P4 Northwood and Prescott Comparison at 4.1 GHz

The P4 Northwood Vs. The Prescott

Based on a 90-nm manufacturing process, the Prescott offers new architectural features compared to its predecessor, the Northwood. However, because of its higher leakage currents, the Prescott's thermal heat emission is disproportionately high. At 3.6 GHz, 3.8 GHz and 4 GHz, the Prescott's TDP (thermal design power) will far surpass the 100-watt mark. But what about the processor's performance at these clock speeds?

Cooling With VapoChill LS

VapoChill LS only makes sense when combined with a suitable case from Lian Li. This model, adapted for compressor cooling systems, has an opening on the bottom that allows the cooling line to be fed into the case and fixed to the processor.

You need more expensive cooling methods in order for the two processors to reach speeds beyond 4 GHz. At thermal powers of up to 150 watts, any water-cooling system is not enough-a compressor cooling system is required.

Patrick Schmid
Editor-in-Chief (2005-2006)

Patrick Schmid was the editor-in-chief for Tom's Hardware from 2005 to 2006. He wrote numerous articles on a wide range of hardware topics, including storage, CPUs, and system builds.