Intel Pentium 4 2.4GHz
MSI i845E Max2-BLR
Nanotherm Ice Thermal Compound
Prime95 run for 20 minutes as a background task

A quick look in Windows XP showed us a 100% CPU load, which told us it's time to watch the temperatures. Temp readings were taken at idle, as well as full load. Room temperature was maintained at 23C/74F during testing.

Lower fan speeds = higher temps. 'nuff said.

I grabbed our Vantec CopperX 478 and the stock Intel cooler for comparison. I've been told there are two stock Intel coolers, but we'll be using the one that came packaged with the 2.4GHz 533FSB P4 "B". This particular cooler is all aluminum (no copper or copper core)...

The first graph already demonstrated the best performance the Volcano 7+ managed, which was 51C. This is also the best performance we've gotten out of the P4 coolers we've tested thus far.

The second graph illustrates performance at comparitive noise levels. Both the stock solution and CopperX use slower spinning fans which make very little noise. To be fair, I ran the Volcano 7+ at its lowest setting, and it ends up tying the CopperX. Honestly, even at its lowest setting, it's a little more noticable than the Vantec cooler, yet still performs the same.

Final Words

Thermaltake scored a slam dunk with this cooler, no doubt about it. For the casual user, the fan speed options are great. Why deal with excessive noise when occasional gaming and work are your primary uses? Switch the fan to "low" and you're set.

For power users, the Volcano 7+ performs very well, keeping our 1700+ under 50°C. As for the Pentium 4, the fan at full speed is a lot more powerful than the comparison heatsinks, setting the lowest temperature of the 3. Set the fan to "high" and leave it be.

For case window enthusiasts, you certainly have a heatsink worthy of your attention. It's a beauty to look at. Set the fan level to anything you want, as if you really care. Looks are everything.

Outside of the heatsink, Tt covered their bases here. You get two mounting options, covering modern CPU installations, thermal paste, a case badge, and install instructions.

Our only complaint is the fact that I don't see anyway for someone to easily access the fan controls out of the box. Opening up your case all the time is going to be a bit of a hassle. I was getting annoyed myself during testing. Then again, if you know what you want out of the Volcano 7+, you can set it and your desired speed level, and leave it be.

Pros: Easy installation, good performance, great construction quality, fan control, looks great.

Cons: Fan control needs longer cabling.

Bottom Line: It's one of the best performing heatsinks we've used, but only at full speed. If great, and silent performance is what you're after, you're best to look elsewhere.

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