Problems installing GeminII

[Kent10]

I just received a few of my new computer parts for my new build. I have the Gigabyte GA-P35-DQ6 and the GeminII cooler. I am looking at the installation of the cooler but it doesn’t fit on the motherboard. I have revision 1.0 for the motherboard with the big silent pipe cooler. In Rich’s review of the GeminII he is putting it on what looks like revision 1.1 and there is no problem with the fit. There are a few fins in the way. Can I rip 2 or 3 or 4 of these off so that the fan will fit or should I buy a new cooling system. Does anyone know which one will fit a revision 1.0 board. Also I know that the crazy cool can be removed but should it be removed if the cooler still fits without its removal.

Thanks for your help, Kent

[Capper]

If the cooler fits without removing the Crazy Cool backplate, don't remove it.

as to removing fins from the board, can you take a picture of it to show us?

Edit: I'd really recommend against messing with the board, it would void your warranty. I'm a little surprised that you got a V1 board, gigabyte hasn't shipped that version for quite awhile.

[Kent10]

Thanks Capper. I could take a picture if you need one--will have to figure out how to post. What do you need to see? The fins that need to be removed are from the tallest part of the silent pipe as seen in the pictures of your review. HardwareLogic - Gigabyte P35-DQ6 Motherboard Review

[Capper]

Yeah, I went and looked it up.
I honestly wouldn't mess with the heat pipe cooling, as if you had to RMA the board for any reason, you'd have problems.

If its not a problem, I'd consider returning that cooler and getting the CNPS9700. The heat pipe cooler on the board is big, and evidently can cause some issues........but it also does a fantastic job of keeping the board cool.

[Kent10]

OK Thanks. Do you know that the CNPS9700 will fit or should I look around on the web to see if anyone is using one with a revision 1.0 board. If I can't find a certain answer and if the motherboard seems to be working and I don't think I will need to return it do you think removing a fin or two will affect anything. I realize I wouldn't be able to return it. I really appreciate your help.

[Kent10]

Rich:
I found a link with someone who has a CNPS9700 and it fits. [Cooling] Mounting Zalman 9700 to Gigabyte P35-DQ6? - dslreports.com

Also it looks as though I could fit the GeminII vertically but in the opposite direction that you have it here



I think it would fit fine in the Gigabyte Aurora 570 case and I can move the fans on the brackets. Do you see a problem with cooling with this kind of installation. It hangs over the back of the motherboard about 2 inches. Thanks, Kent

[[Dr. V]]

Nope, there really is no issue at all as long is it properly fits in your case. The cooler is designed to fit the best way for your configuration - horizontal or vertical.

As long as you have sufficient airflow (which the Aurora 570 definitely has) - you'll be perfectly fine.

[Kent10]

Thanks St!x. I'll give it a go. I guess the memory won't get as much of a breeze but perhaps it will be just fine. Kent

[RA1D]

man, that is one gigantic cooler

[Kent10]

Here is my update. I talked to someone at Cooler Master and they did not have an example of the GeminII on the DQ6 board but they had a picture with it on the DS4 board and said it should fit. So I tried it horizontally and got it on but the fins at the top are bending a little. I suppose it will be OK. Here is the pic they sent me. I still have to make sure it is all tight enough so there is a good even seal with the CPU. I hope all of this helps anyone else who is interested in this combo and gets a revision 1.0 board. Does anyone know if the rev. 1.0 has better cooling than the other revisions considering the cooling system is so large. That will at least make me feel better for all my hard work.