Console gamers, especially us Xbox 360 owners, know very well how important it is make sure our systems have proper air ventilation. Keeping your gaming console cool and well ventilated can make all the difference in the overall performance and lifespan of the console.
Any additional tool that helps keep our consoles running smooth is welcome, especially for the Xbox 360. To ensure that the temperature of your Xbox 360 stays in check, Nyko has introduced the latest iteration of their Intercooler cooling device, the Intercooler TS 360.
Just like the previous EX model, the new TS model snaps on to the back of the Xbox 360 and can be used when the console is in either the vertical or horizontal position. The snap-on design makes for a quick and easy installation, no tools needed! Nyko has also decided to keep the same 3 fan design found in the previous model, which is used to pull hot air away from the back of the console.
The first noticeable difference between the Intercooler TS and the EX is the way the Intercooler TS draws power. Unlike the Intercooler EX, which used a built-in pass through power connection, the Intercooler TS has its own AC power adapter. Having its own power supply, the Intercooler TS no longer steals power from the Xbox 360, putting at ease our worries of having the console fail on us due to lack of power.
With the Intercooler TS, Nyko has implemented a new temperature sensing technology called TempSmart. To help the Xbox 360 maintain an optimum temperature, the Intercooler TS uses this temperature sensing feature to automatically power the fans on and off. Combining this feature along with having a dedicated power adapter, the Intercooler TS can now stay on and cool off your Xbox 360 even after the console has been turned off.
One thing buyers should note before purchasing the Intercooler TS is that while it’s on, you will hear the fans of the cooler. They can be somewhat loud, but this should be expected as you’re adding 3 fans to the back of your Xbox 360. But when it comes to keeping my console cool and even prolonging its life, a little bit of extra noise is no problem. Turning the TV volume up or putting on some headphones should help alleviate the extra noise.
Some gamers are afraid of the player on the other end, who have a rocket launcher aimed and ready to fire. I’m afraid of heat, and any gadget or tool that helps fend off this fearsome foe is well worth considering. The Nyko Intercooler TS 360 does a wonderful job at both keeping the Xbox 360 cool and giving me peace of mind. Having the TempSmart technology control the fans and being able to cool the Xbox 360 even after it has shut down are both wonderful features. The dedicated AC adapter may take up another spot on the surge protector, but at least now I know it won’t steal power away from the Xbox 360. The Intercooler TS 360 will make you happy and will keep your console cool – what a wonderful combination.
The Nyko Intercooler TS 360 is available for $24.99 directly from Nyko or other video game retailers such as Amazon.com.
Overall score: 9/10
[I would like to thank Nyko for the opportunity to review the Intercooler TS 360]
