How-to Guides                                                   

 of your PC—it connects and powers every component. But to new PC builders, a motherboard can look like a maze of weird slots, pins, and acronyms.

 of a motherboard, explain what each section does, and help you confidently plug in your CPU, GPU, RAM, SSDs, fans, and more.

Before diving into ports and pins, you should know the size and layout of your motherboard.

Tip: Make sure your PC case supports the motherboard size you choose.

This is where your processor (CPU) goes. It’s a square-shaped socket with a latch.

Beware: You must match the CPU socket type with your processor model.

Tips: Most motherboards also have a VRM heatsink near the CPU socket for power regulation.

These are the long vertical slots beside the CPU socket.

Tips: Install RAM in the correct slots for 

 (usually slots 2 and 4 counting from the CPU side – check the manual).

PCIe Slots – For Graphics Cards and More

These are the horizontal slots under the CPU area.

With the longer one supporting up to PCIex16 usually for graphics cards and the shorter one for Capture cards, Wi-Fi, sound cards. Newer motherboards may support PCIe Gen 5.0, but GPUs still mostly use Gen 4.0. 

Tips: Use the top PCIe x16 slot for your GPU—it’s wired with the most bandwidth.

Modern motherboards come with M.2 slots and SATA ports.

Tips: Some M.2 slots disable SATA ports when in use—check the manual.

24-pin ATX (Main System Power) and 8-pin EPS (CPU power)

Tips: Some high-end boards have dual 8-pin CPU connectors—for stable overclocking and power delivery.

The metal plate (some have back plates integrated on the board itself) on the back of your motherboard includes:

Front Panel Connectors – Small but Important

Tiny pins usually labeled F_PANEL (PANEL1 for this reference photo). These are the pinout that you will be connecting to the front I/O (The cables that connects to the power button from the case you bought)

Beware: These are tricky—consult the manual

Cooling Connectors – Absolutely Required

These are the pinouts for your CPU cooler and case fans.

The CHA_FAN (Chassis fan) is where your case fans connects.

Tips: If you got a water cooler, you can connect the water pump to either of these pinout as well, just make sure to set the speed to 100% in the BIOS settings in order to get the optimal performance. In some motherboards, there will be a specific pinout for the water pump as well (labeled as AIO_PUMP or PUMP_HEADER).

Last but not least, let's don't forget the critical part of a PC, the USB and Audio ports.

These are the pinout that you will be connecting to the front I/O (The cables that connects to the USB and Audio port from the case you bought). The one with the 19 pin (Left side on the photo) is for USB 3.0 port of the front I/O, and next to it is the USB Type-C port. USB 2.0 is the 9 pin connector with the bottom right pin missing. For the audio (Labeled as AC97 or HD_Audio) is another 9 pin but with a missing pin on the second top right counting from the right side.

It may sounds mouthful but worry not, all of the pinout are absolutely fool-proof.

Learning how to “read” a motherboard makes every step of PC building easier—from choosing parts to troubleshooting. Bookmark this guide and come back to it when you’re ready to build, upgrade, or explore.

And don’t forget—choosing a good case like one from our 

 helps showcase your build and makes cable management much smoother!

Introduction



The motherboard is the central nervous system of your PC—it connects and powers every component. But to new PC builders, a motherboard can look like a maze of weird slots, pins, and acronyms.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essential parts of a motherboard, explain what each section does, and help you confidently plug in your CPU, GPU, RAM, SSDs, fans, and more.



Form Factor – The First Thing to Know



Before diving into ports and pins, you should know the size and layout of your motherboard.







Tip: Make sure your PC case supports the motherboard size you choose.



CPU Socket – The Master Mind







This is where your processor (CPU) goes. It’s a square-shaped socket with a latch.





Intel: LGA 1851, LGA 1700, etc. (pins are on the motherboard)



AMD: AM4, AM5 (pins are on the CPU)

Beware: You must match the CPU socket type with your processor model.
Tips: Most motherboards also have a VRM heatsink near the CPU socket for power regulation.



RAM Slots – Memory Matters







These are the long vertical slots beside the CPU socket.





Labeled as DIMM1, DIMM2, etc.



Usually 2 or 4 slots depending on board size



Only supports DDR4 or DDR5 (not both!)

Tips: Install RAM in the correct slots for dual-channel (usually slots 2 and 4 counting from the CPU side – check the manual).



PCIe Slots – For Graphics Cards and More







These are the horizontal slots under the CPU area.

With the longer one supporting up to PCIex16 usually for graphics cards and the shorter one for Capture cards, Wi-Fi, sound cards. Newer motherboards may support PCIe Gen 5.0, but GPUs still mostly use Gen 4.0. 

Tips: Use the top PCIe x16 slot for your GPU—it’s wired with the most bandwidth.



M.2 and SATA – Storage Interfaces







Modern motherboards come with M.2 slots and SATA ports.





M.2 Slots (for NVMe or SATA SSDs):





Typically located between PCIe slots



Look for labels like M.2_1, M.2_2



May need to remove a heatsink



SATA Ports (for 2.5" SSDs, HDDs):





Usually 4–6 L-shaped connectors on the edge

Tips: Some M.2 slots disable SATA ports when in use—check the manual.



Power Connectors







To power up your system, plug in:

24-pin ATX (Main System Power) and 8-pin EPS (CPU power)

Tips: Some high-end boards have dual 8-pin CPU connectors—for stable overclocking and power delivery.



Rear I/O Panel – External Connectivity







The metal plate (some have back plates integrated on the board itself) on the back of your motherboard includes:





USB ports (2.0, 3.0, 3.2, Type-C)



Audio jacks



Ethernet port



Display outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort) – only work if your CPU has integrated graphics



Higher-end boards may include Wi-Fi antennas and BIOS flashback buttons.



Front Panel Connectors – Small but Important







Tiny pins usually labeled F_PANEL (PANEL1 for this reference photo). These are the pinout that you will be connecting to the front I/O (The cables that connects to the power button from the case you bought)

You’ll connect:





Power switch



Reset switch



HDD LED



Power LED

Beware: These are tricky—consult the manual



Cooling Connectors – Absolutely Required







These are the pinouts for your CPU cooler and case fans.

The CPU_FAN is for the CPU cooler fan. 
The CHA_FAN (Chassis fan) is where your case fans connects.

Tips: If you got a water cooler, you can connect the water pump to either of these pinout as well, just make sure to set the speed to 100% in the BIOS settings in order to get the optimal performance. In some motherboards, there will be a specific pinout for the water pump as well (labeled as AIO_PUMP or PUMP_HEADER).



Audio and USB – The Coup De Grace







Last but not least, let's don't forget the critical part of a PC, the USB and Audio ports.

These are the pinout that you will be connecting to the front I/O (The cables that connects to the USB and Audio port from the case you bought). The one with the 19 pin (Left side on the photo) is for USB 3.0 port of the front I/O, and next to it is the USB Type-C port. USB 2.0 is the 9 pin connector with the bottom right pin missing. For the audio (Labeled as AC97 or HD_Audio) is another 9 pin but with a missing pin on the second top right counting from the right side.

It may sounds mouthful but worry not, all of the pinout are absolutely fool-proof.



Final Thoughts

Learning how to “read” a motherboard makes every step of PC building easier—from choosing parts to troubleshooting. Bookmark this guide and come back to it when you’re ready to build, upgrade, or explore.

And don’t forget—choosing a good case like one from our DarkFlash case collection helps showcase your build and makes cable management much smoother!



Master your motherboard layout and build with confidence

How to Read a Motherboard – Ports, Slots, and Terminology Explained

 starts making a gurgling, bubbling, or sloshing noise, don’t panic. This is usually caused by trapped air in the loop, which can reduce cooling performance and increase noise.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes bubbling sounds in a liquid CPU cooler and how to fix them step by step—so your PC stays cool and quiet.

Why Does My AIO Cooler Make a Bubbling or Gurgling Noise?

How to Fix Bubbling Noise in an AIO Liquid CPU Cooler

not positioned at the highest point of the loop

. Ideally, the radiator should be mounted higher than the pump so that any air collects in the radiator and doesn’t damage the pump.

Slowly tilt your PC case left and right to help dislodge air bubbles stuck in the tubing. This encourages the bubbles to move to the radiator, where they won’t interfere with the pump.

Use your cooler’s software to set the pump speed to 100% and let it run for 30–60 minutes. This increases fluid pressure in the loop and helps push out trapped air.

Step 4: Rotate the Case to Different Angles

If the bubbling noise persists, try rotating your case about 45 degrees in various directions. This can help release stubborn bubbles that haven’t yet settled.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Since these steps involve moving the PC, it’s a good idea to remove heavy components like the GPU and mechanical hard drives to avoid damage during handling.

What If the Bubbling Noise Doesn’t Stop?

If the noise continues even after these steps, your AIO cooler may have shipped with excess air or developed a leak. Contact the manufacturer’s support for further assistance or to request a replacement.





If your AIO liquid cooler starts making a gurgling, bubbling, or sloshing noise, don’t panic. This is usually caused by trapped air in the loop, which can reduce cooling performance and increase noise.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes bubbling sounds in a liquid CPU cooler and how to fix them step by step—so your PC stays cool and quiet.



Why Does My AIO Cooler Make a Bubbling or Gurgling Noise?





Designed air pockets: AIO (all-in-one) liquid coolers are shipped with a small amount of air in the system to allow for thermal expansion and prevent hose damage.



Coolant evaporation over time: As you use your PC, a small amount of coolant can evaporate, increasing the amount of air in the loop and causing the familiar gurgling or sloshing sound when the pump runs.



How to Fix Bubbling Noise in an AIO Liquid CPU Cooler

Step 1: Check the Pump Installation

Ensure that the pump is not positioned at the highest point of the loop. Ideally, the radiator should be mounted higher than the pump so that any air collects in the radiator and doesn’t damage the pump.







Related Guide:





Step 2: Gently Tilt the PC Case

Slowly tilt your PC case left and right to help dislodge air bubbles stuck in the tubing. This encourages the bubbles to move to the radiator, where they won’t interfere with the pump.







Step 3: Run the Pump at Maximum RPM

Use your cooler’s software to set the pump speed to 100% and let it run for 30–60 minutes. This increases fluid pressure in the loop and helps push out trapped air.







Step 4: Rotate the Case to Different Angles

If the bubbling noise persists, try rotating your case about 45 degrees in various directions. This can help release stubborn bubbles that haven’t yet settled.



⚠️ Pro Tip: Since these steps involve moving the PC, it’s a good idea to remove heavy components like the GPU and mechanical hard drives to avoid damage during handling.



What If the Bubbling Noise Doesn’t Stop?

If the noise continues even after these steps, your AIO cooler may have shipped with excess air or developed a leak. Contact the manufacturer’s support for further assistance or to request a replacement.





(Video guide courtesy of CORSAIR LAB)

How to fix AIO cooler bubbling noise and keep your PC cool and quiet.

How to Fix AIO Liquid Cooler Bubbling or Gurgling Noise

If you’ve ever shopped for a power supply unit (PSU), you’ve probably seen bold numbers like 650W, 750W, or even 1250W slapped across the box. But here’s a hard truth — not all wattages are created equal.

In this post, we’ll dive into some critical things to check — especially the 12V rail, where most of your system’s power actually goes — and expose how some budget PSU brands overpromise and underdeliver.

Now let’s level up and talk about fine print specs that can make or break your build.

1. Don’t Trust the “Wattage” at Face Value

That big number on the box (e.g. 750W) often refers to the total peak wattage, not continuous wattage. But what really matters is how much power the PSU can reliably deliver on the 12V rail — the rail responsible for powering your CPU, GPU, and other high-draw components.

A cheap “500W” PSU might only provide 360W on the 12V rail, with the rest split between 3.3V and 5V (which modern systems barely use). That’s not enough for a gaming PC with a modern GPU.

2. Always Check the PSU Label (or Official Spec Sheet)

Flip the PSU or check the official website for the detailed rail breakdown, especially the +12V rail rating. A good-quality 650W PSU should provide at least 90% of its rated wattage on the 12V rail (e.g. around 600–630W on +12V).

✅ Good sign: High amperage and wattage on +12V rail

🚫 Red flag: If +12V wattage is much lower than total PSU wattage

3. Look for Independent Testing (Optional but Powerful)

While not every user will do this, some PSU reviewers (like JonnyGURU, TechPowerUp, or Aris from Cybenetics) conduct in-depth testing and even cross-check rail performance under load. Check their reviews if you're buying from lesser-known brands.

4. Single vs Multi +12V Rails: What’s Better?

Most gamers and users are fine with single-rail designs, as long as they come from reputable brands.

5. Beware of Fake 80+ Badges and No-Name PSUs

Some budget brands fake 80+ logos or show specs that don’t match real performance. Unless it's certified by Plug Load Solutions or Cybenetics, take it with a grain of salt.

Your PSU might be the least flashy component, but it’s the lifeline of your entire system. Make sure you're not being misled by flashy numbers — always read the label, check the +12V rail, and when in doubt, go with a reputable brand.





If you’ve ever shopped for a power supply unit (PSU), you’ve probably seen bold numbers like 650W, 750W, or even 1250W slapped across the box. But here’s a hard truth — not all wattages are created equal.

In this post, we’ll dive into some critical things to check — especially the 12V rail, where most of your system’s power actually goes — and expose how some budget PSU brands overpromise and underdeliver.



Recap: What We've Covered Before

In our previous articles about basic PSU knowledges and ATX 3.1, we explored:





The importance of 80 PLUS and Cybenetics certifications



A introduction about ATX 3.1 standard



Using a PSU wattage calculator



The difference between ATX, SFX, and other PSU form factors

Now let’s level up and talk about fine print specs that can make or break your build.



1. Don’t Trust the “Wattage” at Face Value







That big number on the box (e.g. 750W) often refers to the total peak wattage, not continuous wattage. But what really matters is how much power the PSU can reliably deliver on the 12V rail — the rail responsible for powering your CPU, GPU, and other high-draw components.

Example:
A cheap “500W” PSU might only provide 360W on the 12V rail, with the rest split between 3.3V and 5V (which modern systems barely use). That’s not enough for a gaming PC with a modern GPU.



2. Always Check the PSU Label (or Official Spec Sheet)

Flip the PSU or check the official website for the detailed rail breakdown, especially the +12V rail rating. A good-quality 650W PSU should provide at least 90% of its rated wattage on the 12V rail (e.g. around 600–630W on +12V).

Look for this format:







✅ Good sign: High amperage and wattage on +12V rail
🚫 Red flag: If +12V wattage is much lower than total PSU wattage



3. Look for Independent Testing (Optional but Powerful)





↑ Cybenetics website

While not every user will do this, some PSU reviewers (like JonnyGURU, TechPowerUp, or Aris from Cybenetics) conduct in-depth testing and even cross-check rail performance under load. Check their reviews if you're buying from lesser-known brands.



4. Single vs Multi +12V Rails: What’s Better?





Single-rail designs are common today and generally easier to work with.



Multi-rail PSUs offer overcurrent protection per rail, but can sometimes lead to power distribution issues if not well documented.

Most gamers and users are fine with single-rail designs, as long as they come from reputable brands.



5. Beware of Fake 80+ Badges and No-Name PSUs







Some budget brands fake 80+ logos or show specs that don’t match real performance. Unless it's certified by Plug Load Solutions or Cybenetics, take it with a grain of salt.

Avoid PSUs with:





No brand or OEM info



Unrealistically high wattage for dirt cheap prices



Lightweight or suspiciously small housings



Final Tips for Safe PSU Shopping











Stick with known brands (darkFlash, Corsair, Seasonic, Super Flower, etc.)



Double-check the 12V rail wattage



Check actual reviews, not just Amazon ratings



Don’t skimp: PSU = the foundation of system stability



Bonus: Tools and Resources





Cybenetics Certification Database



Plug Load Solutions (80 PLUS Verification)



Be quiet PSU Calculator



Closing Thoughts

Your PSU might be the least flashy component, but it’s the lifeline of your entire system. Make sure you're not being misled by flashy numbers — always read the label, check the +12V rail, and when in doubt, go with a reputable brand.

Practical buying advice and red flags consumers often overlook, especially with misleading labeling

What to Beware Before Buying a PSU: Don't Be Fooled by the Wattage!

If your PC suddenly won’t turn on, or it restarts and shuts down randomly while gaming, most people immediately suspect the motherboard or memory. But did you know? The 

 is often the hidden culprit behind these problems!

, so you can avoid wasting money replacing the wrong parts.

If you notice any of the following, your PSU might be to blame:

How to Test if Your Power Supply Is Working

Follow these simple steps to check your PSU with a paperclip test:

The power supply delivers power to all your components. Stable, clean power is crucial not just for CPU and GPU performance, but also for the long-term health of your system.

80 PLUS certification, sufficient wattage, and a long warranty

 is your best defense against gradual damage to your components.

Protect Your System With the darkFlash PMT Series PSU

 or build a high-end system, don’t overlook the PSU.

 — perfect for gamers and creators alike who need reliable, long-term performance.





If your PC suddenly won’t turn on, or it restarts and shuts down randomly while gaming, most people immediately suspect the motherboard or memory. But did you know? The power supply unit (PSU) is often the hidden culprit behind these problems!

In this guide, we’ll show you how to test if your PSU is failing, so you can avoid wasting money replacing the wrong parts.



Common Signs of a Failing PSU

If you notice any of the following, your PSU might be to blame:





Pressing the power button does nothing



Random shutdowns or restarts



Blue screen errors (BSOD) or unexpected reboots



BIOS shows abnormal voltage readings







How to Test if Your Power Supply Is Working

Follow these simple steps to check your PSU with a paperclip test:





Turn off the power supply and unplug it from the wall.



Disconnect all power cables from components, leaving only the 24-pin ATX motherboard connector.



On the 24-pin connector, locate pins 16 and 17.

(Tip: With the latch facing up and the pins facing you, count from the left — pins 4 and 5 from the left are the ones you need.)



Use a paperclip or a piece of wire to short pins 16 and 17.



Turn the PSU back on and see if the fan spins and power comes on.



If the PSU doesn’t power up, it’s likely faulty.







What to Do If Your PSU Is Faulty





Check if your PSU is still under warranty. Many PSUs come with warranties ranging from 5–10 years, depending on price and tier.



If it’s a new unit or still within warranty, contact the manufacturer or your retailer for a repair or replacement.



If it’s out of warranty, it might still work, but replacing it with a new, reliable PSU is highly recommended to keep your system stable.







Why the PSU Is So Important

The power supply delivers power to all your components. Stable, clean power is crucial not just for CPU and GPU performance, but also for the long-term health of your system.
Choosing a PSU with 80 PLUS certification, sufficient wattage, and a long warranty is your best defense against gradual damage to your components.







Protect Your System With the darkFlash PMT Series PSU

If you’re planning to upgrade to an RTX 50-series GPU or build a high-end system, don’t overlook the PSU.


The darkFlash PMT Series power supplies feature the latest ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards, 80 PLUS Gold certification — perfect for gamers and creators alike who need reliable, long-term performance.









Learn how to spot the signs of a failing power supply and test it yourself before replacing any parts.

How to Test a Power Supply (PSU) If Your PC Won't Boot

In recent years, all-white PC builds have become the go-to choice for many gamers looking to create a clean and stylish setup. But questions like 

“Will my white components turn yellow?”

 are common concerns. In this article, we’ll explain why white PCs may yellow over time and how to properly care for them so they stay bright and pristine.

Why Do White PC Builds Turn Yellow? Key Causes Explained

White materials aren’t guaranteed to yellow, but they do show signs of aging more noticeably than black ones. The main reasons include:

When your PC is placed in direct sunlight for extended periods, ultraviolet light can trigger photochemical reactions in certain plastics and coatings, gradually causing them to yellow.

Oil, dust, and fine particles in the air can settle on white surfaces over time, making them look dull or dirty yellow.

Long-term heat can accelerate material degradation, especially around areas near exhaust vents where temperatures are higher.

Not all white coatings and plastics are made equal. Different brands and production batches can have varying resistance to aging. Choosing reputable products significantly reduces the chance of yellowing.

How to Maintain Your White PC? 5 Simple Tips to Keep It Looking New

While white builds are at some risk of yellowing, with regular cleaning and proper placement, you can keep your system looking immaculate. Here are some practical tips for gamers:

Place your PC in a cool, shaded area to minimize UV exposure.

Wipe down surfaces at least once a month with a lint-free dry cloth or a lightly dampened one. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.

Use an air purifier and keep your room tidy to minimize dust and oil particles settling on your PC.

Ensure good airflow around your system to prevent excessive heat buildup that can accelerate aging.

Opt for components with high-quality, durable coatings designed to resist discoloration. For example, 

 is specifically engineered for long-lasting beauty.

Conclusion: White PCs Don’t Have to Yellow — It’s All About the Right Care and Quality

White PC builds don’t inevitably turn yellow quickly — it all depends on the materials and your environment. By choosing reliable products and practicing regular cleaning while avoiding direct sunlight, you can enjoy a bright, white rig for years to come.

If you’re looking for a beautifully designed, durable white case or cooling solution, check out the 

 — helping you build the pure white setup of your dreams!





In recent years, all-white PC builds have become the go-to choice for many gamers looking to create a clean and stylish setup. But questions like “Will my white components turn yellow?” or “How long before they discolor?” are common concerns. In this article, we’ll explain why white PCs may yellow over time and how to properly care for them so they stay bright and pristine.



Why Do White PC Builds Turn Yellow? Key Causes Explained

White materials aren’t guaranteed to yellow, but they do show signs of aging more noticeably than black ones. The main reasons include:



UV Exposure

When your PC is placed in direct sunlight for extended periods, ultraviolet light can trigger photochemical reactions in certain plastics and coatings, gradually causing them to yellow.



Air Pollution and Dust

Oil, dust, and fine particles in the air can settle on white surfaces over time, making them look dull or dirty yellow.



High Temperatures

Long-term heat can accelerate material degradation, especially around areas near exhaust vents where temperatures are higher.



Material Quality Differences

Not all white coatings and plastics are made equal. Different brands and production batches can have varying resistance to aging. Choosing reputable products significantly reduces the chance of yellowing.







How to Maintain Your White PC? 5 Simple Tips to Keep It Looking New

While white builds are at some risk of yellowing, with regular cleaning and proper placement, you can keep your system looking immaculate. Here are some practical tips for gamers:



1. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Place your PC in a cool, shaded area to minimize UV exposure.



2. Clean Regularly

Wipe down surfaces at least once a month with a lint-free dry cloth or a lightly dampened one. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.



3. Keep the Air Clean

Use an air purifier and keep your room tidy to minimize dust and oil particles settling on your PC.



4. Maintain Proper Ventilation

Ensure good airflow around your system to prevent excessive heat buildup that can accelerate aging.



5. Choose Quality Products

Opt for components with high-quality, durable coatings designed to resist discoloration. For example, darkFlash’s all-white series is specifically engineered for long-lasting beauty.





(Case: DRX70 / Cooler: DN360)



Conclusion: White PCs Don’t Have to Yellow — It’s All About the Right Care and Quality

White PC builds don’t inevitably turn yellow quickly — it all depends on the materials and your environment. By choosing reliable products and practicing regular cleaning while avoiding direct sunlight, you can enjoy a bright, white rig for years to come.





(Case: DY470 / Cooler: DN360S / Fans: DM12 Pro)



If you’re looking for a beautifully designed, durable white case or cooling solution, check out the darkFlash white series — helping you build the pure white setup of your dreams!

Why white PCs yellow — and how to keep yours looking brand new.

Do White PC Builds Turn Yellow? How to Keep Your White Rig Looking Brand New

Hardware Tips                                                   

As processors become more powerful, their heat output has also increased significantly. More and more gamers and creators are opting for liquid coolers to help keep their CPUs cool.

However, many beginners or upgraders often have one common question when choosing a liquid cooler: 

In short, thanks to years of technological improvements, modern 

 have greatly reduced the risk of leaks — but that doesn’t mean there’s 

Why Are Modern Liquid Coolers Less Prone to Leaks?

The technology behind liquid coolers has matured considerably. The tubing, fittings, and radiator joints now use more durable composite materials that resist high temperatures and repeated bending.

To ensure product quality, most brands conduct 

 before shipping, making sure the cooler leaves the factory without defects.

Modern coolants use non-conductive, corrosion-resistant special formulas, which help prevent evaporation and crystallization. This keeps internal pressure stable and minimizes the risk of leaks.

, delivering reliable cooling performance with a stylish and stable design.

Looking for a high-performance liquid cooler that also looks great? Look no further than the 

, offering a high resolution of 480×480 pixels. 





As processors become more powerful, their heat output has also increased significantly. More and more gamers and creators are opting for liquid coolers to help keep their CPUs cool.
However, many beginners or upgraders often have one common question when choosing a liquid cooler: Do liquid coolers still leak?



In short, thanks to years of technological improvements, modern All-In-One (AIO) liquid coolers have greatly reduced the risk of leaks — but that doesn’t mean there’s zero risk. In rare cases, leaks can still occur.



Why Are Modern Liquid Coolers Less Prone to Leaks?



Advanced Manufacturing Techniques

The technology behind liquid coolers has matured considerably. The tubing, fittings, and radiator joints now use more durable composite materials that resist high temperatures and repeated bending.



Rigorous Factory Testing

To ensure product quality, most brands conduct pressure tests and leak tests before shipping, making sure the cooler leaves the factory without defects.



Improved Coolant Formulations

Modern coolants use non-conductive, corrosion-resistant special formulas, which help prevent evaporation and crystallization. This keeps internal pressure stable and minimizes the risk of leaks.







What Can Cause a Liquid Cooler to Leak?





Severe impacts during shipping that damage the cooler



Abnormal use, such as excessive pulling or bending of the tubing



Long-term use exceeding 8 years



How to Minimize the Risk of Leaks





Avoid bending the tubes excessively during installation



Keep the inside of your case dry and tidy



Choose a reputable brand (such as darkFlash)



Consider replacing your liquid cooler if it’s beyond its warranty period





Recommended Liquid Coolers: DN360S



(DV360S Liquid CPU Cooler)



DV360S liquid cooler combines a 320×320 IPS LCD display, ARGB lighting integration, and a copper base water block, delivering reliable cooling performance with a stylish and stable design.



Recommended Liquid Coolers: DN360S





(DN360S Liquid CPU Cooler)



Looking for a high-performance liquid cooler that also looks great? Look no further than the darkFlash DN series liquid coolers! The DN360S comes equipped with a 2.1-inch IPS display, offering a high resolution of 480×480 pixels. 

With improved engineering and quality control, leaks have become uncommon.

Do Liquid Coolers Still Leak?

Case fans play a critical role in keeping your PC running cool and stable. When they malfunction—whether it’s strange noises, erratic spinning, or not spinning at all—it can lead to overheating, performance drops, or even hardware failure.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through common case fan problems and how to fix them step by step, ensuring your system runs smoothly and quietly.

If the fan still doesn’t spin, the fan itself may be defective and should be replaced.

2. The Fan Is Noisy or Makes Strange Sounds

3. The Fan’s RGB Lighting Isn’t Working

Keep in mind that fans often spin slowly at low system temperatures—that’s completely normal for smart fan profiles.

If the fan still spins abnormally, the fan itself may be defective and should be replaced.

A malfunctioning case fan doesn’t just make noise—it can compromise your whole system’s cooling efficiency. Thankfully, most fan issues are easy to identify and fix with a little inspection and testing.

To prevent problems down the line, invest in quality fans, clean them regularly, and keep your wiring neat and secure.

PC case fans aren’t built to last forever.

 Over time, wear and tear from dust, heat, and mechanical stress will eventually take a toll. Even the best-quality fans have a lifespan, so if one stops working after years of use, it’s not unusual—it’s just time for a replacement.

Looking for reliable, high-performance case fans? Explore the full lineup of darkFlash fans—built for silent operation, vibrant RGB lighting, and long-lasting durability.





Case fans play a critical role in keeping your PC running cool and stable. When they malfunction—whether it’s strange noises, erratic spinning, or not spinning at all—it can lead to overheating, performance drops, or even hardware failure.



In this guide, we’ll walk you through common case fan problems and how to fix them step by step, ensuring your system runs smoothly and quietly.







Common Reasons for PC fans not spinning





Dust buildup: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on fan blades and bearings, leading to reduced performance or complete failure.



Power issues: Loose cables, faulty connections, or inadequate power supply can prevent fans from operating properly.



Physical Interference: Inadequate cable management might cause the fan blades hitting the cables and lead to slow downs or immobilization.



Faulty motors: Fan motors can degrade with use, eventually failing to spin at all.



BIOS misconfiguration: Incorrect settings in the BIOS may disable the fan or restrict its speed.



Software issues: Malfunctions in fan control software can cause the fan to behave erratically or stop working.



Identifying and Resolving Fan Issues

1. The Fan Isn’t Spinning





⚠️ Common Causes:





Insufficient power due to daisy-chain wiring



Improper cable splicing or loose connections



Malfunctioning fan hub or controller



Fan blades hitting loose cables

👉 How to Fix:





Power down your PC and unplug it from the wall



Open your case and check the fan connections—ensure the fan cable is securely plugged into the correct motherboard header or fan hub.



Try connecting the 4-pin fan directly to another motherboard header to isolate the issue.



You can also test the fan individually by unplugging it from the hub or series connection and powering it separately.

If the fan still doesn’t spin, the fan itself may be defective and should be replaced.



2. The Fan Is Noisy or Makes Strange Sounds





⚠️ Common Causes:





Dust buildup in the bearings or blades



Fan blades hitting loose cables



Vibration-induced resonance between the fan and case

👉 How to Fix:





Turn off your PC and inspect the fan closely.



Clean the blades and bearings using compressed air, a soft brush or alcohol wipes to remove any dust.



Ensure no cables are interfering with the blades.



Check for any physical damage like bent blades or worn mounts.



Test the fan in another system or on an open bench to rule out case vibration as the cause.



If the fan still makes strange noises, the fan itself may be defective and should be replaced



3. The Fan’s RGB Lighting Isn’t Working





⚠️ Common Causes:





Outdated or missing RGB firmware/software



Inadequate power supply



Improper RGB header connection

👉 How to Fix:





Connect the fan’s RGB (3-pin or proprietary) cable to a different RGB header on your motherboard or controller.



Ensure your motherboard lighting software is installed and updated (e.g., ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Center, GIGABYTE RGB Fusion).



If the issue persists, consider using a powered RGB hub to supply sufficient power to the lighting.



As a last check, test the fan’s lighting functionality outside your current build to confirm if it’s a hardware issue.



4. The Fan Spins Too Slowly





⚠️ Common Causes:





Fan speed settings configured to low via BIOS or software



Fan blades hitting loose cables causing slow downs



Internal temperature not high enough to trigger higher fan speed

👉 How to Fix:





Check if the cable is interfering with the fan blades.



Boot into BIOS or open your motherboard’s fan control software.



Adjust the fan curve to increase speeds earlier or set a custom performance profile.

Keep in mind that fans often spin slowly at low system temperatures—that’s completely normal for smart fan profiles.

If the fan still spins abnormally, the fan itself may be defective and should be replaced.



Final Thoughts

A malfunctioning case fan doesn’t just make noise—it can compromise your whole system’s cooling efficiency. Thankfully, most fan issues are easy to identify and fix with a little inspection and testing.





(Gauss G24 ARGB Fan)



To prevent problems down the line, invest in quality fans, clean them regularly, and keep your wiring neat and secure.



It’s also important to remember: PC case fans aren’t built to last forever. Over time, wear and tear from dust, heat, and mechanical stress will eventually take a toll. Even the best-quality fans have a lifespan, so if one stops working after years of use, it’s not unusual—it’s just time for a replacement.



Looking for reliable, high-performance case fans? Explore the full lineup of darkFlash fans—built for silent operation, vibrant RGB lighting, and long-lasting durability.





(INF34 ARGB Cooling Fan)

The go-to guide for identifying and resolving common fan issues with ease

How to Troubleshoot PC Case Fan Issues Like a Pro

generative AI and AI PCs continue to gain traction

, many gamers and creators have integrated ChatGPT into their daily workflows. Recently, 

, enabling local AI to run directly on your RTX GPU.

But how are these tools different? Do you need to install ChatRTX if you’re already using ChatGPT? What is the 

real-world impact on gaming and creative workflows

 developed by NVIDIA for RTX GPU users. Key features include:

It’s not a text generator but rather a 

 designed to help gamers and creators find files and get answers without digging through folders.

All computation happens in the cloud, requiring no local resources, making it perfect for 

content generation and cross-device workflows

ChatRTX isn’t a replacement for ChatGPT; it’s a 

In the AI PC era, leveraging the right AI tools alongside 

 ensures your gaming and creative workflows remain fast, stable, and efficient.





As generative AI and AI PCs continue to gain traction, many gamers and creators have integrated ChatGPT into their daily workflows. Recently, NVIDIA launched ChatRTX, enabling local AI to run directly on your RTX GPU.

But how are these tools different? Do you need to install ChatRTX if you’re already using ChatGPT? What is the real-world impact on gaming and creative workflows?



What is ChatRTX?

ChatRTX is a locally run generative AI assistant developed by NVIDIA for RTX GPU users. Key features include:





Fully offline operation, ensuring data privacy



Ability to quickly index and query local files (PDF, Word, TXT)



Utilizes RTX GPU acceleration for fast inference and low latency

It’s not a text generator but rather a “local AI search assistant” designed to help gamers and creators find files and get answers without digging through folders.







What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is OpenAI’s cloud-based generative AI assistant, capable of:





Generating articles, scripts, and social posts



Translating, rewriting, and summarizing content



Providing script ideas and brainstorming game or content plans

All computation happens in the cloud, requiring no local resources, making it perfect for content generation and cross-device workflows.







Feature Comparison Table





How Does ChatRTX Impact Your Hardware?

Running ChatRTX uses GPU compute power, which:





Consumes GPU VRAM (8GB recommended for stability)



Increases GPU temperature during sustained use



May affect gaming or editing performance if running concurrently





(ZOTAC GAMING GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, 16GB VRAM)



We recommend





Using darkFlash high-airflow cases (e.g., DY470 ATX PC Case / DS900 ATX PC Case)



Adding high-performance (Up to 2,000 RPM) fans (e.g., INF34 / Gauss G24)

to keep your GPU cool during extended AI workloads and prevent thermal throttling or noise issues.





(darkFlash DY470 ATX PC Case w/ INF34 ARGB Cooling Fans)



Which One Should You Use?

Use ChatRTX if you:





Need to search and manage large local file libraries



Require offline operation and privacy



Have an RTX GPU and want to enhance local productivity



Use ChatGPT if you:





Need to generate content or brainstorm ideas



Prefer cloud access across multiple devices (PC, tablet, phone)



Have limited hardware resources







Conclusion: Best Used Together

ChatRTX isn’t a replacement for ChatGPT; it’s a complementary tool.





Use ChatGPT for content generation and creative ideation



Use ChatRTX for fast, offline local data retrieval

In the AI PC era, leveraging the right AI tools alongside darkFlash thermal solutions ensures your gaming and creative workflows remain fast, stable, and efficient.

Which AI should you trust on your rig for speed, privacy, and productivity?

ChatRTX vs. ChatGPT: Should Users Use Local AI or Cloud AI?

Ever notice your PC slowing down when things get hot?

Your game suddenly drops frames, video exports take longer, and your fans sound like a jet engine, yet performance keeps dropping. This isn’t just your PC “getting old”—it’s your system protecting itself from

 heat damage, limiting performance to survive.

Your CPU and GPU generate heat as they work. Normally, your cooling system keeps things in check, but if temperatures climb too high—typically above 90°C—your system will automatically lower its operating speeds to reduce heat.

, a built-in safety feature that prevents permanent damage by sacrificing performance to lower temperatures.

In other words: Your PC slows down to protect itself.

If your environment is warm, or your PC frequently handles heavy tasks like rendering, gaming, or simulations, these slowdowns can happen often.

The Best Fan Installation Direction for Your PC Case

While thermal throttling protects your PC, it can interrupt your workflow and reduce productivity. Here’s how you can help your PC stay cool:

As a hardware brand, we see it all the time: creators, gamers, and engineers invest in high-performance PCs but still face slowdowns under heat. It’s often not the processor or GPU that’s the problem—it’s insufficient thermal management.

By ensuring your system stays cool, you allow your CPU and GPU to maintain high clock speeds without triggering thermal throttling. This means:

If you’re planning to build or upgrade your PC for heavy workloads, 

thermal design should be at the top of your checklist.

High temperatures trigger thermal throttling, which reduces your PC’s performance to prevent damage. While this keeps your hardware safe, it can interrupt your productivity and gaming experience.

By improving airflow, maintaining a clean system, and considering advanced cooling when building your setup, you can keep your PC cool and fast—even during demanding tasks.

If you’re looking to optimize your workstation for stable performance under heavy loads, or need guidance on cooling solutions that match your workflow, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you keep your PC performing at its best—no matter how hot it gets.





Ever notice your PC slowing down when things get hot?

Your game suddenly drops frames, video exports take longer, and your fans sound like a jet engine, yet performance keeps dropping. This isn’t just your PC “getting old”—it’s your system protecting itself from heat damage, limiting performance to survive.







Why Does Heat Slow Down Your PC?

Your CPU and GPU generate heat as they work. Normally, your cooling system keeps things in check, but if temperatures climb too high—typically above 90°C—your system will automatically lower its operating speeds to reduce heat.

This is known as thermal throttling, a built-in safety feature that prevents permanent damage by sacrificing performance to lower temperatures.

In other words: Your PC slows down to protect itself.



How Overheating Impacts Performance

When your PC overheats, you may notice:





Games drop in frame rates during intense moments.



Video rendering and exporting slow down.



Fans ramp up, becoming loud, but temperatures remain high.



The PC’s outer casing feels warm or hot.



The system feels sluggish, especially during demanding workloads.

If your environment is warm, or your PC frequently handles heavy tasks like rendering, gaming, or simulations, these slowdowns can happen often.





(The Best Fan Installation Direction for Your PC Case)



How to Prevent Heat-Related Slowdowns

While thermal throttling protects your PC, it can interrupt your workflow and reduce productivity. Here’s how you can help your PC stay cool:





Keep your workspace well-ventilated and ensure airflow around your system.



Regularly clean out dust from fans and heatsinks to maintain clear airflow.



Avoid blocking air vents with cables or clutter near your PC.



Consider using high-quality thermal paste to improve heat transfer.



If you run demanding workloads regularly, consider investing in advanced cooling solutions or a system designed for sustained performance.





(DP7 Thermal Paste)



Why Thermal Management Matters

As a hardware brand, we see it all the time: creators, gamers, and engineers invest in high-performance PCs but still face slowdowns under heat. It’s often not the processor or GPU that’s the problem—it’s insufficient thermal management.

By ensuring your system stays cool, you allow your CPU and GPU to maintain high clock speeds without triggering thermal throttling. This means:





Consistent frame rates in games



Faster render and simulation times



Quieter operation under load



Longer hardware lifespan

If you’re planning to build or upgrade your PC for heavy workloads, thermal design should be at the top of your checklist.





(DN360S Liquid CPU Cooler)



Key Takeaway

High temperatures trigger thermal throttling, which reduces your PC’s performance to prevent damage. While this keeps your hardware safe, it can interrupt your productivity and gaming experience.

By improving airflow, maintaining a clean system, and considering advanced cooling when building your setup, you can keep your PC cool and fast—even during demanding tasks.



If you’re looking to optimize your workstation for stable performance under heavy loads, or need guidance on cooling solutions that match your workflow, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you keep your PC performing at its best—no matter how hot it gets.





Understanding Thermal Throttling and How It Affects Performance.

Why Does My PC Slow Down When It Gets Hot?

When building a gaming PC on a tight budget, many players tend to maximize their GPU spending while opting for an entry-level CPU. Is this combination really worth it? Is a GPU the only critical component for a gaming rig? 

 conducted real-world testing using a low-end CPU paired with a high-end GPU, utilizing the i3-12100F and i9-12900KS with an RTX 3080 as their testing platform.

 compared to the i3-12100F, representing nearly a 

. This clearly shows that a high-end CPU is necessary to fully unleash the potential of a high-end GPU.

↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 1080P FPS Performance (Source: 

, the performance gap starts to narrow, but there is still an average FPS difference of 17, translating to nearly a 

↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 2K FPS Performance (Source: 

, the performance difference between the high-end and low-end CPUs becomes negligible, primarily because the GPU becomes the bottleneck, limiting further FPS gains.

↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 4K FPS Performance (Source: 

, even in Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, the minimum FPS sees a 

↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 1080P FPS Performance (Source: 

↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 2K FPS Performance (Source: 

Similar to Rainbow Six: Siege, as the resolution increases to 

, the performance differences continue to shrink due to GPU limitations.

↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 4K FPS Performance (Source: 

Is It Worth Using a Low-End CPU with a High-End GPU?

, then pairing a low-end CPU with a high-end GPU is 

, as the GPU will be the main performance limiter. 

However, if your PC is also used for other tasks like streaming, content creation, or multitasking, a 

For first-time DIY builders, here are commonly recommended CPU and GPU pairings:

highly recommended to balance the performance of both components

 to avoid a low CPU, high GPU situation that can prevent your components from reaching their full potential. Balanced pairings will ensure your parts work synergistically rather than bottlenecking each other.





When building a gaming PC on a tight budget, many players tend to maximize their GPU spending while opting for an entry-level CPU. Is this combination really worth it? Is a GPU the only critical component for a gaming rig? 

Japanese media outlet PC Watch conducted real-world testing using a low-end CPU paired with a high-end GPU, utilizing the i3-12100F and i9-12900KS with an RTX 3080 as their testing platform.



Test Platform





Motherboard: Intel Z690



Memory: DDR5-4800 16GBx2



GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080



SSD: M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0x4, 1TB)



CPU Cooler: AIO liquid cooler (360mm)



PSU: ATX 1000W (80 PLUS GOLD)



Gaming Benchmark Results





Rainbow Six: Siege

In Rainbow Six: Siege at 1080P with maximum settings, the i9-12900KS delivered 171 FPS higher on average compared to the i3-12100F, representing nearly a 47% increase. This clearly shows that a high-end CPU is necessary to fully unleash the potential of a high-end GPU.





Note: Since the test result images are in Japanese, we have provided a simple English translation for them.





↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 1080P FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)



At 2K resolution, the performance gap starts to narrow, but there is still an average FPS difference of 17, translating to nearly a 10% performance increase compared to the lower-end CPU.





↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 2K FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)



When the resolution is increased to 4K, the performance difference between the high-end and low-end CPUs becomes negligible, primarily because the GPU becomes the bottleneck, limiting further FPS gains.





↑ Rainbow Six: Siege 4K FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)





Note: The test results are from 2022, and Rainbow Six: Siege has now been updated to Rainbow Six: Siege X.







Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla

What about open-world games?

At 1080P, even in Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, the minimum FPS sees a performance increase of over 30% with the high-end CPU.





↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 1080P FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)





↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 2K FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)



Similar to Rainbow Six: Siege, as the resolution increases to 2K and 4K, the performance differences continue to shrink due to GPU limitations.





↑ Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla 4K FPS Performance (Source: PC Watch)



Is It Worth Using a Low-End CPU with a High-End GPU?

If your PC is solely for gaming at 4K resolution, then pairing a low-end CPU with a high-end GPU is feasible, as the GPU will be the main performance limiter. 

However, if your PC is also used for other tasks like streaming, content creation, or multitasking, a balanced CPU and GPU pairing is recommended for better overall system performance.



Recommended Pairings

For first-time DIY builders, here are commonly recommended CPU and GPU pairings:



Entry-Level:





Intel: Ultra 5 series CPU + RTX 5060 / 5060 Ti



AMD: Ryzen 5 series CPU + RX 7650 GRE

Mid-Range:





Intel: Ultra 7 series CPU + RTX 5070 / 5070 Ti



AMD: Ryzen 7 series CPU + RX 9060 XT

High-End:





Intel: Ultra 9 series CPU + RTX 5080 / 5090



AMD: Ryzen 9 series CPU + RX 9070 / 9070 XT







Conclusion

When pairing your CPU and GPU, it is highly recommended to balance the performance of both components to avoid a low CPU, high GPU situation that can prevent your components from reaching their full potential. Balanced pairings will ensure your parts work synergistically rather than bottlenecking each other.

Make sure your CPU can fully unleash its performance. As for how it will perform together, let’s break it down for you in one go!