t_ski
12-15-2007, 01:00 AM
[page=Introduction]
Introduction
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddlogo.gif
I would like to thank Danger Den (http://www.dangerden.com/) for supplying the review sample.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/image3.jpg
Features:
100% copper 110 material
Acrylic and brass top options
Threaded fitting ports are G 1/4 BSPP for use with any similar spec fittings
Complete Block with O-Ring
Pressure Tested to 50psi
High flow 1/4", 3/8", or 1/2" Chrome Plated Fittings
Machine lapped and flat mirror polished
Stainless steel hold down
Benefits:
240 Heat Dissipating Columns for enhanced transfer of heat to the water and optimum coverage of the CPU
Significant temperature drops on Quad Core and multiple die processors. (5-10 Degrees Celsius observed on lab QX6800 processors depending on radiator size and ambient room temperature)
Ready to install - designed and tuned for your system for top performance
Anti-Tarnish coating applied to prevent finger print or environmental changes. This specialized formula also has no affect on cooling potential.
Corrosion will not occur when used with other Copper and Brass parts. Avoid using non-anodized aluminum (or all aluminum) if at all possible for maximum component life.
Compatibility:
Compatibility is based on the version of MC-TDX purchased. Currently there is one MC-TDX for Intel Socket 775 CPUs and one for AMD AM2 CPUs.
[page=Packaging & Contents]
Packaging & Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx01sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx01.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx02sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx02.jpg)
The MC-TDX comes in Danger Den's typical packaging, which consists of a white cardboard box with black foam protecting the contents. This does a great job of reducing costs, but at the same time provides sufficient protection for the hardware inside.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx03sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx03.jpg)
Also included with the waterblock are the required mounting hardware and a simple instruction sheet. Please note that there is not any thermal compound included. In my opinion, this is completely acceptable. Most enthusiasts have their own brand of thermal compound that they prefer, so there is no point in including something that would just sit in the box anyway.
[page=A Closer Look]
A Closer Look
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx04sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx04.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx07sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx07.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx12sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx12.jpg)
The Danger Den MC-TDX is the updated version of the classic TDX CPU waterblock. For this reason, its appearance is almost completely identical to its predecessor. The bottom of the block is made of cast 110 copper that is machined to allow assembly, while the top is 1/4" thick Lucite (Acrylic). There is an optional brass top for those that prefer it.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx08sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx08.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx11sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx11.jpg)
The main difference between the new MC-TDX and the old TDX is that the new MC-TDX has 240 pins over the CPU core area. The MC-TDX was designed especially for quad core processors that carry much more heat than the dual cores when they are pushed and that is where the MC-TDX excels. On the inlet side of the block one of the chrome plated fittings is located directly over the center of the pins, while the water flows across the block and leaves through the outlet barb. A black rubber O-ring seals the top and prevents leaks.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx05sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx05.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx06sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx06.jpg)
The bottom of the block comes protected with some heavy tape. When removed, the base of the block did not have any residue left on it. The base is machine lapped and polished, although it is not as shiny as one might expect.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx09sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx09.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx10sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx10.jpg)
The base of the MC-TDX is smooth, but there were a few high points on the surface as shown with the razor blade test. However, these high points were toward the outside of the block, and the inside area seemed relatively flat. When placed next to the box the MC-TDX came in, the finish is not very reflective, but reflective distortions were not noticed.
[page=Installation]
Installation
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx13sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx13.jpg)
To install the Danger Den MC-TDX the motherboard needs to be completely removed from the case.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx14sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx14.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx15sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx15.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx16sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx16.jpg)
Danger Den uses the same mounting hardware for the MC-TDX as their other models of CPU blocks, which consists of stainless steel threaded rods, springs and nuts, nylon washers and brass thumb screws. The first picture above shows the order in which these parts will be applied to the threaded rod, shown from left to right. To start, a nut is screwed onto the end of each rod, and a nylon washer slides over that. From the back of the motherboard the rods are inserted through the mounting holes.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx17sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx17.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx18sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx18.jpg)
Next, another nylon washer goes over each threaded rod, followed by the second nut. At this point all the nuts need to be secured tightly, or else they will come loose when removing the block later on. I used a 5/16" socket driver on the bottom of the board and a 5/16" wrench on the top of the board, being sure not to over tighten the assembly.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx19sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx19.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx21sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx21.jpg)
It is a good idea to check the placement of the block and look for any interference with surrounding components. The ideal position for the MC-TDX would be to have the outlet barb in the highest position to assist with air removal from the loop, but in the case of the Asus P5W-DH Deluxe shown here, there are capacitors above the socket that prevented the block from making proper contact with the CPU heatspreader. Instead, the block was turned 90 degrees with the outlet barb toward the back of the motherboard.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx22sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx22.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx23sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx23.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx24sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx24.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx25sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx25.jpg)
Once the proper orientation of the block is decided upon, the installation can continue with four more nylon washers placed on top of the acrylic top over the threaded rods. Then the springs, the last nylon washers and the brass thumbscrews can be added and tightened. I tightened the thumbscrews until the springs were completely compressed, making sure not to go too far or else the top and the motherboard would start to warp. Due to the amount of pressure that can be applied here, I would prefer to see some kind of backplate used to help prevent some of the warping that can happen. However, there are backplates out there that can be purchased separately if the user desires.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx26sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx26.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx27sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx27.jpg)
With the hardware tightened it was time to take one more look around the socket and look for clearance issues. The outlet side of the MC-TDX fit nicely between two of the capacitors at the rear of the motherboard, and the entire assembly took up little more room than the CPU socket itself.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx20sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx20.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx28sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx28.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx29sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx29.jpg)
To check the contact of the base with the CPU, I applied some Tuniq TX-2 thermal compound in a line across the cores of the E6850 CPU. With the block removed the compound had spread evenly and made a suction effect when trying to remove the block. The picture of the base of the MC-TDX shows how much larger it is compared to the heatspreader on the Intel CPU.
<br />At this point, the CPU and the waterblock were cleaned to remove the thermal paste, and the watercooling loop was assembled, filled and leak tested.
[page=Performance]
Performance
The system being used to test the Danger Den MC-TDX is as follows:
<table border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="ramtable" width="450">
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">CPU:</th>
<td scope="row">Intel E6850 Core2 Duo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Clock speed:</th>
<td scope="row">9 x 333 MHz = 3.0 GHz, Memory at DDR2-667</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Motherboard:</th>
<td scope="row">Asus P5W DH Deluxe</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Memory:</th>
<td scope="row">2 x 1GB G.Skill F2-6400PHU1-2GBHZ</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Video Card:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Sapphire HD 2900XT PCI-e</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Harddisk:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">4 x 250 GB Seagate 7200.10 in Matrix Raid 0/5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Power Supply:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">ThermalTake ToughPower 750W</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Case:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Lian Li PC-A10B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Software:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Windows XP Pro SP2, Catalyst 7.12</td>
</tr>
</table>
Ambient temperature was kept to 22º Celsius (+/- 1 degree) and was measured by a standard mercury thermometer. The rest of the watercooling system used is listed below:
<table border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="ramtable" width="450">
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Pump:</th>
<td scope="row">Danger Den D5 (variable speed: pump set to "5")</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Radiator:</th>
<td scope="row">Swiftech MCR320-QP-K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Fans:</th>
<td scope="row">3 x Yate Loon D12SM-124B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Tubing:</th>
<td scope="row">Tygon 3603 1/2" ID</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Fittings:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">1/2" OD barbs</td>
</tr>
</table>
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph1.gif http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph2.gif
At idle stock speeds there is little difference between all the coolers, as the E6850's G0 stepping runs nice and cool. When Orthos Dual Prime is run for 30 minutes the cores start to heat up, but the MC-TDX keeps the CPU temperature 8 to 16º C cooler than the air-cooled heatsinks, and about the same as the Swiftech Storm.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph3.gif http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph4.gif
When the CPU is overclocked and the voltage is increased, the temperatures naturally go up. Again, there is little difference in idle temperatures, but under load the MC-TDX still manages to beat the air coolers by 7 to 24º C. There is even a slight improvement in comparison to the original TDX, even though the MC-TDX is designed with Quad Core CPUs in mind. However, this time there was a slightly larger gap between the MC-TDX and the older and more expensive impingement-style Storm waterblock.
[page=Value & Conclusion]
Value and Conclusion
<table width="100%" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="result">
<tr><th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/dollar.gif</th>
<td>
The Danger Den MC-TDX sells for $59.95 US Dollars.</td>
</tr><tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbup.gif</th>
<td>
Great performance
Optimized for Quad Core CPUs
Simple installation
Barbs included
Good finish
Competitive pricing
No wasted money on fancy packaging or inferior thermal compounds
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbdown.gif</th>
<td>
No backplate to help support motherboard
Some incompatibilities possible due to irregular shape
</td></tr>
<tr><th>9.0</th>
<td>
The Danger Den MC-TDX was as simple to install as a waterblock could be. Danger Den continues its legacy of excellent machining of well-cast copper. The only parts included with the kit were what were required, except for some clamps for the tubing. However, these are inexpensive and readily available online and at local hardware stores. I had no issues with Danger Den not including thermal paste or using fancy packaging, as these are not needed and only add to the cost. To top it off, the MC-TDX is competitively priced at $59.95 directly through Danger Den's online store. I was impressed that the MC-TDX was able to make a slight improvement over the original TDX when used on the E6850, even though the MC-TDX is optimized for Quad Core CPUs.<br />
<br />
The only major concern I had with the MC-TDX is that I felt it would have been better to upgrade the mounting hardware to include a backplate for the motherboard. Lack of the backplate makes it possible to have some warping of the motherboard, especially if the thumbscrews are over-tightened. Also, users should make sure there are not any obstructions around the CPU socket before purchasing or installation.<br />
<br />
Overall I enjoyed working with the new MC-TDX. If you are looking to watercool a Quad Core setup, I would recommend looking into the Danger Den MC-TDX for your watercooling loop.
</td></tr>
<tr><th></th><td>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/recommended.gif</td></tr>
</table>
Introduction
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddlogo.gif
I would like to thank Danger Den (http://www.dangerden.com/) for supplying the review sample.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/image3.jpg
Features:
100% copper 110 material
Acrylic and brass top options
Threaded fitting ports are G 1/4 BSPP for use with any similar spec fittings
Complete Block with O-Ring
Pressure Tested to 50psi
High flow 1/4", 3/8", or 1/2" Chrome Plated Fittings
Machine lapped and flat mirror polished
Stainless steel hold down
Benefits:
240 Heat Dissipating Columns for enhanced transfer of heat to the water and optimum coverage of the CPU
Significant temperature drops on Quad Core and multiple die processors. (5-10 Degrees Celsius observed on lab QX6800 processors depending on radiator size and ambient room temperature)
Ready to install - designed and tuned for your system for top performance
Anti-Tarnish coating applied to prevent finger print or environmental changes. This specialized formula also has no affect on cooling potential.
Corrosion will not occur when used with other Copper and Brass parts. Avoid using non-anodized aluminum (or all aluminum) if at all possible for maximum component life.
Compatibility:
Compatibility is based on the version of MC-TDX purchased. Currently there is one MC-TDX for Intel Socket 775 CPUs and one for AMD AM2 CPUs.
[page=Packaging & Contents]
Packaging & Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx01sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx01.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx02sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx02.jpg)
The MC-TDX comes in Danger Den's typical packaging, which consists of a white cardboard box with black foam protecting the contents. This does a great job of reducing costs, but at the same time provides sufficient protection for the hardware inside.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx03sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx03.jpg)
Also included with the waterblock are the required mounting hardware and a simple instruction sheet. Please note that there is not any thermal compound included. In my opinion, this is completely acceptable. Most enthusiasts have their own brand of thermal compound that they prefer, so there is no point in including something that would just sit in the box anyway.
[page=A Closer Look]
A Closer Look
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx04sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx04.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx07sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx07.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx12sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx12.jpg)
The Danger Den MC-TDX is the updated version of the classic TDX CPU waterblock. For this reason, its appearance is almost completely identical to its predecessor. The bottom of the block is made of cast 110 copper that is machined to allow assembly, while the top is 1/4" thick Lucite (Acrylic). There is an optional brass top for those that prefer it.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx08sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx08.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx11sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx11.jpg)
The main difference between the new MC-TDX and the old TDX is that the new MC-TDX has 240 pins over the CPU core area. The MC-TDX was designed especially for quad core processors that carry much more heat than the dual cores when they are pushed and that is where the MC-TDX excels. On the inlet side of the block one of the chrome plated fittings is located directly over the center of the pins, while the water flows across the block and leaves through the outlet barb. A black rubber O-ring seals the top and prevents leaks.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx05sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx05.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx06sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx06.jpg)
The bottom of the block comes protected with some heavy tape. When removed, the base of the block did not have any residue left on it. The base is machine lapped and polished, although it is not as shiny as one might expect.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx09sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx09.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx10sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx10.jpg)
The base of the MC-TDX is smooth, but there were a few high points on the surface as shown with the razor blade test. However, these high points were toward the outside of the block, and the inside area seemed relatively flat. When placed next to the box the MC-TDX came in, the finish is not very reflective, but reflective distortions were not noticed.
[page=Installation]
Installation
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx13sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx13.jpg)
To install the Danger Den MC-TDX the motherboard needs to be completely removed from the case.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx14sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx14.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx15sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx15.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx16sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx16.jpg)
Danger Den uses the same mounting hardware for the MC-TDX as their other models of CPU blocks, which consists of stainless steel threaded rods, springs and nuts, nylon washers and brass thumb screws. The first picture above shows the order in which these parts will be applied to the threaded rod, shown from left to right. To start, a nut is screwed onto the end of each rod, and a nylon washer slides over that. From the back of the motherboard the rods are inserted through the mounting holes.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx17sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx17.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx18sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx18.jpg)
Next, another nylon washer goes over each threaded rod, followed by the second nut. At this point all the nuts need to be secured tightly, or else they will come loose when removing the block later on. I used a 5/16" socket driver on the bottom of the board and a 5/16" wrench on the top of the board, being sure not to over tighten the assembly.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx19sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx19.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx21sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx21.jpg)
It is a good idea to check the placement of the block and look for any interference with surrounding components. The ideal position for the MC-TDX would be to have the outlet barb in the highest position to assist with air removal from the loop, but in the case of the Asus P5W-DH Deluxe shown here, there are capacitors above the socket that prevented the block from making proper contact with the CPU heatspreader. Instead, the block was turned 90 degrees with the outlet barb toward the back of the motherboard.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx22sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx22.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx23sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx23.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx24sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx24.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx25sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx25.jpg)
Once the proper orientation of the block is decided upon, the installation can continue with four more nylon washers placed on top of the acrylic top over the threaded rods. Then the springs, the last nylon washers and the brass thumbscrews can be added and tightened. I tightened the thumbscrews until the springs were completely compressed, making sure not to go too far or else the top and the motherboard would start to warp. Due to the amount of pressure that can be applied here, I would prefer to see some kind of backplate used to help prevent some of the warping that can happen. However, there are backplates out there that can be purchased separately if the user desires.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx26sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx26.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx27sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx27.jpg)
With the hardware tightened it was time to take one more look around the socket and look for clearance issues. The outlet side of the MC-TDX fit nicely between two of the capacitors at the rear of the motherboard, and the entire assembly took up little more room than the CPU socket itself.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx20sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx20.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx28sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx28.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx29sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/ddmctdx29.jpg)
To check the contact of the base with the CPU, I applied some Tuniq TX-2 thermal compound in a line across the cores of the E6850 CPU. With the block removed the compound had spread evenly and made a suction effect when trying to remove the block. The picture of the base of the MC-TDX shows how much larger it is compared to the heatspreader on the Intel CPU.
<br />At this point, the CPU and the waterblock were cleaned to remove the thermal paste, and the watercooling loop was assembled, filled and leak tested.
[page=Performance]
Performance
The system being used to test the Danger Den MC-TDX is as follows:
<table border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="ramtable" width="450">
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">CPU:</th>
<td scope="row">Intel E6850 Core2 Duo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Clock speed:</th>
<td scope="row">9 x 333 MHz = 3.0 GHz, Memory at DDR2-667</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Motherboard:</th>
<td scope="row">Asus P5W DH Deluxe</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Memory:</th>
<td scope="row">2 x 1GB G.Skill F2-6400PHU1-2GBHZ</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Video Card:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Sapphire HD 2900XT PCI-e</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Harddisk:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">4 x 250 GB Seagate 7200.10 in Matrix Raid 0/5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Power Supply:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">ThermalTake ToughPower 750W</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Case:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Lian Li PC-A10B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Software:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">Windows XP Pro SP2, Catalyst 7.12</td>
</tr>
</table>
Ambient temperature was kept to 22º Celsius (+/- 1 degree) and was measured by a standard mercury thermometer. The rest of the watercooling system used is listed below:
<table border="1" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" class="ramtable" width="450">
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Pump:</th>
<td scope="row">Danger Den D5 (variable speed: pump set to "5")</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th width="100" scope="row">Radiator:</th>
<td scope="row">Swiftech MCR320-QP-K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Fans:</th>
<td scope="row">3 x Yate Loon D12SM-124B</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th scope="row">Tubing:</th>
<td scope="row">Tygon 3603 1/2" ID</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th valign="top" scope="row">Fittings:</th>
<td valign="top" scope="row">1/2" OD barbs</td>
</tr>
</table>
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph1.gif http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph2.gif
At idle stock speeds there is little difference between all the coolers, as the E6850's G0 stepping runs nice and cool. When Orthos Dual Prime is run for 30 minutes the cores start to heat up, but the MC-TDX keeps the CPU temperature 8 to 16º C cooler than the air-cooled heatsinks, and about the same as the Swiftech Storm.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph3.gif http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/DangerDen/MC-TDX/images/graph4.gif
When the CPU is overclocked and the voltage is increased, the temperatures naturally go up. Again, there is little difference in idle temperatures, but under load the MC-TDX still manages to beat the air coolers by 7 to 24º C. There is even a slight improvement in comparison to the original TDX, even though the MC-TDX is designed with Quad Core CPUs in mind. However, this time there was a slightly larger gap between the MC-TDX and the older and more expensive impingement-style Storm waterblock.
[page=Value & Conclusion]
Value and Conclusion
<table width="100%" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="result">
<tr><th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/dollar.gif</th>
<td>
The Danger Den MC-TDX sells for $59.95 US Dollars.</td>
</tr><tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbup.gif</th>
<td>
Great performance
Optimized for Quad Core CPUs
Simple installation
Barbs included
Good finish
Competitive pricing
No wasted money on fancy packaging or inferior thermal compounds
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbdown.gif</th>
<td>
No backplate to help support motherboard
Some incompatibilities possible due to irregular shape
</td></tr>
<tr><th>9.0</th>
<td>
The Danger Den MC-TDX was as simple to install as a waterblock could be. Danger Den continues its legacy of excellent machining of well-cast copper. The only parts included with the kit were what were required, except for some clamps for the tubing. However, these are inexpensive and readily available online and at local hardware stores. I had no issues with Danger Den not including thermal paste or using fancy packaging, as these are not needed and only add to the cost. To top it off, the MC-TDX is competitively priced at $59.95 directly through Danger Den's online store. I was impressed that the MC-TDX was able to make a slight improvement over the original TDX when used on the E6850, even though the MC-TDX is optimized for Quad Core CPUs.<br />
<br />
The only major concern I had with the MC-TDX is that I felt it would have been better to upgrade the mounting hardware to include a backplate for the motherboard. Lack of the backplate makes it possible to have some warping of the motherboard, especially if the thumbscrews are over-tightened. Also, users should make sure there are not any obstructions around the CPU socket before purchasing or installation.<br />
<br />
Overall I enjoyed working with the new MC-TDX. If you are looking to watercool a Quad Core setup, I would recommend looking into the Danger Den MC-TDX for your watercooling loop.
</td></tr>
<tr><th></th><td>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/recommended.gif</td></tr>
</table>