Packaging And Components 

At first glance, the NH-U12F has the air of quality. The packaging is incredibly comprehensive. Four languages splayed across the external packaging denote the various physical characteristics such as dimensions, performance, and special features. Marketing aspects on the sleeve are tasteful without overdoing anything, which was a refreshing nuance. Similar features and simplicity comprise the small NC-U6 packaging. Simple yet elegant external packagings give the end users a good sense of what is inside.

Once the main box is open, the crown jewel of the whole setup can be seen snuggly fit into the top. The fan looks and feels well made and engineered. Once the drooling over the fan's construction is complete, two flaps give way to an amazing array of thirty-eight cooling fins on four u-shaped dual-heat-pipes. The attention to detail and finishing work is clear throughout the contents. Everything from the labeling of individualized bags for each processor type to a very thorough manual are signs that even more work was put into the design of the cooler itself. This whole setup will give any enthusiast some tingles. Let us take a closer look.

First out of the box is the Noctua NF-S12-1200 fan. Visually, the fan has an unusual and original earth tone color scheme. The fan itself is an engineering model. The fan incorporates a magnetically centered, self-lubricating oil-pressure bearing. With these Special bearings, the straight blade design, and the U.L.N.A (Ultra Low Noise Adapter), this fan allows for 41 m³/h of airflow at 600 rpm while only producing eight db of noise pollution. Without the U.L.N.A, the fan speed rises to 1200 rpm and the airflow rate almost doubles to 81 m³/h. Even at the higher rpm, the fan only produces 17 db. The way the fan works is unlike most other fans. To put it simply...Stable and quiet. This allows for flexibility and choice between cooling capacity and noise production. This is an impressive fan to say the least, and is not the first time we have seen it.

Supporting the fan is the heart of the NH-U12F. There is little or no worry about whether or not the shipping container is sufficient protection for most situations. Pulling the tower out, it is obvious that this is a slightly modified NH-U12, this tower cooler has updated compatibility, and smoother installation than its predecessor had. Noctua removed support for socket 478, but they added support for the AM2 CPU's.

In addition to different processor support, the tower lost 60g. However, with the included fan, the total weight increases 90gs to 790g installed. This is one hefty cooler. It would be natural to worry about damage to the intended system, but Noctua claims to have a clean safety record with people transporting systems installed. Moving on to the bottom of the tower, a small protective sticker is in place. Once removed, an above average factory lap job is revealed.

Gracing the top of the tower is a pressed Noctua logo that adds some style to the look accompanied by eight protruding heat pipes. Soldered to the heat pipes are each of the 38 fins for increased heat exchange rates. Admiration is one way of describing the feelings this cooler entices into fruition. Once again, each element has artisanship. However, the fins are susceptible to damage and raised an eyebrow, but they are stronger than most other high-end coolers. As long as soccer is not involved, the fins will be fine.

Underneath the almost two pounds of metal lay the socket sets and common components. Each socket assembly type is in a separate plastic bag in addition to one common component bag and an L shaped Phillips head screwdriver. The bags are labeled AMD K8 (754, 939, 940), AMD AM2, and finally LGA 775. Each type of socket adapter has customized assemblies and back plates instead of a common bracket. This customization is a sign of true compatibility effort.

The common component bag has fan mount clips, thermal paste, rubber strips, common mount clips, spring set, U.L.N.A., and screws. Every part needed is included and in convenient bags. Hence, it is simple to take inventory of the included parts and to find components needed during each type of setup.

Included is a detailed manual in English that carries the user from start to finish in a clean and concise manner. Reading the first portion should lead the average user through checking the parts. The concluding half are sections for each type of socket, and complete lists of all parts specifically needed before beginning the various motherboard installations.

Once again, attention to detail has a place for this Austrian company. There are helpful hints and tips that clear up some common confusions or potential issues that can arise. The specialization of each set of instructions will give users a sense of confidence that they can put this in with no problem. It is also in a quality binding that will last through future upgrades. However, that is only if the upgrades utilize the same socket range of AM2, LGA775, and AMD K8.

Onward to the installation.