Noctua has introduced two innovative prototype coolers that are set to revolutionize the Arm desktop market. Specifically, for individuals attempting to integrate Arm CPUs into a desktop for use as a workstation or a server. The Noctua NH-D9 AMP-4926 is the company’s 4U solution, while the bigger 140mm Noctua NH-U14S AMP-4926 provides optimal cooling performance. Both are significant improvements over the existing 2U passive coolers in the market. Once they become available, they will make the Arm desktops a mainstream option, especially when combined with the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T.
The Cooling Solutions Before
When the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T made its debut both on Newegg and the STH lab, a 2U passive heatsink solution was available.
While some people were eagerly awaiting the bundle, the reality is that integrating the 2U passive heatsink into a desktop is challenging. Although it is possible to 3D print an airflow guide with fan mounts, it is far from a plug-and-play solution.
I also knew that Noctua had a line of coolers coming, and those are much easier to integrate.
Noctua NH-D9 AMP-4926 4U
The first, and what will ultimately be the most exciting one for servers is the Noctua NH-D9 AMP-4926 4U cooler.
This cooler has two heatpipe towers and two fans.
Noctua has a widely recognized layout, and in this case, it features a cooling plate designed for the Ampere Altra socket. It’s worth mentioning that both Noctua coolers offer superior coverage on the CPU heat spreader.
When mounted on the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T, it delivers standard front-to-back chassis airflow, as expected.
Being of 4U height, it fits into most chassis while also ensuring relatively easy access to the eight DIMM slots surrounding the CPU socket.
We’re inclined to believe that this will emerge as the go-to Altra cooler, given its size which makes it compatible with most cases. Moreover, its performance in cooling the Altra/ Altra Max CPUs is commendable.
Noctua NH-U14S AMP-4926
The Noctua NH-U14S AMP-4926 is the big one. The NH-U14S is a popular cooler for many different sockets, but the AMP-4926 indicates that this model has been modified to fit the Ampere Altra (Max.)
A standout characteristic of the NH-U14S is its formidable height. While a lot of desktop enclosures can accommodate coolers over 165mm, when it comes to server cases, 4U cases can’t house this cooler.
Installation is a breeze as this is the AMP-4926 custom model.
The significant transformation in the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T is clearly noticeable. Due to its large size, the cooler must be arranged in a top-to-bottom orientation, a deviation from the conventional front-to-back positioning. This scenario is not ideal in the majority of 4U workstation/server chassis, given the airflow considerations.
Additionally, the oversized cooler is situated close to the two innermost DDR4 slots.
This cooler, despite its substantial size, is an excellent choice for constructions in a typical customer desktop-style case, especially as these cases often come with a top exhaust fan.
Concluding Thoughts
Having tested three different cooling systems with the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T, it’s evident that the existing $1500 bundle available on Newegg (Newegg Affiliate link) which includes the motherboard along with the Ampere Altra Q64-22 (64 core / 2.2GHz) CPU is a good deal. However, the 2U passive heatsink included with the bundle may not be of much use for most users. That’s where the two Noctua options come in, providing game-changing quiet cooling solutions in familiar form factors.
Upon my first encounter with the ASRock Rack ALTRAD8U-1L2T, I saw its potential and communicated that to both ASRock Rack and Ampere, stating that it’s a standout product, but the cooling systems needed upgrading. The CPU, Altra, doesn’t require high power, meaning a liquid cooler is not needed with desktop cases. Although these Noctua coolers are prototype models, they are constructed on already successful platforms, which suggests they should be made available shortly. Once they are, this ASRock platform will be exceptionally appealing for those looking for an Arm server system that works well in either a desktop or 4U chassis.
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