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Vizo Orbiter Hard Drive Cooler |
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Written by Mikhail Ivanenkov
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Friday, 03 August 2007 |
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Page 1 of 2
Thanks to Vizo for the product sample.
The past few years hard drives have grown exponentially in capacity and cache size (as well as new features like NCQ), but the most common spin rate is still 7200RPM. Another variable that hasn't changed much is heat output: a lot of drives still manage to get quite warm under normal conditions. Though placing one directly behind an intake fan in a case often solves the problem, it's a solution that's not always available. Some users also feel safer knowing that their drive is getting that extra bit of cooling. Either way, you have one other option: an HDD cooler. Today we'll be taking a look at Vizo's Orbiter, a simple, easy to install, single fan blower.
The retail blister package appropriately resembles a flying saucer and displays the cooler. The back provides specs for the fan:
- Cooler Dimensions: 101.5 x 94.6 x 17.8 mm
- Fan Dimensions: 60 x 60 x 15 mm
- Bearing Type: Sleeve Bearing
- Speed: 3200 RPM
- Noise Level: 20 dBA
- Max Airflow: 11.6 CFM
- Rated Voltage: DC 12V
- Rated Current: 0.17A
- Compatibility: 3.5" Bay
- Net Weight: 50g
Judging the specs, they're ok. Not great, but not the worst. Sleeve bearings are typically quieter than ball bearings, but don't last as long. This shouldn't really matter though as you'll most likely replace the cooler by the time the fan's life is up anyway. 20 dBA is relatively quiet, but keep in mind that it's another source of noise and when you add everything together, your system could get pretty loud. 11.6 CFM is somewhat on the low side, but it's better than no airflow.
The package contents are minimal: you get the cooler itself with a 4-pin pass through molex connector and four hard drive screws. The Orbiter installs on the bottom of your drive, right on top of the PCB where the screw holes are present.
Taking it apart reveals a three piece construction: a top, a bottom, and the fan itself. The bottom is made of metal to dissipate some additional heat.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 06 August 2007 )
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