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+--- Thread: Space for M.2 NVME heatsinks in the F4-424 Max (/Pro/F6-424)? (/showthread.php?tid=12263)
Space for M.2 NVME heatsinks in the F4-424 Max (/Pro/F6-424)? - sunbeam60 - 08-20-2025
Hi all,
I've just bought the F4-424 Max to combine/replace my Synology DS718+ and micro Dell Optiplex 7000 server that's been slung under the office table for 3 years.
I'd like to run my two Micron 7450 Max NVME drives as NVME cache once I get Unraid installed on the new Terramaster NAS/server.
However, these drives run quite hot ... can anyone who has access to a F4-424 (Pro/Max) or F6-424 (Pro/Max) tell me how much space there is to mount M.2 NVME heatsinks on the drives? The cover closes over the motherboard on these and I haven't been able to find a photo or measurement of how much space there exists under the cover.
RE: Space for M.2 NVME heatsinks in the F4-424 Max (/Pro/F6-424)? - ed - 08-22-2025
The space above the M.2 NVMe slots in the TerraMaster F4-424 series, including the Max, Pro, and F6-424 variants, is very limited. If you plan to use heatsinks on your NVMe drives, only low-profile or ultra-slim designs will fit without causing issues when closing the chassis.
Users have reported success using slim aluminum heatsinks that are no taller than a few millimetres. Double-sided or large aftermarket heatsinks typically do not fit, and trying to use them will prevent the side panel from closing properly. Some smaller heatsinks designed for compact systems or SBCs can fit, but even these must be chosen carefully based on their height.
In general, avoid tall heatsinks or any cooling solution with significant vertical bulk. If your drives tend to run hot and you are concerned about thermals, focus on passive cooling with thin thermal pads and lightweight metal plates that maintain clearance.