Test Results

First we tested the four pumps, without the load of the water block and radiator. With the help of a digital multimeter and a trimmer, we measured the minimum start voltage. For each new pump, we proceeded to vent the air from the system, in order to make this step faster and prevent the repechage by the pump, of the air bubbles.We proceeded to measure the flow multiple times ​​and to calculate the average, to provide a precise estimate. Accuracy of flow meter is not in doubt. We repeated the test with the water block and the radiator connected, using the same methodology.We used the LAFAYETTE DMB-6 sound level meter for the detection of the noise of the pumps in operation.To avoid contamination of the test with the noise generated by moving liquid, we have isolated the pump every time in a cube with sound-absorbing material.To have a comparison element, we included in the test our test pump, the Swiftech MCP355 with the XSPC Reservoir Top; as a rotor, the latter, uses a turbine in magnetic suspension. Below we will analyze the charts.

We start from the first graph comparing the value of the minimum startup voltage of idle pumps, that is only pump - flowmeter - bowl.

As we see the yield of the 3 pumps in relation to the flow, that we will see in subsequent tests, is high. We continue however with the graph representing the values ​​of noise generated by pumps in idle.

As we can see the pump that generates more noise, with a value of 35 dB, is the most powerful of the Phobya series, the DC12-400. The quieter is the smallest of the Phobya series, the DC12-220.

Consider now the first of the two graphs referred to the comparison of pumps flow.Here are the flow rates of pumps spun always at idle load.

Here, too, as was logical, the most powerful of the series is the Phobya DC12-400 with a quite high value; just below the 400 l/h. But the comparison does not hold with our reference pump that holds the record with just below 482 l/h.Let's see how they behave the pumps put under stress.

Here too the situation remains proportional to the previous graph. The positions remain unchanged even if with lower flow rates. The first two pumps, the DC12-220 and DC12-260 does not bear the comparison and return values ​​below average while are able to maintain an acceptable value in the first two positions the DC12-400 and our reference pump, the MCP-355, which maintains the record.

Conclusions

With no doubt we are faced with good products in terms of consumption and operating flow rate. We start from the first, smaller and more compact. It has the advantage of its low power consumption, its space saving size and that it can be disassembled for inspection and cleaning. In contrast we see it in cases built with only one waterblock systems and not much restrictive. Slightly superior, the DC12-260 is able to give some extra value in flow, but has the significant disadvantage of not being disassembled. With time the performance may go down because of the sediments.

For those who do not compromise and have room in the case, definitely recommend the flagship of the series, the DC12-400, which with its 4 meters of prevalence manages to fulfill its role even in systems with more than one waterblock; because they, that of recent production, are less restrictive. Another advantage they have in common, not to be underestimated, is the rotation signal, because it can be connected to the motherboard sensor and if the pump stops, you can set the bios to immediate shutdown the PC; as with the CPU heatsink fan. Last but not least, the really cheap cost compared to most noble pumps.In fact, you can take home with prices, starting from the smallest model DC12-220 to rise, of €33.99, €36.89 and €43.89. Being affordable, we can take two to make a separate loop for CPU and VGA/Chipset that are not much restrictive.

We also remember that, at the Aquatuning supplier are available, not for DC12-260 model, and for a few euros more, complete kits with pump and reservoir (bowl), or separately for those who were already in possession of the pump also the kit with the reservoir only, created by EK.

We did not encounter significant negative sides; we would like to stress however that the Phobya DC12-260 can not be opened for a thorough cleaning, and that the flow values ​​do not compare favorably with the most renowned pumps.But we must keep in mind that they also cost twice as much, if not triple. We recommend the purchase of Phobya pumps here reviewed also for those who are attentive to the comfort, after a feasibility study of the circuit and of the needs at the design stage.

PROs:

• Perfect finish
• Compactness
• Tachometer Detection
• Standard ¼"G connections
• Low power requirements
• Complete Bundle
• Price

CONs:

• Poor performance (for the DC12-220)
• Just acceptable performance (for the DC12-260)
• Not inspectable for cleaning (for DC12-260)

Thanks are due to Aquatuning.de for sending the material

Valter d'Attoma

Translated by Marco Comerci