Upgrade Your PC with the Noctua NH-U9S Cooler for a Quieter Operation
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- The Need for a Quieter PC
- Analyzing the Current PC Setup
- The Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
- The Journey to Find the Perfect Cooler
- Fitting the Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
- Removing the Old Cooler
- Cleaning the Processor and Applying Thermal Paste
- Installing the Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
- Configuring the Fan Speed in BIOS
- testing the Noise Level and Temperature
- Conclusion
Introduction
Welcome to another video from Explaining Computers! In this series, we will be upgrading a desktop PC to operate more quietly. In the first episode, we are going to fit the Noctua NH-U9S cooler, a high-quality cooler known for its efficiency and low noise levels. But before we dive into the upgrade process, let's take a closer look at the PC we'll be working on and the purpose of this project.
The Need for a Quieter PC
The PC we will be upgrading was purchased on eBay about a year ago. It was initially intended for hardware upgrade videos but is now used for demonstrating operating systems and applications. While it has served its purpose well, the noise from the fans has become a problem when Recording audio. To address this issue, we have decided to upgrade the PC to reduce fan noise during recording. In the following sections, we will explore the steps and components involved in achieving a quieter PC.
Analyzing the Current PC Setup
Before we begin the upgrade process, let's examine the current PC setup. Currently, we have two PCs used for recording software content: the Odyssey x86j4105, a quiet quad-core Celeron machine, and an aging AMD test rig. While the AMD rig has served its purpose, it's time for a faster PC to enhance the quality of the software content produced on the Channel. Recently, we installed an i5 10400 CPU in the PC to improve its performance. However, the fan noise from the CPU cooler needs to be addressed to ensure a quieter recording experience. In the next sections, we'll dive into the process of upgrading the cooler.
The Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
The Noctua NH-U9S cooler is our chosen solution for reducing fan noise in the PC. Known for its exceptional performance and low noise levels, the NH-U9S is a popular choice among PC enthusiasts. With its 92mm fan and compact size, it offers efficient cooling while maintaining a quiet operation. The NH-U9S is also available in a chromax black variant, which we opted for to match the aesthetics of our PC. In the following sections, we'll explore the journey to find the perfect cooler and discuss the challenges we encountered along the way.
The Journey to Find the Perfect Cooler
Finding the perfect CPU cooler for our PC was not an easy task. Initially, we planned to install a passive cooler to achieve complete silence, similar to our quad-core Celeron mini ITX PC running Ubuntu. However, further research revealed that passive coolers require excellent airflow, which can only be achieved with case fans. This meant that even with a silent CPU cooler, the PC would not be completely silent. Additionally, compatibility issues with our i5 10400 CPU led us to explore other options. Ultimately, we decided to use an active cooler with as quiet a fan as possible. After considering various factors, we settled on the Noctua NH-U9S cooler.
Fitting the Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
Now that we have the Noctua NH-U9S cooler, it's time to begin the installation process. First, we need to open the PC case and remove the existing cooler. Once the old cooler is removed, we'll clean the processor, apply thermal paste, and mount the NH-U9S cooler. Properly fitting the cooler is crucial for optimal performance and noise reduction. We'll follow the instructions provided with the NH-U9S cooler and ensure all components are securely attached. In the following sections, we'll go step by step through the installation process, providing detailed instructions and tips along the way.
Removing the Old Cooler
To begin the upgrade process, we need to remove the old CPU cooler. This involves releasing the push pins that hold the cooler in place and gently lifting it off the processor. Care must be taken to avoid damaging any components during this step. Once the old cooler is removed, we'll clean the processor's surface to remove any remaining thermal compound. This ensures proper thermal contact with the new cooler. In the next section, we'll discuss the cleaning process and the importance of applying thermal paste correctly.
Cleaning the Processor and Applying Thermal Paste
Before fitting the Noctua NH-U9S cooler, we must clean the processor's surface and apply thermal paste. This process ensures optimal heat transfer from the processor to the cooler. We'll use a small piece of cardboard to remove excess thermal compound and then clean the surface with a cloth dampened with white spirit. Once the surface is clean, we'll apply a small amount of thermal paste, ensuring even coverage. This step is critical for efficient heat dissipation and maintaining lower temperatures. We'll explain the process in detail, providing tips for achieving the best results.
Installing the Noctua NH-U9S Cooler
With the processor cleaned and thermal paste applied, it's time to install the Noctua NH-U9S cooler. This involves attaching the cooler's base to the processor and securing it with mounting bars and thumb screws. The installation process may vary depending on the specific motherboard and CPU socket. We'll carefully follow the instructions provided by Noctua to ensure a proper and secure installation. Throughout the process, we'll highlight any challenges or considerations specific to our setup. Once the cooler is installed, we'll proceed to configure the fan speed in the BIOS.
Configuring the Fan Speed in BIOS
The BIOS provides control over various settings, including fan speed. By adjusting the fan curve in the BIOS, we can customize the fan's behavior based on temperature thresholds. This allows us to strike a balance between noise reduction and cooling performance. We'll explore the options available in the BIOS and make adjustments to ensure the fan speed is optimized for our PC's specific requirements. Additionally, we'll discuss the importance of monitoring temperature levels to prevent overheating. In the next section, we'll run tests to evaluate the noise level and temperature performance of the upgraded PC.
Testing the Noise Level and Temperature
After completing the installation and BIOS configuration, we'll conduct tests to assess the noise level and temperature performance of the upgraded PC. We'll use a sound level meter to measure the noise produced by the PC at idle and under load. This will give us an objective measure of the noise reduction achieved through the cooler upgrade. Additionally, we'll monitor the CPU temperature using software tools to ensure that the new cooler effectively dissipates heat. Based on the test results, we'll evaluate the success of the upgrade and its impact on overall system performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading the PC with the Noctua NH-U9S cooler has significantly reduced fan noise and improved the overall recording experience. By carefully selecting and installing the cooler, we have achieved a quieter operation without compromising on cooling performance. However, this upgrade is only the first step in our Quest for a quieter PC. In the next and final episode of this series, we'll explore additional measures such as replacing the power supply and installing new case fans to further enhance noise reduction. Stay tuned for the conclusion of this exciting upgrade journey!
Highlights:
- Upgrading a desktop PC for a quieter operation
- Introduction to the Noctua NH-U9S cooler
- Journey to find the perfect CPU cooler
- Step-by-step installation guide
- Importance of cleaning and applying thermal paste correctly
- Configuring fan speed in the BIOS
- Testing noise level and temperature performance
- Conclusion and future upgrades
FAQ:
Q: Is the Noctua NH-U9S cooler compatible with all CPU sockets?
A: The compatibility of the Noctua NH-U9S cooler depends on the specific CPU socket. It's essential to check the compatibility list provided by Noctua to ensure proper fitment.
Q: Can I control the fan speed of the Noctua NH-U9S cooler?
A: Yes, the fan speed can be controlled through the BIOS. Most modern motherboards offer fan speed control options, allowing you to balance noise reduction and cooling performance.
Q: What other upgrades can be done to achieve a quieter PC?
A: In addition to upgrading the CPU cooler, other measures can be taken to reduce noise further. Replacing the power supply with a low-noise model and installing quiet case fans can significantly contribute to a quieter operation.
Q: Will upgrading the cooler affect the PC's performance?
A: Upgrading the cooler will not directly impact the PC's performance. However, by maintaining optimal operating temperatures, the cooler can improve overall system stability and longevity.