zalman FX100 passive CPU cooler

[talkuf]

A quick question - do you think a passive cpu cooler such as the zalman FX100 can handle a low TDP processor (Haswell i5 4670s, 65w) in a node 304 with stock fans set to the lowest or medium speed? I'm also planning on low power RAM so less heat generated there as well

 

[ngrego]

Any reason why you need a passive cooler in particular?
It does look all nifty and innovative, but I'm not too sure i would go passive.

If noise is your issue, I would personally suggest a cooler with a good quality low noise fan.
I mean, your CPU and Mobo are the most expensive and vital parts on your build, would you really risk them?

 

[talkuf]

I'm in Finland so I could use the extra heat... ;-)
But seriously, it's all about the noise. I am trying to build something that's as silent as possible, and since I am not using any processor-intensive applications I am almost certain that a passive cooler can handle the task, especially when we're talking about Haswell 4***s with a TDP of 65w. I am only concerned about whether the case (Node 304) will be able to: 1. Accomodate such a massive passive unit and 2. create enough airflow when not on the highest fan setting.

Of course, I can also just opt for an ultra-quiet Noctua which was my original intention, either NH-U9B SE2 or NH-U12S.

 

[ngrego]

Taking your case into account, I really think you should be looking at one of the Noctua coolers with the horizontal format (NH-C14 or NH-L12).
The low profile would probably fit best into the case due to the overhead drive bays.
As for the cooling ability of the brands I would go Noctua hands down, for build quality, cooling ability and low sound output.

 

[talkuf]

Using one of the horizontal Noctua coolers is something I thought of, but my gut feeling tells me that it's better to use a vertical cooler, since it doesn't interfere with the natural flow in the case (all intake fans cace the same direction). Haven't looked into this too much tho, am I talking nonsense?

 

[ngrego]

That is a thought, but since you aren't doing any OCing (and that you are in Finland) cooling is not really the issue.
If you're OK with the clearance, then a vertical format cooler will surely do a better job.
But I would still opt for the Noctua all the way!

 

[talkuf]

Thanks for your reply ngrego, this was helpful.
I think what I'm gonna do is to get the Noctua NH-U9B SE2, with its rather deep heatsink (so that the case's exhaust fan can 'pull' the heat out efficiently and try it passively. If temps are ok I can than use the two fans it comes with as case fans - they're supposed to be quieter than the stock FD fans.

 

[ngrego]

Good thinking, that is definitely worth a try.
Just keep the cabling clear of the air flow to maximize the cooling output and it should work fine.