I just got an Athlon XP 2600+ (The 1.92 GHz version) - I can
successfully overclock the processor to about 2 GHz, without adversly
affecting the heat output, beyond that, I'd need some sort of cooling
solution. So, I'm looking to overclock this sucker to about 2.4 GHz -
and I don't want my computer to sound like a vacuum - thus the need,
and possible *requirement*, for a water-cooled solution or something
of the like.

What would be the best cooling solution for a project like this? Could
you give me some models/prices and/or links of the various cooling
options for a processor of this type?

Thanks!

---

Clarification of Question by telarium-ga on 25 Jun 2004 15:44 PDT

Let me also clarify -- I might also need a cooling solution for my
video card (Radeon 9500 - which does have a fan), as it would run
hotter now.

Hello Telarium

As you have already indicated in your question probably the best
method of cooling your system when it is overclocked is to use a water
cooling method (rather than simply an air cooling method).

From my own personal knowledge of this area and by studying the latest
reviews of the various kits available (which offer complete solutions)
I believe the best option available to you is the Asetek Waterchill
CPU/VGA/Chipset Cooling kit.

This solution cools all the important chips in your system that are
put under stress whilst overclocking.

This kit comes with a pump, reservoir, heater core, fan, tubing,
heatsink compound, and anti-algae solution.  The fan in the kit is a
low noise 20 dB fan (which is under or equivalent to ambient noise) so
does not provide a noise nuisance.

"The KT12A-L20 is the extreme water cooling enthusiasts no.1 choice
and the ultimate package for PC end-users looking for a complete water
cooling kit." - Extremecooling.co.uk

"The KT12A-L20 represents the most extreme and outstanding water
cooling solution available on the market today. High performance, low
noise and 100 % stability characterizes this kit. Installing this kit
in a PC will make it a dream machine - no more no less!" -
Chillblast.com

Other kits to consider would be ones made by Dangerden:
http://www.dangerden.com/mall/Kits/kits_retail.asp

I have also been impressed with the products the Zalman company has
produced in the past although their latest offering - the Zalman
Reserator Fanless Water Cooling System - does have a few critics.
http://www.zalmanusa.com/usa/product/view.asp?idx=63&code=

These two companies are usually mentioned within everyone's "top 5"
list of parts to own when it comes to water cooling.  Personally I
prefer the Asetek version as it is a complete kit including for your
video card.

When it comes to price these solutions are vastly more expensive than
a simple fan so it is always best to shop around and check out the
various price comparison websites.

The DangerDen kits retail for around $175-250.

The Asetek kits retail for around $250-300.

URL's used to compile this answer:
http://forums.devhardware.com/archive/t-22222
http://forums.devhardware.com/archive/t-18226
http://forums.devhardware.com/archive/t-18623
http://forums.devhardware.com/archive/t-17106
http://forums.devhardware.com/archive/t-14979
http://forums.kustompcs.co.uk/archive/index.php/t-17667.html
http://www.overclockers.com/topiclist/index31.asp#WATER%20COOLING

If you have any further questions on this subject please ask for
clarification and I will do all I can to help.

Thanks, definitely the answer I was looking for. I did some research
myself, and found good things with the Thermaltake Aqaurius III, as
well -- I believe it retails for 250 or so. Now I'll have to decide if
I want the complete CPU/GPU solution -- or merely CPU solution.

have you been to 

http://www.overclockers.com/

?

Thanks for the 5-star rating and the tip, they are much appreciated.