Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 & Shift 2 Air User Manual

Introduction

Welcome to Phanteks! The Evolv Shift 2 (air) builds on the unique form factor of the original Evolv Shift, offering a compact chassis that accommodates significant power and is highly space-efficient with its small footprint. The Evolv Shift 2 (air) is designed to impress with its tempered glass or mesh fabric panels available on both sides.

Phanteks believes that meaningful designs are created through the fusion of form and function.

The Phanteks team

Image description: Two Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 computer cases are shown side-by-side. One features a tempered glass side panel, while the other displays a mesh fabric panel, showcasing the aesthetic options.

Specifications

*Depends on model.

Exploded View

The following components are shown in the exploded view diagram:

1. Chassis
2. Front Panel
3. Rear Panel
4. Left Side Panel
5. Right Side Panel
6. Top Grill
7. Bottom Grill
8. GPU Bracket
9. Dual SSD Bracket
10. Bottom Dust Filter

Diagram description: An exploded view of the Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 chassis, showing all major components disassembled and labeled with numbers 1 through 10.

Accessories

Getting Started

Recommended Installation Process

The unique chassis design of the Shift 2 (air) requires a specific installation approach. Follow these tips:

• Adhere to the component installation order outlined in this manual.
• Pre-route cables for each installed component as shown in the steps.
• Delay connecting all cables until the end of the installation process.

Note: Cable routing may vary based on hardware components and power cable length.

Diagram description: Three stages of PC building are illustrated: 1. A component is installed in the chassis. 2. Cables are routed outside the chassis. 3. All cables are connected at the end of the process.

Preparations

• The Evolv Shift 2 case is designed for installation in a standing position.
• Do not power on the system until installation is complete.
• Discharge static electricity by touching a grounded surface before handling hardware.
• Consult your hardware manuals before installation.

Panel Removal

Diagram description: The top grill of the chassis is shown being opened, followed by steps to loosen thumb screws and slide/remove side panels.

Steps:

1. Press the top grill to open it.
2. Loosen all thumb screws.
3. Slide the panels up.
4. Take the panels out.

Tip: To remove or mount the rear panel, the top grill must be closed.

Installing the Bottom Fan

It is recommended to install the bottom fan before proceeding with other installation steps.

1. Lay the Evolv Shift 2 on its side.
2. Pull off the bottom grill.
3. Install the fan using 4x fan screws.
4. Pre-route the fan cable outside the chassis.
5. Put the bottom grill back onto the chassis.

Diagram description: Shows the case laid on its side, the bottom grill removed, a fan being installed with screws, and the fan cable routed externally.

Required: 4x Fan Screws

Installing the Power Supply

The SFX power supply fan can be oriented towards the side panel or the inside of the chassis. For models with tempered glass side panels, facing the fan inwards is recommended.

1. Place the SFX PSU in its designated position.
2. Secure the SFX PSU with 4x PSU screws.
3. Connect the power extension cord to the PSU. Ensure the PSU switch is turned ON.
4. Plug in all necessary cables to the PSU.
5. Pre-route the cables outside the chassis (refer to the next page for details).

Diagram description: Illustrates the SFX power supply unit being mounted and secured within the chassis.

Tip: Install the power supply in the correct orientation for optimal performance based on your specific model.

Required: 4x PSU Screws

Power Cable Routing

After connecting power cables to the PSU, pre-routing them simplifies the installation of other components.

• CPU CABLE: Route the CPU cable through the grommet and the rear cut-out, exiting the chassis.
• SATA/MOLEX CABLE: Route the SATA and MOLEX cables through the front cut-out, exiting the chassis.
• GPU CABLE: Route the GPU cable(s) through the front cut-out, exiting the chassis.
• 24-PIN MOTHERBOARD CABLE: Route the motherboard cable through the left or right grommet and out the side of the chassis. This depends on the length of the 24-pin cable.

Diagram description: Shows the chassis with various power cables (CPU, SATA/Molex, GPU, 24-pin Motherboard) being routed from the PSU location to their respective component areas, with labels indicating cable types and approximate lengths.

Installing Cooling

Fan Installation

It is recommended to install all case fans and/or AIO coolers at this stage.

1. Mount the fans using 4 fan screws each.

Fan Locations:

• Rear, top location: Supports 140mm or 120mm fans.
• Rear, lower location: Supports 140mm or 120mm fans.
• Bottom: Supports 140mm or 120mm fans.

Diagram description: Illustrates the chassis with mounting points for fans indicated at the rear (top and lower) and bottom. Arrows show recommended airflow direction for fans.

Tip: The arrows in the diagram indicate the recommended installation orientation for all fans.

Required: 4x Fan Screws

AIO Cooler Installation

A 120mm AIO cooler can be installed in the lower rear fan position.

1. Mount the fan and radiator on the lower rear fan position.
2. Follow the installation instructions provided with the AIO cooler.

120mm AIO Location Details:

• Max. radiator size supported (LxW): 157x148mm
• Thickness with SFX power supply: 45mm
• Thickness with SFX-L power supply: 30mm

Diagram description: Shows the chassis with an AIO radiator and fan installed in the lower rear position.

Tip: Positioning the radiator sideways ensures a silent and reliable operation for the AIO pump.

Installing the Motherboard

Install the mini-ITX motherboard using 4x motherboard screws.

Diagram description: The chassis interior is shown with mounting points highlighted for a mini-ITX motherboard.

Tip: Wait until the end to connect all cables for easier installation of all components.

Required: 4x Motherboard Screws

Installing the GPU

GPU Bracket Preparation

Remove the GPU Bracket and riser cable before mounting the GPU.

1. Unscrew the silver thumbscrew.
2. Unscrew the 2x screws holding the bracket.

Diagram description: Shows the GPU bracket being detached from the chassis by removing a thumbscrew and two other screws.

GPU Mounting on Bracket

Install the GPU onto the GPU bracket first before placing it in the chassis. The GPU bracket is configured to face the GPU cooler towards the side panel by default. If you prefer to face the GPU cooler towards the motherboard, adjust the stand-off as shown in step 3.

1. Place the GPU onto the GPU bracket.
2. Secure the GPU with 2x screws (PSU screws).

Diagram description: Illustrates a graphics card being mounted onto the GPU bracket and secured with screws.

Tip: Optionally, move the stand-off if you want to face the GPU cooler towards the motherboard. The stand-off can be easily loosened and repositioned with a flat screwdriver.

Required: 2x PSU Screws

GPU Installation in Chassis

Place the GPU Bracket with the GPU installed into the chassis.

1. Route the riser cable to the motherboard side.
2. Position the GPU bracket to its designated location.
3. Mount the GPU bracket with 2x screws.
4. Secure the GPU bracket with the silver thumbscrew.

Diagram description: Shows the GPU bracket with the GPU installed being placed into the chassis, with the riser cable routed and the bracket secured with screws and a thumbscrew.

Tip: The silver thumbscrew needs to be installed on the other side of the chassis. Do not fully tighten the screws yet to allow for exact GPU position adjustment.

Required: 2x Screws, 1x Silver Thumbscrew

Installing Drives

2.5" SSD Installation

Two 2.5" SSD drives can be installed in the Dual SSD Bracket. Proper drive orientation is crucial for easy cable management.

1. Slide the Dual SSD Bracket from the chassis.
2. Install one or two SSD drives in the bracket using 4x SSD screws per drive.

Diagram description: Shows the Dual SSD Bracket being removed from the chassis and then SSDs being installed into the bracket.

Tip: Mind the orientation of the SSD drives in the bracket; this will make connecting the SATA cables easier.

• Tip: Two additional SSD drives can be installed with an optional extra Dual SSD Bracket (PH-SDBKT_02).

3.5" HDD Installation

A 3.5" HDD can be installed using the pre-installed rubber grommets on the chassis.

1. Unscrew the 4 rubber grommets.
2. Mount the 4 rubber grommets onto the bottom of the HDD drive.
3. Slide the HDD down onto the chassis.

Diagram description: Illustrates the process of installing a 3.5-inch HDD, including attaching rubber grommets and sliding the drive into place.

Tip: Install the HDD drive with the connectors facing downwards for easier cable management.

Connecting Front I/O

Please consult your motherboard manual for additional instructions.

• TO MOTHERBOARD:
• POWER BUTTON: Connects to the Power SW header.
• USB 3.0: Connects to the USB 3.0 header.
• D-RGB Motherboard (OPTIONAL): Connects to the D-RGB header if your motherboard supports it.
• TO POWER SUPPLY:
• D-RGB POWER LED / CONTROLLER: Connects to the PSU for power.
• SATA CABLE: Connects to the PSU for SATA power.
• TO D-RGB PRODUCTS:
• PHANTEKS D-RGB: Connects to Phanteks D-RGB devices.
• THIRD PARTY D-RGB: Connects to third-party D-RGB devices.

Image description: The front panel of the chassis is shown with labels pointing to the D-RGB Color button, D-RGB Mode button, and Power button. Connection diagrams illustrate how front panel components connect to the motherboard, power supply, and D-RGB products.

Cable Management

At this stage, all cables can be connected to the system components. For easier cable management, connect small cables first, followed by power cables.

1. SMALL CABLES: Connect all small cables to the motherboards, including Power Switch, fans, D-RGB, and SATA Data.
2. USB 3.0: Connect the USB 3.0 cable to the motherboard.
3. CPU CABLE: Route the CPU cable to the cut-out at the top where it can be connected to the motherboard.
4. 24-PIN MOTHERBOARD CABLE: Connect the 24-PIN Motherboard cable to the motherboard.
5. AIO TUBING: Route the tubing in the cut-out. Zip-ties can optionally be used to secure it.
6. CABLE COVER: The magnetic cable cover securely snaps into place on the inside of the chassis via magnets.
7. GPU CABLE: Route the GPU cable(s) under the Dual SSD Bracket to the cable cut-out towards the GPU.
8. SATA/MOLEX CABLES: Connect the SATA/Molex cables to the Storage Drives. Bundle excess cables and use the velcro strap to tie them down.
9. EXCESS CABLES: Utilize velcro ties and zip-tie locations to bundle any excess cables on the outside of the chassis as much as possible. This creates a clean interior and keeps components accessible.
10. EXTERNAL CABLES: Use the channels at the power connector to route external cables such as HDMI, USB, and audio cables underneath the aluminum panels. Secure external cables with a zip-tie.

Diagram description: Multiple diagrams illustrate the routing of various cables (CPU, GPU, SATA/Molex, USB, etc.) within the chassis for optimal management.

Lighting Control

The Digital-RGB lighting can be easily controlled using the two buttons located on the top of the chassis.

• D-RGB MODE BUTTON (M): Controls lighting modes.
• D-RGB COLOUR BUTTON (⚙️): Controls lighting colors.

D-RGB Controls

• MODE: Solid, Breathing, Radar, Sparkle, Rainbow.
• COLOR: A spectrum of colors is available.

Functionality:

• Press & Hold MODE: Turns off Front LEDs.
• Press & Hold MODE for 2 seconds: Turns off all LEDs (allows the controller to sync to motherboard input).

Diagram description: Shows the top panel buttons for D-RGB control. A separate diagram illustrates the D-RGB controls for Mode and Color selection.

Connect More D-RGB Products

Connect to DIGITAL-RGB Products using the provided cables.

Sync to Motherboard

Connect to D-RGB Motherboard (optional) using the appropriate header.

Compatibility: Compatible with ASUS Aura Sync, RGB Fusion 2.0, MSI Mystic Light Sync, ASRock Polychrome Sync, and Razer Chroma.

Dust Filters

The Evolv Shift 2 is equipped with a bottom and top dust filter. The bottom dust filter is removable for easy cleaning (labeled as 2). The top dust filter is integrated into the top panel (labeled as 1). The front and rear panels feature metal ultra-fine mesh that also functions as dust filters (labeled as 3 & 4). It is recommended to clean these filters monthly to maintain optimal cooling performance.

Diagram description: An exploded view of the chassis highlighting the dust filters: the top filter (1), the removable bottom filter (2), and the front and rear mesh panels (3 & 4).

⚠️ Tip: If cleaning dust filters with water, ensure they are properly dried before reinstallation.

Optional Upgrades

Contact Us

As a Phanteks customer, your satisfaction is our priority. We have a dedicated global team working to ensure you receive a superior experience. If you have questions or concerns about our products, please choose the most convenient way to connect with us.

Customer Care

• RMA AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL
  Email: support@phanteks.com
  Facebook: @Phanteks
• RMA AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT AMERICAS
  Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 PST
  Phone number: +1(909)598-2115
  Email: support@phanteksusa.com
  Facebook: @Phanteks

For up-to-date information, please visit: www.phanteks.com

For spare parts and optional upgrades, please visit: www.axpertec.com (EU) | www.phanteksusa.com (US)

Image description: QR codes linking to the Phanteks Evolv Shift 2 Page, Phanteks Facebook Page, and Phanteks Instagram Page.

Warranty

Phanteks warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship during the warranty period, provided they are used normally, properly, and as intended. If a product proves defective during the warranty period, Phanteks will, at its sole option, repair or replace the product with the same or a similar product. The replacement product assumes the remaining warranty of the original product or 30 days, whichever offers longer coverage.

Duration of Warranty:

1. Fans: 2 years
2. I/O Ports: 2 years
3. LED Lighting: 2 years
4. Buttons: 2 years
5. Chassis: 5 years
6. Front and Top Panels: 5 years
7. Riser Cable: 2 years

Please check http://www.phanteks.com/Warranty.html for more information.