A Cool Bunch: How To Put A Lid On The Die Temperature Of Your Athlon

Nomen Est Omen: Brown International V8 Heatsink

The V8 heatsink is reminiscent of the famed "big block" that gives a Chevy its own inimitable character. Like a big block, the V8 heatsink generates a uniquely sonorous, yet not piercing, wall of sound. Thanks to the clip, installation is a snap even if you don't have a screwdriver.

The V8 block is made entirely of aluminum. The heat is directed from the three-millimeter thick base plate through the eleven cooling ribs toward the two fans.

Unlike the power of a V8 in a Chevy, the cooling capabilities of the V8 heatsink are somewhat limited. It's powerful enough for a 1400 Athlon, but is out-classed by modern high-speed chips whose megahertz ratings are sky-high.