |
| Noise Level | 0.08 Sones (P14 Pro Fans) |
| Pump Type | PWM Controlled |
| VRM Fan | Integrated, PWM Controlled |
| Power Connector | 4-Pin PWM |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 4.2 Watts (total cooler) |
9. Warranty and Support
ARCTIC products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official ARCTIC website or contact their customer service directly.
Manufacturer: ARCTIC
Official Website: www.arctic.ac
For specific inquiries or troubleshooting assistance not covered in this manual, please visit the ARCTIC support page or contact their technical support team.