Comparison Deepcool AK400 Zero Dark vs Deepcool AK400

The maximum TDP provided by the cooling system. Note that this parameter is indicated only for solutions equipped with heatsinks (see "Type"); for separately made fans, the efficiency is determined by other parameters, primarily by the air flow values (see above).

TDP can be described as the amount of heat that a cooling system is able to remove from a serviced component. Accordingly, for the normal operation of the entire system, it is necessary that the TDP of the cooling system is not lower than the heat dissipation of this component (heat dissipation data is usually indicated in the detailed characteristics of the components). And it is best to select coolers with a power margin of at least 20 – 25% — this will give an additional guarantee in case of forced operation modes and emergency situations (including clogging of the case and reduced air exchange efficiency).

As for specific numbers, the most modest modern cooling systems provide TDP up to 100 W, the most advanced — up to 250 W and even higher.

This parameter must be considered in the context of whether the fan will fit into the computer case. Standard case fans are available in the order of 25 mm in thickness. Low-profile coolers with a thickness of about 15 mm are designed for small-sized cases, where saving space is extremely important. Fans of large thickness (30-40 mm) boast high cooling efficiency due to the increased impeller dimensions. However, they are noisier than standard models at the same speed and do not always fit into the case normally, sometimes touching other components.

The total time that a cooling fan is guaranteed to run before it fails. Note that when this time is exhausted, the device will not necessarily break — many modern fans have a significant margin of safety and are able to work for some more period. At the same time, it is worth evaluating the overall durability of the cooling system according to this parameter.