Asetek VapoChill XE II (Extreme Edition II) [AC]

The VapoChill XE II:

The Extreme Edition II is based on the classic VapoChill case, with some minor changes to accommodate the new hardware. The most noticeable change over previous models is the AC cord that powers the main compressor. Previous VapoChill models utilized a DC powered compressor that drew its power from the system's PSU. There are two fans in the top portion of the case, the primary fan is mounted behind the condenser coils in the front, and the second fan exhausts the hot air out the back of the case. The speed on both fans can be adjusted via the ChillControl software.

Asetek does not recommend opening up the top half of your case (where the compressor is located), as it will void your warranty! The compressor is an AC powered Danfoss model that utilizes R507 refrigerant. The condenser coil is mounted in the front of the case, with a fan for cooling directly behind it. A single PCB is located on the side that has a relay, 115/230V switch, a fuse, and some basic circuitry that ties into the ChillControl PCB.

The condenser coils are recessed a couple inches from the front of the case, preventing accidental damage to the cooling fins. For maximum cooling efficiency the coils should be kept clean by blowing off dust if / when it builds up.

The inside of the case has not changed changed significantly since the original VapoChill. The motherboard tray is removable, which helps a lot when having to mount the MB with all the neoprene on it. There are three exposed 5.25" drive bays, one 3.5" FDD bay, and five 3.5" internal HD bays.

We have covered mounting the evaporator to a motherboard in previous reviews, so we won't repeat all those steps again. While it does take a little longer than mounting a regular heatsink, it is not difficult. The manual covers everything step-by-step, with detailed pictures and diagrams.