Installed

Noctua NH-C14 is huge, like really huge. It overshadows everything else on the Gigabyte X58A-UD7, which is already a big motherboard. With both its fans installed, the NH-C14 weighs 1000 g, and that can easily contribute to PCB bending over long periods of time. Check out the optional C-14 support bar kit, if your package includes it. I'm not sure if all packages do, and hence I skipped installing it.


I had lost all hopes for the NH-C14 with regards to memory module clearance. Much to my surprise, it leaves plenty of room for you to install and remove standard-height memory modules. In the "high-clearance" configuration (with the bottom fan removed), I can imagine there being enough clearance for memory with tall, fancy heatsinks.


The GIGABYTE X58A-UD7 is a very crowded motherboard, its designers made lavish use of heatsinks to keep key components cool. Despite its protruding heat pipes, the NH-C14 steers clear of the northbridge heatsink.