Final Cost Analysis
I lastly ran a cost analysis of the final parts after modifications were made. In addition to this, I performed a Boothroyd assembly cost analysis on the new proposed assembly components. These results are shown in the table below.
The same issues and assumptions as before with respect to the heatsink cost analysis apply here. Additionally, the cost for the fan used here is not from aPriori as the plan is to purchase it from a 3rd-party supplier and not for Intel to manufacture it themselves. The cost here is based on approximate prices found for a standard Corsair 90mm case fan for system integrators buying in bulk. As Intel's production demand for such a product accompanying each of their desktop CPUs far exceeds that of most system integrators, this number is likely to be much lower in reality.
The most immediately apparent comparison here to the original cooler is the dramatic jump in price to $4.07 from the original $1.87 figure. While compared to the original cost of just the cooler this jump is indeed quite substantial, it is important to remember that these are made to accompany CPUs running in cost from $150-$500 and up. In the context of the entire package cost then, this increase is practically inconsequential.
​
While the cost increase is relatively small for these changes, there are important improvements to be considered in terms of function and quality as mentioned initially. By mounting a standardized case fan on the cooler, the entire cooler is no longer rendered useless and destined to be discarded if a higher capacity cooler is needed. Also, if the stock cooler is used, when the processor is replaced or dies, the fan can be kept and reused instead of being discarded.
​
The ability to accept a standard case fan may also increase the number of stock coolers that are used instead of replaced immediately. 3rd party fans are generally known to perform better themselves, meaning the cooler may be able to support the needs of more users. Additionally, this allows the possibility that the only the fan itself could be replaced for a higher quality fan without discarding the rest of the cooler.