Zalman CNPS10X Performa CPU Cooler Review

Installation

Test Rig:
Intel Core i7 920 LGA 1366 Processor
Gigabyte X58A-UD3R Intel X58 Motherboard
OCZ i7 Ready DDR3-1600 Triple Channel Kit
Sapphire Radeon HD 5850 Video Card
OCZ EliteXStream 800 Watt Power Supply
Ikonic Ra 10X Liquid aluminum full tower (liquid cooling capabilities not utilized)
Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit

First, install the CPU and prep the CPU surface with isopropyl alcohol and a lint free cloth.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Secure the Intel baseplate. Note that there are three “holes” in each corner, the outer hole is for LGA 1366, the center hole is for LGA 1156 and the inner hole is for LGA 775. On each corner, install a nut, with the hex side placed into the recessed side of the baseplate, and hold the nut in place with a side cap.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Slightly loosen the screws holding the cooler base upper and lower halves, and insert the Intel clips. Make sure that the clips are flush against the inner part of the base.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Prep the cooler base with isopropyl alcohol and a lint free cloth. Apply thermal compound.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Place double sided tape on the proper side of the baseplate, and install the baseplate onto the bottom of the motherboard.

In a diagonal fashion, install cooler onto the baseplate with the bolts. Tighten until just snug.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Finally, install the anti-vibration pads for the fan, and using the fan clips, install the fan.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler

Install the motherboard into the case and you’re done.

Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler Zalman CNPS 10X Performa CPU Cooler