GlacialTech Alaska Multiple Platform CPU Cooler

The fan is mounted to the heatsink by using “fan holders” that look like cleverly bent paperclips instead of screws.  They do a good job of holding the fan in place but are a pain to install.  GlacialTech provides you with four of these in total allowing for two mounted fans.

Before we get too far along, let’s define what our bench rig is:

• Gigabyte 880GA-UD3H
• AMD Phenom II X4 965
• 2x2GB Patriot Sector 5 PC3-12800
• Seagate 500GB ST3500630AS
• BitFenix Colossus (click to read our review)
• BFG LS-450
• Windows 7 Professional 64-bit

For idle readings, room temperature is maintained at a cozy 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) and the computer is running for an hour before CPU temperatures are logged.  Full load is achieved with Prime95 set for In-Place Large FFTs (maximum heat, power consumption, some RAM tested).  The TIM is applied and at least 100 hours have passed before the readings are recorded.  Temps are recorded every 5 seconds for 45 minutes, then averaged omitting the highest and lowest temperatures recorded.

After all is said and done, this cooler ends up delivering something unexpected.  The Alaska performed well but the installation issues really leave me with a bad taste in my mouth.  I don’t know if I can get past the awkward installation and the breaking screw.  Even though most that will buy this type of cooling unit will likely be enthusiasts, that doesn’t mean that the “easy installation” promises should be broken.  If GlacialTech’s R&D department were to revisit this unit, it may be worth a second look.