Catalog / Computer Hardware Cooling Systems Cheatsheet
Computer Hardware Cooling Systems Cheatsheet
A comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing various cooling solutions for computer hardware, covering air cooling, liquid cooling, and specialized methods to maintain optimal system performance and longevity.
Cooling System Fundamentals
Heat Generation in Components
Different computer components generate varying amounts of heat, which dictates cooling needs. Examples:
|
Thermal Interface Material (TIM)
Purpose |
TIM fills microscopic gaps between the heat source (CPU/GPU) and the cooler, improving heat transfer. |
Types |
Paste (most common), thermal pads, liquid metal (high performance but risky). |
Application |
Apply a thin, even layer. Too much or too little can reduce effectiveness. |
Basic Cooling Principles
Cooling systems work based on principles of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation.
|
Air Cooling Systems
Heatsinks
Description |
Passive devices that dissipate heat through conduction and convection. Made of aluminum or copper. |
Fin Design |
More fins increase surface area for better heat dissipation. |
Heat Pipes |
Hollow tubes filled with fluid that rapidly transfer heat from the base to the fins. |
Case Fans
Intake Fans |
Bring cool air into the case. Usually mounted at the front or bottom. |
Exhaust Fans |
Remove hot air from the case. Usually mounted at the rear or top. |
Fan Size |
Common sizes include 80mm, 120mm, and 140mm. Larger fans move more air at lower speeds. |
Fan Speed (RPM) |
Higher RPM means more airflow, but also more noise. Controlled via PWM or voltage. |
CPU Air Coolers
Combine a heatsink with one or more fans to actively cool the CPU. Types:
|
Liquid Cooling Systems
All-in-One (AIO) Liquid Coolers
Description |
Closed-loop systems that are pre-filled and require no maintenance. Easy to install. |
Components |
Water block, pump, radiator, and fans. |
Radiator Size |
Determines cooling capacity. Common sizes include 120mm, 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm. |
Custom Liquid Cooling Loops
Description |
User-built systems with customizable components for maximum cooling performance and aesthetics. Requires more expertise. |
Components |
Water blocks (CPU, GPU), pump, reservoir, radiator(s), tubing, and fittings. |
Coolant |
Specialized fluids designed for thermal transfer and corrosion prevention. |
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of Liquid Cooling:
Disadvantages of Liquid Cooling:
|
Advanced Cooling Techniques
Sub-Ambient Cooling
Techniques that cool components below ambient room temperature for extreme overclocking. Examples:
|
Direct Die Cooling
Description |
Removing the integrated heat spreader (IHS) from a CPU or GPU and applying cooling directly to the die. Provides better thermal transfer but voids warranty. |
Risks |
Potential for damaging the die if not done carefully. |
Benefits |
Significant temperature reduction for extreme overclocking. |
Maintenance and Monitoring
Regular Cleaning:
Monitoring Temperatures:
Fan Control:
|