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RBMODS REVIEWS |
Date 2007-12-25
Provider: Nexustek
Author: Michael Chiu
Editor: Amber Lupala
Nexus HXR-5500 RAM Cooler Review
As computer performance increases, the need to cool the internal components of the computer becomes greater. While we focus a lot of attention on the CPU, video card, and case fan cooling solutions, another cooling product that is starting to become more prominent are RAM/memory coolers. Nexus, makers of a variety of silent PC components, has released a new silent RAM cooler, the Nexus HXR-5500 RAM cooler. Will this solution prove to be silent yet remain functional? Let’s find out.
About Nexustek:
Nexus Technology BV was established in 2000 in the Netherlands by a group of experts on heat conductivity and noise reduction in the computer industry. The founders have build up an in depth knowledge and experience on heat conductivity issues and thermal characteristics by working closely with many of the larger pc manufacturers for several years.
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The idea to have a full line of high quality computer components to improve the working environment by reducing noise levels brought the founders together. Continuously developing products to reduce noise levels and consequentially improve heat conductivity and airflow. Our goal:
Building a strong and reliable trademark for silent computing.
Features:
Compatible with all standard DDR / DDR2 and DDR3 modules.
Fits single and double sided memory modules.
The HXR-Series contain one full copper 5mm thick heat-pipe. This is the best way to dissipate the heat from your memory modules, without adding any noise
No fan is needed with these memory coolers, the heat pipe does the job. This is the best "No Noise" solution for your memory modules.
Comes in three different colors: blue, black, and silver
Specifications:
- Model numbers: HXR-5500S (Silver)
HXR-5500BU (Blue)
HXR-5500BL (Black)
- Dimensions: 126x59 mm / 5x2.3inch
- Memory: DDR / DDR2 / DDR3
- Weight: 75 grams
The product:
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
The Nexus HXR-5500 RAM cooler arrived in a clear plastic package with the cooler displayed prominently in the front. The back of the package provides a list of product features and specifications as well as the installation instructions.
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
Opening up the package, the RAM cooler is easily extracted from the package. Along with the cooler itself, the package comes with a rubber spacer for use with single-sided memory modules. Obviously, this cooler is only good for one RAM module; you’ll have to buy another for most computer builds.
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
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Looking at the cooler closely, we see a fairly straightforward design with the main body that attaches to the RAM connected to a smaller-sized heat sink via a single copper heat pipe. There are no fans on this RAM cooler, meaning there are no moving parts. Heat transfers from the main body to the heat sink via conduction, where the heat is then dissipated off the heat sink via convection. Most coolers nowadays use thin heat fins to transfer heat off of heat pipes; the HXR-5500 cooler uses a simpler aluminum plate with notches cut into it. I suspect this results in less efficient heat transfer, as the air isn’t free to move across the surface of the heat sink.
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
Opening and installing the cooler involves removing two small screws on the main body. Once open, we find two red thermal pads that help ensure good contact with the RAM module.
Please click on thumbnails to get bigger pictures
To install the RAM cooler, you first have to remove the RAM’s existing heat spreader. This can be a delicate operation, and some spreaders are permanently attached using crazy glue to the modules, making it impossible to install this cooler. Once the spreader is removed, simply place the RAM module on the main body and attach the removed cover. Overall, installation is very simple and obviously the cooler operates silently.
Testing:
AMD 64+ 4000+ S939 Winchester
Biostar T-Force Motherboard
Corsair 1GB ValueSelect PC3200 DDR RAM
GeForce 7600GS
Western Digital 250 GB 7200 rpm harddrive
Sony DVD Burner
Unfortunately, I didn’t notice a difference in stock memory performance with the cooler. Running memory tests using SiSandra 2007, I achieved basically the same scores as were recorded without the fan. However, during overclocking, I was able to boost the memory up to 275 MHz with good stability; I’ve had trouble in the past with that speed but perhaps the RAM cooler made the difference. I suspect that more extreme RAM overclocks will benefit from the added cooling that the Nexus RAM cooler provides.
Conclusion:
The Nexus HXR-5500 RAM cooler is a simple product that provides added decoration and also improves performance in overclocking situations. While you might not notice a performance difference in stock applications, the reduced heat helps lengthen the life of your memory. If you’re looking to get the most out of your computer and feel the RAM temperatures are stopping you, you might want to give these coolers a try.
Pros:
+ Silent operations
+ Easy to install
+ Improved cooling performance over stock heatspreader
Cons:
- Only comes with one module
- Simple design that is probably not the most efficient.
Current Real Time Pricing
Related Articles:
CoolIT PCI Cooling Booster Review
Nexus Frisbee Hard Drive Cooler Review
Vizo Xena Notebook Cooler Review
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