QA

Quick Answer: How Do Computer Fans Work

The fan cools the computer by pulling air in through any vents or openings in the computer, including the keyboard in the case of a laptop, or drive openings in the case of a desktop. It is important to be sure that you do not block air vents, or the computer may overheat and either shut down or damage the components.

Are computer fans supposed to run constantly?

Computer fans constantly run during normal use to cool computer components and prevent overheating. Many computers produce operational temperatures in the hardware-damaging range during normal use and require continuously running fans to not only prevent overheating, but perform optimally.

How are PC fans powered?

Both axial and sometimes centrifugal (blower/squirrel-cage) fans are used in computers. Computer fans commonly come in standard sizes, such as 120 mm (most common), 140 mm, 240 mm, and even 360 mm. Computer fans are powered and controlled using 3-pin or 4-pin fan connectors.

What kind of motor do PC fans use?

Cooling fans for PC microprocessors often use two phase brushless motors to reduce electrical noise and to extend fan life. They are made with the winding on the inside of the motor (stator), and the magnet on the outside (rotor).

Why is my PC fan running so hard?

If you notice the computer fan running constantly and making an abnormal or loud noise, this might indicate that the computer is not running as efficiently as possible, and/or clogged air vents. It is important to keep dust from accumulating in your computer and ensure adequate ventilation to help reduce heat.

How do you know if your computer fan is dying?

But you can notice the first signs of CPU fan failure when you hear the noise. Usually, it will be rattling sound or a faint humming sound. There are also chances, that dust and dirt may have settled in the computer and causing obstacles to the fan blades and the working of the fan.

Where do PC fans plug in?

CPU cooling fans should ALWAYS be plugged into the header that is specifically labeled “CPU Fan” and not “CPU Optional” or any other header.

What is the difference between CPU fan and system fan?

Which begs the question: what is the difference between System Fan and CPU fan? Basically, the fundamental difference between the System and the CPU fans is that the former is used for PC case/chassis ventilation where as the latter is used for the CPU cooling.

Which way do PC fans flow?

Generally, you want the case fans in front of the case drawing in air while the fans at the rear blow air out. If your case has vents at the top, they should be placed as exhaust fans because hot air will rise.

Do PC fans have magnets?

Computer fans are basically brushless motors with blades attached to them in order to move air. Around the motor there are two big pieces of curved magnets, one producing a north magnetic field and the other producing a south magnetic field.

Are computer fans Bldc?

The DC fans which are installed in the Motherboards, CPU and other many electrical and electronic devices use brushless DC motor or BLDC motor, which is electronically commuted motor.

What are PC fans called?

Alternatively referred to as a system fan, a case fan is located inside a computer, attached to the front or back of its case. Case fans help bring cool air into and blow hot air out of the case. They are available in a wide variety of sizes, but 80mm, 92mm, and 120mm (12cm) with a width of 25mm are the most common.

Is it bad if my computer fan is loud?

Fans are used to move the heat produced by the processor, motherboard, and graphics card out of the computer. If the fans are loose, too small, or not powerful enough, they can create noise. Loud noise is generally a very bad sign and should be dealt with immediately.

Why do computer fans rattle?

If your computer sits on an unbalanced, skewed surface, its internal parts, including the fans, may have a hard time operating properly. For the fan, it may cause the vanes to wobble, bend out, or even rip off their mount. They may get in each other’s way, making a loud rattling or knocking sound.

Why is my PC so loud at idle?

Reasons for loud PC fans when they’re idle include dust accumulation, poor ventilation, malware attacks, corrupt processes, and incorrect placement. Sometimes, faulty or smaller fans tend to be noisy. Upgrade your PC’s software, move the computer, or change some hardware to fix these issues.

How long does a PC fan last?

How Long Do Cooling Fans Last? Good quality PC cooling fans should last for at least five years, if not closer to 10.

How do PC fans fail?

A CPU fan error on start-up is typically due to physical damage to the fan, incorrect settings, or external factors causing the computer to overheat and force the fan to run at unusually high speeds. Dust or other objects obstructing the device’s air vents can also cause CPU fan errors.

Can a CPU fan be replaced?

Yes it’s possible to replace a CPU fan. Just make sure that the cooler is compatible with your PC’s motherboard. If you looking for an aftermarket cooler, make sure you get it from quality brands like Coolermaster or else the cheaper ones may not live up to your expectations .

What are the 3 pins on a case fan?

A three pin connector is basically power (5/12 volt), ground, and signal. The signal wire measures how fast the fan is moving without any controls for the fan’s speed. With this type, fan speed is typically controlled by increasing or decreasing the voltage over the power wire.

How many fans should a gaming PC have?

A minimum of 2 case fans is needed. The first one is for taking in the cool here (intake) and the other one is for bringing the hot air out (exhaust). The CPU is the one that needs most of the cooling and then the GPU.