Presentation
Zalman recently released a new cooler range. The 7700 series is very similar to the previous range but features a 120-mm fan and is consequently bigger. The design is identical. In terms of compatibility, the Zalman isn’t compatible with the socket A (end of life) but is initially compatible with the socket T additionally to the Socket 478 and several Athlon 64 / Opteron Sockets. Just like the 7000 series, the 7700 comes in two flavours: one copper/aluminum and one 100% copper. Let’s start with the CNPS7700-AlCu.
Installation
Very similar to the LGA775 adapter in the 7000 series, the CNPS7700 installation system uses a back plate and a metal support. Even though it was much bulkier, we didn’t have any compatibility issue with our test motherboard. However, we advise you to take a look at the
Zalman compatibility list to make sure your motherboard is compatible.
Measures and results
Appraisal
This 120-mm AlCu is the useless version amongst the four tested. And the reason is that the 92 mm tested previously provides the same performances for an equivalent price, is less bulky and is less noisy for the whole range with almost 4 dB(A) less compared to the 120 mm! The 120-mm version performances don’t vary much with the ventilation, just like other products of the family. That means it is possible to considerably reduce the ventilation to obtain practically the same global performance.
