Page 3 - Performance Tests
Using our tried-and-true APH proprietary 'scientific' method for measuring fan performance we devised back in 2007 by our Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Kwan, it is no surprise that we are using it for this review as well. While it is not exactly the most objective method you can use (No kidding haha), there's a few attributes of fan performance that we can obtain clearly from our observations: Airflow, airflow consistency, and amount of static pressure generated. It visually portrays characteristics of each fan.
In our tissue paper test above, it is fairly obvious that the Deepcool GF120 produces quite a bit of airflow as it can spin up to 1800rpm. For those that want to compare the amount of airflow the fan can produce, just pretend to be Superman with his cape flapping vigorously on his back. Compared to the SilverStone Air Penetrator AP182 fans, 1800rpm isn't too far off from 2000rpm, so you can expect quite a bit fluttering from the tissue. When running at its lowest setting at 500rpm, the tissue obviously moves significantly less, which also decreases the amount of noise generated. In most applications, it would be better off running the fan at higher speeds to generate more airflow through your system, as 500rpm would probably do you little good. However, in the odd occasion or two, the lowest setting may be most applicable.
Perceived sound is another important factor. However, this is limited to the subjective measurement of the user. How we perceive sound here at APH Networks may vary, but I tend to be quite picky when it comes to such matters. All staff at APH Networks rate sound according to the same scale, so the numbers seen from review to review are comparable. The noise levels of the fans were tested independently in a quiet room with the power supply and all other noises isolated to ensure accuracy. On a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 is a place of complete solitude and 10 is the loudest thing you could possibly think of, I would rate the Deepcool GF120 to be approximately 1.0/10 at its lowest speed, and approximately 4.0/10 at full throttle. This is not all that bad, considering how much airflow the GF120 can give at its maximum setting, but I still believe Deepcool could still reduce the noise and wind turbulence by further optimizing the design of the blades and fluidity of the motor. I am not sure how practical this request is, but good engineers are expensive for a reason!
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. A Closer Look - Hardware
3. Performance Tests
4. Conclusion
