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EK Waterblocks R280X Matrix Edition Full Cover Block Review

Cooling/VGA & Other Cooling by leeghoofd @ 2014-01-29

While many are fully focused on the All-in-One cooling products, the die-hard enthusiasts still will opt for a full blown do it yourself watercooling setup; the latter provide superior cooling performance at a far lower noise rate. If you are looking to maximize the performance of your setup for daily usage then the steeper cost price will be a small hurdle to take. Many are still afraid of the more complex assembly, let alone the idea of a possible leak. Things have evolved, assembly is straightforward if one opts for a complete kit alike the L 360 from Slovenian waterblock manufacturer EKWB. Not alone processors benefit from a watercooling solution, graphic cards tend to run hot too, especially during long gaming sessions; some are even throttling due to a too high temperature reached. To watercool a graphics card one can opt for an universal block or a full cover waterblock. The latter is tailor-made for the specific card, ensuring full stability for the GPU, memory and the onboard power circuitry during high loads.

Assembly

For this article we use the original ASUS HD7970 Matrix edition card. No problem as the ASUS R280X Matrix is a re-branded HD7970 version PCB wise. These factory overclocked cards feature a humongous triple slot cooler solution. While it might look overkill, it allows to run these cards daily on air cooling at safe operating temperatures at a reasonable noise level.

Four screws later we reveal already a part of the ASUS PCB. Never mind the dust, this card was still running in a test rig. After removal of the top plate, which has a dual function: first of all as a big heatsink for the Voltage Regulator Modules and secondly as a PCB reinforcement.

First step, after cleaning up the thermal paste on the GPU core, is to apply the pre-cut memory thermal pads; this makes the installation far easier and more professional looking then cutting the pads yourself.

Next up are the various VRMs, sadly scissors need to be used here. Nevertheless after a few minutes it's all over and done. Apply the included thermal paste and then mount the full cover block. Afterwards secure the block and the original back plate gently. I always closely observe the attitude of the PCB when tightening down the screws. Just take your time and you will end with a reborn, stunning looking graphics card.

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