Thermal management is more than thermal performance of a given cooler. Usually we are challenged with very strict acoustic requirements from our customers. A key success factor in keeping acoustic noise emission at a minimum is designing and selecting the right fan for the customer’s application. 

Picking the right fan is two-dimensional, where airflow testing is one and acoustic performance is the other. When a fan has been qualified in our airflow testing, it will then go through the second stage of testing; an acoustic testing at Asetek’s acoustic laboratory. 

According to the maximum CPU, graphics chip or air temperature set by our customer the acoustic testing simply validates the noise level of the customers system and hereby determines the right choice of fans and heat exchangers. 

Liquid cooling provides superior acoustics, as it can move and exhaust the heat in a remote place over a larger area and at reduced air velocity.