Single or Dual, Disconnects, etc

[baldrik]

I've got a new build started and after being out of the water cooling loop for a few years, I've got questions. I know what I want to do, just not exactly how to go about it.

The important build specs:

MM H2gO case
Intel i5 2500K
HIS Radeon 6950 IceQ (non-reference)

Heatkiller Rev. 3.0 CPU block
Heatkiller GPU-X3 for 6870 - I have it on good authority this block will fit my non-ref card
(2) Swiftech MRC 220s
Primochill Myriad D5 Reservoir w/ Swiftech MCP-655

My main question is, is it more efficient (better) to run 2 seperate loops or 1? The Primochil Res gives me both options - res>rad>cpu + res>rad>gpu or res>rad>cpu>rad>gpu. Does it even make a difference? I suppose the real reason I ask is, if I go with a single loop, in the particular pc case, I have to somehow wrangle a 1/2"x5/8" tube around an 11" long card.

Next question is, if for some reason, I have video card issues, I would like to be able to remove it from the system without tearing down the entire loop - this is actually why I have a non-ref card; I did not shop for a refernce card because it was never meant to be under water, but plans do change. I've been looking at the Koolance VL3N quick disconnects - anyone have any experience with them?

And last question: I have some Xigmatek fans that are rated for 75 CFM at 20db...I fired up 6 of them at once last night and I've got to say, if any of those fans run at 20db, then I'm the son of She-hulk and the Koolaid Man. So, I need a fan speed controller, but seeing as I have no drive bay space left at this point, I'm at a loss for what to use or where to put it. I'd given thought to mounting a 3.5" controller under the mobo tray, but I'm just not sure how well that would work. Just looking for suggestions there.

These are the things that keep me awake at night.

 

[Cruiza]

My main question is, is it more efficient (better) to run 2 seperate loops or 1? The Primochil Res gives me both options - res>rad>cpu + res>rad>gpu or res>rad>cpu>rad>gpu. Does it even make a difference? I suppose the real reason I ask is, if I go with a single loop, in the particular pc case, I have to somehow wrangle a 1/2"x5/8" tube around an 11" long card.

It's oftentimes better and easier to just run one loop. In separate loops, if you're stressing your CPU or GPU but not the other, then all the rad in the other loop is essentially wasted. In a single loop, you can utilize both rads to their full potential at all times. There are tons of different angled fittings to help with routing tubes in tough areas.

Next question is, if for some reason, I have video card issues, I would like to be able to remove it from the system without tearing down the entire loop - this is actually why I have a non-ref card; I did not shop for a refernce card because it was never meant to be under water, but plans do change. I've been looking at the Koolance VL3N quick disconnects - anyone have any experience with them?

QDs are very popular and they do indeed work.

And last question: I have some Xigmatek fans that are rated for 75 CFM at 20db...I fired up 6 of them at once last night and I've got to say, if any of those fans run at 20db, then I'm the son of She-hulk and the Koolaid Man. So, I need a fan speed controller, but seeing as I have no drive bay space left at this point, I'm at a loss for what to use or where to put it. I'd given thought to mounting a 3.5" controller under the mobo tray, but I'm just not sure how well that would work. Just looking for suggestions there.

Well, basically you'll either have to do some modding to mount switches/knobs or an entire controller panel somewhere in your case, or you could just set the controller somewhere and have it loose. That's all I can think of at least.