Noctua NH-U12A CPU Cooler Installation Guide

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Noctua NH-U12A. The NH-U12 series, first introduced in 2005, has received over 600 awards and recommendations. The NH-U12A is the latest model in this renowned series. We are confident that you will appreciate the research, care, and dedication that went into creating this product.

This manual will guide you through the installation process using the SecuFirm2™ mounting system.

Before installation, please refer to our website's compatibility list (www.noctua.at/compatibility) to ensure the cooler is fully compatible with your motherboard. Also, ensure your computer case provides sufficient clearance for the cooler. Check for potential compatibility issues with other components, such as RAM with tall heatsinks. Ensure the cooler and its fans do not interfere with graphics cards or other PCIe devices. Noctua is not responsible for any damage or loss caused by compatibility issues.

If you encounter any difficulties, please consult our FAQs on our website (www.noctua.at/faqs) and contact our support team at support@noctua.at. Multilingual versions of this manual are also available on our website: www.noctua.at/manuals.

Step 1: Remove Existing Retention Module and Install Backplate

If your motherboard has a pre-installed CPU cooler retention module, loosen the screws and remove the original backplate. The SecuFirm2™ mounting system will install directly onto the motherboard's original backplate, so keep it in place.

For AMD motherboards, the accessory kit should include retention modules. If your motherboard does not have pre-installed CPU cooler retention modules, place the backplate on the rear side of the motherboard, ensuring the threaded studs of the backplate pass through the motherboard's mounting holes as shown. If your motherboard lacks such a backplate, please contact Noctua customer support at support@yanyi-noctua.com for assistance.

Required Mounting Parts:

• AMD Retention Backplate (included with motherboard)
• NM-AMB11 mounting bars
• NM-APS4 (grey) plastic spacers for AM4 sockets
• NM-APS5 (white) plastic spacers for AM2(+)/AM3(+)/FM1/FM2(+) sockets
• 4x NM-ALS1 screws

Step 2: Install Mounting Bars

First, select the correct plastic spacers and mounting bars based on whether you are using an AM4 socket or an AM2(+)/AM3(+)/FM1/FM2(+) socket motherboard.

Use the mounting bars marked "4" for AM4, and the bars marked "3" for AM2(+)/AM3(+)/FM1/FM2(+).

Place the plastic spacers onto the threaded studs on the back. Secure the mounting bars using the four long screws.

Note: Ensure the raised, curved side of the mounting bars faces outwards.

Step 3: Apply Thermal Paste

If there are any residues of thermal paste or thermal pads on your CPU, clean them first. Then, apply a single drop (3-4mm diameter) of NT-H1 to the center of the CPU.

Note: Applying too much thermal paste can reduce heat conductivity and cooling performance!

Step 4: Mount the Cooler onto the CPU

Note: First, remove the fans and the protective cover from the bottom of the cooler.

Place the cooler onto the CPU and screw it into the mounting bars' studs. Tighten each screw 2-3 turns, then repeat until both are fully secured.

Note: Gently tighten the screws until they stop, but do not use excessive force (maximum torque 0.6 Nm).

Step 5: Install Fans

You can attach up to two fans using the provided metal fan clips for increased cooling performance. You can also remove the fan from the rear of the cooler for a single-fan setup.

1. Connect the fans to the CPU fan headers on the motherboard. If necessary, use the provided NA-YC1 Y-cable to connect two fans to a single fan header.
2. To further reduce fan noise, you can connect the provided NA-RC14 Low Noise Adaptor (L.N.A.) depending on your CPU and internal case temperatures.

Note: Do not use the adaptor before the Y-cable.

Caution: When using the L.N.A., use appropriate software (e.g., your motherboard manufacturer's utility) to monitor your CPU temperature to prevent automatic throttling due to overheating. If cooling performance is insufficient, improve case ventilation or discontinue use of the L.N.A.

! Important Notes

Environmental humidity can cause oxidation on the cooler's surface. Ensure the usage environment is dry. Do not rinse the cooler with water, as this can cause moisture, corrosion, and oxidation on the cooler's surface. During transport, disassembly, or moving the cooler, handle it gently to avoid damaging or deforming the heat pipes, which would affect cooling performance. Deformation and oxidation of the cooler's heat pipes and fins are not covered by the warranty.

When changing fan ports during fan operation, ensure the power is turned off to prevent short circuits or damage. Do not use your hands or other objects to obstruct the fan blades' normal rotation, as this could cause personal injury or fan blade breakage. When installing fans using screws, tighten them sufficiently but do not over-tighten, which could deform the fan frame or the case.

! Transporting Your Equipment

Due to the inability to fully calculate or control external factors during shipping that may affect the equipment, we generally recommend removing the cooler for safety reasons. Noctua is not responsible for any damage that may occur due to excessive pressure during transport if the entire cooler is left installed.

! Warranty, Support, and FAQs

Even with high-quality products and strict quality control, it is impossible to completely guarantee the absence of quality issues. Therefore, our goal is to provide customers with more convenient and faster service, offering a long-lasting warranty of up to 6 years.

If you encounter any issues with your NH-U12A, please contact our support team immediately at support@yanyi-noctua.com. For FAQs, please visit the FAQ section on our website: www.noctua.at/cn.

Warranty Card

Company:

Name:

Phone:

Detailed Address:

Product Name: Noctua NH-U12A

Product Model:

Date of Purchase: Year ____ Month ____ Day ____

Proof of Purchase: Submit online (see Warranty Website below)

Product Issue Description:

NOCTUA Warranty Policy

Warranty Period: Noctua products are covered by a 6-year warranty from the date of original purchase. Repair Method: Components will be repaired or replaced based on the specific nature of the defect.

In accordance with China's "Three Guarantees" laws and regulations, the above policy applies only to Noctua products purchased in mainland China. Products purchased outside of mainland China are not covered by China's "Three Guarantees" laws and regulations.

The warranty does not cover: software in the device, accidental damage caused by other equipment, misuse or incorrect installation contrary to product specifications, abuse, unauthorized modification of the serial number, natural or man-made disasters.

To protect your rights, product damage incurred during shipping is not covered by the warranty. Please claim compensation from the logistics company or dealer.

Based on the reported product malfunction, the product will be sent to our central testing/repair/replacement facility. The repair center will conduct professional diagnostics to determine the appropriate repair/replacement solution.

Thermal paste, silicone paste products, CPU coolers, and colored aluminum covers with surface issues after use are not covered by the warranty.

To the extent permitted by law, the above warranty policy may be updated from time to time.

Contact Information:

Company Name: Shenzhen Yingyingguan Technology Co., Ltd.

Business Address: Room 505-506, Building 514, Bagualing Industrial Zone, Bagua Road 25, Futian District, Shenzhen

Contact Phone: 0755 83665577

Warranty Website: http://noctua.at/cn/support/rma-form

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