Evercool PCAC - Conclusion

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Before we try to form any conclusions based on the data collected in these tests, it should be noted that the error margin present with the thermistors we used can contribute to skewed results. In most of these tests we are looking at temperature changes in the single degree area. The Digital Doc 5 reads temperatures with accuracy to a tenth of a degree, but any change in the 1-2 degree temperature range should be taken with a grain of salt. Having used this DD5 for a long time now, I can personally feel confident that the readings we took were generally quite accurate. But the ability of a thermistor to accurately gauge temps in every situation is just not viable.

I think the most important thing to take notice of in summarizing this product is that it does indeed perform the function it is intended to. Given the sheer number of possible conditions in any given case, it is impossible to specifically judge how this product will affect your temps. It will affect your airflow though. In the case of this configuration, I saw a general increase in temperatures "where it counts" - around the CPU, which is the major contributor of heat to a computer case. Classic airflow theory for ATX form factor cases will lead you to believe that a smooth level of air flow volume in the front of the case and out of the top rear of the case is an accepted standard that generally provides good results. The PCAC disrupts this concept.

For any user with airflow similar to the system in this review, you will most likely see an increase in system temps from your on-board monitor. The PCAC appeared to reduce the efficiency of an already sufficient system by pulling air against an already capable setup. So do we renounce the PCAC and just buy a few more high-CFM intake fans? Not necessarily. A lot of us have cases with very restrictive airflow, and a large portion of new cases have little to no room in the front of the case for an intake fan to do any good. If you are fighting with a small case, cramped wires, or extreme levels of heat the PCAC will increase air flow volume through your case. This could be a positive thing if your case has stagnant hot air with nowhere to go.

Overall I found the PCAC to be a very basic device with a unique idea but a few minor quality and manufacturing flaws. The unit feels a little cheap with the plastic knob, and as we found the size can be an issue for some users. When I first ran the PCAC it vibrated profusely, although a few minutes later it seemed to 'settle in' and quiet down some. On low speed the PCAC is barely audible. On high speed it is relatively loud, but even the most sensitive users should be able to handle it. The variable adjustments are great for finding the perfect noise/performance ratio for you.

One major feature I would like to see Evercool incorporate into the PCAC is the ability to turn the unit completely off without unplugging it. While low speed is very quiet, there may be the time you want to turn it completely off. Unfortunately, the knob only brings us down to low speed, but we need to physically unplug the power from the unit to stop the fan. Another feature I would have liked to see is a "reverse" function. It would have been very interesting to see the effects of the PCAC as an intake fan instead of an exhaust fan. This product would be able to serve a wider range of users with this kind of feature, although the feasibility of doing so might prove a little more difficult.

All in all I had a blast reviewing the PCAC, and I can see it finding a place in the market with 'critical condition' users and enthusiasts seeking unique ways to cool down their rigs. While you shouldn't expect a miracle from the Personal Computer's Air Conditioner, those of you with space issues could benefit from the 5.25" bay mountable PCAC. Enthusiasts and owners of mid-tower or full-tower cases with room for an extra fan or two that will contribute to their existing airflow, will probably want to avoid the PCAC.

Without a retail price to reference, it is hard to know if the price/performance ratio is worth it. I estimate the PCAC retailing for around $14.99-$19.99 USD, but don't hold me to it! Any more than $19.99 and I think you can find a much better solution by investing in a high-CFM intake or exhaust fan to help with your case's existing airflow.

Pros:

• Smooth speed adjustment provides control over performance
• Reasonably quiet for the level of air it moves
• Easy to install

Cons:

• Cheap knob
• Can't turn the fan completely off
• Only blows air out of the case

I would like to thank Evercool for giving us a chance to review the Personal Computer's Air Conditioner, and of course, thanks to all of you who took the time to read through this review today. You are invited to share any comments, questions, flames, or compliments in the Dev Hardware forums.

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