When it comes to CPU reliability and
stability, the key is maintaining a low temperature. And for performance under
load, it’s hard to beat liquid-cooling. With the CNPS20LQ, Zalman provides us
with the convenience of a closed-loop cooler where the water block, pump,
radiator, and liquid coolant are sealed into one easy-to-install component.
Zalman
CNPS20LQ
Performance Features
The CNPS20LQ is built with a PWM-
controlled 120 mm fan that can operate anywhere between 900 and 2,000 rpm. But
you aren’t limited to a single fan, because both sides of the radiator have 120
mm fan holes and Zalman includes a second set of screws to attach another fan.
We connected the radiator to our case’s rear exhaust fan, so we didn’t even
need to invest in a second one to boost the cooler’s performance.
Compatibility
Zalman designs the CNPS20LQ to work with a
wide variety of sockets, including Intel and AMD processors, through the use of
universal retention rings. In terms of Intel compatibility, you’ll find it
works with LGA 1155/1156/1366/2011 sockets. The AMD bracket works with AM2/
AMD2+/AM3/AM3+/FM1 sockets. With all these options, we didn’t have to worry
about whether the Zalman CNPS20LQ would be compatible with the processor and
motherboard we selected.
Quiet Computing
Because the pump is built into the water
block, the liquid cooler system requires only a short run of tubing that runs
between the radiator and water block. The design minimizes system noise,
because the pump doesn’t need to work very hard to quickly circulate the liquid
in the CNPS20LQ. Additionally, the PWM - controlled fan only ramps up to high
speeds under load, so our system will be exceptionally quiet when not under
load.
Zalman’s smart design and performance
capabilities made the selection of the CNPS20LQ an easy choice. Add in the fact
that we’ll never need to perform any maintenance on the closed-loop cooler, and
our CPU will be cool for years.
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Information
Price: $99.99
Manufacturer: Zalman
Specs: Water block: Copper; Radiator: Aluminum;
Pump: 12V; Fans: one 120mm PWM fan (900 to 2,000rpm)
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