Alphacool Core 1 LT Aurora Acrylic (13886)

The Alphacool Core 1 LT Aurora Acrylic is a CPU water block that comes with mounting sets for Intel and AMD processors. It is the light version of the Core 1: a nickel-plated copper base under a transparent acrylic top in a polymer casing, with aRGB lighting.

Properties

Cold plate

Nickel-plated copper

Top

Acrylic, transparent/black

Ports

2 x G1/4, acrylic threads

Lighting

aRGB, ARGB Adapter in the box

Size

71.80 x 71.80 x 28.05 mm

Fit

The box holds two mounting sets: the CPU Brackets AMD Set with four AMD threaded bolts, and the CPU Brackets INTEL Set with the Core Backplate and four INTEL threaded bolts.

The new mounting system of the Core 1 is also included here, and Alphacool says it simplifies installation with Intel and AMD processors. It has been revised and requires fewer screws compared to previous Alphacool models. On an Intel board the pre-assembly comes first: the backplate (Intel) is done with four spacers. After that, the thermal paste is applied on top of the CPU. Then the matching mounting frame is put on the CPU cooler and fastened on the spacers with four nuts. On an AMD board, the two-piece retention frame is removed before the threaded bolts go in. On both platforms the bolts are hand tightened only.

3D jetplate and cross-slot

With the Core 1 LT, Alphacool presents the light version of what it calls the proven Core 1 CPU water cooler. The LT is housed in a polymer casing and also uses the combination of 3D jetplate and cross slot-technology, which Alphacool rates as reliable. This enables it to effectively dissipate the enormous waste heat of the latest desktop processors, in Alphacool's words.

The best of new and old

Alphacool says it combines the best of both worlds with the Core 1 water cooler series. In addition to the new 3D jetplate, Alphacool returns to its roots by distributing the coolant evenly across the redesigned cooler base, using proven cross-slot technology. O-rings inside the cooler ensure a precise water flow and thus guarantee effective cooling, according to Alphacool. The nickel-plated copper base of the cooler has been enlarged to achieve full coverage of large CPUs.

Core design

Alphacool names the functional and elegant design as a central element of the Core series, and says the focus of the LT is on cooling performance at a fair price. Rounded corners add what Alphacool calls the perfect touch to the overall look. With its elegant design, Alphacool says, the block integrates seamlessly into any water cooling system. The Core 1 LT is available in both non-illuminated and transparent aRGB versions, and this is the transparent aRGB one.

What the loop needs

The block has two G1/4 threads, and the threads are acrylic. Both take compression fittings for your tube size, which are not in the box. The aRGB lighting connects with the ARGB Adapter in the box. The block has no pump of its own, so the loop also needs a pump and a radiator.

Technical data

Notes

• Alphacool's note on fittings: the Eiszapfen PRO 16mm HardTube fittings cannot be used with this CPU cooler.
• Alphacool asks that the block be used only in conjunction with clear transparent water cooling fluids. It warns that the particles and additives in Pastel liquids can clog and permanently damage water cooling products such as radiators, pumps, coolers and hoses, which can result in voiding the manufacturer's warranty as well.

In the box

• 1x Core 1 LT aRGB CPU Cooler
• 1x Thermal Grease
• 1x Putty tool
• 1x CPU Brackets AMD Set
• 4x Threaded bolt AMD
• 4x Screw sleeve
• 1x CPU Brackets INTEL Set
• 1x Core Backplate
• 4x Threaded bolt INTEL
• 4x EVA Washer
• 1x ARGB Adapter

Alphacool's manual and data sheet are both PDFs. Its 3D model of the block is an STP file, and the 3D viewer shows it from every side.