As you can see from the Temperature Test Results graph the XP-90C significantly
reduced temperatures of the overclocked 3.4E Prescott. From a recorded idle
temperature of 30°C to a maximum recorded temperature of 47°C after running 24
hours of Folding@Home. This gave the XP-90C an advantage of 14°C reduction in
temperatures over the stock Intel HSF. I was expecting even better results after
performing the same tests with the all aluminum Thermalright XP-90 which
recorded a 12°C reduction prior to testing the all copper XP-90C. Although I was
somewhat disappointed with the XP-90C's performance over the XP-90 I was elated
over highly impressive reduction in temperatures both units displayed over the
stock unit.
CONCLUSION
The all new XP-90C is as effective at cooling as its eye appeal! I can recommend
this heatsink for the user who wants high performance air cooling and especially
for use with the hot running P4 Prescott. This 100% copper heatsink like its all
aluminum predecessor, also apparently makes good use of heatpipe technology.
If you already own an XP-90 I cannot advise the XP-90C as an upgrade as the
results show only a temperature reduction of no more than 2°C at maximum
operating temperatures. Still, the XP-90C is a fantastic improvement over the
stock HSF in both cooling and potential noise reduction capability depending on
what fan you choose.
Like the XP-90, the XP-90C can accept any 80 or 92mm fan that has a frame that
provides a lip for attaching the wire clips for a secure mount while also
offering simple and quick means of changing fans. Also, it should be noted that
since the wire clips secure the fan to the heatsink by clamping on the lower
lips this will enable the use of a fan guard. This is a plus if you have ever
experienced getting a finger close to moving fan blades without a guard...not a
pleasant thought!
Thermalright continues to impress me with their quality and high performing
heatsinks since I first installed an AX-series heatsink on a hot running,
overclocked, AMD Thunderbird. I could go on with the accolades for previous
performers but you can take this to the bank, the XP-90C is one of the best in a
history of outstanding performing heatsinks offered by Thermalright. I am
personally willing to overlook the weight of the XP-90C as it has significantly
reduced operating temperatures of 14°C on my present Intel P4 processor, the P4
3.4E Prescott.
Special thanks to Thermalright Technologies and Lew at 3DCOOL.COM for providing
NVNEWS with the opportunity of reviewing the XP-90C. If we gave a rating for
providing gamers and pc enthusiasts with a high quality, highly adaptable, high
performing quality product you would get high marks for this submission.
PROS
Excellent cooling performance
Potential of significant noise reduction over the stock Intel HSF while
providing significant reduction in temperatures
Capability of using a wide range of fans in both size and performance
variations
Fan retention wires allow for quick fan changes
Easy installation
Near universal motherboard compatibility with both Intel and AMD
Good looking quality heatsink
CONS
Caution must be used in handling as the copper fins are very thin and
can bend easily
Heavy, at minimum of 690g w/o fan
Only a 2°C reduction in temperature over the aluminum XP-90
Price, currently $49.95 but if you have a hot running processor it may
be well worth the expenditure
