How to install a PC case fan – Guide
There are two main sizes for computer fans: 80 mm and 120 mm. Your computer may support other sizes, including 60 mm or 140 mm. If you’re not sure, remove one of the currently installed fans and take it to your local computer dealer and order your size or measure yourself. Most modern cases use 120 mm fans. If you’re adding a new fan rather than replacing a burned-out one, you’ll need to look at how the fans interact with each other and whether air circulates over the components that need them, which is beyond the scope of this article. Items such as graphics cards and processors typically require individual fans that draw air through heat exchangers or heat sinks attached to each device, and some older graphics cards have fans attached to the device board.
The relatively cool air from outside the case (the cooler the environment your PC is in, the better) is pulled/pulled in from the front of the case by one or more front fans (called intake fans). This cool air is forced through the inside of the case, cooling its components in the process, and then pushed out/expelled by one or more rear fans (called exhaust fans) at the back of the case.
Choosing the right fan
Fans come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different needs. Small barrel-type fans are often used to cool chips, while larger axial fans are more common in power supplies. 120 mm fans are the most common size in newer cases. ..
When looking for a fan, look for one with high airflow (CFM) and low noise level (dB). This information will be on the packaging or on the product information page. Larger fans can usually spin at lower speeds and still move a lot of air without making too much noise. Some manufacturers also incorporate LED lighting into their fans.
keep positive pressure
When adding fans to a system, it is important to maintain positive pressure inside the case. This can be done by having a higher combined CFM for the inlet fans than for the exhaust fans. ..
power connections
Most modern systems use dedicated 3-pin or 4-pin fan connectors. A 3-pin analog connector supplies power to the fan to make it spin, while a 4-pin connector is used for digital control and allows the system to dynamically change the fan speed.
Many motherboards feature an array of 3-pin and/or 4-pin fan connectors that are placed in different locations around the card. This can be a challenge for users who want to control the fan speeds on their cards.
Installing a new fan
If you are replacing a fan, remove the old one by unscrewing it from the case and disconnecting the cable from the connector (or MOLEX connection). You can reuse screws if your new fan doesn’t come with any. To mount a fan, hold it up to the mounting position so that the holes for the screws up with the holes in the box. While holding the fan in place with one hand, use four screws to secure it in place with the other hand.
If you only have plastic friction clips holding a fan in place, simply release the clips, remove the fan and put the new one in its place. Then connect the fan to an unused fan connector. Headers are encoded to ensure proper connection. Four-pin connectors will work with 3-pin fans, but you won’t have control over fan speeds.
Final note
This guide will show you how to install a PC case fan. If you have any questions about this article, please ask us. Additionally, please share your love by sharing this article with your friends.
