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Joins devices together
Several ARGB devices can display the same colour or effect from one hub.
How to control your RGB lighting
Customer lighting guide
How to control your RGB lighting
Many gaming PCs use an ARGB controller to power and coordinate their lighting. Your exact controls depend on the case, motherboard and controller fitted to your build. This guide explains the three most common setups.
Find your setupRGB software linksThe basics
What does an ARGB controller do?
An ARGB controller, sometimes called an ARGB hub, connects several illuminated devices to one central point, including case fans, light strips, illuminated coolers and RGB extension cables.
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Provides built-in effects
Most hubs include colours, rainbow patterns, breathing effects and speed controls.
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Can pass control to the board
Compatible hubs can switch to motherboard mode for software control.
ARGB and RGB are not the same
ARGB normally uses a 5V three-pin connection. Traditional RGB normally uses a 12V four-pin connection. Never force a plug onto a header. Connecting a 5V device to a 12V header can permanently damage the LEDs.
Choose the description that matches your PC
The three most common control setups
Pink Parsnip Computers will explain which setup has been used in your build. Button names and exact behaviour vary between cases and controller manufacturers.
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Physical button only
This is common where the motherboard has no compatible ARGB header.
- Press the LED button to change effects.
- The reset button may be assigned instead.
- Software control is unavailable.
- The hub's built-in effects remain available.
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Button plus software
The hub is connected to a compatible 5V ARGB motherboard header.
- Press the case button to rotate effects.
- Typically hold it for about three seconds for motherboard mode.
- Open the installed RGB software.
- Hold again to return to controller mode.
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Controller with remote
The remote offers quick access to colours and effects.
- Point it towards the infrared receiver.
- Select colours and animation speeds.
- Use the MB, M/B or sync button for motherboard mode.
- Some remotes also offer fan-speed controls.
Quick method
Switching to motherboard control
This applies only where the controller has been connected to a compatible ARGB header.
1. Start with lights on
Allow Windows to load and confirm the lighting is active.
2. Use the case button
Hold the LED or assigned reset button for around three seconds.
3. Or use the remote
Press MB, M/B, sync or motherboard mode.
4. Open the app
Select the ARGB header and choose your preferred effect.
Official downloads and guides
Common RGB control software
Use the application selected for your motherboard and components. Running several competing RGB applications at once can cause conflicts.
MSI Mystic Light
For compatible MSI boards and components.
ASUS Aura Sync
Available through ASUS Armoury Crate.
Gigabyte RGB Fusion
For supported Gigabyte and AORUS hardware.
ASRock Polychrome
For compatible ASRock motherboards.
SignalRGB
Third-party unified lighting software.
OpenRGB
Free and open-source RGB control.
Corsair iCUE
For compatible Corsair products.
Memory lighting
What about RGB RAM?
RGB memory often appears as a separate device inside the lighting software. It can usually be synchronised with your fans, although occasionally a second application is required.
One application controls everything
Select the motherboard, ARGB header and memory icons, choose a synchronise option, then apply one colour or effect to all devices.
Two applications are required
Do not let two programs control the same device. Keep a note of the original working configuration and avoid unnecessary extra RGB software.
Troubleshooting
Frequently asked questions
Why does my reset button change the lighting?
Some cases use the reset switch as the controller button when no separate LED button is fitted. This is intentional.
Why does the software not change my fans?
The hub may still be using its built-in effects. Hold the assigned case button for approximately three seconds or press the remote's motherboard mode button.
Why do all fans show the same effect?
A standard hub normally sends one lighting signal to every connected device. Advanced builds may use separate headers or zones.
Can I install different RGB software?
Yes, but additional applications can conflict with the working configuration supplied with the PC. Support for third-party software must be provided by its developer.
Your lighting is tested before dispatch
Every Pink Parsnip Computers system leaves us with its supplied lighting tested and working. We will explain whether your PC uses a case button, motherboard software, an infrared remote or a combination of these methods. Where software control is included, the appropriate application will normally be installed and configured before delivery.