Alphacool Core DDR5-RAM module and G.Skill 64GB 6000MHz CL28 Trident Z5 Neo

[Ilovealphacool]

Hello!

I recently bought the Alphacool Core DDR5-RAM module, and G.Skill 64GB 6000MHz CL28 Trident Z5 Neo RGB.
Yesterday I put the RAM in isopropanol alcohol 99% and this morning the original heatsinks came off very easily.

When trying to assemble the RAM module, I cant fully screw it in, because the IC on one side of the naked RAM PCB is touching the Alphacool heatsink.
I first tried to put the 0.5 mm thermal pads included, according to the instructions, but this caused an air gap between the PCB and heatsink since the IC was very much preventing closing of the module (the modules were very angled due to the IC sticking out), see image below.


After some measurements with different thicknesses, it seems to me that the total thickness that can fit for the RAM module and the RAM that I have, is total of 0.2mm.
In other words, if I were to put 0.1 mm thermal pad on the PCB, on both sides, then I could I probably screw in the RAM module completely.
But from what I understand, 0.1 mm is not recommended since this is very thin.

Any advice or guidance you can provide is greatly appreciated!

The image below shows how the original G-skill heatsink was designed (they cut out a part for where the IC is).

 

[Eddy]

Could you please take a photo of the RAM cooler from the front, or at least in a way that shows the entire surface with the logo clearly visible? And also one photo of the RAM PCB from both sides.

We have been selling RAM coolers for a very long time, so I’m quite curious to see what the RAM PCB looks like.

 

[Ilovealphacool]

Dear Eddy!

Thank you for the quick reply!

I attach the images below, with some additional pictures for others who might be interested in the details.
Thank you for your time!

 

[Eddy]

Thanks for the pictures. Yes, this will not fit, as it is not a standard RAM PCB. Due to the LEDs and the control circuitry on it, these modules are not compatible with our RAM coolers.
They are only compatible with standard RAM layouts. RAM modules with LEDs or a custom PCB are unfortunately not compatible.

 

[Ilovealphacool]

Dear Eddy,

Thank you for the reply.
I will see what options I have now that I have removed the stock heatsink.
Two things if I may;

a) if I go ahead with thermal putty instead of thermal pads to minimize the thickness; on a scale 1 - 10 how good could it be (10 is very good)

b) RAM modules with LED are quite common nowadays, and G-skill 64 GB is not an exotic model, so perhaps this information about lack of compatibility could be updated/stated in the description of RAM module you are selling

Thank you

 

[Eddy]

Hi,

regarding your first question, it’s difficult to assess. You could possibly try thermal putty, as it can go down to around 0.2 mm. However, I can’t say with certainty whether that would be sufficient in this specific case.

The issue with LED-equipped modules or modules that deviate from the standard PCB design is that they are all different. I agree with you that we should add a clearer note in the product description, and we will do so. I’ll clarify this internally today. However, the fundamental problem will remain: it’s simply not possible to design RAM coolers for all variants. This will always be an issue as long as there is no fixed standard, and unfortunately, there is almost certainly never going to be one.

I can only recommend using RAM modules with a standard layout if you plan to water-cool them. Otherwise, you will unfortunately always run into problems. I know this doesn’t really help in hindsight. Sorry about that.

 

[galactob]

Hi,

regarding your first question, it’s difficult to assess. You could possibly try thermal putty, as it can go down to around 0.2 mm. However, I can’t say with certainty whether that would be sufficient in this specific case.

The issue with LED-equipped modules or modules that deviate from the standard PCB design is that they are all different. I agree with you that we should add a clearer note in the product description, and we will do so. I’ll clarify this internally today. However, the fundamental problem will remain: it’s simply not possible to design RAM coolers for all variants. This will always be an issue as long as there is no fixed standard, and unfortunately, there is almost certainly never going to be one.

I can only recommend using RAM modules with a standard layout if you plan to water-cool them. Otherwise, you will unfortunately always run into problems. I know this doesn’t really help in hindsight. Sorry about

Dear Eddy, you could do a little digging, 2 holes with the CNC. One to fit the LEDs on the top and another one for the pmic since all but all ddr5 have that and it is actually taller than the memory chips. You just probably sell the ddr4 giq ddr5 since they remain completely flat. It is simply easier for you as a production company to do it than for us who have to find a machinist with an appetite to serve us.

 

[Eddy]

The cooler works perfectly as it is, provided standard-layout RAM is used and not custom layouts with LEDs. We sell these coolers worldwide in high volumes, including to system integrators and other B2B customers. Changes are not desired here at all. If there were any serious issues, our B2B and SI customers would report them immediately, because they cannot afford problems.

 

[galactob]

You know that there is a big issue and they have touched on it here in the forum. I don't say it out of malice, I just mentioned it because many people now have new memories with or without LEDs, but they all have ddr5 with a large PMIC. Many people put thicker PANDs to avoid the gap left by the PMIC, with the result, as you know, that heat dissipation is not done properly. I just say it as a simple user because I prefer your products and if you look at the entire water cooling system, it is Alphacool. In addition to the memories, I wanted to put Alphacool there, but they don't do it for me, and so I will move on to other manufacturers who make at least a pocket so that the PMIC can fit inside and the rest of the stuff fits evenly.