Conclusion

With the Apache EP-CD901 Xigmatek presents a very cheap and good looking cooler which unfortunately has a limited cooling capacity. As we were able to see a Quad Core CPU cannot be held at adequate temperatures with the Apache but if you otherwise want to cool a Dual Core CPU with 65 watt of dissipation power of less, the Apache is an alternative to Intels boxed cooler for a very competitive price.

Installing the cooler is very easy. Xigmateks push pins are a comfortable and elegant way to mount the retention frame. We can't get rid of the feeling that the contact pressure is too low.

It was interesting to find out that the fins close to the fan were cold despite the very high core temperatures. After shutting the system down it only took a few seconds until the whole cooler was very hot. This fact lets us conclude that the heat transport doesn't work properly.

Subjectively we categorise the fan as noisy and the hum which comes from the ball bearings is irritating. In a worst case scenario the hum will be amplified via a computer cases mainboard tray.

We can recommend Xigmateks Apache EP-CD901 top-flow cooler as a very well priced but only optical upgrade to the standard Intel boxed cooler. In a HTPC containing a CPU that doesn't produce more than 65 watts of dissipation power the Apache could also be an alternative. If you are looking for a silent PC or you want to overclock your rig you'll need a cooler with much more cooling capacity.

You can buy the Xigmatek H.D.T. S1284A Achilles for CHF 65.- at Digitec.ch.

Author: i.gigier@ocaholic.ch Revised by: m.buechel@ocaholic.ch