This is my first time installing a CPU cooler and it was fairly easy. Just remove the current cooler and remember the way the 4 pin cable faces when you remove it and install the brackets(provided) pointing outwards with 4 m3 screws I believe are 8mm (screws not provided). Clean the cpu with Isopropyl alcohol (there's videos on how to do this) and then mount the cooler (copper tips pointing towards the top case fan) which is already pre-applied with thermal compound and line up the longer screws(provided) with the deeper screwholes on the brackets and make sure they all can tighten properly. Then connect the 4 pin cable the same direction you disconnected the stock cooler and you're done. Make sure to test the fan when you turn your computer on. Again, this is for the XPS 8930 so for you it might be a different installation process, but the brackets should line up to the screwholes as some have said they don't.
After loads of research, I found this to be the only cooler for a decent price and seems to be the best option besides the OEM cooler that comes with the 8930 K series processor which goes for a little over $80 currently. As you may know, the CPU in the 8930 can get very hot and it needs proper cooling and DELL seems to have given us a very loud and inefficient fan but this fan I must tell you is much quieter and overall cools much better. I was getting temps of up to 94C in stress tests and after the installation I get low 80's during heavy gaming using a EVGA 1060 SC and overall gameplay is smoother with no framedrops.
Now, from what I was reading, some people are reporting that by replacing the stock CPU cooler to this one you would get a BIOS error post boot up. I'm here to report that I'm getting no such error. Mind you, I am on the latest BIOS but I'm not sure if that makes a difference.
I plan to upgrade the top case fan and add a front case fan soon so my cpu stays extra cool. I recommend this product if you own a XPS 8930.
| Product Dimensions | 4.17"L x 4.53"W x 2.09"H |
|---|---|
| Brand | ARCTIC |
| Power Connector Type | 3-Pin |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 1.56 watts |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Compatible Devices | Intel Socket: 1700, 1200, 115x, AMD Socket: / |
| Noise Level | 0.3 Sones |
| Material | Copper |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2500 RPM |
| Series | UCACOP2000000BL |
| Item model number | UCACO-P2000000-BL |
| Item Weight | 8.4 ounces |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.53 x 4.17 x 2.09 inches |
| Manufacturer | ARCTIC |
| ASIN | B0037AKXKM |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Date First Available | October 10, 2011 |
