Details
The Aquacomputer Cuplex Kryos NEXT AM5/AM4, Acetal/Copper (21702) is a CPU water block for AMD socket AM5 and AM4, with a top part of black acetal and a copper base. It mounts on the back plate that AM5/AM4 motherboards already have, and its two G1/4 connection threads sit 28 mm apart.
Properties
- Sockets
- AMD AM5, AM4
- Top
- Black acetal
- Base
- Copper, micro structure under 200 µm
- Ports
- 2x G1/4, distance between threads 28 mm
- Dimensions
- 111 x 75 x 22 mm (not including screws)
The cuplex kryos NEXT series
Aquacomputer says the series marks a new milestone in CPU water block development. It says every detail has been analyzed, optimized and tested to achieve perfection in three areas: cooling performance, installation procedure and product features. In its words, the result is a product series rather than just one CPU water block with outstanding performance, with various models differing in color and functionality.
The VARIO models, by Aquacomputer's account, are the first CPU water blocks globally to incorporate a base that is adjustable in real time. Never before, it says, has it been possible to adjust a CPU block's geometry to perfectly fit the CPU while the PC is in operation. Models with the VISION module include modern electronics, and a high resolution OLED display, an integrated water temperature sensor and a USB interface are just three of those features. This block is the version without either; the VISION version for the same socket is the cuplex kryos NEXT with VISION AM5/AM4, acetal/nickel.
Base part with micro structure
The base part has an extremely fine micro structure, with a structural width lower than 200 µm. The coolant is injected centrally through a slot-shaped nozzle, and then runs to both sides of the structure. Depending on model, the base itself is manufactured from copper, nickel plated copper or .925 sterling silver. The material combination of this one is acetal/copper: the top part is black acetal and the base is copper.
Retention system
The retention system consists of stainless steel plates, 2.5 mm thick and equipped with nickel plated spring cups. Springs and knurled screws secure the block on the motherboard, which gives a very clean look when installed. A mechanical stop is a feature of all retention system versions, for optimum clamping force and even force distribution. You can turn the knurled screws by hand, and a hexagon socket wrench can additionally be used for easy installation.
Water blocks for socket 115x or AM3 come with a steel back plate with silicone insulation, to stabilize the CPU region of the motherboard. Socket 2011, TR4 and AM5/AM4 motherboards already have a back plate as part of the CPU socket. No additional back plate is therefore required, and none is included with this block.
Thermal compound
For optimum performance, Aquacomputer ships every cuplex kryos NEXT with what it calls outstanding thermal compound. The syringe holds 0.5 grams and is complete with a plastic spatula. The compound has a high thermal conductivity, and due to its low viscosity it spreads out thin and evenly between CPU and water block. The amount is sufficient for approximately five applications.
Color variants
Across the series, the top part of the water block is available in various materials and coatings:
- Acetal black, a shiny black high-tech plastic
- Acrylic glass, a transparent body suitable for illumination
- Copper, with a reddish gloss
- Nickel plated brass, with a bright metallic gloss
- PVD plated brass, a high quality multi layer coating with a dark metallic gloss
Installation
Take off the old CPU cooler and, if necessary, remove thermal grease residues from the CPU surface with benzine. Place a small drop of the supplied grease, about 4 mm across, in the center of the CPU, or spread a thin layer with the plastic spatula.
Set the block onto the CPU in the orientation the manual shows. Place one spring into each recess and insert a knurled screw through each spring into the anchor threads of the CPU socket, only one or two revolutions at first. Fasten the four screws alternately, a fraction of a revolution at a time, until all are fully fastened.
What the loop needs
Both connection threads are G1/4, so the block takes two fittings from our fittings section. For best cooling performance the coolant must be supplied through the central fitting, since reversed flow significantly decreases cooling performance. For corrosion inhibition, Aquacomputer requires Double Protect Ultra as coolant.
Notes
- Fill and run the water cooling system first with no other PC components connected to the mains supply, and check the block and the fittings for leaks.
- A component that has been in contact with coolant must be completely dry again before it goes into operation.
In the box
- 1x Water block
- 1x Mounting material (screws, springs, etc.)
- 1x Thermal compound Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut, approx. 0.5 grams in syringe
- 1x Plastic spatula
- 1x Instruction manual
The manual has the mounting information for every cuplex kryos NEXT socket, with technical details on flow direction and approved coolants.
