Introduction

I would like to thank Scythe for supplying the tested cooler.

Packaging

Box contents:

• CPU Cooler
• Mounting clips for Socket 775
• Mounting clips for Socket 754, 939, 940
• Mounting clips for Socket 478
• Instruction manual
• Fan speed controller
• Fan power cable

The cooler's base plate is protected by a plastic foil which is easily removed. However, I found that a bit of the adhesive glue remained on the cooler's base. This should not affect cooling performance.


Like on all Scythe products the heatsink base is very flat and highly reflective. A few minor milling marks can be seen but these should not affect cooling performance.
The cooler uses an all copper construction. A large number of fins makes sure to transfer as much heat as possible from the heatsink to the air.


The fan is attached with metal clips that can be easily removed to accommodate your own fan.


The whole fan is angled so that its airflow can cool other components on the motherboard as well.

Installation

The installation of the Scythe Katana Cu is a bit complicated, but easy to do if you follow the manual.

Depending on the socket you want to use this cooler on you have to install the right bottom plate. The manual is very precise about which plate you want to use for which socket.


First you have to screw some small metal tabs onto the plate.


Next you screw the plate into the cooler's base.


The next step you have to perform is assemble the special base plate. You screw some screws into it. This is very easy to do using the included tool.


With those two screws the cooler will be mounted. They have attached springs to evenly distribute the mounting pressure. It is still advised to take a couple of turns each, then switch to the other one for optimum mounting.