32. Thermaltake Rhythm CL-W0042: External Watercooler

While it's not a case, we thought we'd include a look at an interesting watercooling system we received from Thermaltake while we were preparing this review. It is not intended for installation inside a PC case; rather, it's intended to work as an external solution with dimensions comparable to those for a VHS or DVD player. This slimline watercooler comes in a massive aluminum case, and draws power from the PC to which it's attached.

Both of the 120 mm fans that help provide ventilation and cooling for this device require only 12V DC to operate. The same is true for the water pump, which can circulate 22.2 gallons (84 liters) per hour through the twin hoses that interconnect this device to the PC.

After the reservoir is filled with coolant and the mounting of its various copper cooling blocks are completed, this device is ready to go to work. According to the vendor, the Rhythm CL-W0042 should operate maintenance free for 10,000 hours, which translates into nearly 14 months of constant operation.