Watercooling my invisible PC... (and other upgrades) In an innovative YouTube adventure, the tech enthusiast behind DIY Perks takes us through the intricate process of watercooling a custom-built "invisible" PC, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of this unique project. This journey not only highlights the engineering skills required to upgrade a cooling system but also emphasizes the importance of component compatibility in a space-restricted design.
Enhancing the Cooling System
Originally, the invisible PC utilized a bespoke air cooling system designed for efficiency and silence. However, as it reached near thermal throttling limits, it became evident that significant upgrades were needed. The video outlines the strategic decision to implement a water cooling system, which, while potentially daunting given the slim profile of the case, became feasible with the help of specialized components from Alphacool, including ultra-thin radiators that fit snugly within the desk.
Choosing New Components
The upgrade process required not only enhanced cooling but also the migration to more powerful hardware. The DIY enthusiast selected the Ryzen 5950X processor, noted for its 16 cores and 32 threads, backed by an ASRock B550 Phantom ITX motherboard. This powerful combination posed a challenge, necessitating a low-profile water block due to space constraints.
Power Supply Modifications
One significant change made during the upgrade was the replacement of the original 1U power supply which, while functional, emitted noticeable transformer noise. The creator opted for a small form factor (SFX) power supply, modifying it for a perfect fit while ensuring it met performance expectations without compromising on silent operation. Innovations in grounding and insulation methods were also employed to maintain safety and efficiency in the compact setup.
Performance Under Load
Post-upgrade performance evaluations concluded with impressive results. Under load, the new cooling system kept temperatures remarkably low—around 55 degrees Celsius for the GPU—with the whole rig operating significantly quieter than its air-cooled predecessor. As demonstrated, even during demanding tasks, the system remained virtually inaudible, showcasing the effectiveness of the new water cooling configuration.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The successful enhancements not only optimized the cooling capacity but also refined the aesthetic appeal of the build. The creator concluded this upgrade saga with a promise of future videos focused on further streamlining the workspace and enhancing the overall setup. This transformation from a standard build to a sleek, high-performance desktop encapsulates the spirit of innovation inherent in PC building and serves as a noteworthy tutorial for enthusiasts looking to undertake similar projects.
Feel free to share your thoughts on this incredible watercooling project or discuss your own experiences with custom PC builds! Have you ever faced challenges with component upgrades in compact spaces? Let's talk about it!
