Graphics Card Inno3D iChill GeForce GTX 780 HerculeZ 3000 Review

Recently launched Nvidia GeForce GTX 780 graphics adapter has marked the era of high-performance combined with affordable price. Its efficiency level nearly reaches the one performed by GTX Titan adapter, but its price is far more reasonable for the majority of potential users. The only question is whether GTX 780 is able to demonstrate stability, running at heightened frequencies, on conditions of standard cooling? Probably, not. However, Inno3D decided to tackle the problem by developing its own version of adapter with an enhanced cooling system. As a result, Inno3D iChill GeForce GTX 780 HerculeZ 3000 graphics card saw the daylight.

General Information

Inno3D iChill GeForce GTX 780 HerculeZ 3000 is a top version in GeForce GTX 780 lineup of this manufacturer. Being a prime-class product, the card is ready to offer a stunning combination of heightened running frequencies and a powerful cooling effect. The model is delivered in a casual cardbox that contains user’s manual, CD with dedicated software, mouse pad, 3DMark registration code, DVI to D-Sub adapter, and power adapters MOLEX-PCIe 8-pin.

Layout

The implemented PCB features identical to the reference model design. The card is based on GK110-300-A1 GPU that runs at increased frequencies: the nominal index has been increased from 863 MHz to 1006 MHz, while Boost Clock index – from 900 MHz to 1046 MHz. Memory subsystem involves 3 GB of GDDR5 memory, represented by twelve chips (Samsung K4G20325FD FC03) with 384-bit interface. Their effective frequency is estimated as high as 6008 MHz. GPU and memory power supply process is organized according to 6+2 template: 6 phases are allotted for GPU and two – for memory chips.

Cooling System

iChill GeForce GTX 780 HerculeZ 3000 is equipped with a three-slot cooler, consisting of three voluminous fans and a heatsink block. The length of the PCB with a hanging cooler achieves 30 cm. The incorporated cooler embraces five heatpipes that divide the heatsink into two different sections and three 92 mm fans (Colorful CF12915S), which are connected to the mutual power bus on the board. The latter are fixed to the heatsink by means of special latches and rails. Additional clamping is ensured due to metallic frames that are mounted on the fans’ plastic frames. A standard heatsink on power elements features middle-size dimensions. It takes the form of a typical plate without any ribs on its surface.

Testing

Testing results proved the prime status of top-class iChill GeForce GTX 780 HerculeZ 3000. This graphics card demonstrated excellent stability and efficiency in the majority of benchmarks; hence, it is a worthy rival of Nvidia’s GeForce GTX 780 and GTX Titan. Some of the most outstanding testing results are listed below.

Crysis: Warhead tests: stable frequency maximum reached up 1150 MHz (as compared to the reference 1124 MHz), fans rotational speed fluctuated within the measures of 1350-1500 RPM. As a result, GPU warmed up just to 63 degrees.

Unigine Valley tests: stable frequency maximum reached up 1150 MHz (as compared to the reference 1084 MHz); similar fan RPM showings resulted in GPU warming up to 66 degrees.

Battlefield 3 tests: graphics card from Inno3D proves to show 19% more efficiency than reference GTX 780 and 4-6% more efficiency than GTX Titan. For sure, on overclocking, GTX Titan shoot ahead, but HerculeZ 3000 was snapping at its heels.

Far Cry 3 tests: the card from Inno3D pulls out a victory from GTX 780 and Titan counterparts, demonstrating 21-23% more efficient operation.

3DMark 11 tests: HerculeZ 3000 is 17% more efficient than reference GTX 780, however proves to be 6% less efficient than GTX Titan.