A Closer Look

The Max Orb features six heatpipes, aluminum fins, and a nickel-plated copper base. The fan sits parallel to the motherboard surface, allowing airflow to be directed at the CPU and the surrounding components.


The fan measures 110mm in diameter and is situated inside the fins, while the blades are clear plastic that are lit up by blue LEDs. The wires are sleeved in black mesh and are terminated with a 3-pin connector.


On the side of the Max Orb there is a small knob to control the fan speed. This appears to be the same type of controller often included with past Thermaltake fans and may even be compatible with the PCI plate or bay cover models.


When shipped from the factory the base is covered by a thin plastic film. Upon removal of that film the base can be seen to have a shiny finish, although mill marks are evident. The reflection of the syringe of thermal compound shows some distortions, meaning the base is not entirely flat. However, the razor blade shows the base is fairly flat from corner to corner and allows very little light to come through.


The six ends of the heatpipes are sandwiched between two pieces of copper and bolted together. Looking at the bottom of the fin array the heatpipes are arranged in three loops, each with their own set of fins.


Finally, to install the Max Orb a proprietary clip has been installed. One end has a small loop like those that attach to a tab on a CPU socket or retension module, and the other end has a long flat lever with a small hole toward the end.