Aqua Computer aquaero 6 PRO USB fan-controller, graphic-LCD

Worlds separates such an automotive work from a VW Golf, where in addition to the emotionality of the performance come from another world. Although the Aquaero belongs to the circle of slippery dials, it plays functionally several classes above it.

Since the manufacturer Aqua Computer is a specialist in the field of water cooling, the control has not been limited exclusively to the field of air cooling. Rather, it is a highly intelligent hybrid controller, which is equally suitable for air and water cooled systems. Aqua Computer also explains this double orientation in the name: Aquaero is made up of aqua (water) and aero (air).

The Aquaero is also a product that has matured over many years and has been permanently functionally expanded. With the version 6, the controller now reaches a development level that makes the Aquaero without exaggeration the best fan and water control ever. The range of functions is simply incredible and will satisfy even the most meticulous control freaks completely.

The Aquaero 6 is available in two different configuration levels, which are not functionally different. The differentiation is rather based on the controls. This is the Aquaero 6 Pro. In contrast to the XT output, it lacks four control buttons on the display and the remote control, which is available as an accessory.

The core of the functionality – fan and water cooling control – has been significantly improved compared to the Aquaero 5. The maximum current for each of the 4 power amplifiers is now 2.5A (30W at 12V) air cooled and up to 3A with optional water cooling. Short higher peak currents are also possible. The power amps are absolutely short-circuit proof and turn off the output in less than 1 / 100000s to protect the hardware. Of course, there is also an integrated temperature monitoring and integrated current and voltage measurement.

Of particular note here is the design low voltage drop of only 0.5-0.8V between the power supply voltage and the output. This makes it possible, for example, to connect 20 Airstream fans to each outlet and control them with any desired voltage. If you do not have 80 fans at hand, then you can also connect a D5 pump to each output or just 40 fans and two D5 pumps. There is so little heat that the Aquaero does not need a heat sink.

Brachial performance alone is not everything. All connections on the Aquaero 6 are equipped with PWM fans. These can be completely switched off in addition to the PWM control. The Aquaero 6 can cope with all types of fans now.

Of course, Version 6 also includes software for accurate measurement and adjustment of the cooling systems. Especially for water cooling is very interesting to control the connected fan on the radiator depending on the measured water temperature. Even complex curves to increase the speed can be programmed with increasing water temperature. Various profiles for different applications, such as overclocking, gaming, office or video.

The internal memory of the Aquaero 6 has also been extended. Compared to the Aquaero 5, it has been increased by a factor of 4 and now offers significantly more reserves for log data and upcoming extensions in the firmware. To further increase reliability and protect the device from errors, many input circuits have been redesigned. In addition, a modern voltage monitoring system was installed, which disconnects the device from the power supply when the permissible supply voltage is exceeded at 5V. Thus, a twisted plugged by mistake power plug does not destroy the Aquaero 6.

This not only makes the Aquaero control extremely practical and takes care of a permanent fine adjustment, but at the same time it is a lot of fun when fiddling and extending the control bandwidth.

Note: In insufficiently ventilated housings, we recommend cooling the Aquaero 6 Pro with a passive cooler (WAZU-570 or WAZU-454).