HDT Cooler Shootout!
Sunbeam Core-Contact Freezer Installation
Installing HDT based heatsinks requires an extra step when it comes to applying the thermal interface material.
As can be seen, the gaps between each heatpipe need to be filled ahead of time. I accomplished this by applying a small amount of TIM and spreading it using a credit card. The center of the base is most important as it will conduct the majority of the CPU’s heat output.
Socket 775 Installation
Once I had the base prepared, I applied the TIM to our Q6600 as usual.
The Core-Contact Freezer does not install using OEM installation clips, nor does it use a backplate. Sunbeam opted to use a top-frame that mounts using OEM style push-pins. The heatsink is then attached using an AMD clip, ironically. This frame is favorable in my opinion, as the OEM push-pins are a real pain to work with when attached to a large heatsink.
The AMD-style clips are not difficult to secure, however, a fair bit of force is required. I was pleased with the amount of pressure applied using this mounting hardware, although I can’t help but feel that this heatsink could benefit from a backplate. At less than 600g, you don’t have to worry about it breaking loose, thankfully.
The Core-Contact Freezer leaves ample space around all motherboard components. The angled fins should help to provide some airflow to the VR heatsink on the Asus P5K-E.
There you have it. A successful mount without any issues. The fan was easy to install—It uses metal clips. I wasn’t totally pleased with the fan mount, however, as the clips were a little on the flimsy side and bowed when attached to the heatsink.
Socket AM2 Installation
Installing the Core-Contact Freezer on our AM2 test board was a non-issue. It cleared all components easily and the installation was less involved than our Intel system.
The OEM retention frame is utilized. The same clip is used for both 775 and AM2 systems.
There were no clearance issues at all, even with the less than ideal layout of our DFI NF570-M2/G.
I was pleased to see that Sunbeam placed the mounting clips in such a way to allow airflow to the rear of the case. Due to the asymmetrical nature of the AM2 mounting frame, there are usually only two possible mounting positions, not four like with socket 775.
