Installing the Motherboard

Motherboard Location

As outlined in the “using the brackets” section of this guide, the motherboard mounts to the case using the diagonal brackets. Clips fitted to the brackets provide a standoff mounting point and also allow the position to be adjusted.

Depending on the type of motherboard, you can either use 2 or 3 brackets for mounting (i.e. ATX , Micro-ATX all 3, Mini-ITX only 2)

Note that the diagonal brackets and clips can be moved to suit the motherboard and preferred location.

CPU Cooler Assembly Overview

Different CPU makes/models will have slight variations in the parts used for assembly and installation but the general principle will be the same.

Evaporator

Intel Bracket

Z-Height Spacers

Intel CPU

Backplate Retention Screw

Adjustable Backplate Bracket

Evaporator

AMD
AMD Bracket

Z-Height Spacers

AM5
AM5 CPU

Backplate Motherboard

Prepare Motherboard for Installation

Backplate Retention Screw

Adjustable Backplate Bracket

Adjustable Nuts

Silicon Bumper

Intel or older generation AMD motherboards require the installation of a backplate. This adds rigidity to the motherboard and provides the mounting points for the cooler retention bracket.

The backplate comprises 2 identical brackets that feature adjustable nuts to adapt to different hole spacing.

AM5 motherboard feature a non-removable backplate, so this bracket is not required for them.

Cooler retention hole

Locate the 4 holes around the CPU that are designated for the cooler and mount the 2 brackets to the back of the motherboard using the included backplate retention screws.

Ensure the bracket is centered (even space either side of the nut) and that its not in contact with any components on the back

CPU

RAM

With the backplate bracket now installed, you can fit the CPU, RAM and other small components such as M.2 drives to the motherboard.

These can all be fitted after the motherboard is installed in the case, but it is easier outside of the case

Prepare Case for Installation

Acrylic Panel

M3HEX Screws

To keep the Evaporator safe during shipping, its secured to the diagonal brackets using an acrylic plate. Before fitting the motherboard, the Evaporator must be moved out of the way and the acrylic panel removed from the case.

Begin by removing the 4 x M3 HEX Screws that secure the Evaporator to the acrylic panel. Carefully bend the Evaporator to make some space for fitting the motherboard.

Keep the M3 HEX Screws safe as you will need them to attach the mounting bracket

Quick Release Cable Tie

The acrylic panel is secured to the diagonal brackets with cable ties, remove them to release the panel and remove it from the case.

All cable ties we use have a quick release design so they don't need to be cut and can be reused.

Clips

Evaporator

The diagonal brackets and clips are pre-installed in the correct location for an ATX motherboard, but its worth double checking all the holes match with the motherboard you plan to install just in case things have shifted during transportation.

Intel Evaporator Mounting Bracket

Evaporator

M3 HEX Screws

Finally, fit the appropriate Intel or AMD mounting bracket to the evaporator using the same M3 HEX Screws that were used to secure it to the acrylic panel.

Install the Motherboard & CPU Cooler

Motherboard with Retention Bracket

Fit the motherboard into the case and line it up with the standoffs on the diagonal bracket.

M3 Philips Screw

Secure the motherboard in place using the included M3 screws. The total number needed will depend on the form factor.

Apply thermal paste to the CPU IHS

Z-Height Spacer

Apply thermal paste to the CPU IHS and place the Z-Height spacers (4pcs) on each of the backplate retention screws.

TX13 thermal paste is included but any high performance thermal paste can be used. AMD AM5 will require the additional 2mm s Z-Height spacer and future CPU models may require different spacers heights.
Please make sure to take off any protective cover from the Evaporator base. Liquid metal is not recommended as it may compromise the loop due to its corrosive properties.

6#32 Screw

Adjust the position of the Evaporator by carefully bending the tubes and lining it up with the CPU. Using the 6#32 screws included, secure the Evaporator to the backplate retention screws.

Please make sure to take off any protective cover from the Evaporator base. Liquid metal is not recommended as it may compromise the loop due to its corrosive properties.

Bracket Arm

When the 4 screws are fully tightened, the Intel/AMD bracket should have some flex on the arms, applying positive pressure to the CPU.

Adjustments can be made to the flexible steel lines to improve their appearance and reduce any sharp bends that might have formed.
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