Thermalright TL-M12QW 120mm ARGB Case Fan User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Thermalright TL-M12QW 120mm ARGB Case Fan. This fan is designed to provide efficient cooling for your computer system while offering customizable ARGB lighting effects. It features an S-FDB magnetic stable bearing for durability and quiet operation, along with PWM intelligent temperature control for automatic speed adjustment. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your fan.

2. Safety Information

• Always disconnect power from your computer before installing or performing maintenance on the fan.
• Handle the fan and cables with care to avoid damage.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the fan bearing, as it is designed to be maintenance-free.
• Ensure all connections are secure to prevent short circuits or improper operation.
• Keep the pin lid on unused 3-pin ARGB connectors to avoid short circuits.

3. Package Contents

The Thermalright TL-M12QW package includes:

• Thermalright TL-M12QW 120mm ARGB Case Fan
• Mounting Screws
• Fan Cable with PWM and ARGB Connectors

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to install your Thermalright TL-M12QW fan:

4.1. Connecting Multiple Fans (Building Blocks Version)

The TL-M12QW fans feature an easy-connect design, allowing multiple fans to be physically linked and synchronized.

1. Align the fan clip of one fan to the wide side of the install slot on another fan.
2. Attach the two fans together by gently pushing them until they click into place.
3. Slide the fans to lock them securely in place. To unlock, slide in the opposite direction.
4. After fans are locked, connect the fan cable to the designated slot on the side of the fan. Slide the cable connector to lock it.

4.2. Motherboard Connections

Ensure all fans are well connected before wiring to the motherboard.

• PWM Connection: The fan cable includes an extra 4-pin PWM connector for fan speed synchronization. Connect this 4-pin PWM cable to a 4-pin chassis fan header on your motherboard. This allows the motherboard to control the fan speed based on system temperature.
• ARGB Connection: Connect the 3-pin ARGB connectors to sync the light effect. Connect the 3-pin ARGB cable to a 3-pin 5V ARGB header on your motherboard. This enables control of the fan's ARGB lighting through your motherboard's software. When not in use, please keep the pin lid on to avoid short circuits.

4.3. Mounting the Fan

Mount the fan(s) in your PC case or onto a radiator using the provided mounting screws. The fan is suitable for both chassis airflow and radiator cooling.

Image: Thermalright TL-M12QW fan shown installed within a computer case, demonstrating its use for chassis airflow.

Image: Two scenarios for fan installation: one fan providing chassis airflow and two fans mounted on a radiator for liquid cooling.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. PWM Intelligent Temperature Control

Once connected to a 4-pin PWM header on your motherboard, the fan will automatically adjust its speed based on the CPU or system temperature. This ensures optimal cooling performance while minimizing noise when temperatures are low. You can typically configure fan curves in your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings or through manufacturer-provided software.

5.2. ARGB Mirror Light Effect

The TL-M12QW features an ARGB mirror light effect. After connecting the 3-pin ARGB cable to your motherboard's 5V ARGB header, you can control and customize the lighting effects using your motherboard's RGB synchronization software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync). Refer to your motherboard manual for specific software instructions.

Image: A close-up view of the fan showcasing its infinity mirror ARGB lighting, highlighting the vibrant color effects.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning

To maintain optimal performance, periodically clean the fan blades and frame to remove dust buildup. Use a soft brush or compressed air. Ensure the fan is powered off and disconnected before cleaning.

6.2. S-FDB Bearing

The Thermalright TL-M12QW fan utilizes an S-FDB (Stable Fluid Dynamic Bearing) which is designed for long-term durability and quiet operation without requiring maintenance. Do not attempt to disassemble the bearing or add lubricant. Disassembly may damage the fan and void the warranty.

Image: A detailed view of the fan's hub, showing the 'S-FDB' (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) label, indicating its advanced bearing technology.

7. Troubleshooting

• Fan not spinning:
  • Check if the 4-pin PWM cable is securely connected to the motherboard's fan header.
  • Ensure the power supply is on and providing power to the motherboard.
  • Verify fan settings in the motherboard BIOS/UEFI.
• ARGB lighting not working or incorrect colors:
  • Confirm the 3-pin ARGB cable is correctly connected to a 5V ARGB header (not a 12V RGB header).
  • Check the ARGB synchronization software on your motherboard.
  • Ensure the pin lid is removed from the connected ARGB connector and placed on any unused connectors.
• Excessive noise:
  • Check for any obstructions around the fan blades.
  • Ensure the fan is securely mounted and not vibrating against the case.
  • Clean any dust buildup on the fan blades.
  • Verify fan speed settings in BIOS/UEFI; high speeds generate more noise.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Thermalright products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Thermalright website. If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your TL-M12QW fan, please contact Thermalright customer support through their official channels.