NZXT Kraken Series Liquid Cooler

NZXT Kraken Series liquid coolers are designed to provide superior CPU cooling performance for gaming PCs. This guide details the installation process.

Component List

The following components are included with your NZXT Kraken Series liquid cooler:

• NZXT Kraken Series Liquid Cooler Unit: The main cooling assembly, including the pump, water block, and tubing.
• Radiator: The heat exchanger designed to dissipate heat from the coolant.
• Fans: Cooling fans that attach to the radiator to move air. Typically two 140mm fans for this series.
• Backplate: A plate that mounts behind the motherboard to provide a secure mounting point for the cooler.
• Intel Mounting Bracket: Brackets designed to secure the cooler to Intel CPU sockets.
• AMD Mounting Bracket: Brackets designed to secure the cooler to AMD CPU sockets.
• Intel Standoffs: Spacers used with the Intel mounting brackets to achieve the correct height. Two types are usually provided for different Intel socket generations (e.g., LGA 1700, LGA 115X/1200, LGA 20XX/1366).
• AMD Standoffs: Spacers used with the AMD mounting brackets.
• Thumb Screws: Used to secure the retention bracket to the standoffs.
• Radiator Screws: Used to mount the radiator to the PC case.
• Fan Screws: Used to attach the fans to the radiator.
• Power Cable (SATA): Connects the pump to the power supply unit (PSU) for power.
• USB Cable: Connects the pump to a motherboard USB header for software control and monitoring.
• Thermal Paste: Applied between the CPU and the water block for optimal heat transfer. May be pre-applied or provided in a separate tube.

Preparation

Before beginning installation, ensure you have all components listed and read through the entire manual. Prepare your PC case by ensuring adequate space for the radiator and fans. For Intel installations, identify the correct standoffs and backplate for your specific CPU socket. For AMD installations, you may need to remove the motherboard's stock mounting brackets before installing the provided NZXT standoffs.

Diagrams show the Intel standoffs (labeled 'Intel 115X/1150/1151/1155/1156' and 'Intel 20XX/1366') and the AMD standoffs (labeled 'AMD AM4/AM5').

Installing Standoffs

For Intel CPUs (LGA 1700/1200/115X/20XX/1366)

Step 1: Attach the correct standoffs to the motherboard's mounting holes. For LGA 1700, use the specific standoffs and align them with the motherboard holes. For other Intel sockets, use the appropriate standoffs. Ensure they are securely screwed in.

For AMD CPUs (AM4/AM5)

Step 1: Remove the stock AMD mounting brackets from the motherboard. Step 2: Attach the provided NZXT standoffs to the motherboard's mounting holes using the appropriate screws. Ensure they are tightened.

Diagrams illustrate screwing standoffs into the motherboard for Intel and AMD platforms. For AMD, it shows removing stock brackets first.

Installing the Retention Bracket

Step 1: Place the retention bracket over the standoffs on the motherboard. Step 2: Secure the bracket using the provided thumb screws. Tighten them evenly.

Diagrams show positioning the retention bracket over the standoffs and then securing it with thumb screws.

Mounting the Cooler

Step 1: Apply thermal paste to the CPU if it is not pre-applied to the cooler's water block. Step 2: Carefully align the cooler's water block with the retention bracket. Step 3: Secure the water block by screwing it onto the standoffs. Tighten the screws in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Four circular diagrams show the process: 1. Applying thermal paste. 2. Aligning the water block. 3. Screwing it down. 4. Final tightened state.

Installing the Radiator and Fans

Step 1: Mount the radiator to your PC case using the provided radiator screws. Ensure proper orientation for airflow (intake or exhaust). Step 2: Attach the fans to the radiator using the fan screws. Ensure the fans are oriented correctly for airflow through the radiator.

Diagrams show mounting the radiator to the PC case and then attaching fans to the radiator.

Connecting Cables

Connecting the Fan Cables

Connect the fan cables from the radiator fans to the appropriate fan headers on your motherboard (CPU_FAN). If using a fan splitter or hub, connect accordingly.

Connecting the Pump Power and Data Cables

Connect the pump's power cable to a SATA power connector from your power supply unit. Connect the pump's data cable (often USB) to a USB header on your motherboard.

Connecting the RGB Cables (if applicable)

Connect any RGB cables from the fans or pump to the RGB headers on your motherboard or a dedicated RGB controller.

Diagrams illustrate connecting fan cables to motherboard headers, and SATA power cables to the PSU.

Downloading NZXT CAM Software

To control fan speeds, lighting, and monitor temperatures, download the NZXT CAM software from the official NZXT website (https://nzxt.com/software). Install the software and follow the on-screen instructions to configure your Kraken cooler.

A graphic shows the NZXT CAM logo and text directing users to download the software from the provided URL.

Warranty and Support

NZXT Warranty

NZXT provides a limited warranty for its products. Refer to the warranty section for details on coverage, duration, and exclusions. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Support and Service

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty service, visit the NZXT support website (https://support.nzxt.com/) or contact NZXT customer service. The website provides FAQs, guides, and contact information for various regions.

The page includes sections for NZXT Warranty, NZXT Damage Obligation, and support information for different regions. It also lists contact methods and website addresses.