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Building a gaming PC means paying attention to every component – including the power supply. In recent years, Intel released new ATX power supply standards (ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1) to accommodate the increasing power demands of modern hardware. This article breaks down the differences between ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 in a beginner-friendly way, focusing on practical implications for PC builders and gamers. We’ll cover what changed in the 

limits differ, and what it means for choosing a PSU.

ATX 3.0 is a major update to the long-standing ATX power supply design guide, released by Intel in 2022. It was developed in response to new generations of GPUs and CPUs that can draw significantly more power, with rapid spikes in consumption. ATX 3.0 introduced new guidelines to ensure PSUs can deliver these power spikes reliably, and it also brought in a new high-power connector (the 12VHPWR) for next-gen graphics cards. For PC builders, ATX 3.0 PSUs marked a big step forward from earlier ATX 2.x units, especially if you plan to use high-end GPUs like NVIDIA’s RTX 5000 series.

ATX 3.1, released in 2023, is a refinement of the 3.0 standard. It builds on the same features but includes some tweaks based on industry feedback and new PCI-SIG updates. While not a revolutionary jump, ATX 3.1 updated certain technical specifications – notably the 

 (Previously Known as 12VHPWR) connector design and the transient power excursion requirements – to improve safety and performance. For the average gamer or builder, an ATX 3.1 PSU is largely similar to ATX 3.0, but with a bit more polish on these key aspects.

The 12VHPWR Connector: Updates from ATX 3.0 to 3.1

One of the headline features of ATX 3.0 was the introduction of the 12VHPWR connector (sometimes called the “PCIe 5.0 16-pin” power connector). This 12+4 pin connector can supply up to 600 Watts to a graphics card over a single cable – a big improvement over the older 8-pin (150 W) connectors. The extra 4 pins are sense wires that communicate with the GPU, allowing it to know the power capacity available (e.g. 150W, 300W, 450W, or 600W depending on cable/PSU). In practice, this meant ATX 3.0 PSUs could ship with a single native cable for high-end GPUs (no more multiple daisy-chained 8-pins or adapter dongles), simplifying cable management for builders.

ATX 3.1 keeps the that same connector, but incorporates an updated design as defined by PCI-SIG. Often referred to as the 

connector, the revised connector has subtle mechanical improvements to enhance safety. For example, the sense-pin configuration and pin length were adjusted to ensure the GPU can detect a proper full insertion of the plug (reducing the chance of the connector not being fully seated – a known issue that led to some melting connectors in early RTX 4090 usage). In short, ATX 3.1’s power connector is the same shape and pin-count, but built to a refined standard: if you buy an ATX 3.1 PSU, its 12VHPWR cable will adhere to the latest PCIe spec for better contact and durability.

↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from 

From a builder’s perspective, both ATX 3.0 and 3.1 PSUs will support the latest GPUs with the 12VHPWR or 12V2x6. There’s no difference in how you plug in your card – they are cross-compatible. The advantage of ATX 3.1’s version is simply added reliability. If you already have an ATX 3.0 PSU with a 12VHPWR and use it correctly (fully seated cable, not bending it too sharply, etc.), you’re generally fine. But ATX 3.1 gives extra peace of mind that the connector meets the newest safety refinements from PCI-SIG.

Transient Power Excursions: Handling Spikes in Power

Aside from the physical connector, the most important updates are in how these standards handle transient power excursions – in simpler terms, sudden power spikes. Modern GPUs and CPUs can momentarily draw far more than their average power (for example, a 300W TDP GPU might spike to 450–600W for a few milliseconds when under a sudden heavy load). If a PSU can’t handle these surges, your system could become unstable or shut down unexpectedly.

ATX 3.0 set a new requirement that power supplies be able to accommodate extreme spikes without issue. Intel’s ATX 3.0 design guide specifies that a compliant PSU must handle power excursions up to 200% of its rated power for very short durations. It also lays out specific timing brackets – for instance (simplified for clarity): up to ~120% load for tens of milliseconds, ~160–180% for a few milliseconds, and ~200% for microseconds. This was a big change from earlier ATX 2.x units, which weren’t explicitly designed for such high surges. In practical terms, an ATX 3.0 750 W PSU could briefly supply up to ~1500 W in a spike, and a 1200 W PSU could handle almost 2400 W in a microsecond-scale transient. This ensures GPUs like the RTX 30/40/50 series, which are known for transient spikes, won’t overwhelm the PSU and cause shutdowns as long as the PSU is ATX 3.0 compliant.

ATX 3.1 refines these power excursion limits. According to Intel’s updated 3.1 specification, the allowable transient overshoot levels were adjusted slightly. The changes are technical, but essentially Intel fine-tuned how much over current and for how long a PSU must supply power. For example, ATX 3.1 might require sustaining 200% load for a slightly shorter duration than 3.0 did, or define additional tiers for intermediate spike durations. These tweaks align with data collected from real-world GPU behavior and testing feedback. The practical implication is that ATX 3.1 PSUs are even less likely to trip OCP/OPP (over-current/over-power protection) during sudden bursts, compared to ATX 3.0 units. They have been tested to handle transients with an extra margin of stability.

For PC builders, if you’re running power-hungry GPUs or doing extreme overclocking, these transient handling improvements mean 

fewer chances of a random reboot when your GPU spikes to full load

. ATX 3.0 already made great strides here, and ATX 3.1 polishes it further. That said, in normal gaming usage, you might not notice a difference – both standards are designed to handle GPU/CPU spikes that previous generation PSUs might not tolerate. It’s mainly an assurance of stability under extreme conditions.

Other Notable Differences and Similarities

Beyond the connector and transient power requirements, ATX 3.0 and 3.1 share most features. Both maintain the standard ATX PSU dimensions and mounting, the typical 24-pin motherboard connector, CPU EPS 8-pin connectors, SATA, etc. They also both coexist with ATX12VO (a separate, optional standard focusing on single-rail 12V-only PSUs for better efficiency). If you’re building a typical gaming PC, you’ll likely use a multi-rail ATX 3.x PSU (which provides 12V, 5V, 3.3V rails in the traditional way).

Here’s a summary comparison of the two standards:

Table: Comparing key aspects of ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1 power supply standards.

As shown above, the differences are not dramatic – ATX 3.1 mainly fine-tunes what ATX 3.0 introduced. Both standards require high efficiency (with ATX 80 Plus certifications typically applied separately) and support new “low-power sleep” states and modern standby features on motherboards (helpful for reducing idle power draw). ATX 3.1 may incorporate slightly updated requirements for those as well, though those changes are minor for end-users.

Practical Implications for PC Builders & Gamers

So, what does all this mean when you’re shopping for or building a gaming PC?

ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1 ultimately comes down to evolution, not revolution. ATX 3.0 brought huge improvements for powering today’s power-hungry GPUs and CPUs, and 

 those improvements. The main practical takeaways are the support for the 12V2x6(12VHPWR) high-power GPU connector and strong handling of transient surges – both critical for high-end gaming rigs. ATX 3.1 

 of the connector and adds even more resilience to sudden power spikes, benefiting extreme use cases and further safeguarding against power-related crashes.

For most PC builders and gamers, both standards will serve you well. If you’re on the cutting edge, ATX 3.1 offers peace of mind that you have the latest spec. Otherwise, an ATX 3.0 PSU from a reputable brand already covers the vast majority of needs for current and upcoming hardware. In either case, these standards represent a positive development: they are ensuring that PSUs keep up with the fast pace of GPU and CPU advancements, delivering stable and safe power for your gaming adventures.





Building a gaming PC means paying attention to every component – including the power supply. In recent years, Intel released new ATX power supply standards (ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1) to accommodate the increasing power demands of modern hardware. This article breaks down the differences between ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 in a beginner-friendly way, focusing on practical implications for PC builders and gamers. We’ll cover what changed in the 12V-2x6 connector, how transient power excursion limits differ, and what it means for choosing a PSU.



Introduction to ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1

ATX 3.0 is a major update to the long-standing ATX power supply design guide, released by Intel in 2022. It was developed in response to new generations of GPUs and CPUs that can draw significantly more power, with rapid spikes in consumption. ATX 3.0 introduced new guidelines to ensure PSUs can deliver these power spikes reliably, and it also brought in a new high-power connector (the 12VHPWR) for next-gen graphics cards. For PC builders, ATX 3.0 PSUs marked a big step forward from earlier ATX 2.x units, especially if you plan to use high-end GPUs like NVIDIA’s RTX 5000 series.



ATX 3.1, released in 2023, is a refinement of the 3.0 standard. It builds on the same features but includes some tweaks based on industry feedback and new PCI-SIG updates. While not a revolutionary jump, ATX 3.1 updated certain technical specifications – notably the 12V-2x6 (Previously Known as 12VHPWR) connector design and the transient power excursion requirements – to improve safety and performance. For the average gamer or builder, an ATX 3.1 PSU is largely similar to ATX 3.0, but with a bit more polish on these key aspects.



The 12VHPWR Connector: Updates from ATX 3.0 to 3.1

One of the headline features of ATX 3.0 was the introduction of the 12VHPWR connector (sometimes called the “PCIe 5.0 16-pin” power connector). This 12+4 pin connector can supply up to 600 Watts to a graphics card over a single cable – a big improvement over the older 8-pin (150 W) connectors. The extra 4 pins are sense wires that communicate with the GPU, allowing it to know the power capacity available (e.g. 150W, 300W, 450W, or 600W depending on cable/PSU). In practice, this meant ATX 3.0 PSUs could ship with a single native cable for high-end GPUs (no more multiple daisy-chained 8-pins or adapter dongles), simplifying cable management for builders.



ATX 3.1 keeps the that same connector, but incorporates an updated design as defined by PCI-SIG. Often referred to as the 12V-2x6 connector, the revised connector has subtle mechanical improvements to enhance safety. For example, the sense-pin configuration and pin length were adjusted to ensure the GPU can detect a proper full insertion of the plug (reducing the chance of the connector not being fully seated – a known issue that led to some melting connectors in early RTX 4090 usage). In short, ATX 3.1’s power connector is the same shape and pin-count, but built to a refined standard: if you buy an ATX 3.1 PSU, its 12VHPWR cable will adhere to the latest PCIe spec for better contact and durability.





↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from reddit, r/nvidia)



From a builder’s perspective, both ATX 3.0 and 3.1 PSUs will support the latest GPUs with the 12VHPWR or 12V2x6. There’s no difference in how you plug in your card – they are cross-compatible. The advantage of ATX 3.1’s version is simply added reliability. If you already have an ATX 3.0 PSU with a 12VHPWR and use it correctly (fully seated cable, not bending it too sharply, etc.), you’re generally fine. But ATX 3.1 gives extra peace of mind that the connector meets the newest safety refinements from PCI-SIG.



Transient Power Excursions: Handling Spikes in Power

Aside from the physical connector, the most important updates are in how these standards handle transient power excursions – in simpler terms, sudden power spikes. Modern GPUs and CPUs can momentarily draw far more than their average power (for example, a 300W TDP GPU might spike to 450–600W for a few milliseconds when under a sudden heavy load). If a PSU can’t handle these surges, your system could become unstable or shut down unexpectedly.



ATX 3.0 set a new requirement that power supplies be able to accommodate extreme spikes without issue. Intel’s ATX 3.0 design guide specifies that a compliant PSU must handle power excursions up to 200% of its rated power for very short durations. It also lays out specific timing brackets – for instance (simplified for clarity): up to ~120% load for tens of milliseconds, ~160–180% for a few milliseconds, and ~200% for microseconds. This was a big change from earlier ATX 2.x units, which weren’t explicitly designed for such high surges. In practical terms, an ATX 3.0 750 W PSU could briefly supply up to ~1500 W in a spike, and a 1200 W PSU could handle almost 2400 W in a microsecond-scale transient. This ensures GPUs like the RTX 30/40/50 series, which are known for transient spikes, won’t overwhelm the PSU and cause shutdowns as long as the PSU is ATX 3.0 compliant.



ATX 3.1 refines these power excursion limits. According to Intel’s updated 3.1 specification, the allowable transient overshoot levels were adjusted slightly. The changes are technical, but essentially Intel fine-tuned how much over current and for how long a PSU must supply power. For example, ATX 3.1 might require sustaining 200% load for a slightly shorter duration than 3.0 did, or define additional tiers for intermediate spike durations. These tweaks align with data collected from real-world GPU behavior and testing feedback. The practical implication is that ATX 3.1 PSUs are even less likely to trip OCP/OPP (over-current/over-power protection) during sudden bursts, compared to ATX 3.0 units. They have been tested to handle transients with an extra margin of stability.



For PC builders, if you’re running power-hungry GPUs or doing extreme overclocking, these transient handling improvements mean fewer chances of a random reboot when your GPU spikes to full load. ATX 3.0 already made great strides here, and ATX 3.1 polishes it further. That said, in normal gaming usage, you might not notice a difference – both standards are designed to handle GPU/CPU spikes that previous generation PSUs might not tolerate. It’s mainly an assurance of stability under extreme conditions.



Other Notable Differences and Similarities

Beyond the connector and transient power requirements, ATX 3.0 and 3.1 share most features. Both maintain the standard ATX PSU dimensions and mounting, the typical 24-pin motherboard connector, CPU EPS 8-pin connectors, SATA, etc. They also both coexist with ATX12VO (a separate, optional standard focusing on single-rail 12V-only PSUs for better efficiency). If you’re building a typical gaming PC, you’ll likely use a multi-rail ATX 3.x PSU (which provides 12V, 5V, 3.3V rails in the traditional way).



Here’s a summary comparison of the two standards:







Table: Comparing key aspects of ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1 power supply standards.



As shown above, the differences are not dramatic – ATX 3.1 mainly fine-tunes what ATX 3.0 introduced. Both standards require high efficiency (with ATX 80 Plus certifications typically applied separately) and support new “low-power sleep” states and modern standby features on motherboards (helpful for reducing idle power draw). ATX 3.1 may incorporate slightly updated requirements for those as well, though those changes are minor for end-users.



Practical Implications for PC Builders & Gamers

So, what does all this mean when you’re shopping for or building a gaming PC?





Future-Proofing for GPUs: If you plan to use or upgrade to a high-end graphics card, you’ll want at least an ATX 3.0 PSU. It will have the right cable (12VHPWR) out of the box and can handle the card’s power swings. An ATX 3.1 PSU gives you that plus the latest connector improvements. For example, builders using an RTX 5090 or upcoming next-gen GPUs can plug straight into a native 16-pin cable and trust their PSU to handle sudden spikes in wattage.



Stability Under Peak Loads: If you’ve ever had your PC reset when launching a game or benchmark, a likely cause is the PSU failing to meet a transient spike. ATX 3.0/3.1 units are specifically designed to prevent that. This means more stable performance in scenarios like VR gameplay, intensive ray tracing, or CPU stress tests, where power demand can jump instantaneously. ATX 3.1’s refinements further reduce the odds of tripping protections during these spikes.



Connector Safety: The updated 12VHPWR design under ATX 3.1 mitigates issues that early adopters encountered (like the melting connector problem from not fully plugging in the cable). As a gamer or builder, you should still always ensure the 16-pin plug is fully seated on your GPU and avoid bending the cable too close to the connector. But ATX 3.1 cables will be a bit more foolproof by design. Manufacturers also often include better quality 12VHPWR cables in newer PSUs, sometimes with 90-degree adapters or sturdier plugs.



Do You Need to Upgrade? If you already own a good ATX 3.0 PSU, you likely don’t need to rush out for ATX 3.1. The differences are incremental. However, if you’re buying a new PSU in 2025, check the specs – you might find some units labeled as ATX 3.1. Choosing one will give you the slight edge of the latest standard. 



Compatibility: Both ATX 3.0 and 3.1 are fully backward-compatible. They will work with any standard ATX motherboard and PC components. They simply add capabilities. For instance, you can use an ATX 3.0 PSU on an older PC build – it will perform like a high-quality ATX 2.x unit, just with extra connectors (you don’t have to use the 12VHPWR cable if your GPU doesn’t need it). Similarly, an ATX 3.1 PSU will work in any scenario an ATX 3.0 PSU would.



Conclusion

ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1 ultimately comes down to evolution, not revolution. ATX 3.0 brought huge improvements for powering today’s power-hungry GPUs and CPUs, and ATX 3.1 fine-tuned those improvements. The main practical takeaways are the support for the 12V2x6(12VHPWR) high-power GPU connector and strong handling of transient surges – both critical for high-end gaming rigs. ATX 3.1 improves the reliability of the connector and adds even more resilience to sudden power spikes, benefiting extreme use cases and further safeguarding against power-related crashes.



For most PC builders and gamers, both standards will serve you well. If you’re on the cutting edge, ATX 3.1 offers peace of mind that you have the latest spec. Otherwise, an ATX 3.0 PSU from a reputable brand already covers the vast majority of needs for current and upcoming hardware. In either case, these standards represent a positive development: they are ensuring that PSUs keep up with the fast pace of GPU and CPU advancements, delivering stable and safe power for your gaming adventures.

A beginner-friendly article that clearly explains the differences between ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 standards, with a focus on real-world implications for PC users and builders.

ATX 3.0 vs ATX 3.1 The Most Comprehensive Explanation That You Will Ever Need

Now you've met the brain and the muscle of the motherboard, now it's time to wire things up.

In Part 1, we covered the beefy components like the CPU socket, RAM slots, and PCIE lanes. But even the most powerful parts won't work without proper power, storage and connections.

In this post, we will  be diving into the unsung heroes of the motherboard-theb power connectors, SATA ports fan headers, and those tiny front panel pins that's trippping even for experienced buiders. Understanding these pieces is essential.

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.

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.

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!





Now you've met the brain and the muscle of the motherboard, now it's time to wire things up.



In Part 1, we covered the beefy components like the CPU socket, RAM slots, and PCIE lanes. But even the most powerful parts won't work without proper power, storage and connections.



In this post, we will  be diving into the unsung heroes of the motherboard-theb power connectors, SATA ports fan headers, and those tiny front panel pins that's trippping even for experienced buiders. Understanding these pieces is essential.



Let's plug in andf power up!



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!

Part 2 of a two-part series that will lead to master your motherboard layout and build with confidence

How to Read a Motherboard (Part 2): I/O ports, Power Connectors, and Fan Headers

 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 two-part guide, we’ll break down the 

 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.

Tips: 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.

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

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

These are the long vertical slots beside the CPU socket.

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. 

 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.

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

In the next post, we will walk you through the other side of the motherboard—SATA ports, power connectors, front I/O, fan headers and more! Stay tuned so you can master every inch of your motherboards before you build.





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 two-part 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.





Tips: 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.



What's Next?

In the next post, we will walk you through the other side of the motherboard—SATA ports, power connectors, front I/O, fan headers and more! Stay tuned so you can master every inch of your motherboards before you build.

Part 1 of a two-part series that will lead to master your motherboard layout and build with confidence

How to Read a Motherboard (Part 1): CPU, RAM, and Expansion Slots 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

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

When it comes to building a PC, planning is everything. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, visualizing your setup ahead of time helps avoid compatibility issues and makes the whole process smoother and more cost-effective.

That’s why we are excited to introduce you to 

 — an incredibly useful online tool that lets you create and preview your custom PC builds in real time. Even better? Many of our darkFlash cases and cooling products are available on the platform, so you can see exactly how your setup will look before you make a purchase!

 is a browser-based PC builder that focuses on 

. You can select your components — from the CPU and GPU to the case, fans, and power supply — and the site will automatically check compatibility between parts. 

 apart is its stunning 3D rendering: it allows you to see how everything fits together, down to cable clearance, airflow direction, and lighting layout.

Pick your Case, CPU, motherboard, GPU, RAM, and other components step by step. If you already have some parts in mind, you can load them directly.

3. Select Your Case (Example: darkFlash DY470)

 — this is required before adding any components. You can browse the list 

 in the search bar to begin building with that case.

💡 Note: Make sure to choose products labeled with “3D” to enable 3D preview features.

After clicking on a component, you’ll see its 

 — making it easy to learn more or buy directly from online stores.

Once you’ve selected all your components, you can preview the full build in 3D. Use your mouse to rotate and view from different angles. You can also use the controls below the preview window to adjust RGB lighting effects in real time.

Happy with your setup? Save it for later or share it with friends or on forums. It’s a great way to get feedback or make sure everything’s ready before you hit “buy.”

Before You Buy, Try It Out on Buildcores!

 before making any final purchases. It’s the perfect way to visualize your setup and make sure everything works — and looks — just the way you want it.

If a product isn’t available for direct purchase, feel free to contact a local dealer in your region for assistance. We hope this tool makes your PC building experience smoother and more enjoyable!

PC building is about more than just hardware — it’s about creating something uniquely yours. Let 





When it comes to building a PC, planning is everything. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, visualizing your setup ahead of time helps avoid compatibility issues and makes the whole process smoother and more cost-effective.

That’s why we are excited to introduce you to Buildcores — an incredibly useful online tool that lets you create and preview your custom PC builds in real time. Even better? Many of our darkFlash cases and cooling products are available on the platform, so you can see exactly how your setup will look before you make a purchase!



What is Buildcores?





Buildcores is a browser-based PC builder that focuses on visualizing your build in 3D. You can select your components — from the CPU and GPU to the case, fans, and power supply — and the site will automatically check compatibility between parts. 

What sets Buildcores apart is its stunning 3D rendering: it allows you to see how everything fits together, down to cable clearance, airflow direction, and lighting layout.



How to Use Buildcores

1. Visit the Buildcores Website

Head to https://buildcores.com and click on “Start Building” to begin.







2. Choose Your Components

Pick your Case, CPU, motherboard, GPU, RAM, and other components step by step. If you already have some parts in mind, you can load them directly.







3. Select Your Case (Example: darkFlash DY470)

Start by selecting your PC case — this is required before adding any components. You can browse the list use the filters on the left, or search for a specific model. For example, type “darkFlash DY470” in the search bar to begin building with that case.

💡 Note: Make sure to choose products labeled with “3D” to enable 3D preview features.









4. View Specs and Buy Links

After clicking on a component, you’ll see its detailed specifications along with purchase links — making it easy to learn more or buy directly from online stores.







5. Preview Your Build in 3D

Once you’ve selected all your components, you can preview the full build in 3D. Use your mouse to rotate and view from different angles. You can also use the controls below the preview window to adjust RGB lighting effects in real time.









6. Save or Share Your Build

Happy with your setup? Save it for later or share it with friends or on forums. It’s a great way to get feedback or make sure everything’s ready before you hit “buy.”



Before You Buy, Try It Out on Buildcores!





We recommend exploring your build on Buildcores before making any final purchases. It’s the perfect way to visualize your setup and make sure everything works — and looks — just the way you want it.

If a product isn’t available for direct purchase, feel free to contact a local dealer in your region for assistance. We hope this tool makes your PC building experience smoother and more enjoyable!

PC building is about more than just hardware — it’s about creating something uniquely yours. Let Buildcores and darkFlash help you bring that vision to life!

Get a realistic view of your build, check compatibility, and plan with confidence.

Visualize Your PC Build in 3D — No More Guesswork

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.