CPU Heatsink and Cooling Assembly

Often the simplest idea is the best. Instead of drilling holes, I decided to use a 30-ampere copper wire to attach the fan.

It is possible to use the original four mounting holes on the fan and thread the copper wire through it.

I soldered the ends neatly, and as you can see, it is firmly fixed! It is cheap and cheerful.

I am using a cheap fan that cost two bucks on eBay. It has a tachometer signal, which is exactly what the Dell motherboard requires.

Heatsink Compound

For the heatsink compound, I am using some thermal gold, which is supposed to be the best paste. It will do for the time being.

Capacitor Protector

The hot air blows directly over the electrolytic capacitors, and I know how these Nichicon caps are sensitive to heat and can dry up. Hence, I have cut a small piece of plastic to go over them for protection.

Exhaust Air guide

I have added another piece of plastic to go over the heatsink and fan to channel the air out of a narrow slot on the back plate. It looks a little ghetto, but seems to work very well and I can feel the warm exhaust air. It has been working like this for two years without any problems. My R&D research cost me 20 cents. Hey, that is why those big guys go broke!

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