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Aqua Computer D5 NEXT - User Manual

Aqua Computer D5 NEXT
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D5 NEXT
User and installation manual
User and installation manualUser and installation manual
User and installation manual
D5 NEXT
aquasuite version X.17
Current as of April 2020
All information contained in this manual is subject to change without prior notice.
All rights reserved.
© 2019-2020 Aqua Computer GmbH & Co. KG - 1 -
Gelliehäuser Str. 1, 37130 Gleichen
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ENGLISH: PAGE 1
DEUTSCH: SEITE 31

Table of Contents

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Summary

Preface and Safety

Preface

Introduces the D5 NEXT pump, its design features, and technical capabilities.

Safety Precautions

Lists essential safety guidelines for handling and operating the pump to prevent damage or injury.

Product Delivery and Assembly

Scope of Delivery

Details all components included in the retail package of the D5 NEXT pump.

Assembly and Mounting Instructions

Guides on physically assembling and mounting the pump unit within a PC case.

Permitted Pump Orientations

Specifies the allowed orientations for pump installation to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.

Electrical Connections and Interfaces

Power Connector

Details how to connect the SATA power plug to the pump, including pin assignments.

USB Connector for PC Communication

Explains USB connection for PC communication and data exchange with the aquasuite software.

Fan or Flow Sensor Connector

Describes the fan connector's use for PWM fans or flow sensors and its pin assignment.

Aquabus;RGBpx Bus Connector

Details the bus connector for connecting other Aqua Computer devices or RGBpx products.

Device Operation and Aquasuite Software

Device Operation via Keys and Display

Explains how to operate the D5 NEXT using its physical keys and OLED display for configuration.

Configuration via USB and Aquasuite

Describes configuring the device via a USB connection using the aquasuite software.

Aquasuite Software Installation

Guides on downloading and installing the aquasuite software from the official website.

Aquasuite Overview Pages and Data Logging

Desktop Mode for Overview Pages

Explains how to display overview pages directly on the desktop for convenient monitoring.

Creating and Editing Overview Pages

Guides on creating new overview pages and entering edit mode to customize layouts.

Adding and Configuring Data Elements

Details how to add new data elements and configure their display styles and properties.

Exporting and Importing Overview Pages

Details how to export and import overview page configurations between PCs.

Log Settings Configuration

Guides on configuring data logging settings, intervals, and selecting data sources.

Analyzing Logged Data with Charts

Explains how to analyze logged data using interactive charts and visualization tools.

Manual and Automatic Data Export

Describes exporting logged data manually to XML files or setting up automatic exports.

Pump Control and Fan Configuration

Pump Mode: Power Preset

Explains how to manually set the pump's rotation speed in power preset mode.

Pump Mode: Temperature Set Point

Guides on automatically adjusting pump speed based on selected temperature sensor readings.

Pump Mode: Curve Controller

Details automatic pump speed adjustment using custom temperature curves for precise control.

Pump Mode: Flow Controller

Explains automatic pump speed adjustment based on a desired target flow rate.

General Pump Settings

Covers additional pump settings like power limits, scaling, and fan output configuration.

Fan Mode: Power Preset

Explains how to manually set the fan's output power level.

Fan Mode: Temperature Set Point

Guides on automatically adjusting fan speed based on temperature sensor readings.

Fan Mode: Curve Controller

Details automatic fan speed adjustment using custom temperature curves for optimal cooling.

General Fan Settings

Covers general fan settings like start boost, power limits, and minimum/maximum power values.

Aquabus Fan Control

Explains how aquabus connection to an aquaero affects fan control, overriding D5 NEXT settings.

Dual Functionality: Fan or Flow Sensor

Describes using the fan output connector alternatively as a flow sensor input.

RGBpx Lighting and Sensor Monitoring

RGBpx Lighting Configuration

Guides on configuring maximum brightness and disabling all lighting functions.

LED Mapping and Effects

Explains how to map LEDs, select effects, and customize parameters for RGBpx components.

Sound Controlled RGBpx Effects

Details using sound-controlled effects to visualize current audio output with RGBpx lighting.

AMBIENTpx Effect Setup

Describes the AMBIENTpx effect for replicating screen content on LEDs for ambient lighting.

Integrated Water Temperature Sensor

Explains the integrated water temperature sensor and its calibration options.

Flow Rate Measurement Options

Discusses virtual flow sensor calculations versus mechanical flow sensor connections.

Virtual Flow Sensor Setup

Details the virtual flow sensor, its prerequisites, calibration process, and limitations.

Mechanical Flow Sensor Connection

Guides on connecting and calibrating mechanical flow sensors to the D5 NEXT controller.

Software Temperature Sensor Integration

Explains using software temperature readings from third-party applications via USB.

Alarm Configuration and Display Settings

Acoustic Alarm and LED Lighting

Configures acoustic alarms and flashing LEDs during alarm conditions for alerts.

Alarm Reporting and Limit Settings

Details setting up alarm limits for sensors and enabling evaluation for alert generation.

System Alarms and Shutdowns

Lists system-critical alarms, their impact, and mandatory shutdown procedures.

Display Settings and Brightness

Covers display brightness, page interval, and OLED wear compensation for display longevity.

Configurable Chart Pages

Explains how to configure four chart pages for display on the pump's screen.

Predefined Display Page Management

Guides on activating or deactivating predefined display pages for the pump's interface.

Profiles, System Settings, and Playground

Manual Profile Selection

Explains how to manually select and activate saved device configurations (profiles).

Automatic Profile Activation

Guides on automatically activating profiles based on predefined rules or conditions.

Profile Configuration and Saving

Details how to save current device settings into profiles for later recall.

Device Information and Description

Covers displaying device details, serial numbers, and adding custom descriptions for easier identification.

Factory Defaults Reset

Explains how to reset the pump controller to its original factory default settings.

Aquabus and RGBpx Configuration

Details configuration for aquabus communication and RGBpx lighting connections.

Firmware Update and Language

Guides on updating the device firmware and changing the pump menu language via aquasuite.

Virtual Software Sensors

Explains creating virtual sensors using mathematical and logical functions for advanced monitoring.

Global Profile Management

Covers managing and activating profiles across multiple devices simultaneously.

System-wide Hotkey Configuration

Details setting up system-wide hotkeys to trigger profiles or desktop pages.

Aquasuite Web Integration and Software Settings

Data Export to Aqua Computer Server

Guides on exporting data to the Aqua Computer server for publishing and sharing.

Accessing Published Data

Explains how to access published data via browsers, JSON, or other formats.

Data Import from Aqua Computer Server

Details importing data sets from the Aqua Computer server using an access key.

Language Selection

Explains how to change the aquasuite software language setting.

Reordering Menu Items

Guides on customizing the order of menu items and devices in the aquasuite interface.

Unit Selection for Measurements

Covers selecting preferred units for temperature and flow measurements.

Application Start-up Customization

Details customizing the software's start-up behavior and taskbar icon visibility.

Service Administration Features

Explains background service configuration for USB settings and hardware data.

Audio and Video Data Analysis

Details the background service's ability to analyze audio and video data for connected devices.

Updates and Update Service Management

Guides on software activation, update service, and registering license keys.

Technical Specifications and Maintenance

Technical Specifications

Lists technical specifications like voltage, power consumption, pump pressure, and dimensions.

Restoring Factory Defaults

Explains how to reset the pump controller to its original factory default settings.

Care and Cleaning Instructions

Provides guidance on cleaning the device using a dry, soft cloth and avoiding liquids.

Waste Disposal Guidelines

Advises on proper disposal of the device as electronic waste according to local regulations.

Contacting Aqua Computer Support

Provides contact information for support via email, postal address, and phone for inquiries.

Overview

The D5 NEXT is a sophisticated pump designed for PC water cooling systems, combining robust mechanics with advanced monitoring and control capabilities. Its core function is to circulate coolant within a PC's water cooling loop, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. Beyond simple circulation, the D5 NEXT integrates a range of features that allow for precise control, extensive monitoring, and customizable aesthetics, making it a central component for enthusiasts and users seeking detailed management of their cooling setup.

Function Description:

At its heart, the D5 NEXT is a D5 vario pump, known for its longevity and quiet operation. It utilizes a shaftless spherical motor where a hemispherical rotor/impeller unit spins on an ultra-hard, wear-resistant ceramic ball. This design ensures consistent performance and a low noise level, as bearing play remains unchanged even after prolonged use. The pump's primary function is to maintain a continuous flow of coolant, which is essential for transferring heat away from critical PC components.

Beyond its mechanical pumping action, the D5 NEXT incorporates an integrated fan controller for PWM fans, allowing it to manage not only its own operation but also the cooling fans connected to the system. An integrated USB interface facilitates communication with a PC, enabling comprehensive configuration and monitoring through the aquasuite software. Depending on its configuration, the device also features either an aquabus interface for communication with other Aqua Computer devices or an RGBpx effect controller, capable of managing up to 64 individually addressable LEDs. An OLED display on the unit provides real-time sensor readings and allows for direct configuration of the pump without needing a PC.

The D5 NEXT can automatically adjust its pump speed based on various parameters, including water temperature or flow rate. This intelligent control ensures optimal cooling performance while minimizing noise and power consumption. It can operate in different modes, such as a power preset mode for manual speed control, a temperature set point mode to maintain a desired coolant temperature, or a curve controller mode that adjusts speed based on a customizable temperature curve. A flow controller mode allows the pump to maintain a desired flow rate, further enhancing cooling efficiency and system stability.

Usage Features:

The D5 NEXT offers multiple ways to interact with and configure its features. Users can operate the device directly via its OLED display and three integrated keys. The left and right keys are used to navigate information pages and select/alter menu entries, while the middle key opens the device menu and confirms selections. This on-device control allows for basic setup and monitoring without the need for a connected computer. However, it's important to close the aquasuite software on a connected PC when configuring via the display and keys, as the software can overwrite direct device settings.

For more advanced configuration, comprehensive visualization, and logging options, the D5 NEXT connects to a PC via its USB interface and utilizes the aquasuite software. This software suite provides an extensive interface to manage all pump parameters, fan settings, RGBpx lighting effects, and sensor configurations. The aquasuite allows users to:

  • Create and customize overview pages: Display current sensor readings and diagrams from all connected devices, with options for various data elements like headlines, text, bar graphs, charts, and gauges. Users can also add custom images, text, and drawing elements.
  • Log and analyze data: Record data from connected devices and hardware, create charts for visual evaluation, and export data for further analysis. Automatic data export to XML files is also supported.
  • Configure pump operation: Select different pump modes (power preset, temperature set point, curve controller, flow controller) and fine-tune parameters like minimum/maximum power, target temperatures, and flow rates.
  • Manage fan settings: Configure PWM fan outputs with similar control modes (power preset, temperature set point, curve controller) and general settings like start boost and power limits. The fan output can also be repurposed as a flow sensor input.
  • Set up RGBpx lighting: Customize integrated LEDs and connected RGBpx components with various effects, including sound-controlled effects and the AMBIENTpx effect, which replicates monitor content for background lighting.
  • Configure sensors: Calibrate the integrated water temperature sensor and set up flow rate measurement using either a "virtual flow sensor" (calculated from pump parameters) or a mechanical flow sensor. Software temperature sensors from third-party applications like HWiNFO or AIDA64 can also be integrated.
  • Define alarms: Set acoustic alarms and configure RGBpx lighting to flash red under alarm conditions, with customizable limits for various data sources. System alarms for severe malfunctions are also present and cannot be configured.
  • Manage profiles: Save up to four configurations as profiles, which can be activated manually or automatically based on configurable rules (e.g., time of day, running applications).
  • Update firmware and manage settings: Perform firmware updates, select the device language, and reset to factory defaults if needed.
  • Utilize virtual software sensors: Create complex sensor values using mathematical and logical functions, combining data from multiple sources.
  • Set up hotkeys: Assign key combinations to activate global profiles or desktop pages system-wide.
  • Access aquasuite web: Publish device data to the internet or import data from the Aqua Computer server, with options for various data formats and banner images for forums.

Maintenance Features:

The D5 NEXT is designed for durability, but certain maintenance aspects are important for its longevity and optimal performance:

  • Physical care: The manual recommends using a dry and soft cloth for cleaning. It explicitly warns against allowing electronic components and headers to come into contact with coolant or water, which is crucial for preventing damage.
  • Pump chamber filling: The pump is not a suction pump, so it's essential to ensure the pump chamber is filled with water prior to operation to prevent dry running, which can cause damage.
  • Coolant type: For accurate "virtual flow sensor" calculations, the use of "Double Protect Ultra" coolant is recommended, as the calibration is optimized for its viscosity. Deviations may occur with other coolants or pure water.
  • Firmware updates: The aquasuite software includes the latest firmware for the D5 NEXT. Regular firmware updates are important for ensuring the device operates with the latest features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. The update process is managed through the aquasuite, with warnings against disconnecting the device or powering down the PC during an update.
  • Factory defaults reset: If the pump is not operating properly or if erroneous settings have been saved, the device can be reset to factory defaults either through the aquasuite software or directly via the device menu. This can help resolve configuration-related issues.
  • Update service: The aquasuite software requires an active update service for newer versions. While not directly a maintenance feature of the device itself, ensuring the update service is active allows access to the latest software, which in turn supports the ongoing maintenance and optimal use of the D5 NEXT.
  • Deaeration for calibration: For accurate calibration of the virtual flow sensor, the system must be perfectly deaerated, with no bubbles or foam visible in the coolant. This ensures the sensor receives reliable data for calibration.

Aqua Computer D5 NEXT Specifications

General IconGeneral
Pump TypeD5
Control TypePWM
Max Flow Rate1500 L/h
Voltage12 V
InterfaceUSB 2.0
RPM MonitoringYes
Fluid Temperature SensorYes
ConnectorG1/4"
RGB LightingYes