My readings aren't looking well. Kraken X62
My readings aren't looking well. Kraken X62
So I just installed my Kraken X62 after setting up my new PC case and assembling the system.
I then opened P95 and performed the default small FFT test, and my temperatures were rising to 83°C occasionally spiking up to 90°C before returning to the 79-83°C range.
This was with everything left as it came out of the box.
The CPU I’m using is the i5-4670K.
I have the RAD at the front of the case directing air outward (at least I believe it’s doing so, since the NZXT logo on the fans is facing inward toward the case).
I attempted to crank the pump and fans to their maximum while applying stress, which resulted in the 79-83°C readings.
The liquid temperatures are reported around 35-38°C.
I don’t have an intake fan inside the case; instead, the RAD pushes air out from the front using a single fan, with another fan at the back and a grill fan at the top of the case that isn’t running.
Could this be related to the lack of an intake fan? Should I switch the rear fan to intake mode or mount it as an intake?
I expect better temperatures at stock speeds and voltages. The turbo boost isn’t enabled, so the CPU is actually running at 3.4GHz under stress at stock voltage.
If you visit this link and click on the Image Gallery, you can see some options for the case. It’s called the Slate case by ibuypower, but it’s essentially a customized S340 Elite. There’s a slot at the bottom front of the face panel where air can pass through.
https://www.ibuypower.com/Store/Intel-Z370-Slate
I purchased this case brand new for $40 because it was essentially a S340 Elite and supported the X62, and it looked good with the dual TG side panels, but it was a great price considering the budget.
Not having an intake fan mainly impacts dust accumulation and case ventilation, but it shouldn't raise CPU temperatures significantly. Re-seat your pump and ensure it operates at maximum speed continuously. AIO pumps tend to overheat when not running at full capacity. If temperatures remain high after re-seating, inspect your wiring and tubing for any issues. If the pump shows no vibration, it's likely dead and you should contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
I don't believe it's the pump. The CAM software says it's working, but I'll do a physical check. I plan to remove the block, clean it, and use my own paste as instructed. I'm sure it's there—it fits perfectly and tight. Both the pump and fans were running at full speed, which matched the temperatures I was seeing.
I just ran another stress test. At around 75°C, the core reached 80°C after about 15-20 minutes of intense use. I realized why the temperatures were higher than expected. I also changed the CPU during reassembly, which forced it to run in BIOS mode and set the rear case fan to maximum speed. The CPU was then running at 4.2Ghz. Please check the CoreTemp results to see if those temperatures are still excessive for that clock and core voltage. From what I understand, Haswell tends to get hot regardless of settings, so these readings should be normal. Here’s the link for anyone with a browser issue: http://tinypic.com/r/2dai1r6/9
Yeah, those temperatures are acceptable when running a Haswell CPU under heavy load. The best range is keeping them below 83-85°C, which fits within those numbers. Still, they seem unusual for a 280mm AIO. At only 4 GHz, I’d expect load temperatures to stay well under 60°C, let alone 80°C. The 1.2V reading also surprises me more. I’m assuming you had a lot of trouble getting the TIM between the IHS and the die, which is likely causing these odd readings. I wouldn’t suggest removing the CPU just yet, but there are newer tools that make this process much simpler.
I notice the RAD at the front is directing air outward (though I’m sure it’s pushing inwards, the NZXT logo on the fans points inward). My liquid temperatures are around 35-38°C.
I don’t have an intake fan inside the case—just the RAD pushing air out from the front using one fan for exhaust and a single fan grill at the top with no fan attached.
Could this be because there’s no intake fan? Should I switch the rear fan to intake or mount it as an intake instead?
Pulling all system heat through the radiator adds to the situation, since the case fan is also vying for airflow through the top vent and rear case vents.
I’d reverse the RAD so it acts as intake, keep the rear fan as exhaust, and block off the top vent. Also, remove unused PCI covers to improve overall venting.
I need to consider whether to make the rear vent and top vent outputs or reverse their roles as intakes. The limited venting area on the bottom front panel suggests it may not function effectively as an intake, so flipping them could improve airflow.
Typically, front or bottom fans handle intake while rear or top fans manage exhaust. I’d begin by using the rear as exhaust and radiator fans as intake, then test the setup.