VGA Cooler

**HeavyG** · 08-09-10, 06:48 AM

So I am currently running 2x ATI 4850s in CrossfireX. These cards come with factory clocks at 625/993MHz (Core/Mem). I have them currently overclocked to 730/1130MHz, which is a pretty huge performance increase from these inexpensive little cards.

My problem is that they run pretty hot. When I say hot, I mean they run 54c at idle and upwards of 80c at load. Some games take them to 85c. There has been no artifacting or crashing, but the fact they are running so hot makes me uncertain on the life of the cards.

So I purchased 2 of these:

Zalman VF1000 2 Ball VGA Cooler
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...-037-_-Product

I found them brand new on eBay for $40 each with free shipping (sorry, Newegg). I read on some of the overclocking forums that these coolers are bringing temps down between 20-30c with clock speeds higher than what I am pushing. I don't think they will arrive until after Quakecon.

**Viktor_Olin** · 08-09-10, 03:17 PM

Be sure to report back to us how well they work.

**HeavyG** · 08-11-10, 05:52 PM

First one came in today. It didn't look brand new... The copper was obviously tarnished. I broke it down and am soaking the copper in a vinegar/lemon/salt bath. It is cleaning up rather nicely, but it doesn't look brand new. Oh well... Ebay scammers.

**Viktor_Olin** · 08-11-10, 06:35 PM

Well. as long as it works. Keep us informed.

**masterPAINb** · 08-14-10, 03:55 AM

Be wary of the VGA heatsinks' size - will both retrofitted video cards fit in your case ?

**HeavyG** · 08-14-10, 10:51 PM

Originally Posted by masterPAINb

Be wary of the VGA heatsinks' size - will both retrofitted video cards fit in your case ?

I have a Cooler Master Cosmos S, so I will have plenty of room. I could crawl into that case and pitch a tent if I wanted to, but thanks for the concern.