My use of the Deal4GO Asetek CPU Liquid Cooler for Dell Alienware Aurora (2024)
My thoughts on using the Asetek liquid cooler in my Alienware Aurora: installation, performance, noise level.
Introduction
I recently upgraded my Alienware Aurora desktop with the Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan. This cooling solution is suitable for Aurora R6-R12 models and promises a quiet operation with a long lifespan of 80,000 hours. After installing and testing it for several months, I've evaluated its performance and compatibility, and the improvement it has brought to my system has been noteworthy. Although there were some challenges, such as the absence of thermal paste and mounting screws in the package, the benefits have outweighed the inconvenience.
Some photos (click to enlarge)
Specs of the Deal4GO Asetek 95W Liquid Cooler
- Release Year
- Air Flow Capacity
- Brand
- Compatible Devices
- Material
- Noise Level
- Power Connector Type
- Product Dimensions
- Voltage
- Wattage
Prices
Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan for my Alienware Aurora series desktop, I was cautiously optimistic. This piece of kit is touted as a perfect match for Aurora R6-R12 models, equipped with a high-static pressure and a commendable lifespan of 80,000 hours. The brand was not listed, which did initially raise an eyebrow, but the precise fit for my desktop model kept me hopeful.
Part Numbers: The clarity of part numbers such as PP749 for the fan and MH0HN for the heatsink assembly were reassuring, indicating a straightforward replacement scenario.
Design: The integrated pump within the liquid cooling system spoke to the modern and efficient design of the unit.
Dimensions: Its dimensions suggested it would fit without issue in the chassis.
Power Connectivity: The 4-pin power connector assures compatibility with most motherboard layouts.
Noise Level: A noise level of only 20 dB promised a whisper-quiet operation.
However, upon closer inspection, there were a few areas that could potentially be seen as drawbacks. The cooling method being listed as 'Air' despite it being a water cooling system was confusing, and the absence of thermal paste or screws for the radiator installation could inconvenience users who are not as tech-savvy. Additionally, the 58.87 cubic_feet_per_minute airflow capacity wasn't particularly remarkable, yet it should suffice for most gaming and professional tasks.
In my hands, the unit had a sturdy and robust feel, indicating quality materials like copper were used in its construction. The 5 Volts DC voltage and 95-watt wattage seemed standard and did not suggest any particular electrical concerns.
My experience with this unit differs from the potential pitfalls one might encounter. The installation went smoothly since I had screws available from another project, and lacking thermal paste wasn't a hindrance due to my own supply. The lack of noise was immediately noticeable, an upgrade over the stock fan which often got distractingly loud under heavy use.
After setting it up, the difference in performance was evident. The unit dispatched heat more efficiently than its predecessor, and the silence was music to my ears. Even without mentioning longevity and maintenance, the immediate benefits were clear.
Yet, for those who might consider this cooling system, keep in mind the necessity of having additional parts on hand, and be prepared for some possible confusion due to the mislabeled cooling method. Despite these, if you're upgrading an Aurora series desktop, this Asetek cooler may just be an ace up your sleeve.
Installation Process
Installing the Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan into my Alienware Aurora R7 was overall a straightforward affair, thanks largely to the system's compatibility and clear documentation. Going into the process, I was conscious of the need for caution given the intricacies of working with liquid cooling solutions. Here's a rundown of my experience:
Compatibility Check: Prior to purchase, I verified the compatibility of the cooling system with my Aurora R7 model to ensure a seamless fit.
Unboxing: The cooling unit arrived well-packaged, safeguarding against any transit damage which was reassuring given the delicate nature of liquid coolers.
Inspection of Contents: I noted that no screws for the radiator or thermal paste were included. However, I used existing internal hard drive screws which fit perfectly.
Installation: The process was essentially plug-and-play. Though one should always consult their manual, for a computer engineer like myself, it was pretty intuitive.
The 4-pin power connector was an exact match, ensuring I didn't face any power delivery issues. Moreover, the compact product dimensions (6.26"L x 6.26"W x 5.12"H) allowed the cooling system to fit within the case without any spatial concerns.
Even though the brand was not specified, the quality seemed on par with known industry standards. The system's voltage and wattage specifications (5 Volts and 95 watts respectively) were adequate for my setup, ensuring that the unit would function well without overburdening the power supply.
While the cooling method is primarily via the liquid coolant system, the air flow capacity (58.87 cubic feet per minute) also provided confidence that the fan could handle heat dispersion effectively. Additionally, the copper material used in the heat exchanger is known for excellent thermal conductivity, contributing to efficient heat removal.
One limitation was the noise level, but even at 20 dB, it was significantly quieter than my stock fan while remaining barely audible in a typical room environment. This is an aspect I'd chalk up as a significant plus.
In terms of material, the use of copper, which is common in high-quality coolers, provides efficient heat transfer properties and adds to the overall value of the product.
My personal advice to potential users would be to have some basic installation tools and thermal paste on hand before attempting to install this system since these accessories are not included.
In summary, the installation process was less daunting than anticipated. The ease of setup and quality build make it a solid choice for users looking to upgrade their Alienware cooling system. While there are minor considerations like the lack of included thermal paste and screws for the radiator, these are manageable with a little preparation. The product matches its description and fits well into the existing setup, making the Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan a commendable choice for Alienware Aurora users.
Performance Review
The Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan has been a significant upgrade for my Alienware Aurora, notably enhancing the machine's performance. Here's what stood out after using this cooling system:
Quieter Operation: The noise level is noticeably lower compared to the stock fan, at around 20 dB.
Efficient Cooling: Heat dispersion has been excellent, maintaining low temperatures even under sustained heavy load.
Compatibility: It fits seamlessly within the Aurora R6/R7/R8/R9/R10/R11/R12 models.
Build Quality: Constructed with copper, which is known for superior thermal conductivity.
As someone who's a computer engineer, I found the installation straightforward: it really is as simple as plugging it in. Obviously, missing screws and thermal paste can be a snag for some, but it wasn't an issue for me. The power connector's 4-pin layout was standard and exactly what I expected for my system. The fan operates on just 5 volts at a wattage of 95 watts, which is quite energy-efficient for its performance.
The product dimensions are a perfect fit for the Aurora housing, and the pre-applied thermal solution on the CPU heat exchanger with an integrated pump has made initial setup quicker, though I can't help but note that providing screws and thermal compound would've smoothed the process for others who might not have these items readily available.
One aspect I'm thrilled with is the substantial airflow capacity, boasting 58.87 cubic_feet_per_minute, ensuring adequate air movement to keep the system cool. Given the fan's longevity rating of 80,000 hours, it's reassuring to know that I won't need to think about a replacement any time soon.
However, the brand being listed as N/A did initially give me pause; typically, I prefer to know and trust the brand behind the components in my system. That said, the overall quality of the product dispelled any concerns this might have caused.
It's remarkable how well this Asetek unit manages to maintain coolness and operational silence. My desktop's performance has been consistently robust, which speaks volumes about the product's efficiency. That said, I'll keep an eye on its performance over the coming months for any changes.
In all, while the lack of certain small accessories could be a drawback for non-tech-savvy users, the impactful boost in cooling performance and operational silence are convincing positives that have made this upgrade a worthy investment for my Alienware system.
Longevity and Maintenance
After several months of rigorous use, the longevity and maintenance aspect of the Asetek Liquid Water CPU Cooling Fan stand out in this cooling solution. Directly jumping into the specifics, let me lay out a brief overview:
Longevity: With a life expectancy of 80,000 hours, this cooling system is built to last. It's always a concern whether new tech will stand the test of time, but it's reassuring to see a number with such magnitude attached to the lifespan of this product.
Maintenance: The fan's design seems to require minimal upkeep. However, not including thermal paste or screws for the radiator is something to be mindful of before installation.
I appreciate the thought that has gone into crafting a cooling system that looks to reduce the amount of user intervention needed post-installation. A sign of a robust product is when you install it and it simply does its job without reminders of its existence. The Asetek Cooler has, so far, been that silent partner in my desktop build.
The static pressure rating of 2.13 mm-H20 (MAX) implies that the fan can push air effectively against resistance, which is vital for a densely packed case like the Alienware Aurora series. The air flow capacity of 58.87 cubic feet per minute also suggests that it can handle quite a hefty thermal load without breaking a sweat. However, it's worth noting that I had to be resourceful with the installation as it didn't come with all the fixtures.
Given that power consumption sticks to 5 volts (DC) and a respectable 95 watts, the energy efficiency doesn't go unnoticed. These specifications threaded the needle between performance and consumption efficiently for me.
I did have one concern regarding maintenance: dust buildup over long periods, which is inevitable. While the noise level stays at a whisper-quiet 20 dB, it's essential to make time for regular cleaning to maintain that silence and efficacy. Moreover, the material quality, specifically the use of copper in its construction, promotes outstanding heat conductivity but also requires that I keep an eye out for any potential signs of corrosion over time.
In summary, my experience with the Asetek Cooler in my Alienware setup has been largely positive. Yes, there are minor drawbacks such as needing to supply your own screws and thermal paste—a slight inconvenience. However, taking into account its quiet operation, heat management, and personal satisfaction with the cooling performance, it's a choice I'm content with. It fits the bill for what I sought: a high-quality, durable liquid cooling solution that prioritizes longevity with an almost hands-off maintenance cycle.
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