Silentmaxx TwinBlock HSF Passively Cools 100W CPUs

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 24, 2012 - 09:58 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: silentmaxx, passive cooling, hsf, cpu cooling, cooler

Having a silent system without fans is a noble goal, but CPUs generally need at least one. A new heatsink from Silentmaxx called the TwinBlock is designed to passively cool processors up to approximately 100W. Supporting sockets 774, 775, 1155, 1156, 1366 on the Intel side and 939, 940, and AMD 2/3 for AMD processors, it is compatible with just about any processor. The TwinBlock is, in a word, massive. Weighting in a just over 3 pounds, the heatsink measures 210mm (B) x 135mm (D) x 160mm (H) mm. It features a copper base with 10 heatpipes that connect to two aluminum fin arrays.

Interestingly, FanlessTech pointed us to a new computer build – the Fanless I-850 Gamer – that the company is planning to use the passive heatsink with to create a silent gaming PC. The PC can be equipped with up to an Intel Core i7-3960X Sandy Bridge-E processor and up to either an AMD 7970 or NVIDIA GTX 670 graphics card. The processor is cooled using the TwinBlock cooler while the GPUs are using custom coolers that should only kick on the fans over long gaming sessions or folding. The Fanless I-850 starts at 1279,00€ for the base configuration.

It is possible to buy just the heatsink, however. The Silentmaxx TwinBlock cooler can be yours for about $120 USD (€ 99.90 inc. VAT). More photos of the cooler are available below, and you can read more about the cooler on the SilentMaxx website.

Source: Fanless Tech

Thermaltake thinks big and spacious with the Frio Advanced heatsink

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 17, 2012 - 07:58 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: thermaltake, Frio Advanced

At 161x131x121mm (6.3"x5.2"x4.8") and 46g short of a kilogram Thermaltake's Frio Advanced is a big chunk of heat conducting metal. The size does lead to one oddity, the two fans are 130mm which may make modders a little unhappy as it will be hard to find alternative fans of the same size. The heatpipes directly contact the heatspreader on your CPU but thanks to a new design they do not solidly connect with the body of the heatsink, as FrostyTech explains in their full review. In the end we have a heatsink on the good side of average, perhaps a little loud with fans on full speed but well worth considering if your case can fit it.

"Thermaltake's Frio Advanced heatsink stands 161mm tall and weighs upwards of 954 grams, it is rated to heat loads of 230 Watts by the manufacturer. The heatsink ships with two 130mm PWM fans arranged in a push-pull configuration that rotate at 2000-800RPM. Behind each fan shroud is a 110mm tall aluminum fin tower connected by five U-shaped, 6mm diameter copper heatpipes which are exposed at the base. Thermaltake's Frio Advanced heatsink is compatible with Intel socket LGA2011/1366/1155/1156/775 and AMD socket AM2/AM3/FM1 CPUs."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: FrostyTech

Comments (0)

Prolimatech Shows Off Blue Megahalems CPU Cooler

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 16, 2012 - 04:21 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: prolimatech, megahalems, hsf, cpu cooler, anodized blue

Popular processor cooler manufacturer Prolimatech has offered its Megahalems cooler for a couple of years now, and it has seen several revisions. The latest modification seems to be purely aesthetic – and I can’t say I’m opposed. Despite my (irrational?) fear of large heatsinks ripping a chunk off of my motherboard, I do find them impressive. A new Megahalems was spotted by Fanless Tech that sports an anodized blue finish that is quite sleek looking.

We don’t have any details beyond the images, but it is reportedly a Megahalems Revision B with a glossy blue finish. The Megahalems Rev. B is of course the company’s answer to Intel’s socket 1156 processors (though it is also compatible with socket(s) 775, 1156, 1366, and 2011). It weighs 790 grams – approximately 1.74 pounds – and measures 158.7mm tall and 74mm wide. It can further support a 120mm fan for active cooling, and it sports six heatpipes. Needless to say, it is rather large and packs quite a bit of air cooling potential. (We reviewed the original Megahalems awhile back, and came away impressed).

I can only speak for myself here, but this is one giant air cooler that I wouldn’t mind risking my motherboard for (what can I say, they used my favorite color ;) ). What do you think of the Prolimatech prototype? Check out more photos over at FanlessTech.

Source: Fanless Tech

Corsair Carbide Series 300R PC Gaming Case Now Available in Windowed Version

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 12, 2012 - 03:19 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: window, corsair, Carbide 300R

Corsair's new $100 Carbide Series 300R with a window is a great choice for anyone who wants a case with some nice features but doesn't want to spend too much money. Able to fit long video cards and large heatsinks and a serious amount of 5.25" and 3.5" drive bays which are not only tool-less but are also convertible to 2.5" bays for SSDs. You can fit a half dozen 120mm or 140mm fans for air cooling and as there are 7 expansion slots this makes a great home for multi-GPU systems. Read the PR below and head to Corsair for the tech specs and purchasing information.

FREMONT, California — July 12, 2012 — Corsair®, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced that the Carbide Series™ 300R Compact PC Gaming Case is now available in a windowed version.

First released in January, the Carbide 300R PC case has won accolades for its compact, streamlined, builder-friendly design. The new Carbide Series 300R windowed version of the case features a side window that gives PC builders the ability to demonstrate their modding skills while also showcasing internal PC components, such as Corsair's PC performance-tuned Vengeance® DDR3 memory, GS Series™ power supplies, Hydro Series™ CPU coolers, and Air Series™ cooling fans.

The Corsair Carbide Series 300R: a compact expression of Corsair's gaming PC philosophy

Great gaming systems begin with a great case, and the Carbide Series 300R provides a remarkable number of in-demand features in an attractive, compact chassis. Builder-friendly features include three tool-free optical drive bays and four tool-free hard drive bays with integrated 2.5" SSD compatibility. There's room for high-end GPUs of up to 450mm in length, and the matte black interior incorporates Corsair's innovative cable routing system that helps keep wires and cables out of sight for a clean look and improved airflow. The 300R comes with intake and exhaust fans, with room for five additional fans including dual side-mounted fans for direct GPU cooling.

Source: Corsair

Silver Power's 850W Gorilla

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 11, 2012 - 05:33 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: SP-850M, silver power, PSU, 850W, 80 Plus Bronze

Silver Power have been making PSUs for quite a while, though they've not received much press lately which changes with their new SP-850M PSU. Their simian logo is all over this semi-modular power supply, which has four 6+2 PCIe power connectors for multiple GPU rigs as well as a nice selection of SATA power. OC3D was nicely surprised by the efficiency of the PSU, while rated for 80 Plus Bronze their testing showed results more appropriate for an 80+ Gold rated PSU. OC3D are not fans of the silverback, but love the actual PSU once they realized they could run it at 983W all day long.

"It's been a few years since the angry ape first made its debut on OC3D, now it's finally back for some second helpings."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Overclock3D

Pass the ammunition, appropriately stored in that Corsair Vengeance C70 case

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 5, 2012 - 04:50 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: corsair, Vengeance C70

OCC feels that the Corsair Vengeance C70 bears a resemblance to an ammunition case but at the same time it is a fully functional computer case. At 501mm x 232mm x 533mm it is large enough to fit an ATX motherboard and two 240mm radiators if you remove the lower drive cage. For air coolers, there are three 120mm fans included which provide quite reasonable cooling for your CPU and components. Check out the case review here.

"Overall I honestly can't complain about anything on this chassis. It is roomy, it is quiet, and it cools well. The military-inspired looks may not be for everyone but I definitely like the "no compromise" styling for function over form. The side panel clamps are a dream to work with (no more sore fingers from thumb screws!) and the handles on the top of the case make moving it a simple matter. The case itself is relatively lightweight despite its all-steel construction, which only adds to its portability."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Overclockers Club

Sandia Shows Off Prototype of Its Impeller Cooler

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 25, 2012 - 05:45 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: sandia, impeller, heatsink, cooling, cooler, air bearing

A white paper by Sandia National Laboratories caught the attention of the media last year with big claims for high performance cooling. The researchers had claimed to invent a new type of heatsink based on a impeller design that was allegedly 30% more efficient at heat transfer while being smaller and quieter than traditional air coolers.

Dubbed the Sandia Cooler, the team has come up with an updated prototype that is nearly ready to come to market. Shown off in a recent video, the cooler is a small heatsink based on three relatively simple parts. A stationary disk acts as the base and area that comes into contact with the Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS) of a CPU. Then, a spinning array of curved fins resembling an impeller design is spun up by a small motor mounted in the center of the cooler.

During an industry day, they reportedly signed two license option agreements with two companies to bring the product to market in the areas of solid state lighting (LEDS, et al) and computer hardware cooling, implying that it is getting closer to a final product that it was last year.

Interestingly, the cooler uses an “hydrodynamic air bearing” such that the spinning part of the cooler is spun up to 2,000+ RPM such that the top part separates from the bottom stationary part and rides (they use the analogy of a car hydroplaning) on a very thin layer of air. (Update: as KngRider noted, there is still some friction from the motor spinning the upper part of the cooler, however.) That thin layer of air is what facilitates heat transference from the stationary part to the spinning fins. It does raise questions of efficiency, however. How a layer of air is more efficient than thermal interface material, for example. Reportedly, the air bearing is not an issue that will impact cooling performance but it is a difficult concept to grasp considering TIM and metal-to-metal contact has always been touted as the best cooling situation.

Sandia explains that cool air is drawn into the center of the impeller as heated air is forced outwards through the spinning fins, which reportedly enables efficient heat transfer. In the video, they demonstrate that it is capable of being extremely quiet (nearly silent) despite spinning at an extremely fast rate – the noise in the first part of the video is due to the prototype motor that is not covered. They claim that the final design will use a brush-less motor that will be much quieter.

It’s an intriguing design because of its simplicity and form factor. It is reportedly able to cool more efficiently than some of the best air coolers on the market, which use such techniques as heatpipes that come into direct contact with the CPU IHS, larger fin arrays, and multiple fans. Compared to those coolers, the Sandia prototype is much smaller and simpler in its construction.

The company has further released a white paper (PDF) and has an area of its website dedicated to more information on the Sandia cooler. While I cannot vet the fluid dynamics they detail, it certainly looks good on paper. I’m excited to see this come to market and whether or not it will live up to its promise of more efficient (and quiet!) cooling. It could be an important asset in cooling computer hardware in everything from desktops to server rooms. Also, it might just be the advancement that air coolers have been looking for as far as the next jump in performance – more than simply adding additional heatpipes or fins (and dealing with weight, size, and diminishing returns as a result) can do alone.

I’ll say that I’m skeptically optimistic on this one, but I do hope that it’s the real deal. What do you think of the impeller cooler? Does it appear promising?

Source: Sandia

Another look at CoolerMaster's return to the Vapour Chamber

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 21, 2012 - 02:20 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Heatpipes have been in vogue for a while now, but once long ago it was vapour chambers which made for the best heatsinks, a fact which CoolerMaster has not forgotten. Their new TPC-812 shows one of the reasons that heatpipes took over, as the vapour chamber never starts to show promise until the second fan was added. The extra surface area from the combination of vapour chamber and heatpipes benefits from the increased airflow but at the cost of additional noise, whereas many heatpipe only coolers will not show the same level of improvement. On the other hand they provide better cooling with only one fan making them the choice of people with sensitive ears. X-bit Labs were not terribly impressed and suggest that maybe the vapour chamber should stay forgotten.

"CPU coolers have finally sported something new in their design. Although, I think, it would be more correct to say that it is more of a well forgotten old, rather than something completely new. Maybe it was a mistake to give up the vapor chamber technology a while back? Let’s find out with the help of the new Cooler Master cooler."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: X-Bit Labs

Seriously short on power? LEPA has a 1600W solution for you

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 18, 2012 - 08:00 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: kilowatt, lepa, G Series 1600W, 80 Plus Gold

If you have quad SLI/Crossfire, dual CPUs and dozens of hard drives you might find yourself in a position where a 1600W PSU is something you actually need. That is where the LEPA 1600W PSU come in, with 10 eight pin PCIe connectors and 14 SATA connectors as well as numerous molex connectors for your fans. [H]ard|OCP's testing showed that this PSU did deserve it's 80 PLUS Gold rating and more importantly it provided solid power. It sports a decent price, in fact it is almost the same price as several PSUs which are rated at 250W lower. There was something about the unit which kept it from earning a Gold Award but you will have to read the full review to see why [H] decided on Silver for this PSU.

"LEPA is an Ecomaster company and Ecomaster distributes Enermax products and has Enermax design the LEPA PSU line. So what are our expectations from the current ultimate desktop PSU packing a whopping 1600 watts? Should it be better than a four year old 1600 watt power supplies on the market?"

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: [H]ard|OCP

MSI's mid range enclosure, the Ravager

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 13, 2012 - 06:26 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: msi, ravager

MSI's second case has hit the market, a mid-tower case called the Ravager which comes with a $100 price tag. On the exterior, apart from a nice paint job and window you will find two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 ports as well as audio ports and the HDD LED. The blue interior is quite striking, even before any parts are installed and tool-less quick mounts for the six 3.5" and three 5.25" hard drives are well appreciated though some 2.5" adapters would be a nice touch for SSD users. Techware Labs really liked this case; it is good to see MSI's quality extend into new markets.

"MSI has sent us the new Ravager mid tower case. If the black with blue claw marks on the sides doesn't get your attention, the price will at just $99 MSRP at the time of this review. The blue color scheme continues inside with most of the motherboard mounting plate, HDD trays and quick-release clips for the 5.25” drive bays. The Ravager comes with many features that can be expanded upon and upgraded easily so the consumer can not only purchase the case at a great price but is able to customize case with what he/she wants. Lets' dive into what the Ravager has to offer..."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Techware Labs

SilverStone SST-HE02 giant passive CPU cooler

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling | June 11, 2012 - 06:29 PM | Scott Michaud
Tagged: Silverstone, SST-HE02, passive cooling

Olivier of FanlessTech notified us of a recent SilverStone passive CPU cooler. If you would prefer to jam your case with a giant piece of metal than hear a fan whine -- you should read on. I must say, this gets me interested.

I hope this will continue to be a trend of not needing to trade-off between performance and silence.

It is becoming very difficult to find passive cooling systems for PC parts and it becomes even more difficult if you actually want a good PC when all is said and done. The latest cooler from SilverStone will support CPUs up to 95W which is well over what is required for even the higher-end 77W Ivy Bridge processors.

If only there would be options like this for a GTX 680 or similar GPU.

It is a shame that passive power supplies seem to have not crept too far past 500W and that GPU coolers have been getting substantially less and less passive over time. But I guess someone needs to break the ice and I am glad that you will at least have an option for passively cooling higher-end CPUs and maybe we will see that trickle into other high-end PC markets.

The SST-HE02 is expected to cost $70 and will be available late in Q3 of this year.

Source: FanlessTech

A small case with big features from Silverstone

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 5, 2012 - 07:23 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Silverstone, Temjin TJ08-E Evolution, SFF, MicroATX

Silverstone's Temjin TJ08-E Evolution is a strange beast, with a 180mm fan and the ability to house full sized graphics cards but it is built for microATX boards. That does make it perfect for some SandyBridge/SBE boards with multiple 16x PCIe slots that are of microATX design. There is a fan controller, a removable motherboard tray and quite a few other handy features all of which netted a Recommendation from The Tech Report. If you need a LAN box or just want a PC in a smaller case then you really should check this one out.

"With an 180-mm intake fan and room for high-end video cards, Silverstone's Temjin TJ08-E Evolution looks well-equipped to take on mid-tower cases. Except it's a Micro ATX mini-tower. We take a closer look to see if size really matters."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: The Tech Report

Rosewill Premieres a Full Line of Gaming Weaponry

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Shows and Expos | June 5, 2012 - 12:09 AM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: rosewill, computex, computex 2012, Fortress, Tachyon, SilentNight, Hercules, Throne

Rosewill is up to quite a bit at this years Computex with quite a few different products to house or interface with your computer. Starting with the largest of their new lineup; who wouldn't want another full sized Throne in their house?

Nine hard drive bays with four fans passing air over them, ten expansion bays to handle even the Wonder Twin Dream System with handy grommets for watercooling or wire management the interior of your case will look snazzy. A bottom mounted PSU and top mounted large exhaust fan does make air cooling an extreme system possible for any hydrophobics out there. Those preferring a good looking exterior will like the LEDs.

Speaking of PSUs, they are showing off an 80Plus Platinum Certified tro at Computex with the Fortress, Tachyon and SilentNight with the 1600W Hercules standing tall above them.

They have two mechanical keyboards on display as well, though they do not specify which type they have used, the Limited Edition Elite Ivory RK-9000 series and the backlit RK-9100. That doesn't cover all the releases they have (though it does their pictures), as they have the RSV-L4500 server chassis with up to 15 3.5" drives and eight 120mm fans, the RMX-N360RT wireless router for beginning network techs as well as experienced ones and a dual Xeon Super System named after a cult classic, which may be the only way to lay your hands on four GTX680's, the Red Dawn.

Source: Rosewill

Corsair announces AX1200i DSP-based fully modular power supply

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 4, 2012 - 06:01 PM | Ryan Shrout
Tagged: power supply, corsair, computex, ax1200i

As Computex continues into its first full day over in Taiwan, Corsair has a few things to show you, starting with a new high-end power supply called the AX1200i, a completely digitally-controlled unit.

The new AX1200i is rated at 80 PLUS Platinum levels of efficiency thanks in part to the digital power control technology to provide stable voltages, low ripple and low noise levels. A new circuit board layout and reduced component count also aid in the ability for this Corsair unit to hit efficiency as high as 92% and to operate in a fanless, silent mode up to 40% utilization.

"Corsair has earned a reputation as one of world’s best providers of enthusiast PSUs, and with the AX1200i, we have raised the technology and performance bar far above anything the market has seen,” said Ruben Mookerjee, VP and General Manager of the Components Business Unit at Corsair. “By designing the first DSP-based enthusiast PSU and integrating our unique Corsair Link technology, we can offer enthusiasts a PSU with a matchless combination of performance and customizable features.”

AX1200i’s DSP-based design, combined with Corsair Link technology, provides enthusiasts with unprecedented control over the features and performance characteristics of their PSU. This includes real-time monitoring of temperature, current draw, and power efficiency, as well as the ability to adjust the speed of the internal 140mm fan. These features also allow for a unique level of customization, such as the ability to switch from the default single +12V rail configuration to a tailored “multi-rail” mode, with the ability to set over current protection set-points on a per-rail basis.

The new Corsair AX1200i power supply will be available in August and will ship with a 7-year warranty. Pricing is unknown.

Source: Corsair

XFX's pricey Platinum ProSeries PSU performs perfectly

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 1, 2012 - 02:40 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: xfx, ProSeries 1000W, modular psu, kilowatt, PSU, 80 Plus Platinum

With a half dozen modified 8-pin PCI-Express connectors, 8 Molex connectors, and 11 SATA connectors the XFX ProSeries 1000W PSU will handle the needs of a powerful system. The interior components are very similar to the Seasonic Platinum 1000W which is one of [H]ard|OCP's favourites. As with the Seasonic, the XFX PSU carries an 80 Plus Platinum rating which testing proved to be essentially accurate as [H] was not going to quibble about a 0.6% difference on their review model. You have to pay a bit more for this PSU but if you want to pick up a model that won [H]'s Editor's Choice and Gold Award then this PSU is a sure bet.

"XFX has a tremendously impressive track record here at HardOCP when it comes to enthusiast class PSUs. To date, four XFX PSU reviews, three Gold and one Silver Editor’s Choice Awards. Its new 1KW ProSeries PSU features no wires! No not like that, but rather on the inside. Let’s see if SolidLink Technology is award worthy."

Here is some more Tech News from around the web:

Tech Talk

Source: [H]ard|OCP

The Ice Wind Pro is a breeze to install

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 24, 2012 - 01:57 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Deepcool, Ice Wind Pro, heatsink

One neglected feature of heatsinks has always been the ease of installation, which has become much worse now that many heatsinks are so heavy they require a backplate to prevent its weight from damaging your socket or motherboard. For those who would prefer a heatsink that can be installed without needed to access the back of the motherboard, or even removing the board from its case, DeepCool's Ice Wind Pro might be a good choice. At 650g it is light compared to many other models and the handy bracket offers more than enough support for that weight. Of course there are some downsides to such a light cooler, check out how well it could cool a CPU over at Overclockers Club.

"The thing that impressed me the most about this cooler, believe it or not, was its installation process. The 100% tool-free, in-case, no-rear-access-required installation went through like a breeze. It took only minutes to go from having no cooler to having this one installed. It's the first of its kind that is done this way and I hope other manufacturers take a step for lighter-end coolers that can get away without a heavy-duty mounting mechanism. The cooler's build quality is top notch, which follows in the steps of previous DEEPCOOL heat sinks that I have had the opportunity to review."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Overclockers Club

VIA unveils the APC $49 Android PC

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Systems | May 22, 2012 - 05:22 PM | Scott Michaud
Tagged: VIA, htpc, APC

VIA tops Gingerbread with a banana for some reason. They also unveil a $49 system powered by Android 2.3 which has been customized for mouse and keyboard support. The system draws between 4 and 13.5 watts (idle and load respectively) and can be mounted into any standard Mini-ITX or microATX chassis as well as chassis for the new Neo-ITX standard.

I guess VIA wants to be more than just Android-in-law to HTC.

It seems as though the low powered computing market is continuing to be eaten by ARM with devices such as VIA’s just announced APC Android PC. The APC seems to be aimed at the home theatre and enthusiast markets. VIA also hopes that the low price point will introduce more people to computing.

Apparently VIA prefers bananas to Apples.

The APC is powered by an 800MHz VIA ARM11 system-on-a-chip with 512 MB of DDR3 RAM. 2GB of flash memory is embedded on the device which can be expanded by a microSD card slot. It may also be possible to install extra memory through one of the four USB2.0 ports on the device although that is not explicitly stated in the press release. Display output will be limited to 720p. Power usage will vary between 4 and 13.5 watts depending on load.

VIA is also promoting the device for its Neo-ITX form factor. The APC is 17cm x 8.5cm in dimensions -- which is just under 6 3/4” by 3 3/8” for you non-Metrics -- and can mount in Mini-ITX or microATX cases. It apparently is also smaller than a banana.

The APC is expected to ship this July for $49.

Source: VIA

Not everyone needs a kilowatt; check out Cooler Master's Extreme 450W PSU

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 18, 2012 - 04:56 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: cooler master, Extreme 2 475W, PSU

There is a lot going for the CoolerMaster Extreme 2 450W for non-power users. It costs under $50, it is not much bigger than the 120mm fan that cools it and the 450 on the side offers enough power for many systems. Unfortunately once Hardware Secrets opened the box and tested this PSU they would like to remove your misconceptions. The 450 is not actually the wattage but the model number and this is, at best, a 425W PSU and the quality of power they observed from their tests is abysmal with ripple and voltage drop both exceeding specifications. This is one PSU they recommend you avoid at all costs.

"The new Extreme 2 entry-level power supply series from Cooler Master comes in four different versions: 475 W, 525 W, 625 W, and 725 W. They don't have an active PFC circuit and, therefore, don't carry the 80 Plus certification. Let's take an in-depth look at the 475 W model, which costs only USD 50."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Hardware Secrets

Coolermaster's new vapourware, the TPC-812 heatsink

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 05:29 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Coolermaster's new TPC-812 goes beyond the heatpipes which we have all become familiar with and adds in vapour chambers as well. The vapour chamber works similarly to a heatpipe but instead of heat only being able to travel away in one direction, the chamber allows heat to be dissipated in to directions. Unfortunately in order to properly work it needs to remain quite small in size so while it can quickly spread out heat it needs help from something else to keep that heat moving away. The cooler was fairly noisy when FrostyTech ran the fan at full speed but also offered among the most effective cooling performance and when they dialed the fan back its performance ended up in the middle of the pack but for someone using a moderately powerful CPU and wanting less noise it should move enough heat to remain effective.

"Vapour chambers and heatpipes work on the same principle, the difference is that vapour chambers are planar thermal devices that conduct heat in two dimensions. The two 19x3mm vapour chambers on the Coolermaster TPC-812 heatsink are double-stacked (one vapour chamber on top of three heatpipes), much like the Xigmatek Aegir. Since vapour chambers are planar devices this represents a more efficient application that piling tubular heatpipes on top of tubular heatpipes. Coolermaster's TPC-812 is the first CPU heatsink to pass our test bench employing both vapour chambers and heatpipes in one package."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

Source: Frosty Tech

NZXT Releases Switch 810 Special Edition Cases

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 12:28 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: switch 810, special edition, nzxt, cases, atx

Popular case manufacturer NZXT has announced a special edition of it’s Switch 810 computer case. After listening to customer feedback, the company has decided to make the case available in two new colors. Gunmetal and Matte Black are the two new darker themes of the Switch 810.

In a recent press release, NZXT stated that the two new available colors are its way of showing their fans that they do listen to and value feedback.

Specifically, “Without our community’s valuable feedback and criticisms, our products would not be as unique as they are today. We always aim to maintain customer satisfaction through providing high quality products at great prices, which is why we decided to release the Special Edition to feature two of the most demanded color palettes from our loyal fans: Matte Black and Gunmetal.”

The Switch 810 is a full tower ATX case constructed of steel and plastic materials. It features support for up to 10 fans, six internal hard drives, up to an E-ATX motherboard, and plenty of room for custom liquid cooling solutions. The case also provides cable management cut-outs and tool-less drive bays.

The new Special Edition Switch 810 is available for purchase now from NZXT in either Gunmetal or Matte Black colors for $179.99 USD. When we reviewed the original version of the Switch 810, we gave it the PC Perspective Gold Award for its included enthusiast features and good execution. You can find our full review (including video) here.

Source: NZXT

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 24, 2012 - 09:58 AM | Tim Verry Tagged: silentmaxx, passive cooling, hsf, cpu cooling, cooler

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 17, 2012 - 07:58 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: thermaltake, Frio Advanced

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 16, 2012 - 04:21 PM | Tim Verry Tagged: prolimatech, megahalems, hsf, cpu cooler, anodized blue

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 12, 2012 - 03:19 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: window, corsair, Carbide 300R

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 11, 2012 - 05:33 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: SP-850M, silver power, PSU, 850W, 80 Plus Bronze

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 5, 2012 - 04:50 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: corsair, Vengeance C70

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 25, 2012 - 05:45 PM | Tim Verry Tagged: sandia, impeller, heatsink, cooling, cooler, air bearing

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 21, 2012 - 02:20 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 18, 2012 - 08:00 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: kilowatt, lepa, G Series 1600W, 80 Plus Gold

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 13, 2012 - 06:26 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: msi, ravager

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling | June 11, 2012 - 06:29 PM | Scott Michaud Tagged: Silverstone, SST-HE02, passive cooling

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 5, 2012 - 07:23 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: Silverstone, Temjin TJ08-E Evolution, SFF, MicroATX

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Shows and Expos | June 5, 2012 - 12:09 AM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: rosewill, computex, computex 2012, Fortress, Tachyon, SilentNight, Hercules, Throne

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 4, 2012 - 06:01 PM | Ryan Shrout Tagged: power supply, corsair, computex, ax1200i

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 1, 2012 - 02:40 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: xfx, ProSeries 1000W, modular psu, kilowatt, PSU, 80 Plus Platinum

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 24, 2012 - 01:57 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: Deepcool, Ice Wind Pro, heatsink

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Systems | May 22, 2012 - 05:22 PM | Scott Michaud Tagged: VIA, htpc, APC

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 18, 2012 - 04:56 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: cooler master, Extreme 2 475W, PSU

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 05:29 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 12:28 PM | Tim Verry Tagged: switch 810, special edition, nzxt, cases, atx

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 24, 2012 - 09:58 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: silentmaxx, passive cooling, hsf, cpu cooling, cooler

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 17, 2012 - 07:58 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: thermaltake, Frio Advanced

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 16, 2012 - 04:21 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: prolimatech, megahalems, hsf, cpu cooler, anodized blue

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 12, 2012 - 03:19 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: window, corsair, Carbide 300R

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 11, 2012 - 05:33 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: SP-850M, silver power, PSU, 850W, 80 Plus Bronze

Subject: Cases and Cooling | July 5, 2012 - 04:50 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: corsair, Vengeance C70

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 25, 2012 - 05:45 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: sandia, impeller, heatsink, cooling, cooler, air bearing

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 21, 2012 - 02:20 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 18, 2012 - 08:00 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: kilowatt, lepa, G Series 1600W, 80 Plus Gold

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 13, 2012 - 06:26 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: msi, ravager

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling | June 11, 2012 - 06:29 PM | Scott Michaud
Tagged: Silverstone, SST-HE02, passive cooling

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 5, 2012 - 07:23 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Silverstone, Temjin TJ08-E Evolution, SFF, MicroATX

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Shows and Expos | June 5, 2012 - 12:09 AM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: rosewill, computex, computex 2012, Fortress, Tachyon, SilentNight, Hercules, Throne

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 4, 2012 - 06:01 PM | Ryan Shrout
Tagged: power supply, corsair, computex, ax1200i

Subject: Cases and Cooling | June 1, 2012 - 02:40 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: xfx, ProSeries 1000W, modular psu, kilowatt, PSU, 80 Plus Platinum

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 24, 2012 - 01:57 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Deepcool, Ice Wind Pro, heatsink

Subject: General Tech, Cases and Cooling, Systems | May 22, 2012 - 05:22 PM | Scott Michaud
Tagged: VIA, htpc, APC

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 18, 2012 - 04:56 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: cooler master, Extreme 2 475W, PSU

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 05:29 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: coolermaster, TPC-812, heatsink, heatpipes

Subject: Cases and Cooling | May 16, 2012 - 12:28 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: switch 810, special edition, nzxt, cases, atx