Final Words and conclusion
Final Words and Conclusion
Corsair's new LINk implementation marks a notable shift in their PC assembly strategy compared to previous iterations. A significant change includes adopting single-cable (digitally controlled chain) technology combining power, RGB, monitoring and control per device all over one cable, which negates the need to locate compatible cables and adapters. The entire Corsair Link product line can be effectively integrated into the system using the corresponding cable. In concurrence with the series release in June 2023, Corsair will unveil a spectrum of cooling solutions, with the QX120 and QX140 RGB models being notable additions.
iCue LINK
The Corsair iCUE APP is a universal software package that enables monitoring of RPM, temperatures, fan RPM control, and a vast array of other data. Additionally, you may adjust the RGB LED color. The software detects the compatible cooler and fans (and other associated Corsair equipment) and displays information for LED control, pump control, and fan control/monitoring. For example, each fan may be separately programmed; make your own profile or just select:
- Quiet
- Zero RPM (disables fans until the coolant reaches 40 Degrees C)
- Balanced
- Extreme
The features enable you to go where you need to; if you need performance, you may have it at the expense of noise, and vice versa if you desire stillness. This is the benefit of software-based control. For this evaluation, we will choose a setting that is quite quiet and balanced. The balanced mode seems to be the ideal option.
Once you pick LED control, you may control a customizable RGB lighted Corsair product. You can access several color choices in addition to static, off, and animations such as blink, color pulse, color shift, rainbow (default), and temperature.
Of course, the hardware is in place, but software regulates it. Starting from iCue revisions 5.2 and 5.3, new LINK hardware gets supported. BTW you should check out the time warp functions; while the fans spin, they look like they're in a frozen position. A very funny effect. RGB lighting aficionados will likely find Corsair's latest range compelling due to an ingenious RGB strobing function that simulates slow-motion or reverse actions. Something can't capture on camera of course. This feature also allows fans to halt entirely, generating a visually impressive display.
What's lovely is that all fans have their own little temperature sensor, and as such, you can control them individually based on airflow temp.
Final Words
It is the dawn of a new era for iCUE products. Easy connect products, structured cabling and ease of installation come to mind while we had our first look at this new technology. One cable to rule it all, and that's what everybody wants opposed to the cable spaghetti we're all used to. The new hub units are easily connected and tucked wat behind the motherboard tray (magnetic). From there on, with one cable, you can combine all fans. Integrated sensors facilitate fan curve customisation for each fan, providing accurate fan speed control for temperature hot spots within the casing. Moreover, the iCUE software enables setting temperature alerts, such as triggering the RGB lights to blink red when a fan reaches a specific temperature or displaying a cooler blue theme when internal temperatures decrease. Beyond the RGB lighting and custom fan curve functionality, the distinctive capability of the iCUE LINK fans resides in their ability to be daisy-chained without the requirement of cables. It has to be stated, though, the LCS units need two connectors, one for the pump and one for the fans, a bit of a miss really. But not a biggy. They utilize petite connectors located on the sides of the fans, which can be conveniently clicked into place using embedded magnets. This drastically reduces cable usage, with a single cable needed to link the nearest component to the primary controller hub. Corsair is partnering with various motherboard manufacturers to develop a casing that supports cable routing through the rear of the motherboard. While this project is in the works, it's still in a preliminary phase; it indicates a collective effort amongst competitors to render this concept viable for a broad user base. Being the first to be digitally controlled, these fans feature magnetic levitation bearings, digital temperature sensors, and RGB light loops. Corsair aims to enhance its proprietary series further by introducing the Hydro X Series in Q3 2023, a move that consolidates its reputation in innovative cooling design. The company views this as a significant stride in its technological evolution. And whether or not you're an RGB aficionado, anyone can see the true benefit of this new design. We like what we see and are excited to see more in the near future.
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