Zalman chose a new design for its mounting kit, but without sacrificing the ease-of-installation found in previous versions. The package includes an LGA775 backplate and cooler bracket, Socket 754/939/940/AM2 compatible cooler bracket, a user’s manual, Fan Mate 2 fan controller and extension cable, a piece of double-sided foam tape for mounting the fan controller, a case badge, and a tube of thermal compound.

Attaching the LGA mounting bracket is simple enough, the two halves snap together over the top of the base.

Once installed, the bracket functions as a single piece. Its mounting screws are locked in place, and screw easily into the motherboard support plate.

The finished installation looks clean and trim.

Mounting the cooler to an Athlon 64 is even easier, as Zalman’s new cooler bracket clips directly to the motherboard’s stock retainer. Zalman’s installation video, on its Web site, can be a helpful resource for installers following this route.