- Joined
- Feb 12, 2013
- Messages
- 81
- Motherboard
- Ivy Bridge Powermac G4 mod
- CPU
- i5-3330
- Graphics
- GTX650 Ti
- Mac
- Classic Mac
- Mobile Phone
Hi There, Just catching up on all the posts. Can I make the suggestion that you retest #4 above, but remove the Main PSU from the case, you seemed to have explored every option (including removing the GPU altogether), except this one.
IMHO For any effective cooling you need clearly defined entry point for cool air, and a clearly defined exit point for warm air, and a way to move and channel that air over the components to be cooled from the entry to the exit point. Look at any apple computer (or any windows laptop for that matter) and this is clearly part of the design. Take the trusty Power Mac G5, it had four (drive,gpu,cpu,psu) separate thermal compartments with separate fans in each compartment to move air from the front to the back of the case. The CPU specifically is continually cooled with fresh from outside the case. To see what is possible in a confined space have a read of the following post.
http://www.tonymacx86.com/completed-mods/120480-g4-cube-reinvented.html
Removing the PSU (also a source of heat) from the case and replacing with a couple of very low speed fans to push air from front to the back, would reduce the internal temp of the case and give the GPU the fresh cool air it needs.
Your idea of rotating the MB comes with the issue of the rear IO ports and build complexity to deal with the problem. The question you have to ask yourself is, which compromise you want to make. If it were my decision, an external PSU would win every time
Regards
Kiwi
PS Regarding Comment #2 above, and Assuming you are measuring power usage at the wall, I think you may be confusing the CPU's TDP (thermal design power) with power consumed. Note, also that the motherboard, PSU and other components do also add to the power usage
First of all, thanks for the input. But judging from your projects you are on a whole different modding level than me so please don't expect too much on complex air-channeling constructions!
Now about your suggestion: it is very crucial for me to have an internal PSU; it makes the system more compact, more integrated, more Apple-esque if you prefer. As with Apple products, "function follows form" (ie look at the burning hot laps of almost all MacBooks or the whining noises of all Airs, or even the sharp wrist-cutting edges of Airs) and in that direction I am willing to let the system run a bit hotter in order to achieve better looks.
However, since I'm going to order a bunch of adapters and angled connectors to hack, why not order a couple fans as well, in order to test your suggestion? Can you suggest a specific type of fan? My available height is, say, 60-65mm and I'd like it to be as quiet as possible.
Meanwhile you must be right about the TDP comment. I thought the TDP meant the maximum power draw, apparently it doesn't...