CMP 170HX Water Block Guide: Bykski N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR vs Astralcooler TN-CMP170HX

For a CMP 170HX, A100 40GB, or A30 24G build, the current store route includes two relevant water-block options: the upgraded Bykski N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR and the silver Astralcooler TN-CMP170HX. They are positioned for the same multi-model compatibility family, so the decision is not simply “which one fits.” It is also about finish, included parts, mounting details, port layout, and the way the block will be used.

You can review the Astralcooler TN-CMP170HX CMP 170HX water block and the Bykski N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR water block before making the final selection.

What changed from the older Bykski name

The former Bykski N-TESLA-A100-X-V2 route has been updated to N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR. The current product information lists NVIDIA Tesla A100 40GB, NVIDIA CMP 170HX, and NVIDIA Tesla A30 24G as compatible platforms. It also identifies the block as an all-metal, LED-free option with a backplate choice.

That update keeps the product information easier to follow. If you search using the older X-V2 name, the current N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR page is the best place to check the latest model information, compatibility range, and installation details.

What makes the Astralcooler route worth considering

The Astralcooler TN-CMP170HX is the silver option in this product family. Its product information describes a metal block with a T2 oxygen-free copper baseplate and cooling coverage for the GPU core, memory, power MOSFETs, inductors, and tantalum capacitors. It also describes a high-density microchannel jet design and a full-metal cold plate.

Those details explain why the product is relevant to CMP 170HX builds that replace the original heatsink or aim to make a loud open-air or server-style card more manageable in a workstation loop. They are design features, not a promise of one universal temperature.

The checks that still matter for both blocks

1. Confirm the physical card

Photograph the front and rear of the card and record the exact model, memory label, bracket, and board revision. Used or modified cards may not match the installation photos exactly.

2. Verify the contact pattern

Check the GPU, HBM or memory area, VRM, and other raised contact points against the product gallery. Thermal pads should go where the block is designed to make contact; the GPU core needs the specified thermal interface.

3. Check mounting and ports

Compare hole positions, standoffs, backplate clearance, terminal height, neighboring slot space, and tube exit direction. Same compatibility does not mean the two products have identical hardware or port geometry.

4. Plan the loop around the workload

For long inference, compute, or test sessions, plan radiator capacity, pump control, coolant monitoring, fill access, and a drain route. A water block handles the card-to-water interface; it does not replace the rest of the loop.

Frequently Asked Questions / FAQ

Are the Bykski and Astralcooler blocks intended for the same card family?

Yes. Based on the current store compatibility route, both are positioned for the A100 40GB, CMP 170HX, and A30 24G family. Still confirm the actual PCB and supplied mounting hardware before installation.

What are the main materials used in the Astralcooler block?

The cold-head body is copper and the cover is stainless steel. The silver appearance comes from the stainless-steel cover; cooling performance should be evaluated through cold-plate contact, thermal interface material, mounting pressure, coolant temperature, and the rest of the loop.

Does the new SR name mean a completely different card fit?

The store identifies N-TESLA-A100-40G-SR as the upgraded route from N-TESLA-A100-X-V2. Use the current SR product information and images when checking compatibility.

Does either block change BIOS, drivers, PCIe behavior, or compute features?

No. A water block is a cooling component. Firmware, driver support, PCIe behavior, and compute features remain separate decisions.