Installation
At Icrontic, we test heatsinks on both Intel and AMD platforms. As we discovered in our first heatsink roundup, performance can vary greatly between sockets. This is often due to differences in mounting systems. Our testing methodology and standard test configuration are explained in detail here.
Socket 775 Installation
The NH-C12P mounts just like the NH-U9B. I had no issues getting it mounted and up and running on our Asus P5K-E test rig.
A mounting frame and backplate are affixed to the motherboard. The new self-adhesive washers made installation even easier than with the NH-U9B/NH-U12P.
The backplate is of the “X” shape variety and keeps clear of protruding pins—a common problem on many socket 775 motherboards. Noctua includes some thick foam padding on the back of the plate to ensure the metal stays away from the PCB.
The socket 775 U-shaped brackets are simply screwed onto the NH-C12P. The brackets are slightly wider than in previous revisions.
Because the mounting holes on the motherboard are equally spaced, the heatsink can be installed in four possible positions. As you can see the gaps not only provide for an easy mount, but are intelligently positioned to ensure airflow makes it to VRM components. On our Asus P5K-E, the gap positioning is perfect in this orientation.
The NH-C12P is tall enough to clear the northbridge heatsink with ease. Quite a bit of second hand airflow will reach the northbridge and other components around the socket.
The heatsink did not overhang the ram in this orientation, but would have had plenty of clearance had it done so. The airflow gap on this side of the heatsink will allow some airflow to reach the memory VRM and memory modules.
The final result is a thing of beauty. Almost 50% of the board is covered.
Socket AM2 Installation
I had no issues getting the NH-C12P mounted on our DFI NF570-M2/G motherboard. Installation on AM2 systems is just as easy as with socket 775.
Just like the NH-U models, a mounting frame is first installed on the motherboard.
Noctua continues to use an OEM style backplate, so compatibility is pretty much guaranteed unless a buyer has a very non-standard AM2 motherboard.
The NH-C12P is not quite as versatile on AM2 motherboards as the NH-U series. Because of the protruding heatpipes and very wide fin bank, only two mounting positions are possible. Noctua includes only one set of AM2 mounting brackets for the NH-C12P. I could not position the airflow gap over the VRM components of the DFI NF570-M2/G, unfortunately. Thankfully, the heatsink is large enough that at least one of the two possible mounting positions will provide a healthy amount of airflow to key areas of the board. I decided to mount it for maximum airflow to the memory modules.
There were no clearance issues on either side of the heatsink.
It is a big heatsink horizontally. Thankfully, its vertical height makes it great for smaller cases.
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