Just as I'd done prior with CPU internal thermal diode and thermistor, I decided to determine what (if any) discrepancy may exist between Abit’s EQ "SYS" temp, and Ambient temps as measured by the thermistor. I suspended the TTF-103 thermistor from the top of the case, approximately 6-cm from the block, seen below;








From the photos above you can see there's very little difference between Abit EQ's on-board thermistor reading (SYS), and the TTF-103 thermistor. This is the primary reason I remove the side-window/panel from my case, especially during testing. As I stated prior, this eliminates an additional variable in the formulae, being case/ambient temp. Once the case is sealed, the proximity of devices generating heat raises ambient temp approximately 15°C above true/room ambient temperature.

To produce Load in order to raise CPU temps, I ran Seti@Home ver3.1. Seti will often raise the CPU temp as high as 21C above Idle. I allowed the program to run for approximately 30 minutes, until a high temp plateau was attained. Vcore remained at default (1.525V);




The cooling prowess of Cool Cases CF1 Microstructure is simply outstanding. I come to think of this block as the BMW of Wasserküehlers! I've tested many water-blocks (heatsinks), and running Set@Home ver.3.1 usually produces a minimum 10C differential between Idle and Load. The CF1 kept temps below that number the entire time.

I ran these tests several times, and this review ended up taking three days. I positioned, and re-positioned the TTF-103 thermistor at least 15x, to ensure optimal contact was achieved. I'm very impressed with Cool-Cases.org, I can honestly say they may be the most innovative H20 PC-cooling company out there. Further evidence of this can be found in they're producing what I believe to be the only solid Silver water block on the market. Cool-Cases CCR-03 Silveredition 925-sterling CPU-Kuehler. In addition they make a 925-Sterling inlaid CPU-Kuehler, their CC-Magic Silver.

I’m working on a part II of this review and it will feature the CF1 mated with the Prescott 3.0E. I'd like to thank Florian of Watercooling.de for the CF1 sample, and for all his help. Visit their store if you are Europe as it has on of the best selections of water-cooling supplies and kits available.

// Keith Suppe (aka Liquid3D)

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