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SocketA Coolers Roundup Q4 `2002

Tests

We used the cheapest among the Athlon XP line (XP 1600+) as the test processor. But all the tests were done with a processor whose clock speed was pushed from its standard 1400 MHz up to 1750 MHz, and the 1.85V voltage (the maximum for Soltek 85FRV motherboard which, by the way, supports Athlon XP thermal sensor).

In this operation mode the processor consumes about 80 W of power. Therefore, this allows to approximately estimate the efficiency of the coolers on new Thoroughbred processors. Although based on the 0.13 mk process technology, the Thoroughbred processors run at higher speeds and the heat emission is quite high.

The first test was done in the Idle mode, i.e. the WinAmp player is running in the tray while the user is browsing HTML files.

As we can see, full copper and partly copper coolers prevent coolers from heating up over 60 C.

Now we apply maximum load to the processor. For that we use the CPUBurn (or the like) software. By the way, games are not quite suitable for heating up processors. In particular, the popular Quake3 Arena heats the processor up by 3-6 C less than the CPUBurn does.

the zero value means no tests were done.

As you remember, in the previous roundup I selected the best coolers from each of the price range and those best at the "maximum efficiency/minimum noise" ratio for each of the category. Let's see if the new coolers can press the former leaders.

See what we've got.

In our table, the following changes have been observed.

1. First, in the 200-400 rubles price range, in the maximum efficiency category, the cooler Igloo 2400 has established a firm foothold and outpaced the Tt Volcano 6CU by a couple of C degrees.

   Probably, the 6CU+ model equipped with a high-speed fan (7000 RPM) would have shown similar results. But it is only those coolers that run relatively quietly or those for which the manufacturer promises a quiet operation are taken for the review. The 6CU+ model won't ever fall within this category :)

2. Secondly, in the price range 200-400 rubles in the maximum quietness category, the Titan TTC-D5TB(TC) has gained a no less strong foothold. Owing to the very quiet 80 mm fan which is equipped with a speed vs. temperature controller, it takes the lead in this price category.

3. Thirdly, in the price range 600-800 rubles in the maximum quietness category, the Thermaltake Volcano9 has pressed the long-standing leaders manufactured by Zalman.

4. But in the maximum efficiency category, Volcano9 is a loser. Its main rival, Titan TTC-CU5TB cooler, shows equal performance level, but it runs an order of magnitude less quieter and costs much less.

Findings

Thermaltake Volcano 9
Brief resume - it is a slightly modified Volcano 7 with improved noise characteristics. The buyer gets a choice between the manual and automatic rotational speed selections depending on the thermal sensor readings. In its own way, the cooler is universal - it would suit to those seeking quiet operation mode as well as those into overclocking (however, the overclocker will have to balance between the high noise levels and the cooling efficiency). No doubt it offers definite pluses: the variable resistance and a thermal sensor. But its high price, $22, crosses out all of its advantages.

Titan TTC-D5TB(TC)
Unlike Volcano 9, the cooler TTC-D5TB(TC) is meant for only one thing - maximum quiet operation at minimum cost. Indeed, for this reasonable money we get a cooler that is able to cool most advanced cutting-edge processors while keeping the noise levels at an acceptable level. On the other hand, I would advise taking a very special care when using the cooler for overclocked processors. The range of reasonable voltage raise for Titan TTC-D5TB(TC) is about 0.1V. But if you've got a faulty specimen of the processor which requires a substantial voltage raise, then I would recommend taking a closer look at coolers with fully (or partly) copper radiator.

Igloo 2310
This is one more relatively quiet cooler with an aluminum radiator. It does a great job cooling the processors both at its standard and slightly overclocked speeds. I would not recommend this cooler for the serious overclocker and for use with higher-end Athlon XP models.

Igloo 2400
Owing to its powerful albeit a bit noisy fan, the cooler showed excellent results. By its efficiency, it can be compared to some partly copper coolers. However, if you decide to buy it, I would recommend buying a speed regulator as well.

Addendum

A review of this "miracle" is going to be complete in the nearest time.

Previous tests:

Title

	Content:
	Thermaltake Volcano 9 Titan TTC-D5TB(TC) GlacialTech Igloo 2310 GlacialTech Igloo 2400 Tests and Conclusions

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