When it comes to building a PC, one of the essential components that users often overlook is the fan system. Fans play a crucial role in keeping the system cool and preventing damage to the components. They come in different types, sizes, and connectivity options. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of PC fans, the connections used, and fan hub options.

Types of PC Fans

There are three main types of PC fans: case fans, CPU fans, and GPU fans.

1. Case Fans – These fans are designed to draw cool air into the PC case and expel hot air out of the system. They are typically mounted on the front, rear, or top of the case. Case fans come in different sizes, including 80mm, 120mm, and 140mm. They also have different bearing types, including sleeve, ball, and fluid dynamic bearing.
2. CPU Fans – These fans are designed to cool the CPU. They are mounted directly on top of the CPU and are often included with the CPU or purchased separately. CPU fans come in different sizes and styles, including air coolers and liquid coolers. They also have different fan speeds and noise levels.
3. GPU Fans – These fans are designed to cool the graphics card. They are mounted directly on the graphics card and come in different sizes and styles. Some graphics cards have a single fan, while others have multiple fans. They also have different fan speeds and noise levels.

Connections Used

There are three main types of fan connections used in PCs: 3-pin, 4-pin PWM, and 4-pin voltage-controlled (DC).

1. 3-pin – This connection is the most basic and only supports two functions – power and ground. The fan speed is fixed and cannot be adjusted. 3-pin fans are typically used for case fans.
2. 4-pin PWM – This connection allows for fan speed control through the motherboard or fan controller. PWM fans have an additional wire that carries the PWM signal, allowing for dynamic fan speed adjustments. PWM fans are typically used for CPU fans.
3. 4-pin voltage-controlled (DC) – This connection allows for fan speed control through voltage adjustments. The motherboard or fan controller adjusts the voltage sent to the fan to change its speed. Voltage-controlled fans are typically used for case fans.

Fan Hub Options

A fan hub is a device that allows users to connect multiple fans to a single hub, which is then connected to the motherboard or fan controller. There are three main types of fan hubs: powered, non-powered, and PWM.

1. Powered – This type of fan hub has a power cable that is connected to the power supply unit (PSU). It provides power to the fans, reducing the load on the motherboard or fan controller. Powered fan hubs are typically used for case fans.
2. Non-Powered – This type of fan hub does not have a power cable and relies on the motherboard or fan controller for power. Non-powered fan hubs are typically used for CPU fans.
3. PWM – This type of fan hub allows users to control the fan speed of multiple PWM fans simultaneously. PWM fan hubs are typically used for CPU fans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the different types of PC fans, connections used, and fan hub options is crucial for building a PC that runs cool and efficiently. By selecting the appropriate fan type, connection, and hub option, users can optimize their system’s performance and longevity. Whether you’re building a gaming rig or a workstation, investing in quality fans and components will pay off in the long run.