X-bit labs

Perfect Silence: Zalman Reserator 2 Fanless Liquid-Cooling System Review

Category: Coolers

by Sergey Lepilov

[ 04/25/2007 | 09:59 AM ]

We are about to check out the second version of Zalman’s liquid cooling system. Silent operation being its highlighted feature, what about its cooling performance proper? Let’s find out how much more efficient has Zalman Reserator 2 become from our detailed review!

Table of contents:

• Closer Look at Zalman Reserator 2
  
• Package and Accessories
  
• Reserator 2 Main Block
  
• CPU Water-Block: Zalman ZM-WB4 Gold
  
• VGA Water-Block: Zalman ZM-GWB3
  
• Assembly Tips
  
• Specification
  
• Testbed and Methods
  
• Thermal Performance
  
• Conclusion
  

In 2005 we published Zalman Reserator 1 Plus Liquid Cooling System Review. That liquid cooling solution did not leave PC enthusiasts indifferent, gathering both positive and negative reports from users. First showcased at Computex 2006, the new Zalman Reserator 2 continues the series of silent liquid cooling systems from the renowned Korean brand.

Let’s check it out now.

Closer Look at Zalman Reserator 2

Package and Accessories

The product packaging raises associations with Matreshka, the Russian nesting doll. First, there is one cardboard box the size of a PC case. The paper sticker on it tells you the product model and power requirements.

There is another box inside it – this one is made of thick colorful cardboard:

The text on the sides of the box tells you diverse information about the cooler’s features, accessories, specification, etc.

You can unpack the box to find another one (a third one!), which is made of foam plastic.

On top of that box there is a flexible pipe, 4 meters long, and a user manual in English and Chinese.