Check out this amazing PC, built inside an aquarium.
It is cooled by mineral oil, and the oil is great for absorbing heat.
After about 2 hours, the temperature settled at a new maximum of 84C on the CPU under load. So, the bubbles did have an effect, but not as much as we were hoping for. Interestingly, the bubbles also hurt the video card temperature, causing it to rise by a few degrees! It seems the bubbles also served to agitate all the contents of the aquarium, bringing everything to a more consistent temperature throughout.
Check out this video of it in being built and working.
Puget Computer Systems via
Innovative Cooling Solution
The concept of submerging a PC in mineral oil is not only visually striking but also serves a functional purpose. Traditional air cooling systems rely on fans and heatsinks to dissipate heat, but these methods can sometimes be insufficient for high-performance components. Mineral oil, on the other hand, is an excellent conductor of heat and can absorb and dissipate heat more efficiently than air. This makes it an ideal medium for cooling high-performance PCs, especially those used for gaming or intensive computational tasks.
In this particular build, the entire PC is submerged in mineral oil inside an aquarium. The mineral oil absorbs the heat generated by the components, preventing them from overheating. This method of cooling is not only effective but also silent, as it eliminates the need for noisy fans. However, it’s important to note that while mineral oil is non-conductive and safe for electronic components, it can be messy and requires careful handling.
Challenges and Considerations
While the idea of an aquarium PC is fascinating, it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the primary concerns is the long-term maintenance of the system. Mineral oil can degrade over time, and it may need to be replaced periodically to maintain its cooling efficiency. Additionally, the oil can become contaminated with dust and other particles, which can affect its performance.
Another challenge is the temperature regulation within the aquarium. As noted in the original article, the introduction of bubbles to the system had a mixed impact on the temperatures of different components. While the bubbles helped to distribute the heat more evenly, they also caused the temperature of the video card to rise. This highlights the importance of careful planning and monitoring when setting up an aquarium PC.
Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of an aquarium PC cannot be overlooked. The sight of a fully functional computer submerged in a clear liquid is sure to be a conversation starter. It combines the beauty of an aquarium with the functionality of a high-performance PC, creating a unique and visually stunning setup.
For those interested in building their own aquarium PC, there are several resources and guides available online. Companies like Puget Computer Systems offer detailed instructions and kits to help enthusiasts get started. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and understand the process before diving in, as mistakes can be costly and difficult to fix.
The aquarium PC is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the tech community. It offers a unique and effective cooling solution while also providing a visually striking setup. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates innovative design, the aquarium PC is sure to impress.
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