Zalman CNPS 3100+

[puerevil]

Hi Everyone

i'm running an athlon xp mobile system (2.1 ghz) and im looking for a new heatsink because my stock one is idling at 55C...

i was originally thinking the thermalright SI-97A (the new one) but its not available in any store near me. then i noticed the Zalman CNPS 3100+ and was wondering if it was any good?

 

[WobbleWobble]

It was a good cooler, but now it's outdated. It's probably just as expensive as the newer heatsinks so there's little reason to go with the 3100 instead of say the 7000/7700 series or any other Thermalright heatsink.

 

[puerevil]

im wondering though if it would cool my athlon xp mobile well, i dont really care if its outdated plus i can get it for around $15 (US).

does anyone know?

 

[WobbleWobble]

It'll cool your Athlon XP, but most likely only on normal mode. You might be able to get away with it on quiet mode.

Zalman rates the 3100+ Cu (Copper version) for up to Barton 3000+ on normal mode.

But yes, it's good enough. To answer your original question, good cooler? No.

 

[ssvegeta1010]

Yeah, definitely try the 7000/7700 series from Zalman, or anything from Thermalright.

 

[puerevil]

thanks alot for your advice!

so i should probably go for a Zalman 7000B (forgot the full name) or the Thermalright SI-97A. these two should cool the athlon xp no problem right? even w/ overclocking?

also, i've heard the Zalman 7000b is very difficult to install. is this true?

 

[WobbleWobble]

The Zalman 7000b is not difficult, but it takes more work than some of standard heatsinks that use a clip. On the Athlon XP you would need to take out your motherboard and install the mounting parts. Asides from that, it's actually easier to install as many people tend to be uncomfortable with clips.

Check Zalman's site to make sure that it's compatible with your motherboard first though!

 

[puerevil]

yeah, mine is asus a7n8x-e deluxe, it says it would work fine if the PSU isnt an obstruction.

I have a Lian-Li PC65B for my case, and a Seasonic 300w tornado thing (forgot the name, lol) i think their should be enough room, does anyone know for sure it has enough room or should i just find out through trial & error?

also, which is better, AS5 or ceramique?

 

[WobbleWobble]

On Zalman's site are some measurements. The PSU has to be a certain radius away from the CPU socket. It's definately something you can measure out yourself beforehand to make sure.