Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Antec GEH CX500M ARGB Midi Tower. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper setup and to maximize its performance and longevity.
The Antec CX500M ARGB is a versatile PC chassis designed for optimal airflow and aesthetic appeal, featuring ARGB lighting and tempered glass panels. It supports various motherboard form factors and component sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of PC builds.
Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions:
- Ensure the power supply is disconnected from the wall outlet before performing any installation, maintenance, or cleaning.
- Handle tempered glass panels with care to prevent breakage.
- Avoid placing the PC case in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not attempt to modify the case or its components. This may void your warranty and pose a safety risk.
- Use appropriate tools for installation to prevent damage to components or injury.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Antec GEH CX500M ARGB Midi Tower Chassis
- Accessory Box (screws, cable ties, standoffs, etc.)
- User Manual (this document)
- Pre-installed ARGB Fans (quantity as specified in product description)
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for proper assembly and component installation:
1. Preparing the Chassis
Carefully remove the chassis from its packaging. Place it on a stable, flat surface. Identify the tempered glass side panel, typically secured with thumbscrews at the rear.
Figure 1: Front-side view of the Antec CX500M ARGB Midi Tower, showcasing the tempered glass panel and pre-installed ARGB fans.
Unscrew the thumbscrews and gently slide or pivot the tempered glass panel open/off. Set it aside in a safe place to prevent damage.
2. Motherboard Installation
Install the necessary motherboard standoffs into the chassis tray according to your motherboard's form factor (ITX, micro ATX). Carefully align your motherboard with the standoffs and the I/O shield opening at the rear of the case. Secure the motherboard with screws provided in the accessory box.
Figure 2: Internal view of the Antec CX500M ARGB Midi Tower, highlighting the spacious motherboard tray and fan mounting locations.
3. Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation
The PSU mounts at the bottom rear of the chassis. Slide your PSU into the designated bay from the rear of the case, ensuring the fan faces the bottom ventilation (if applicable) or inwards. Secure it with screws from the outside of the chassis.
4. Storage Drive Installation (HDD/SSD)
The CX500M supports 2.5" and 3.5" drives. Locate the drive cages or mounting points. For 3.5" HDDs, use the tool-less trays if available, or secure with screws. For 2.5" SSDs, mount them to the dedicated SSD trays or mounting points using screws.
5. Graphics Card (GPU) and Expansion Card Installation
Remove the necessary PCIe slot covers at the rear of the chassis. Insert your graphics card or other expansion cards into the appropriate PCIe slots on your motherboard. Secure them with screws.
Figure 3: Rear view of the Antec CX500M ARGB Midi Tower, illustrating the PCIe expansion slots and the pre-installed rear ARGB fan.
6. Cable Management
Utilize the cable routing cutouts and tie-down points behind the motherboard tray to manage cables. This improves airflow and aesthetics. Connect all necessary power cables from the PSU to your components (motherboard, GPU, drives) and data cables (SATA) to your drives and motherboard.
7. Front Panel Connections
Connect the front panel headers (USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, audio, power switch, reset switch, HDD LED, power LED) to their corresponding pins on your motherboard. Refer to your motherboard manual for pinout diagrams.
8. ARGB Fan Connections
Connect the ARGB fans to your motherboard's ARGB header (5V 3-pin) or to a compatible ARGB controller. Ensure correct polarity to prevent damage. The case features an RGB control button on the front panel for integrated lighting control if not connected to a motherboard header.
9. Final Assembly
Once all components are installed and cables are managed, reattach the tempered glass side panel and secure it with the thumbscrews. Ensure all other panels are securely in place.
Operating Instructions
After successful assembly, you can power on your system.
Powering On
Connect your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cable to the PSU. Press the power button on the front panel of the Antec CX500M. The system should boot up, and the ARGB fans will illuminate.
ARGB Lighting Control
If connected to a motherboard ARGB header, lighting can be controlled via your motherboard's software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light, Gigabyte RGB Fusion). If not, use the dedicated RGB control button on the front panel to cycle through various lighting modes and colors.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your PC case.
Dust Filter Cleaning
The Antec CX500M features anti-dust filters. Regularly check and clean these filters (typically located at the front, top, and bottom) to maintain good airflow and prevent dust buildup inside the case. Filters can usually be slid out and cleaned with compressed air or water (ensure they are completely dry before reinstallation).
General Cleaning
Wipe the exterior of the case with a soft, damp cloth. For tempered glass panels, use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- System does not power on:
- Ensure the PSU is switched on and properly connected to the wall outlet.
- Verify all power cables from the PSU are correctly connected to the motherboard and components.
- Check front panel power switch connection to the motherboard.
- ARGB fans are not lighting up:
- Ensure ARGB cables are correctly connected to the motherboard's 5V 3-pin ARGB header or the case's ARGB controller.
- If using motherboard software, ensure it is installed and configured correctly.
- Try pressing the RGB control button on the front panel to cycle modes.
- Poor airflow/high temperatures:
- Clean all dust filters.
- Ensure fans are spinning correctly and are not obstructed.
- Improve cable management to reduce airflow impedance.
- Front panel USB ports not working:
- Verify the USB headers from the front panel are securely connected to the correct USB headers on your motherboard.
For further assistance, please contact Antec customer support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Antec |
| Model | CX500M ARGB |
| Form Factor | Mini Tower |
| Product Color | Black |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 210 mm x 436 mm x 446 mm (8.27" x 17.17" x 17.56") |
| Weight | 6.34 kg (13.98 lbs) |
| Supported Motherboard Form Factors | ITX, micro ATX |
| Expansion Bays (3.5") | 2 |
| Expansion Bays (2.5") | 1 |
| Material | Glass, Steel |
| Tempered Glass Panel(s) | Yes |
| Anti-dust Filter | Yes |
| Max CPU Cooler Height | 16.5 cm (6.5 inches) |
| Max Graphics Card Length | 41.5 cm (16.34 inches) |
| Max PSU Length | 27 cm (10.63 inches) |
| Front I/O Ports | 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, Combined Headphone/Microphone |
| Pre-installed Fans | 2x 120mm Side, 1x 120mm Rear |
| Supported Fan Diameters | 120mm, 140mm (Top) |
| Supported Radiator Sizes (Top) | 120, 140, 240, 280, 360 mm |
Warranty and Support
Antec products are covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the official Antec website or your regional distributor for specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to your product.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please visit the official Antec support page or contact their customer service department. Have your product model (CX500M) and serial number (if applicable) ready when contacting support.
Official Antec Website: www.antec.com
