FEATURE / CUSTOMISATION
(^1) Test hardware
Test your hardware first to check for faulty
components. It’s unlikely, but if your
motherboard is faulty, it will be less hassle to
find out now than when your hardware is
installed into the case. Use your CPU’s stock
cooler, connect the PSU’s power cables and
connect the case’s front panel power
connector to your motherboard, or short out
the two power button pins at the bottom of the
motherboard using a screwdriver to boot the
PC. If you see the POST screen on your
monitor, you’re good to go. This only takes a
fewminutesbutit’sworthdoing.
(^2) Install memory
Start by installing the memory. With our two-
module kit, put them in the second and fourth
slots to enable dual-channel mode.
(^3) InstallCPU
RyzenCPUshavepinsontheunderside,and
whiletheyaren’tasdelicateasthesocket
pinsonIntelmotherboards,theycanstillbe
bentif dropped.HandletheCPUwithcare
andneverliftit morethana fewcentimetres
abovea surfaceincaseyoudropit.If youdo
managetobenda pin,usea smallprecision
screwdriverorknifetiptobendit backto
vertical.BecarefulwhenyouinstalltheCPU
too.Liftthelatchup,alignthetriangularmark
ontheCPUwiththesimilarmarkingonthe
socket,andtheCPUshoulddropstraightin
withoutanyforce.
(^4) Remove CPU socket brackets
Our cooler uses the standard AM4 socket
backplate, but not the socket brackets. Use a
screwdriver to remove them, and place the
brackets and the screws into your
motherboardboxforsafekeeping.
(^5) Apply thermal paste
Clean any thermal paste residue from testing
your hardware in the first step with TIM cleaner
(such as ArctiClean) or isopropyl alcohol, and a
lint-free cloth. Apply the included thermal
paste in a cross shape of thin lines 2-3mm
thick. This will allow the paste to spread over
the CPU evenly once the cooler is
clampeddown.
(^6) Attach AM4 mounting hardware
The cooler is equipped with a range of
mounting kits – we’re using the Socket AM4
kit. This includes brackets, screws and springs
that you need to attach to the pump section
according to the instructions.
BUILDING
THE PC
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