Page 3 - Performance Tests
I used the classic APH Networks method to test the performance of the ARCTIC BioniX P120 A-RGB and P12 PWM. The results are qualitatively displayed at a minimum cost by using a piece of tissue paper and tape, even though this test may not be the most comprehensive of tests. As shown in the images above, a piece of tissue paper was attached to the top of each fan. The tissue paper should be able to naturally fall down and cover the air outlet side, which is the side where the motor rack is located. The fan is placed on the edge of a table to prevent air from being reflected off any surface to not skew results. Once powered on, the airflow, airflow consistency, and the amount of static pressure can be evaluated by observing the behavior of the tissue paper. Although the images above display the fans beside each other for the sake of concision, I did test them each out individually to remove any interference from each other.
Taking a look at the pictures above, the tissue papers were raised slightly higher on one side compared to the other. It is good to see the both the BioniX P120 A-RGB and P12 PWM produced enough airflow and static pressure to pick up the paper. Speaking towards the consistency, the tissue paper held in place quite well with some movement that was likely caused by the tissue bending, as seen in the above image. This movement, or lack there of, indicated a decently steady airflow passing out of the exit side of both the fans. When placed side-by-side, you can tell the increased RPM of the BioniX P120 A-RGB based on the higher flight of the tissue. As expected from the maximum 2400 RPM of the BioniX P120 A-RGB and maximum 2000 RPM of the P12 PWM, the fans performed quite well.
Sound is another important factor when testing fans, as we want a good balance between performance and noise. There are limitations as sound can be quite subjective to both the listener and the environment of the fans. The noise levels of both the ARCTIC BioniX P120 A-RGB and P12 PWM were tested independently in a quiet room with all other noises from our system isolated to ensure we are testing the fan alone. We rate the perceived noise on a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 is absolute silence and 10 is a volcanic eruption. Both fans were measured at maximum speeds. For the BioniX P120 A-RGB, I would rate it at about 2.5/10. I would rate the P12 PWM at about 2.0/10. This figure will be lower as you slow them down. This sound profile is simply amazing as they are truly quiet. The BioniX P120 A-RGB and P12 PWM had an excellent balance between their performance and noise levels.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Hardware
3. Performance Tests
4. Conclusion
