Devonavar wrote:
Ok, there's a lot to tackle here, but let me try:
Lack of data for the AC NVSilencer 5
I'm surprised people are still interested in this cooler with the Accelero set to succeed it. As MikeC stated, it was reallly only tossed into the mix as a reference because we had it on hand. In retrospect, I probably should have tested it both ways — once affixed to the VGA header, and once controlled externally. I was actually unaware that RivaTuner could control fan speed; I only discovered this program at the very end of the testing. Neither SpeedFan nor ATITool allows the fan on our test card to be controlled.
At this point, it will be quite some time before I will be back in the lab with enough time to retest it, so things will have to stand as they are for now. Perhaps we can revisit it again for a third time (!) when we look at the Accelero.
Regarding the interest in the Silencer. I dont know for sure, but I believe the two main reasons for the interest is:
1) The basic design is brilliant.
2) Many of us had it / have it.
Personally, I believe AC could have taken it a class or two up, if they improved quality. Better fans, better polishing of the contact area between GPU/HSF. And maybe add in a heatpipe or two. Enough about that, back to the review
I think the main reason for people commenting on voltage for the Silencer, is the point about using the Silencer as a reference.
For me, a geusstimated voltage of 10 volt, dont look like much of a reference
Another thing to consider, is there's several reports of different VGA card's PWM regulation of the fan, which introduce noise. Especially with Silencers. Maybe, the Silencer is more quiet than the VF900...
All in all, I think using a FanMate2 will make it a better choise as a reference.
But dont get me wrong, I really like this review:
1) It's simply the best VGA review I've read (and I've read a LOT)
2) You've done a great job by creating and developing the test methology.
3) Well chosen coolers.
4) Re-use of usual SPCR standard way of doing things.
One more point: If this review wasnt as great as it is, I wouldnt spent time on commenting it.