How about checking Frame's track record for lasting performance?
How about checking Frame's track record for lasting performance?
Many motherboards come with BIOS and memory configuration designed for specific pin requirements. Any changes could cause problems. Some boards are more tolerant than others.
I also think about how coolers like Noctuas, with their particular mounting pressure and convex design, influence the compatibility of contact frames and whether this could compromise the CPU's stability. There are many factors at play. Edited October 24, 2023 by Melodist
The contact frames don’t significantly impact cooling efficiency, except for those curved air coolers which offer only slight improvement. Their effect is most noticeable with AIO systems or tailored water setups where the original blocks are nearly flat (though not perfectly so—lapping provides some benefit, but they’re far from as curved as an NH-D15).
The company’s perspective on contact frames with their spring mechanism and pre-set IHS distance for the ILM is clear.
It's really confusing after reading all of this. 1: Intel claims it's okay but warns users about running the CPU beyond its limits. 2: The bend looks poor, and using a frame would seem much better for several years ahead. 3: There might be issues with the board and RAM compatibility. 4: It could also affect the cooler, possibly because the CPU is taller than usual, which might push it down again and cause unknown stress. I'm not sure this has been thoroughly tested with air coolers in mind.
I double-checked again and it doesn’t appear there’s any plastic-like insulation or padding like the ILM and Thermalright Contact Frame does. If that’s true and my senses aren’t deceiving me, then the Thermalright frame offers better value at a much lower cost, which makes questioning German engineering a bit frustrating, especially since I’m from Germany.
It hovers above the board making only contact with the CPU. The Thermalright model uses foam pads for this reason. I believe the Thermalright is preferable for those not planning extreme overclocking. However, I wouldn’t rely on either, since even with a 13900/14900 I’d cap it at around 180W, and temperatures would remain manageable.
Contact frames aren't completely dependable for professional setups. They can introduce some instability, especially since Intel ILM doesn't provide full pressure. The green result in Igorlab testing shows stability for ILM, but switching to a contact frame means stable performance and the ability to retrain. Ram does retrain when placed in a system, which helps maintain consistency.