Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler User Manual

Introduction

The Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB is a high-performance 240mm liquid CPU cooler designed for efficient thermal management of your processor. It features a unique skeleton-frame ARGB pump head, dual PWM ARGB fans, and a robust copper base plate to ensure optimal cooling and customizable lighting effects. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your liquid CPU cooler.

Part Contents

Please verify that all components are present before beginning installation.

Image: All components included in the Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler package, including the radiator, pump, fans, various mounting brackets, screws, thermal paste, and cables.

• 240mm Radiator with attached tubing and pump/cold plate
• 2 x 120mm PWM ARGB Fans
• Intel Mounting Bracket Set (LGA 115X/1200/1700/20XX)
• AMD Mounting Bracket Set (AM4/AM5)
• Universal Backplate
• Mounting Screws and Standoffs
• Thermal Paste Syringe
• ARGB Controller Cable (if not using motherboard sync)
• Fan Splitter Cable

Setup and Installation

Follow these steps carefully to install your Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler.

1. Prepare the CPU and Motherboard

1. Ensure your system is powered off and unplugged.
2. Clean the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove any old thermal paste.
3. Apply a pea-sized amount of the provided thermal paste to the center of the CPU's integrated heat spreader (IHS).

2. Install Radiator Fans

1. Attach the two 120mm ARGB fans to the radiator using the long fan screws. Ensure the fan orientation is correct for your desired airflow (intake or exhaust).

Image: A single Antec PWM ARGB fan, showcasing its design and lighting capabilities. These fans are mounted onto the radiator.

3. Install Backplate and Standoffs

For Intel Sockets (LGA 115X/1200/1700/20XX):

1. Position the universal backplate behind the motherboard, aligning the holes with the CPU socket mounting holes.
2. Secure the appropriate Intel standoffs through the motherboard from the front, screwing them into the backplate.

For AMD Sockets (AM4/AM5):

1. Remove the existing plastic retention clips from the motherboard, but retain the original AMD backplate.
2. Screw the appropriate AMD standoffs directly into the original AMD backplate.

Image: Depicts the Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB pump head mounted on both an Intel platform (left) and an AMD platform (right), highlighting the different mounting mechanisms for each CPU socket type.

4. Install Pump/Cold Plate

1. Attach the correct mounting brackets for your CPU socket to the pump head.
2. Carefully place the pump/cold plate assembly onto the CPU, aligning the holes in the brackets with the standoffs.
3. Secure the pump by tightening the four thumb nuts onto the standoffs in a diagonal pattern until snug. Do not overtighten.

Image: Close-up of the Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB pump head, featuring its unique skeleton-frame design and vibrant ARGB lighting effects.

Image: Underside view of the Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB pump, showing the large copper base plate designed for efficient heat transfer from the CPU.

5. Mount Radiator and Connect Cables

1. Mount the radiator assembly to an available fan mounting location in your PC case (e.g., top, front).
2. Connect the 4-pin PWM fan cables from the fans to the fan splitter cable, then connect the splitter to a CPU_FAN or SYS_FAN header on your motherboard.
3. Connect the 3-pin ARGB cables from the fans and pump to the included ARGB controller or directly to a 5V 3-pin ARGB header on your motherboard.
4. Connect the 3-pin pump power cable to a AIO_PUMP or SYS_FAN header on your motherboard. Ensure it is set to run at full speed in BIOS for optimal pump performance.

Image: The Antec Skeleton 240 ARGB liquid cooler installed inside a computer case, showing the radiator with two ARGB fans mounted at the top, and the illuminated pump head on the CPU.

Operating Instructions

ARGB Lighting Control

• If connected to a motherboard's 5V 3-pin ARGB header, lighting effects can be controlled via the motherboard's RGB software (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, GIGABYTE RGB Fusion, ASRock Polychrome Sync).
• If using the included ARGB controller (if applicable), refer to its specific instructions for cycling through lighting modes and colors.

Fan Speed Control

• Fan speeds are controlled via PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) through your motherboard's BIOS or dedicated fan control software.
• It is recommended to set a fan curve that balances cooling performance with noise levels according to your preference.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your liquid CPU cooler.

• Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean the radiator fins and fan blades with compressed air to prevent dust buildup, which can impede airflow and cooling efficiency.
• Visual Inspection: Regularly check the tubing and connections for any signs of leaks or damage.
• Thermal Paste: While not frequently required, replacing thermal paste every few years can help maintain optimal thermal transfer.

Troubleshooting

Fans or ARGB lighting not working:

Check all fan and ARGB cable connections to the motherboard or controller. Ensure the motherboard's ARGB header is enabled in BIOS and that the correct RGB software is installed and configured.

High CPU temperatures:

Verify that the pump is running (you may feel a slight vibration or hear a faint hum). Check fan orientation for proper airflow. Ensure the cold plate is securely mounted to the CPU with adequate thermal paste coverage. Confirm fan speeds are set appropriately in BIOS or software.

Unusual noise from the pump:

A gurgling sound immediately after installation may indicate air in the loop. This usually resolves itself within a few hours of operation as air settles in the radiator. If persistent, gently tilt your PC case to help dislodge air bubbles. Ensure the pump is not running dry.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Antec website or the warranty card included with your product. Antec provides technical support for its products. If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual, please visit the Antec support page or contact their customer service for assistance.

Product Overview Video