Heat sink

An electronic device that incorporates either a fan and/or a peltier device that allows a hot device such as a processor to keep cool. There are two types of heatsinks: active and passive. Active heatsinks utilize power and are usually a fan type or some other peltier cooling device. If you are looking to purchase an active heatsink, it is recommended that you purchase fans with ball-bearing motors that often last much longer than sleeve bearings. Passive heatsinks are 100% reliable, as they have no mechanical components. Passive heatsinks are made of an aluminum-finned radiator that dissipates heat through convection. For Passive heatsinks to work to their full capacity, it is recommended that there is a steady air flow moving across the fins. To the right is an example image of a heat sink that is both active and passive.

• Additional information and help with computer heat sinks and fans can be found by clicking here.

Also see: Fan, Processor definitions