Windows 7: Intel i7-860 stock CPU cooling fan

Building a new computer. Went to the store (micro center) to pick up a i7-860 CPU.

On the recommendation of the guy helping me build the system, I was going to get a "aftermarket" CPU cooling fan, but they were sold out so I could not get it.

The sales guy said I didn't need it anyways and to just use the stock fan in the i7-860 box.

Should I just use the stock CPU fan, or hook up an aftermarket one?



As of right now I don't plan on overclocking the system.

If you don't plan to overclock, there usually is no need for an aftermarket cooler. I'm running an Intel Q9550 2.83 at 3.20ghz with the stock Intel cooler and I have no problems with heat whatsoever even with a fairly modest overclock.

Stock coolers nowadays are pretty good.
More important than the CPU cooler is airflow in and out.

Get as much cool air into the box, and get the warm air out asap.

Even the best cpu cooler in the world, doesn't work when surrounding air is too hot.

So choice of casing is paramount.

Greetz

here is my case, how's that for fan action



there are also 2 fan on the top to push the hot air out.

I have the 860. I ran the stock heatsink and fan for a day or two.

I then received my $15 Coolermaster TX3 and it KILLS the stock by about 10-15C

I would AT LEAST get a TX3. It's a fine cooler for next to nothing.

Keep us informed on the 860. I LOVE mine like no other piece of hardware I have (the Gigabyte P55-UD4P is working nicely too.)

Good stuff. Get the TX3 (push pins so no taking the board out)
I had a Freezer 7 pro and it really not the best. The TX3 is twice as good as the F7P
The TX3 uses direct heat pipe....the pipes are in contact with the CPU. It makes all the difference.

BTW: here are some OCs people are getting with this chip!
http://hwbot.org/hardware/processor/core_i7_860

How hot was your 860 running before the 15C drop???? My Q9550 is running about 25C at idle with the stock cooler....hence the reason I didn't see any reason to make it run cooler. I figure that's well within the range it should be at...heck it's quite cool compared to most....and I didn't have to spend a dollar extra or install any aftermarket CPU cooler which might require taking out the mobo to put on the clamps.

My 860 was at about 44 with the stock and now it's about 29.
If mine was that cool I may not have changed either.

I must say it's 90F where I live and the ambient temps are high as I have no AC.

Also, this cooler has push pins so no removing the mobo.

This makes a BIG difference. If I had a "room temp" it would be different. I also use a VERY good thermal paste which I didn't try with the stock cooler. I just used what was on it stock. That will make a difference too. I don't know what Intel has on the stock cooler.

For $15 you cannot loose with a TX3 in my opinion. It will give you some room in case you ever need it.

I would also like to know how the MSI is treating you. The GD65 looks like a sweet board.

Also, here are some pics of the cooler on my system if you want to see them. It's on this site in "show us your rig"
http://www.sevenforums.com/hardware-...tml#post276636

well guys I've decided to go ahead with aftermarket cooling. Heck it's only $25 for the Hyper 212+. I just have to wait for the local store to get it in stock.

Then if i ever do want to try overclocking, I dont have to worry about it.

Plus I keep my computer running 24/7 so it would be a little better insurance.

Nice choice, you will WANT to do some OCing with that processor. It's easy and fun. I have not been able to hold back. I have mine running all the time at 3.4Ghz with turbo off - or it runs at almost 3.o with turbo on anyway!! What a sweet CPU. I hope you enjoy it half as much as I have.

Why can't he enjoy it just as much as you have??? (joking)