Page 3 - Performance Tests
To test the performance of the SilverStone Air Penetrator AP120i PRO, our proprietary testing method invented right here at APH Networks was used. Although this test may not be the most comprehensive of tests, the results are qualitatively displayed at a minimum cost by using a piece of tissue paper and tape. As shown in the above photos, a piece of tissue paper was attached on the top of a fan. The tissue paper should be able to naturally fall down and cover the air outlet side -- the side where the motor rack is located -- of the fan. The fan is placed on the edge of a table to prevent air from reflected off any other surface to not skew results. Once the fans were powered on, the airflow, airflow consistency, and the amount of static pressure can be evaluated by observing the behavior of the tissue paper.
Taking a look at the pictures above, the tissue was raised evenly on both sides of the fan indicating how air is evenly distributed. Further away from the fan, you can see the consistency in airflow. It performed extraordinarily well thanks to the unique fan blade design and air channeling grille. The 2000 RPM speed was very noticeable when looking at the tissue. The fan produces more than enough airflow and static pressure to pick up the paper. Speaking towards the consistency, the tissue paper held in place well with very little movement, indicating steady airflow passing out the exit side of the SilverStone Air Penetrator AP120i PRO.
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 this fan were tested independently in a quiet room with all other noises from out 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 silence and 10 is an explosion. For the SilverStone Air Penetrator AP120i PRO at maximum speed, I would rate these fans at about 4.5/10. This figure will be lower as you slow them down. These fans can get quite loud, but given the excellent performance, it makes sense.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Hardware
3. Performance Tests
4. Conclusion
