Review - Zalman CNPS9500A LED CPU Cooler

A short while ago, I decided that my beloved but aging Alienware Aurora gaming computer was due for an update. I happily upgraded my AMD Athlon64 4000+ CPU with a brand new, dual core AMD Athlon64 X2 4200+. However, I quickly learned that the stock CPU cooler was not up to the job. After several overheat warning alarms and a couple of automatic heat shutdowns, I decided to buy a new CPU cooler.

But which one? I researched coolers that would be compatible with 1) my socket 939 motherboard 2) my rather extreme cooling needs, and 3) the amount of space available in my computer case. After a bit of waffling, I finally settled on the Zalman CNPS9500A LED CPU Cooler, $48.99 at newegg.com.

System Configuration:
Alienware Aurora
Motherboard: abit AV8 (socket 939)
CPU: AMD Athlon64 X2 4200+
Windows XP sp2

Test Software:
abit ìGuru Utility

CPU Cooler:
Zalman CNPS9500A LED

Pre-installation impressions:

1. Size
This thing is HUGE! At 85(L) x 112(W) x 125(H) mm (3.35 x 4.4 x 5 in), and weighing in at 530g (1.17lbs), this is one of the bigger CPU coolers on the market. Fortunately, I measured the available space in my case before I bought the cooler, so I knew it would fit.

2. Appearance
Very pretty. Zalman is known for the visual design of their CPU coolers, and this one is no exception. The base, heatpipes and fins are pure, shiny copper, and the fan blades are a matte, translucent plastic.

3. Feel
Sturdy. The cooler feels weighty and the heatpipes and fins are firmly attached. The fan turns easily but is not too loose. The included accessories and installation components seem well made.