Cooler Master Elite 681 Computer Case Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Cooler Master Elite 681 Computer Case. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning assembly or use to ensure proper functionality and longevity of your product.

Image 1.1: Front-side view of the Cooler Master Elite 681 Computer Case, showcasing its tempered glass panels and pre-installed ARGB fans.

2. Key Features

• 270° Full-View Tempered Glass with Seamless Bevel Design: Dual tempered glass panels with unique 45° bevel edges create a nearly invisible seam for a clean, uninterrupted view of internal components and lighting.


Image 2.1: Illustration of the 270° seamless tempered glass design, providing an expansive view of the interior.

• True Dual-Chamber Architecture: Separate chambers for the motherboard and PSU/cabling streamline airflow and simplify installation. The right chamber includes a top-mounted PSU and 95mm of cable management depth.
• Vertical Cooling Configuration: Supports up to 10 fans in a bottom-to-top vertical airflow layout, accelerating heat dissipation and enhancing thermal performance.


Image 2.2: Internal view demonstrating the vertical airflow configuration with fans positioned for optimal cooling.

• Extreme Cooling Support: Accommodates dual 360mm radiators (top and bottom) and a 280mm side-mounted radiator, ideal for custom water cooling or high-end AIOs.


Image 2.3: Depiction of the case's capacity for large radiators, indicating extensive cooling support.

• Pre-installed ARGB Fan Setup with Motherboard Sync Support: Includes 4 ARGB fans (3 reverse-blade side intake fans and 1 rear exhaust fan). Each fan features daisy-chain connectors for cleaner cable management and streamlined setup, fully compatible with major motherboard ARGB software for synchronized lighting control.


Image 2.4: Four ARGB fans with daisy-chain connectors, illustrating the pre-installed fan setup.

• Large Mesh Ventilation Zones: Full-size mesh openings on the top and bottom panels provide superior airflow, enhancing system cooling.
• Support for RTX 50 Series Graphics Cards: Ready for the latest GPUs, with support for graphics cards up to 410mm in length, ideal for next-gen RTX 50 Series builds.


Image 2.5: Internal view showing ample space for a large graphics card, confirming compatibility with RTX 50 series.

• Upgraded High-Speed I/O Panel: Features dual USB 3.0 Type-A ports and a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port with a transfer speed of up to 20Gbps, perfect for fast data access and modern device connectivity.


Image 2.6: Close-up of the top I/O panel, detailing the available high-speed USB and audio ports.

3. Setup and Installation

3.1 Unpacking

1. Carefully remove the computer case from its packaging.
2. Inspect the case for any signs of damage during transit. Contact your retailer immediately if damage is found.
3. Remove all protective films from the tempered glass panels.
4. Locate the accessory box, which contains screws, cable ties, and other small components.

3.2 Component Installation

Ensure your system is powered off and unplugged before installing any components.

1. Motherboard Installation:
   • Remove the side panel.
   • Install the I/O shield into the rear opening of the case.
   • Align your ATX, Micro-ATX, or ITX motherboard with the pre-installed standoffs. Additional standoffs may be required for certain motherboard sizes; install them as needed.
   • Secure the motherboard with the appropriate screws from the accessory kit.


Image 3.1: Internal view highlighting the motherboard mounting area and compatibility with ATX, Micro-ATX, and ITX form factors.

2. Power Supply Unit (PSU) Installation:
   • The Elite 681 features a top-mounted PSU chamber. Remove the PSU bracket from the rear of the case.
   • Attach the PSU to the bracket using the provided screws.
   • Slide the PSU with the bracket back into the top chamber and secure it.
3. Storage Drive Installation (HDDs/SSDs):
   • Locate the drive bays or mounting points within the case.
   • Install 3.5" HDDs into the drive cages, typically using tool-less trays or screws.
   • Install 2.5" SSDs onto designated mounting plates, usually located behind the motherboard tray or on the PSU shroud.
4. Graphics Card (GPU) Installation:
   • Remove the necessary PCIe slot covers from the rear of the case.
   • Insert your graphics card into the primary PCIe slot on the motherboard.
   • Secure the graphics card with the retention clip and screws.
5. Cooling System Installation (Fans/Radiators):
   • The case comes with 4 pre-installed ARGB fans. Connect their power and ARGB cables to your motherboard or a compatible controller.
   • For additional fans or radiators, refer to the case's specifications for supported sizes and mounting locations (e.g., top, bottom, side).
   • Ensure proper airflow direction for optimal cooling.
6. Cable Management:
   • Utilize the 95mm cable management depth in the right chamber and the numerous tie-down points to route and secure cables.
   • Connect all necessary power and data cables to your components.

4. Operation

Once all components are installed and cables are connected, replace the side panels. Connect your peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse) and power cable to the PSU. Press the power button on the top I/O panel to start your system.

4.1 ARGB Lighting Control

The pre-installed ARGB fans can be controlled via compatible motherboard software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync). Refer to your motherboard's manual for specific instructions on ARGB software usage.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

• Exterior: Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Tempered Glass: Use a microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner (non-ammonia based) to clean the tempered glass panels.
• Interior: Periodically use compressed air to remove dust from inside the case, especially from fans, heatsinks, and mesh panels. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning the interior.

5.2 Dust Filters

The Elite 681 features large mesh ventilation zones on the top and bottom panels, which act as dust filters. Regularly remove and clean these mesh panels to maintain optimal airflow and prevent dust buildup within your system.

6. Troubleshooting

• System Not Powering On:
  • Check all power connections, including the PSU to the wall outlet, PSU to motherboard, and front panel power switch header to the motherboard.
  • Ensure the PSU switch is in the 'ON' position.
• Fans Not Spinning/ARGB Not Lighting Up:
  • Verify that all fan power cables are securely connected to the motherboard or fan controller.
  • Ensure ARGB cables are correctly connected to a compatible ARGB header on the motherboard or controller.
  • Check motherboard software settings for fan speed and ARGB control.
• Poor Airflow/High Temperatures:
  • Clean dust filters and internal components as described in the Maintenance section.
  • Ensure fans are oriented correctly for optimal airflow (bottom-to-top vertical airflow is recommended for this case).
  • Verify that no cables are obstructing airflow paths.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Cooler Master products are designed for durability and performance. For warranty information, technical support, or to contact customer service, please visit the official Cooler Master website or refer to the warranty card included with your product.

You can also visit the Cooler Master Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.