The Antarctica block

Asetek Antarctica CPU water block

The copper base and the two lids

Asetek makes two different lids for this block, making it possible for you to use the Antarctica on virtually all motherboards. we had to go with the smaller of the lids to fit the Abit NF7-S motherboard used in the test bed, but swapping these around is a no-brainer and only takes a minute. The gaskets are fitted directly into the lids, which makes the swapping even easier.

The Antarctica (left) and the original WaterChill CPU block (right)

When you compare the Antarctica with its older brother, you quickly notice some key differences, one being that the Antarctica features 2 outlets instead of just the one. The copper base of the Antarctica is also quite a bit thinner, while the widths and lengths on the two blocks are identical.

Internal Comparison

Upon removing the lids, more differences are revealed. While the old water block featured a rather simple half moon design, the Antarctica approach is something quite different. From the inlet the water is directed outwards to the sides through the stream channels you can see in the middle. This new design obviously has a larger surface area and is more turbulence based compared to the old design. Notice that the old block shows signs of having been in use for some time now, but this has no effect on performance.

The machining finish is good, with the base being flat and ridge free. Although it isn't mirror shiny, lapping won't do any good here.

<< Back | 1 | | 2 | | 3 | | 4 | Next >>