New technologies and programs are being developed every day, demanding ever increasing productivity and efficiency from computers. Every year video cards, boards, processors and other components of the computer are improved, which leads to an increase in consumed and emitted energy. In this regard, the user is often faced with the problem of overheating, which, in turn, leads to deterioration of the system and breakdowns of the components of the PC. That is why the fan is an extremely important aspect in the normal operation of the computer. All modern devices are equipped with a cooling system. It happens that the fan is installed only on the processor or on the video card. Their task is to keep the temperature of only one element, while throwing hot air into the case. Such a system saves individual parts, but the overall temperature inside the case only rises. That is why the ventilation system must be complete and maintain all components of the device. The case fan is an excellent solution to many problems at once.
Recommendations for choosing a fan for the computer case.
Criterias of choice
The service life of the system unit is directly dependent on the cooling system. But before choosing a fan for the PC case, consider the existing types of coolers and criteria that are worth paying attention to.
Computer type
For average home or office computers, almost any low-cost models are suitable for a computer in terms of size, speed, etc.
Noise sensitivity
If you are susceptible to noise, you should consider this indicator. There are a number of innovative models that can suppress noise due to the special structure of the blades. These fans are more expensive.
PC usage options
Gaming computers and laptops need an enhanced cooling system due to the constant heating of the video card and processor. If your PC often performs a gaming function, you should pay attention to more expensive and high-quality fans.
Appearance
Even this indicator matters to many. At the moment, the most elite models are equipped with lighting, accessories and unusual color solutions. Having decided on the main indicators, you can go on to review the technical part and find out what characteristics coolers have, and which ones are the most important.
TIP. for laptops, coasters are often used as an additional cooling system.
Fan diameter
Diameter is important when choosing a cooler. Standard sizes are 80, 90, 92 and 120 mm. Not all diameters are universal - you need to choose according to the dimensions of the case of the system unit. Before you buy a fan, you should measure the case itself and the free space in it, otherwise the cooler may simply not fit. There is another way - almost all manufacturers indicate in the instructions for the system unit the dimensions of the permissible fan. Speaking about the technical features, we note that the coolers with the largest blade diameter work faster and quieter than the others.
Connection Type
By the type of connection, all the coolers can be divided into 3 groups: 3 pin, 4 pin and Molex.
3 pins (3 pin)
With this type of fan is connected to the motherboard using 4 pin-connector, but only 3 of them are involved. This means that adjusting the performance of the cooler (for example, the rotational speed of the blades) will be problematic.
4 pins (4pin)
This connection method is the most reliable. All 4 contacts are involved in it, which allows adjusting the rotational speed with regard to voltage changes.
Molex
The peculiarity of this type is that the connectors on the board are not needed at all: the connection is directly connected to the power supply. Adjusting the speed in this case is impossible.
Speed and noise
The unit of measurement of this indicator are decibels (dB). Its limit is considered the limit to 25 dB in large models and 35 dB in small ones. Rotation frequency is the main aspect in the cooler operation, as it creates the air flow for cooling. But these two indicators are interdependent: the higher the frequency, the higher the noise level. You need to select so that their ratio meets the requirements of the system unit and at the same time does not interfere. On average, the ratio is as follows (diameter - turnovers):
- 80 mm. - from 2000 to 2700 revolutions per minute;
- 90-92 mm. - from 1300 to 2500 revolutions per minute;
- 120 mm. - from 800 to 1600 revolutions.
Bearing Type
The bearing is the mechanism by which the blades rotate. It is subject to the greatest impact and wear due to friction, and is also the main source of noise. This characteristic is responsible for the durability of the cooler. The main types include:
- Sliding bearing. It is characterized by a short period of work, medium noise and low price.
- Friction bearing. Differs in the increased noise, but also the term of work is much more.
- Hydrodynamic bearing. This type is provided with self-lubrication, which reduces friction and prolongs the service life.
- Bearing with magnetic centering. The basis of this mechanism is the axis and the magnetic field, so that friction practically does not occur. Service life, respectively, is very high, as is the price.
Choosing a fan, decide which characteristics are more important to you. Manufacturers are a huge variety, giving the opportunity to choose something optimal for everyone.