SilverStone FP53 Harddrive Cooler

Two weeks ago, we took a look at the SilverStone FM82 fan and controller. I was very impressed with everything about it… the looks, performance and cost. Needless to say, I was looking even more forward to the FP53, because I like to know that my hard drive is being kept as cool as possible. Here is a quick snippet about SilverStone before we jump into the review.

Founded in the summer of 2003, SilverStone Technology is now a proven leader in the field of aluminum enclosure design and manufacturing. Our expertise in creating functional works of art from ordinary electronics and computer components is widely recognized. Numerous designs and ideas for improving computer enclosures were first created by our talented team of engineers, who are regarded by many as leaders in their respective fields. Today, SilverStone Technology continues to garner attention and awards that reflect our original vision of creating the most advanced and beautiful products available on the market.

The box that the FP53 comes in, is very tightly packed. There’s room enough for the product and a leaflet, tis all. Unlike some HDD coolers that just strap to the drive, the FP53 is a rather a panel that sits in any of your 5.25″ drive bays. When installed, the drive bay sucks air into the cooler, over the hard drive, and out the back. Because of this.. it only makes sense to install this on a case without a door, because with a door closed, it won’t get any air.. and won’t cool too well.

We received a Silver version of the cooler, but it also comes in black. Of course, in my black case, it stands out, but we are worried about performance here. As you can see in the pictures, the unit has some great styling. It also feels very sturdy and well built, while holding it. It’s obvious, as with most SilverStone products, that the quality is there.

The top of the unit acts somewhat as a heatsink, adding to the cooling affect. On the opposite side of the “heatsink”, is a large strip of thermal tape, for greater heat transfer.

The bottom of the unit is completely flat, so that it can easily slide in and out of your drive bay. Out of the eight holes seen, four are to keep the unit in one piece, and the other four are for the vibration pads. Vibration pads? They are the blue tabs that you can see in the pictures, and are there to reduce the effect of vibration on the drive. Very smart addition.

Looking straight into the unit, we see a small fan at the end of the tunnel. As mentioned already, it’s purpose is to suck cool outside air in, then blow it over the drive. They made sure to leave enough room for sufficient airflow as well. The fan goes a constant 5000RPM, so there is a light whirring sound. If the rooms completely quiet, it’s audible, but not so much as other fans in the computer.