I'm going to build my own computer for the first time but I don't know much about processor cooling\heatsinks. I'm buying most of my stuff at pricwatch.com but i don't know what to look for. My processor is intel core 2 duo e6400. thanks
2006-09-29 10:53:03 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
If you're not buying an OEM CPU, the heatsink and fan are already included with the retail version of the processor.
If you are buying an OEM CPU, then you need to make sure that the heatsink/fan can provide enough cooling to ensure proper operation of your CPU.
There are many factors to consider. First thing you need to know is the socket type of your CPU. Your CPU uses 775 T-socket so make sure you get a heatsink that fits over that socket. You also need to make sure that the heatsink can be installed on your motherboard and doesn't obstruct other components so you can install and remove components properly.
Second thing to consider is the performance of the heatsink/fan. The heatsink should have sufficient surface area and should conduct heat away from the processor quickly by using a good thermal conducting metal such as copper. Aluminum is also good but is not as good as copper. You also need to make sure that the hot air around heatsink is quickly circulated and pushed outside the case. This is the job of your fan.
Last thing you need to consider is the noise put out by the fan. The faster the fan spins, the louder the noise. That's the general rule when it comes to noise levels. You want to get a sufficiently big enough fan so that you can move a lot of air without having the fan spin too fast and create a lot of noise.
Go to some reputable hardware review sites like
www.tomshardware.com
www.anandtech.com
www.xbitlabs.com
and read some reviews.
You'll find that thermaltake, thermalright, and Zalman make decent heatsink/fans.
Good luck!
2006-09-29 11:05:35 · answer #1 · answered by cantankerous_bunch 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Go to Newegg.com and look at the heat sinks and read the reviews. Make sure you get one that fits your socket type.
2006-09-29 11:00:36 · answer #2 · answered by joe b 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most pcus come with a heatsink. besides that i believe that they are all universal. so just get one that you like.
2006-09-29 10:56:21 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋