Aquacomputer Cuplex Kryos NEXT AM5/AM4, PVD/Nickel (21704)

This cuplex kryos NEXT in PVD/nickel (article 21704) is a CPU water block for AMD socket AM5 and AM4, with a PVD plated brass top part and a nickel plated copper base. It mounts to the back plate that AM5/AM4 motherboards already carry, and its two G1/4 connection threads sit 28 mm apart.

Properties

Sockets

AMD AM5, AM4

Top

PVD plated brass, dark metallic gloss

Base

Nickel plated 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 range

Aquacomputer says the cuplex kryos NEXT marks a new milestone in CPU water block development. In its words, every detail has been analyzed, optimized and tested to achieve perfection in cooling performance, installation procedure and product features. The result, it says, is not just one CPU water block with outstanding performance. It is a product series, with various models differing in color and functionality.

Aquacomputer calls the VARIO models the first CPU water blocks globally to incorporate a real-time adjustable base. Never before, it says, has it been possible to adjust the geometry of a CPU block to perfectly fit the CPU while the PC is in operation. Models with the VISION module carry modern electronics, and a high resolution OLED display, an integrated water temperature sensor and a USB interface are just three of the features. This PVD/nickel block is neither a VARIO nor a VISION model.

Base part with micro structure

The base part has an extremely fine micro structure, with a structural width lower than 200 µm. Coolant is injected centrally through a slot-shaped nozzle and then runs out to both sides of the structure. Depending on model, the base itself is manufactured from copper, nickel plated copper or .925 sterling silver; here it is nickel plated copper.

Material combination and color variants

On this PVD/nickel version the top part is PVD plated brass and the base is nickel plated copper. Across the range, the top part of the water block comes in various materials and coatings:

• Acetal black: shiny black high-tech plastic
• Acrylic glass: transparent body suitable for illumination
• Copper: reddish gloss
• Nickel plated brass: bright metallic gloss
• PVD plated brass: high quality multi layer coating, dark metallic gloss

Retention system

The retention system consists of stainless steel plates 2.5 mm thick, equipped with nickel plated spring cups. Springs and knurled screws secure the block on the motherboard, and Aquacomputer points to the very clean look when installed. A mechanical stop is a feature of all retention system versions, giving optimum clamping force and even force distribution. The knurled screws can be installed by hand, and a hexagon socket wrench can additionally be used for easy installation.

A steel back plate with silicone insulation comes with blocks for socket 115x or AM3, to stabilize the CPU region of the motherboard. Socket 2011, TR4 and AM5/AM4 motherboards already include a back plate as part of the CPU socket. No additional back plate is therefore required for this AM4 and AM5 block, and none is included.

Thermal compound

For optimum performance every cuplex kryos NEXT ships with what Aquacomputer calls outstanding thermal compound: a syringe with 0.5 grams of Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut, complete with plastic spatula. It has a high thermal conductivity, and due to its low viscosity it spreads out thin and evenly between CPU and water block. The amount in one syringe is sufficient for approximately five applications.

What the loop needs

Two G1/4 connection threads take two fittings. Supply the coolant through the central fitting for best cooling performance, since a reversed flow direction significantly decreases it. Aquacomputer requires Double Protect Ultra as the coolant for corrosion inhibition. More blocks for these sockets are in our AMD CPU blocks section.

Notes

• Place a small drop of the grease, about 4 mm in diameter, centrally on the CPU, or spread a thin layer with the spatula.
• Seat each knurled screw one or two revolutions through its spring, then tighten all four alternately until fully fastened.
• Run the water cooling system first with no other PC components on the mains supply, and check the block and fittings for leakages.

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

Aquacomputer's manual has the mounting information for every cuplex kryos NEXT socket version (this block in section 2.1), the flow direction and the approved coolant; the technical details are in the Properties above.