MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - Koolance EXOS External Water Cooling System Review

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EXOS chrome handles

The front portion of the EXOS houses the main control functions and features a 1/4 inch thick acrylic plate coupled with a white EXOS logo, chrome handles and LED control panel. The chrome handles are located on either end of the front portion and can be used to transport or move the EXOS. Aside from function, the chrome handles also bear a rackmount appearance and aid in the overall appearance of the EXOS. A total of 6 screws secure the front portion to the bulk of the unit.

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The control panel conveniently resides at the top of the EXOS unit and bears the Koolance logo printed onto a brushed aluminum backing. The small LCD display is backlit via red LEDs and is responsible for displaying current temperature results of the CPU. A small button labeled "C/F" toggles the LCD display from Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature results. The control panel also manages the triple 80mm exhaust fans in 3 modes. Mode 1 operates the cooling system at 45% power until the temperature reaches 45°C, which it then increases to 100% power. Mode 2 operates the cooling system at 45% power until the temperature reaches 35°C, which it then gradually increases to 100% power at 40°C. Lastly, Mode 3 operates the cooling system at 100% constantly. All 3 modes can be toggled via the Mode button. Power of the EXOS is indicated in the form of a green LED, a yellow "Accel" LED will activate once the cooling system is working above 45% power. Similar to existing Koolance systems, the top portion of the EXOS features a triple 80mm exhaust system that resides in a large shroud. The triple 80mm fans are positioned in an exhaust configuration and remove heat from the radiator. I was unable to retrieve any information as to what the specifications of the fans are.

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EXOS rear view

The rear portion of the EXOS showcases the reservoir via a rectangular cutout complete with the Koolance logo. This feature allows users to easily monitor water levels within the reservoir and also doubles as a safety feature for users to monitor pump activity. A power input along with the quick release valves can be found at the rear or the EXOS. The quick release valves are where the previously covered quick release nozzles click into place; a simple metal push down lip is used to disconnect the quick release nozzles.