Where does the RGB controller plug into?

The RGB controller typically plugs into your PC's motherboard, a USB header, or a power supply, depending on the type of controller and setup you're using. Here are the common places where an RGB controller connects:

1. Motherboard RGB Header

• Many modern motherboards have dedicated RGB headers (often labeled as 12V RGB or 5V addressable RGB). These headers allow you to directly connect the RGB controller to the motherboard.
• This method lets you control the lighting through motherboard software like Corsair iCUE, ASUS Aura Sync, or MSI Mystic Light.

2. USB Header

• Some RGB controllers, especially those that offer more advanced features and effects, may use a USB header to connect to the motherboard. This connection is typically for controllers like those from Corsair or NZXT, which use their own software for lighting control.
• This type of connection is useful when the RGB controller comes with a USB interface for software-based control.

3. Power Supply (Molex or SATA Power)

• Certain RGB controllers that do not require motherboard integration may plug directly into the power supply via Molex or SATA power connectors. This setup is more common for standalone RGB light strips or controllers for non-PC RGB lighting systems.
• These controllers will still allow you to control the lighting using buttons or a remote control but may not offer full software control via the motherboard.

4. Dedicated RGB Power Controllers

• Some simpler RGB controllers, especially those designed for light strips or standalone RGB fans, might not need motherboard headers and instead plug directly into a standard power outlet via an AC-to-DC adapter.
• These are often controlled via a remote control or manual button presses.

5. GPU (for certain RGB components)

• A small number of RGB setups are controlled via the graphics card (GPU), which can have a direct RGB header or support specific RGB technologies like ASUS Aura or MSI Mystic Light for GPU lighting effects.

Summary

• Motherboard RGB Header: For syncing RGB lighting with the system using software.
• USB Header: For RGB controllers requiring software control and more advanced features.
• Power Supply (Molex/SATA): For standalone RGB lighting setups that don't rely on motherboard control.
• Dedicated Power Controllers: Often used for simpler, non-PC RGB systems controlled by remote or buttons.

Once the RGB controller is connected to the appropriate port, you can control your lighting effects either through software, a manual controller, or a remote control depending on the setup.