Monday, January 18, 2010

Adjust Computer System Fans

Computer fans are necessary to the overall life of your machine, as they remove damaging heat away from the vital components of your personal computer. While the speed of many computer fans cannot be adjusted by default, you can always change their speed settings using a commercially available fan controller. A fan controller can modulate the voltage sent to your fans, increasing or decreasing their speed to fit your needs.


Instructions








1. Purchase a fan speed controller from your local electronics store or online. You're likely to find better prices online, so order there if your need is not absolutely imminent. Good online sources include electronics retailers like Fry's (frys.com) or Newegg (newegg.com), or all-purpose retailers like Amazon (amazon.com).


2. Open your computer case to install the fan controller. Remove the two screws on the rightmost back side of your computer, then slide the side of the machine straight back before pulling it off to the side. If your computer uses screwless entry, consult your instruction manual for the proper method of operating the clasp.








3. Unplug your fans from their connection to the power supply, routing the connection through the ports on the back of the fan controller. The fan controller will act as an intermediary between the raw voltage coming from the power supply and the fans, modulating that voltage where necessary to adjust the performance and speed of your equipment.


4. Adjust the computer fan speed using the dials or buttons on the front of your chosen fan-speed controller. Don't let the fans run too slowly, as the computer could potentially overheat. Strive to find the appropriate balance between fan noise and cooling ability.

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