Heat sinks and weight

[Randybob]

I am considering upgrading my socket 939 A64 3200+ to a dual core A64 X2 or Opteron. I don't have enough for a new system (that will be 4 cores at least) and the dual core upgrade will help me a lot with my 3D rendering. Thing is, only OEM X2s are available, and the Opterons are not reasonably priced. Which leaves me looking at buying an aftermarket heat sink. When doing my research, I was dismayed to find that very few heat sinks are under the specified limit for 939 (460 grams) and that moving the computer with a heavier heat sink may damage it. I see myself moving at least once with this system in tow (I'll always be able to use it as a render node). So my question is what sort of damage are we looking at, and how severe is it likely to be? And how can one safely move a computer with one of those heavier-than-specified heat sinks?

 

[Comdrpopnfresh]

I have an arctic a64 freezer pro. Dunno if it is under the limit or not, but I have moved it a bunch- no problems. Assuming there is no way to lead you towards a new system- you'll get more bang for your buck. However, I certainly do understand the allure of prolonging a 939 system. I have an 3800+ x2, and the price on that 4200+ is looking good, exp considering it can be had in a manchester core vs the toldeo....

 

[MadScientist]

Unlike those cheap Intel plastic push pins, the 939 socket has a very sturdy retention mechanism. I am also using an AC Freezer 64 Pro on my Opt 170. The heatsink attaches to 3 plastic tabs on each side of the retention mechanism. At 528g with fan the AC Freezer 64 Pro is not that heavy and the installation is very secure. I could be wrong, but I thought 460g was Intel's heatsink spec limit for a 775 socket.

 

[mooseracing]

I would also try to stick to shorter heatsinks. Not the tower ones, since they add a little more leverage.

Only once I had a problem with a HS and that was using Thermaltakes Beetle, it was a very heavy sucker and ended up screwing up my board from moving it too much and the leverage.

I am actually suprised more of the Dells I work on at the University don't have the heatsink issues as they have the big towers and are moved alot.

 

[wwswimming]

it's a cantilevered load. under certain conditions (like the
Baja 500, or in an F-22), one of the bigger heat sinks,
like the Noctua NH-U12 or the TR U120/120E, it'll put
forces on the CPU in the range 10-100 times the static load.

but those are exceptional conditions. if you handle the box
carefully, it will be no problem.

 

[AmberClad]

@ OP - why can't you just carry the case sideways (with the motherboard parallel to the ground)?

The weight of the HSF itself shouldn't be an issue. Mine is about twice the Intel 775 spec, but I've never had an issue with it. I think the force exerted by the HSF hanging perpendicular off the board while you're moving it would be more a concern.

 

[MichaelD]

Originally posted by: AmberClad
@ OP - why can't you just carry the case sideways (with the motherboard parallel to the ground)?

The weight of the HSF itself shouldn't be an issue. Mine is about twice the Intel 775 spec, but I've never had an issue with it. I think the force exerted by the HSF hanging perpendicular off the board while you're moving it would be more a concern.

*ding* Winner! :gift:

When moving the case, carry it sideways, just like she said. I also agree w/MadScientist; the S939 has a very sturdy mounting mechanism. You'll be fine.