[SOLVED] Maximising cooling and having PC under desk

[fobos8]

Hi guys
I'm planning a new build with an AMD 3950x. I'm going for an air CPU cooler and a mesh style airflow case. There is no space on my desk for the PC. My case will be under my desk and I'm conscious that exhausted hot air will collect if there is insufficient clearance around the back and top of the case.

How much of a gap do I need between the top of the case and the underside of the desk for hot air to get out into the room? I'm looking at a Phanteks P500A which will give me a 180mm (7 inch) gap between the top of the case and the underside of the desk.

Is this enough?

Kind regards, Andrew

 

[grimfox]

It kinda depends on the desk. If the desk is closed backed, and closed sided, I would say no. Closed backed could also mean pushed up flush against the wall. If the desk is open sided and open backed or pulled out from the wall a few inches then there's probably enough paths for air to flow out that the heat wont collect under your desk.

 

[geofelt]

180mm seems fine.
But, where does the air go from there?
If the desk top is flush to the wall, I can see a problem.
Can you place the tower to the side of the desk?
Perhaps a photo would help.