Compact cases are becoming fashionable again thanks to HTPC and Mini-ITX, as are small, efficient CPU coolers. Contrary to the general "Bigger-is-better" trend, the main requirement here is not to achieve maximum cooling performance. Instead, a small size and, above all, a minimal height are sought.

Following the principle of a round, top-blowing fan, the CC7122BP01 from Akasa is also designed. The heatsink is mounted directly onto the processor. The fan blows directly onto the heatsink and the processor, rather than being arranged orthogonally as with many other CPU coolers.

Thus, the entire cooler, with a height of just 2.6 centimeters, is perfect for ultra-compact HTPC cases and mini-PCs. A 74 mm fan is mounted on the heatsink. The fan is controllable thanks to PWM technology, with a speed range of 600 to 3,000 RPM. This generates a maximum of 30.75 dB(A) and moves up to 40 m³/h.

The CC71222PP01 from Akasa also provides cooling for the surrounding motherboard components due to its fan arrangement. Installation is done with push pins on Intel sockets 775, 1150, 1151, 1155, and 1156.

Technical details:

• Dimensions: 87.2 x 26 x 85.2 mm (W x H x D)
• Material: Aluminum, Copper
• Weight: 152.8 g
• Fan: 74 mm (30.75 dB(A), 600 - 3,000 RPM, max. 40 m³/h)
• Connection: 4-Pin PWM
• Lifespan: approx. 50,000 hours
• Compatibility: Socket 775, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156.