Intro:
The original Vantec AeroFlow was a short-lived
heatsink innovation that utilized a unique center copper slug with a creative
aluminum fin design made specifically for the brand-new T.M.D. (tip magentic
driving) fan technology. The AeroFlow packed quite a punch for a low budget,
medium noise cooler, but issues with the T.M.D. technology caused it to fall out
of favor as newer and bigger heatsinks overshadowed it. Little more than a year
later, Vantec returns with the AeroFlow 2, which sports a few features that are
similar to its predecessor, but also tries to create waves of its own.
Packaging:
The AeroFlow 2 comes in a retail package very similar to the
original (review can be seen
here).
An interesting item to note is that where it previously stated "TMD Fan" in
large, centered lettering, is now "Keep it cool...". One small example of Vantec
trying to separate the AeroFlow name from the failed T.M.D. technology.
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| (1) Front of package |
(2) Back of package |
Contents:
Besides the main heatsink / fan unit, the retail package from
Vantec also contains a small tube of thermal paste, along with a quick
installation instruction booklet. The Vantec 'generic' paste will be put aside
in favor of Arctic Silver Ceramique for the testing later on in the review.
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| (3) Paste and
booklet |
(4) Paste close-up |
The quick installation booklet has clear pictures and is easy to follow. The
addition of a thumb pressure clip instead of a screwdriver clip is a welcome
addition that makes the process even simpler.
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| (5) Instruction booklet |
Main unit:
The AeroFlow 2 heatsink / fan unit looks about as sharp as
the original. The aluminum fins are complimented by a chromed fan bracket with
"Vantec" and "AeroFlow 2" emblems on the sides.
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| (6) Overall shot |
(7) Logo |
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| (8) Fan corner |
As mentioned previously, the AeroFlow 2 has strayed from the
traditional screwdriver-slot clip to a safer thumb pressure clip. This means
that there is no chance for you to slip with a flathead screwdriver when
installing and break your motherboard or nearby components. Those with cramped
cases combined with high-socket motherboards might want to take a look at the
clearance between the top of the CPU socket and the bottom of the power supply,
as the thumb pressure clip adds a few millimeters. I used a standard mid-tower
ATX case for the testing process, and did not have any clearance problems,
however.
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| (9) Thumb pressure clip |
Continue on to the next page where I disassemble the unit, ask
Vantec a few questions, and commence in testing the AeroFlow 2.
Next Page >>>
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