How we test
In order to measure the CPU coolers’ cooling capacity, we use a test platform developed at Hardware.Info. This consists of a large power resistor, which when powered by a variable voltage source, can induce any desired amount of heat. It allows us to create a controlled test that we can reproduce reliably, something that is not possible with a processor. The surface area of the power source corresponds to that of Intel Socket 1155/1156 processors.
Coolers are tested at loads of 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 140 and 160 watts. We run this cycle twice, once with the fans on low speed (7 volts) and a second time with the fans on high (12 volts).
We halt the test when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees, in which case the cooler does not get a value for that test. The ambient temperature is recorded at low and high fan speeds, after which all values are normalised to 20 degrees.
Noise levels are measured in soundproof box, at a distance of 10 cm during a 30 second period. This is done with fans on low and on high speed.
We compared the Sire Thermax Eclipse III to other models between £30 and £50 we've tested over the past two years. The Spire Thermax Eclipse III is marked in red.
