Contender #3 - Xigmatek Achilles S1284C
Specifications - Xigmatek Achilles S1284C |
|
|---|---|
| Composition | Four nickel-coated copper heatpipes, aluminium fins |
| Weight | 660g |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 159mm x 120mm x 60mm |
| Fans included | Single 120mm (white LED) |
| Fan Control | Motherboard-controlled (4-pin header) |
| Fan speeds / noise levels | 800 - 1,500RPM / up to 20.64dBA |
| Maximum air flow | 61.375CFM |
| Thermal paste? | Yes, sachet of thermal compound |
| Intel support | LGA775 |
| AMD support | AM2 / 754 / 939 / 940 |
| Price | £36.79 (SCAN.co.uk) |
The last of our three contenders - the Xigmatek Achilles S1284C - is an updated revision of the Xigmatek Achilles S1284 we tested in September 2008.
This time around, it promises improved implementation of Xigmatek's HDT (heatpipe direct touch) technology with smaller gaps between heatpipes, resulting in better contact with a system's processor - at least, that's the theory.
Priced at £36.79, it's similar in price to Scythe's Mugen 2, but it doesn't offer support for all the latest sockets - LGA1366 is an obvious omission, and that means no out-the-box support for Intel's Core i7.
As with the Achilles coolers that have come before it, the S1284C ships in clamshell packaging that gives customers a good look look at the cooler prior to purchase. Why is the cooler packaged upside down? That's to provide a clear view of the HDT base.
Xigmatek's hope for the Achilles-series coolers is to provide both good looks and performance. The packaging fits the bill, let's take a look at the cooler.