Is this cooler for everybody? Definitely not. If you’re looking to
squeeze every last Mhz out of your system, then the MCX462+T or even the
MCW462-UHT (water cooled model) is probably for you. If you’re not
comfortable with the idea that an improper installation could take the life
of your CPU, mainboard, or any other component should condensation form
and fall on them, then you’d probably best stick with your standard
air cooled computer. When one first looks at all the components involved,
it definitely looks like a huge undertaking with all the wiring, neoprene
pads, etc. The installation actually proves to be simpler than you would
think it to be, that is assuming you take your time, read through the manual,
and plan things out before jumping in to them. In my case, a little more
pre-thought into mounting the neoprene pad around the CPU socket probably
would have prevented the need for me to cut it up, but in the end, it all
worked without any issues to be seen. One
thing that I’d like to see Swiftech add to the kit, would be a neoprene
patch for the center of the CPU socket. I suppose ones own method of install
would vary on wether this would be needed, as some users fill the entire
section with dielectric grease. Being that I opted to use a layer of conformal
coating instead, the neoprene would have been preferred, but being that
you end up having extra anyways, it’s not that hard to fashion your
own with a handy pair of scissors or razor blade.
Just so I don’t
confuse anybody, you’ll notice below in my pros and cons that I
have “Instructions” listed under each. I did this mainly because
while the provided instructions provide you with a great deal of information
to walk you through the install, the pictures provided could have been
a bit cleaner and perhaps a few more in number. Beyond that, Swiftech
has provided a great package for those of you serious about taking your
tweaking to the next level. Thanks to Swiftech for sending us this great
product and congratulations to them for a job well done, filling the extreme
air-cooled void and for being awarded the coveted GrunT AwarD!
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