Configuration & Installation 101

Now that we showed you the components of the kit we want to break your attention from a few things that will put perspective on the installation when you are ready to do so. This is what we call the familiarization period, we will familiarize ourselves with an crash course overview so these experiences can be called up at a later time when needed. We will start with giving you an idea of a typical installation...

...Below is an illustration showing the typical configuration this kit should be installed. While not necessary to follow this recommendation, this is just an example of a general installation and for the most part should be followed for best results. The type of case you have will greatly change the way you will be able to install this kit. So keep that in mind when looking at this configuration, ask yourself will your case accommodate this configuration. We happen to like this configuration, and since we checked out our case prior to installation, we are going to do something similar.

As you can see the RadBox is on the back of the chassis, while the second radiator is at the front. The Meanwell power supply is stuffed up top with the drive bay reservoir in one of the 5.25 drive bays. I must say this case is well suited for this layout, so as something to remember - each case will dictate exactly how you will be able to install this kit. We recommend cases like the Cooler Master Stacker and the Thermaltake Armor series, which we happen to have on hand.

*Remember* When connecting the relay switch make sure there are no power sources connected to the system. Never install hardware with the AC power cable plugged into your PSU. Always unplug the AC power cord and always read the directions. The diagram below is included in the manual and will help you understand the configuration. I suggest you read the manual several times before attempting to install if you are semi-new to these types of kits.

*Important* The Meanwell S-320-12 will need external AC power and the diagrams shown here must be followed to ensure proper installation. The TEC kit comes complete with a power socket, wiring harness and labeled connectors for easy installation, however no second guessing should be done when installing the relay and AC power to the Meanwell power supply. If you make a wrong connection and power up the system, your system could instantly meltdown.

The splicer we see here will allow you to use extension wires to make the connection from the Meanwell power supply to the thermoelectric cooler. The splicer is mountable with a screw, so you can install this anywhere in the case to make proper connections. If you need extra wire and this coupler to complete the connection, make sure you use 16 guage stranded wire for best results.

*Keep in Mind* You will need to plan ahead and find a suitable location for the relay and A/C socket, so you can get an idea of how the relay and AC socket will have to be mounted to your chassis. Getting a look now will assist you later on when you are ready to mount these electrical components. This is why we say read the manual a few times before starting the process.

*Handy Tools* To make the installation easier and more efficient it is recommended to have the following tools on hand to assist in the installation process. These items helped us with our configuration and while it worked for us, it may not be required for your installation.

• Cordless drill/Power drill
• Philips and Flat head screw drivers
• Needle nose pliers
• 10 mm round file for metal massaging
• Pencil for AC socket installation
• 3M Blue painters tape
• Electrical wire cutters
• Tie wraps

This is part of the installation is what takes most of the effort. You will need a cordless drill or power drill in order to install the A/C power socket. Find a suitable place to install the A/C socket, then you can drill the chassis for installation.

This Bi-Metal hole saw is available at most any hardware store and will be essential to installing the A/C socket. They are about $12.00 USD for a decent hole saw. Most will come with the pilot drill bit for centering.

Crash Course: Conformal Coating

You will have to spray paint the motherboard that you are going to use, to protect the components from possible condensation. So be prepaired to have some tape and allow for some drying time. We sprayed out board and let it dry over night. We recommend you do this too for best results.

We prefer using 3M blue painters tape, it has superior release abilities and sticks just as well as yellow tape. This is will help in peeling off the dried on conformal coating, allowing you to peel back the tape with tearing or ripping.

Apply a generous amount of Luberex Dialectric grease into the sockets, making sure you push as much as possible into the pins. This will not short out the CPU, once again this grease is non-conductive and is manufactured for use with printed circuit boards. Now that we have exposed some of the most important things, let's go ahead and start prepping the mother-board.