CoolIT ECO A.L.C CPU Cooler review

👤by Sahil Mannick Comments 📅08-04-10
Closer Look






The CoolIT ECO A.L.C

Without the LCD panel that came with the Domino, the ECO ends up being a more compact design that makes it much easier to install in any chassis sporting 120mm fan mounting holes. The result is a very clean and professional finish. The metallic and plastic construction is sturdy.


The radiator

The radiator uses a corrugated pattern to increase surface area for heat dissipation, as is the case with all radiators. The fin spacing is 2.5mm, ensuring a densely packed configuration. Unfortunately, the metal is flexible and bend easily if knocked. The fan is mounted on the back of the radiator while the reservoir is on the side.


The reservoir

The reservoir is attached directly to the radiator to minimize the space taken up by the system, and heat can dissipate straight across the radiator this way. The material is tough so it can withstand high pressures and temperatures. On first look, the barbs seem flimsy unlike the high quality metal ones used in custom water cooling systems. However, on closer inspection they are of strong metallic construction, integrated to the reservoir to cope with high pressures without fear of leaking. This demonstrates the advantage of a non modular system. The connection between the hoses and barbs are tight and secure to further prevent leaks.


The 120mm exhaust fan

The 7 bladed PWM fan acts as a pull exhaust fan attached to the radiator. It has a maximum rotational speed of 1800 RPM by design and makes use of a 4 pin fan header for PWM functionality. Unlike the Domino, the fan is screwed on rather than attached using rubber mounts which makes removing the fan harder with the ECO. However the other side of the radiator does have holes to mount another fan for a push/pull setup.


The pump

Another difference with the ECO is the integration of the 12v pump to the CPU mounting block. The ceramic bearing ensures a long life cycle, while remaining compact and quiet. The pump comes with a 3 pin header that allows it to be connected to the motherboard. It is recommended to not plug it into a 4 pin connector on the motherboard to avoid fluctuations in the pump speed.


The hose and barb fittings

On the side, we can see where the 2 hoses connect up to the pump. Again, the sturdy finish will prevent leakage and they have been designed so that the barbs can rotate, allowing more flexibility when installing into a case.

10 pages « 3 4 5 6 > »

Comments