Intercooler TS Score: 88% Developer: Nyko Device Type: Accessory

Function: The Intercooler TS is Nyko's second cooling solution for the PS3, and while this one features a "TempSmart" system that allows it to more closely monitor the temperature of your console so it knows when to turn on and off, there are some things it doesn't feature that the previous one did to make this one's value a little questionable. The Intercooler TS also features four fans that line up to the system's back heat vent and a really simple install process. It really is as simple as clipping the device to the back of your PS3 and plugging it into the wall. But the easy install has always been a feature of Nyko's Intercooler line, although I do believe this one is easier to attach than the previous PS3 version.

Performance: So how does the Intercooler TS stand up? I have to say, the four fans seem to do a good job of pulling the heat out of the system. Because the Intercooler TS has both a separate power cable and a temperature sensor, it will actually stay running after the PS3 has been turned off until the system has reached an ideal temperature. This is especially good if your PlayStation 3 sits in a confined entertainment cabinet with very little room to breathe. With the TS, you can make sure that the heat won't simply sit there, continuing to cause damage to your console.

Features: 4 Powerful Fans Reduce Ambient Temperature for Customized Cooling Air Temperature While Moving Hot Air Away from the Console TempSmart Technology Automatically Controls Intercoooler Operation to Ensure Optimal Console Environment AC Powered: No Batteries or USB Cable to the Console Necessary Snap-on Installation Means No Tools or Other Modifications are Required Can Be Used with the PS3 in Either Vertical or Horizontal Position

Drawbacks & Problems:: Here is where I am on the fence about the Intercooler TS. I can't help but look at this product and compare it to the previous one. There seem to be several features present on the last Intercooler that are missing here. For one, the last model had five fans and a second piece of hardware that wrapped around the PS3 to cool off the top of the console as well. Granted, this second piece made the device a bit more of a hassle to install, but it supposedly allowed for better airflow along the top as well. The other feature was that the previous model required no extra outlets. Instead, it plugged into the PS3's power port and you plugged its cable into the Intercooler. This particular feature is always appreciated, especially since my entertainment center is pretty full and there are very few outlets left on my power strip. Supposedly, this particular feature is to allow the Intercooler TS to run after the PS3 is turned off, but it seems that the device should still be able to run even if the PS3 is powered down if it uses the pass-through system like before. In the end, it's really hard for me to decide between the two versions of this product. On the one hand, there is an obvious benefit to the "TempSmart" technology and its ease of install. On the other hand, outlet spaces are always a precious commodity.

-J.R. Nip, GameVortex Communications AKA Chris Meyer