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rad size for a simple loop?

Y

Yuritau

n00b
Joined
Sep 9, 2009
Messages
59
So I'm doing something a little ambitious.. trying to make the smallest gaming rig I can. And I'm doing it on an mITX mobo, and to COMPLETELY minimize tower size, I'm going to build my case from scratch. Now with that in mind, I've decided to watercool the CPU (intel e8400) to remove the need for a big air cooler. Before you argue that the water loop parts (pump, rad, res) collectively take up more room than an air cooler, I'll say this: yes, but with a water loop, I can choose WHERE that space goes. :p Not water cooling the Radeon 4850 just yet, as I'm confident I can take care of that with the WC rad on intake, and an exhaust for the 4850 heat.

My primary question is what size of rad (120mm x1 or 120mm x2?) will I need for that loop using the following: XSPC X2O Delta CPU Block, MCP355 pump*, and a swiftech micro-res.

*Sidebar question 1: Regarding the pump, it seems like a decent water mover, but I dislike the idea of barbs that can't be removed/replaced/etc. If you know of something in a similar category (both performance wise AND price wise), I'd appreciate the info.

Sidebar question 2: Tubing size recommendations? Been looking at 3/8, simply because it's smaller than 1/2 and that means easier to route etc.

This will be my first experience with water cooling, though I've been looking into it for a while now, so if there's anything else you wanna point out or correct me on, I'll be happy to hear it.
 
At most, minor overclocking. Mostly going for the ability to cram it into as small a space as I can.. but the low noise thing is a factor as well, already have some 24 dB Yate Loons I'm gonna use.

And thx for the tip on the pump top.
 
If you are trying to conserve space why not use a t-line instead of a res? Just out of curiosity why would you ever want to remove the barbs on your pump?

As far as your main question I would think that a single 120mm rad would do the trick since you aren't looking to heavily overclock.
 
Going for small you might consider this. Eliminates the pump and res. I think your parts would, mainly because of the block, perform better but if not going for a high OC this should be sufficient, and the price is compelling. On the other hand not very upgradable and if the pump dies out of warranty the whole thing is trash. But it might solve a room issue. Just giving you another alternative since the guy that used this seemed to find it ok. Not really recommending it but it is something to be aware of as an alternative if space gets really tight.

http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1452206
 
If you are only after the CPU, I'd recommend one of these:http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/swmcqpo12bl.html

Alot of people razz about Swiftech radiators, but they are well built,lightweight and thin......something I believe you are after.
Plus they work just fine.

Just FYI............the MCP355 is a great pump, I have two; but they are not all that quiet. If you can find the MCP350 around anywhere, that might be a better choice if noise is a consideration. The 350 will still move a ton of water.

3/8 inch tubing is fine.

I like those XSPC acrylic tops............I have the non-reservoir top......it also increases the flow of the pump and allows you to be able to use barbs of your choice.

I prefer BitsPower compression fittings.....they might be a little more money, but overall the ease of connection is well worth it.

Oh yeah...........I highlight Sidewindercomputers for a reason, best prices anywhere,quick and cheap shipping, and the guy who runs the place answers the phone.

Lastly, I used to think Yates were the schizzle, until I bought some of these:http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/sc12slsy68cf.html
I mean, these fans are quiet and efficient...........and better built. I'm done with Yates.
 
Yeah I'm not particularly loyal to Yate Loon or anything.. I just have a pair of them left over from my last build, cause at the time NCIX.com had a screaming deal on them.

thanks for all the pointers!
 
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