Alphacool Apex Distro Plate North XL D5/DDC - Black (14647)

The Alphacool Apex Distro Plate North XL D5/DDC - Black is a distro plate with an integrated 261ml reservoir for the North XL case, and it takes a D5/VPP or a DDC pump. Pump not included. It mounts behind the front radiator, on 240 or 360 mm radiator variants only, and also comes in white.

Properties

Pump

D5/VPP or DDC, not included

Capacity

261ml

Ports

9x G1/4 (1x fill port and 1x drain port)

Size (L x W x H)

290 x 73 x 69 mm

Mounting

240mm / 360mm radiator variants

Lighting

17 digital aRGB LEDs, 5V

Made for the North XL

Alphacool calls the plate the ultimate upgrade for integrating your components into a custom water cooling loop within the North XL case. It was specifically designed for that case and, by Alphacool's account, blends seamlessly into it both functionally and aesthetically. As part of the Apex product line it represents what Alphacool calls top-tier engineering, combining premium materials with cutting-edge technology. Available in black and white, the plate complements both color variants of the North XL chassis.

Fittings and reservoir

The G1/4 fittings are made from chrome-plated brass. They are not screwed directly into the acrylic, which Alphacool says significantly reduces the risk of cracking and leakage. The fittings consist of two parts and are secured with O-rings, ensuring a tight and durable seal within the acrylic structure. The integrated reservoir is crafted from what Alphacool calls high-quality acrylic glass. The front cover is color-matched to the case and features cutouts that provide a clear view of the coolant flow.

Lighting

In Alphacool's words the aRGB lighting adds a vibrant touch, illuminating the distro plate and enhancing the overall look of the system. It comes from 17 digital aRGB LEDs on 5V.

Pump mount

Alphacool says its newly developed pump mount sets new standards. The plate supports both D5/VPP and DDC pump formats, with the pump mounted discreetly on the back of the plate. For a D5 or VPP pump the manual says to insert the O-ring and tighten the screws with 1.5 Nm. With a DDC pump the O-ring of the pump itself is used, at the same 1.5 Nm.

Mounting

Installation is straightforward using the included Core Distroplate 90° Universal Bracket, allowing the distro plate to be mounted behind the front radiator. Alphacool says this setup not only optimizes the loop layout but also creates a striking visual centerpiece. The plate is designed exclusively for installation on 240 / 360 mm radiator variants. Due to the limited mounting space inside the North XL case, Alphacool rules out any other installation options there. Alphacool's note adds that the plate can also be installed in other cases compatible with the same bracket. Dimensions and compatibility details are available in the technical specifications below.

What the loop needs

The pump is yours to add: a D5 or VPP pump, or a DDC pump. In the manual's port labels, OUT leads from the distro plate to the component and IN comes back from the component. Unused ports take the G1/4 plugs in the box.

Filling and venting

Fill the reservoir with a suitable coolant. To remove trapped air, the manual says to sway the reservoir back and forth a little, then open a suitable port so the bubbles can escape. Top up if necessary, switch on the pump to distribute the water, switch it off and repeat until all the air is out.

Technical Data

Notes

• Use only clear, transparent water cooling fluids. Alphacool warns that the particles and additives in pastel liquids can clog and permanently damage radiators, pumps, coolers and hoses, which can void the manufacturer's warranty.

In the box

• 1x Apex Distro Plate
• 1x Core Distroplate 90° Universal Mounting Bracket
• 1x Mounting Bracket
• 1x D5 O-Ring
• 4x M4x20 Pump Screw
• 4x M4x25 Pump Screw
• 6x M3x6 Screw
• 6x 6-32x3 Screw
• 9x M4x6 Screw
• 3x M3x25 Screw
• 4x G1/4 Plug
• 1x Plug tool
• 1x ARGB Adapter

Alphacool's manual and data sheet are both PDFs.