MODTHEBOX would like to thank Cyrus from Zalman Tech
for sending the Zalman ZM80C-HP Heatpipe VGA Cooler and ZM-OP1 for review.
Introduction:
Today’s games demand a fair amount of resources out of a graphics card, and as the demands increase, so
does the temperature of the graphical processor. While the major manufacturers are adding small fan
configurations to most cards, this doesn't mean that it is the best solution for power users. Zalman,
who has stunned us in the past with their line of CPU coolers, both by performance as well as their
unique designs, has created a GPU cooler that utilizes the mounting holes inherent in most of the
current cards on the market. The Zalman Heatpipe VGA Cooler ZM80C-HP is the newest product in their CNPS or
Computer Noise Prevention System product line. The CNPS system is aimed at reducing traditional computer
system's noise of 30dB or higher to 20dB or lower. Today in the MTB labs, we will be evaluating the
ZM80C-HP Heatpipe VGA Cooler as well as a quick look at the optional ZM-OP1, an 80mm add-on fan kit.
Specifications:
The Zalman Heatpipe VGA Cooler ZM80C-HP is an all-inclusive kit that includes all the necessary components
for installation. Installation of this product can be completed in less than 30 minutes with only a
screw driver required. The Zalman Heatpipe VGA Cooler ZM80C-HP uses a universal mounting clip which
makes this product compatible with most NVIDIA and ATI video cards. Here are some of the specifications
taken directly from the Zalman website:
Zalman Heatpipe VGA Cooler ZM80C-HP: Manufactured by Zalman Tech
Weight: 325g
Heatpipe: Gold Plated Copper Tube
Dissipation Material: Aluminum
Dissipation Area: 1200
By utilizing a heatpipe, the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit, a.k.a. Video Chipset) can be cooled without a fan
The fanless design ensures complete noiselessness and permanent, maintenance-free operation
It can be used on virtually all kinds of video cards, so it can be reused with upgraded video cards
This product can have a noiseless fan attached to the heatsink without using a bracket
By attaching the noiseless fan (ZM-OP1), the video chipset, as well as the memory chips on both side of the video card gets cooled for a more stable operation of the video card
Zalman ZM-OP1 80mm Fan Kit - Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 80mm (L) x 80mm (W) x 15mm (H)
Weight: 75g
Bearing Type: 2-Ball
Fan Speed Silent Mode: 1400 RPM ± 10%, Normal Mode: 2800 RPM ± 10%
Noise Level Silent Mode: 20 dB ± 10%, Normal Mode: 33 dB ± 10%
MTBF: 50,000 hrs
Grill: 80mm
Multi-Connector: ZM-MC1 (3-pin)
Click image for larger view
Click image for larger view
The Zalman Heatpipe VGA Cooler ZM80C-HP arrived in a formed Perspex package. All logos, specifications
and features are printed on the front and back of the included manual which is used as the backer of the
package. All the parts are arranged in such a manner that one can see all the parts and should have a
pretty good idea what is involved in regards to assembly. If not, the diagram on the back of the manual
should be a decent tip off as well.
Click image for larger view
Click image for larger view
There are six main pieces constructed of aluminum which make up the compositon of the heatsink. Two of
the larger pieces are labeled as to which side of the card they are installed on. Each piece has been
have been extruded and then milled into the current shape along with a series of mounting holes that
have been drilled and tapped. Each piece measures approximately 120mm x 80 mm, which should be slightly
smaller length-wise of the average video card. Height-wise it should be close. The heatsink bases, the
remaining four pieces, again are extruded into shape and have screw holes drilled and tapped into
position to allow total assembly to (hopefully) happen without incident. Zalman did include two sizes
to the heatsink bases to cover almost any configuration of graphic cards. The only one that the ZM80C-HP
doesn’t work with are cards without mounting holes.
