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Product:
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AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler |
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Price:
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$45 (CAN) / $34 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Nikao/Tradex
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Author:
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Shennon
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Date:
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February 2nd, 2004
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Jeffrey from Tradex Information Technology Incorporation
for sending the AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler for review.
Introduction:
Assembling a cooling system for a custom rig can be a real challenge for consumers who have use
different computing platforms. Each time a new CPU platform is developed; consumers must adapt to a new
cooling solution to keep system temperatures minimal. AeroCool based out of Taipei, Taiwan has developed
a series of CPU coolers to adapt to the AMD Duron, Athlon and XP as well as the Intel Pentium 4 socket
478 platform. The coolers are designed to be versatile over several different platforms and at the same
time be cost effective. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler, a
new product which utilizes a unique design to cool high performance CPU's.
Specifications:
The AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler is part of a new line of bonding fin series CPU Coolers for the AMD and
Intel platform. Five different previous models are available, each in different colours and fan selection.
Here are some of the specifications taken directly from the AeroCool and Tradex Information Technology
websites:
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AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler - Key Specifications:
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| AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler: Manufactured by AeroCool |
| Dimension: 63mm x 70mm x 31mm |
| Material: Copper |
| Weight: 330g |
| Applications: Intel P4 socket 478 3.6GHz AMD Duron all, Athlon (TB) all, Athlon XP 3000+ |
| Fan Dimension: 80mm x 80mm x 25mm |
| Bearing: Sleeve |
| Fan RPM: 2600 RPM |
| Air Flow: 34 CFM |
| Noise Level: 30 dBA |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler arrived packaged in a transparent blue plastic case with the AeroCool logos
located on the sides and top. The label at the top of the package identifies this particular cooler as the
Extreme version. The use of the plastic case differs from the packing of rival manufacturers that use
traditional cardboard . The plastic case is very handy for keeping small bits and accessories in place
while the cooler is in use.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Extreme CPU Cooler comes ready to mount on an AMD CPU, but will also mount onto a P4 system
by swapping the retention clips. I did find the lack of a grill on the 80mm fan surprising, since its
keeps smaller objects such as wiring out of the fan blades while in operation. Also in the package was
an instruction sheet that should help most people with the installation of the Extreme Cooler as well as
a small tube of AeroCool Aero-700 thermal grease. The thermal grease is composed of aluminum oxide and is
manufactured in China. Aero-700 conains a small percentage of aluminum flake and organic silver coloring
to give it the appearance of silver.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The AeroCool Extreme CPU Cooler sports a blue anodized fan shroud that will aid in keeping the 80mm fan
secure during operation. The Extreme CPU Cooler has a total of 33 thin copper fins bonded to a copper
base which can give better thermal conductivity than aluminum, but at a higher cost since copper is more
expensive. The copper fins can be easily bent, so great care should be taken when switching the
retention clips. The bottom of the cooler has been sanded flat and buffed with an overall mid-level
reflection. I did notice a few machine marks as well as a few pits located on the base of the copper
surface. Lapping will remove the sanding marks, but only make the pits shallower. Thankfully, the pits
shouldn’t interfere with the CPU die as they are towards the outer area towards the edges. Consumers
should always use high quality thermal paste such as Arctic Silver, Cooling Flow or other comparable paste
for better cooling results.
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