I have an older MSI B250 PC Mate (MS-7A72) motherboard that doesn't include RGB or ARGB headers. A friend gave me five RGB fans, and I'd like to install them mainly for appearance since the computer is now used for work and watching videos. Are there adapters or standalone controllers that would let me power and control these fans without built-in motherboard RGB support?
3 Answers
You can use a standalone RGB controller instead of connecting the lighting directly to the motherboard. Many controllers connect to a USB 2.0 header for control and use SATA power from the power supply. Cooler Master and similar brands make this type of controller.
Since these are three-pin ARGB fans, look for a 5V ARGB controller powered by SATA. A USB-controlled model or one with a physical remote will work without motherboard RGB headers. Just avoid plugging three-pin 5V ARGB fans into a four-pin 12V RGB socket, because the voltage and connector standard are different.
First check the fan plugs. Three-pin ARGB fans usually use a connector that is four positions wide with one blocked or missing hole, while four-pin RGB fans use all four positions. Buy a controller that matches the connector type. Most controllers take SATA power and then provide either a 3-pin ARGB or 4-pin RGB connection for the fans.
Razer, Corsair, Antec, and several other brands sell separate RGB controllers, so there are plenty of options as long as the controller matches the fans.