Alphacool Apex Distro Plate North XL D5/DDC - White (14671)

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

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

Fittings and seal

The G1/4 fittings are made from chrome-plated brass and are not screwed directly into the acrylic, which Alphacool says significantly reduces the risk of cracking and leakage. They consist of two parts and are secured with O-rings, ensuring a tight and durable seal within the acrylic structure.

Reservoir, cover and lighting

The reservoir is crafted from what Alphacool calls high-quality acrylic glass. The front cover is aluminum, color-matched to the case, and features cutouts that provide a clear view of the coolant flow. aRGB lighting adds a vibrant touch, illuminating the plate and enhancing the overall look of the system.

Pump mount

Alphacool says the newly developed pump mount sets new standards, because it supports both D5/VPP and DDC pump formats. The pump is mounted discreetly on the back of the plate. For a D5 or VPP pump the manual says to insert the O-ring, while a DDC pump keeps the O-ring it came with. In both cases the pump screws are tightened with 1.5 Nm.

Installation

Installation is straightforward using the included Core Distroplate 90° Universal Bracket, allowing the 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. Due to the limited mounting space inside the North XL, no installation options other than a 240 or 360 mm radiator variant are possible. Alphacool's note adds that the plate can also be installed in other cases compatible with that bracket. Dimensions and compatibility details are available in the technical specifications below.

What the loop needs

The plate needs a D5/VPP or DDC pump, such as the Alphacool VPP Apex Pump. Every port in use takes a G1/4 fitting from our fittings section, and the ports left over are closed with the G1/4 plugs in the box. The manual marks the ports: OUT leads from the plate to the component, IN comes back from the component.

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 air bubbles can escape. All other openings stay closed or in use while you do. Top up the coolant if necessary and switch on the pump so the water is distributed in the circuit. Switch it off again and repeat until all the air has escaped.

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.