Frore Systems made headlines in 2023 with the introduction of its innovative fanless AirJet cooler. This solid-state cooling solution, utilizing an ultrasonic vibrating membrane to move air, promised to revolutionize cooling design, especially for small form factor devices. However, despite its potential, the lack of widespread adoption and media coverage raised questions about its viability.
At Computex 2024, I had the opportunity to test the latest iteration, the Frore AirJet Mini Slim, and speak with CEO Dr. Seshu Madhavapeddy about its capabilities. Surrounded by devices equipped with AirJet Minis, my initial concern about noise was quickly dispelled. The AirJet operated quietly even at full capacity, providing efficient cooling without the expected noise issues.
Performance testing revealed significant improvements compared to traditional cooling systems, showcasing the AirJet’s potential. However, the road to mass adoption was hindered by the complexity of manufacturing a product using new materials and processes. While production units were showcased at the event, scaling production to meet demand would take time.
The durability of the AirJet Mini Slim was also a point of discussion, with Dr. Madhavapeddy confirming a lifespan of around 10,000 hours of continuous operation, equivalent to five years of typical use. While this may seem less than the longevity of traditional fans, the ease of replacing a single unit in a self-contained design mitigates potential issues.
Furthermore, the potential applications of the AirJet technology were demonstrated through performance comparisons with external SSDs. The AirJet-cooled SSD showcased significantly higher write speeds, highlighting the efficiency of the cooling solution. Despite some design considerations, such as vent placement, the performance gains were notable.
Cost remains a factor in the adoption of the AirJet Mini Slim, with Dr. Madhavapeddy acknowledging that initial costs may be higher compared to traditional fans. However, he emphasized that future generations would offer higher performance at a reduced cost, following Frore’s Law to double thermal performance every two years.
While the AirJet Mini Slim may not be suitable for high-powered desktop CPUs currently, its potential in slim laptops, tablets, and SSDs is evident. The product’s readiness for the market and the company’s ambitious goals for future development suggest a promising future for the AirJet technology. As advancements continue and costs decrease with scale, the AirJet could become a staple in cooling solutions for various devices.
Overall, the Frore AirJet Mini Slim presents a glimpse into the future of cooling technology, offering efficient and quiet operation in a compact form factor. With continued innovation and scalability, the AirJet technology could revolutionize cooling solutions across various devices, paving the way for enhanced performance and thermal management in the years to come.
