Optimal airflow for overclocking performance
Optimal airflow for overclocking performance
Hi there. I recently purchased an RX 580 and considered boosting my 3570k's performance. I've done this before, though temperatures sometimes got a bit high (around 80º). My case is a Bitfenix Nova TG. I'm sharing three photos for your reference: one of the empty case, another showing my current build (photoshopped parts since I was at work), and a third of a setup I found online.
I'm curious if what I have right now is the optimal choice, especially since my fans aren't particularly powerful—just an aftermarket 1200rpm model and two built-in ones I can't recall their speeds for.
I was also thinking about adding another fan to the back of the cooler or seeing if placing two fans close together actually improves airflow.
Please share any advice you might have.
Best regards,
Sérgio.
In reality, this situation isn't what you're aiming for, no matter whether you're overclocking or not. I'd consider a case with open front airflow, such as the NZXT S340.
You should ensure the front and bottom draw in cooler outside air (using fans), while the top and rear act as exhausts (also assisted by fans). Both sets of fans should run at the same speed. If you can control them with a PWM splitter and all fans are PWM, then your airflow will stay balanced according to CPU temperatures (or any other part you connect it to).
In all truth, that situation isn't what you should aim for, whether you're overclocking or not. I'd consider a case with open front airflow, such as the NZXT S340.
You should ensure the front and bottom of the case draw in cooler ambient air (using fans), while the top and rear act as exhausts (also assisted by fans). Both sets of fans should run at the same RPM. If you can use a PWM splitter and all fans are PWM, your airflow will stay balanced according to CPU temperatures—or any other component you connect it to.
Hi there. Maybe I should have mentioned that the two front fans are actually intake fans. While the NZXT is clearly a better choice, I don't think switching is necessary since my temps are fine without overclocking the CPU. The main difference between this setup and the NZXT is the exhaust at the top.
I'm not very familiar with airflow, so perhaps I overlooked something.
And thank you for taking the time to reply.