What Is Computer Case Fan?
All computers expel heat as part of their normal operation. This heat generation can reduce the lifespan of computer components and cause system instability if it is not exhausted out of the computer's case. That is the job of the computer case fan, an often overlooked but critical component of every computer.
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Purpose
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The purpose of a computer case fan is to get rid of the heat that is generated by a computer's components. Everything in a computer, from the processor to the video card to even the hard drives, generates heat. This heat isn't enough to be an immediate problem, but if a computer can't exhaust heat it will build up and eventually cause problems. The case fan is the only way to prevent that from occurring. That is why almost every computer in the world has at least once case fan.
Sizes
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The three most common sizes are 80mm, 92mm, and 120mm. The size of a computer case fan directly affects how much air the fan can push when spinning at a given speed. A 120mm case fan will always push more air than a 80mm case fan if both are running at the same speed. However, larger case fans are harder to fit into cases, and smaller fans are more than adequate for basic desktop computers.
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Locations
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Computer case fans are typically located at the front and the rear of a computer case. This creates a simple wind tunnel effect in which air is sucked in through the front and expelled out of the back. More advanced computer cases will have mounts for computer case fans at the top of the case. This takes advantage of heat's natural tendency to rise.
Types
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All computer case fans have a bearing, which allows the fan to spin freely. Less expensive fans usually use a ball or sleeve bearing, both of which use a mechanical bearing that is lubricated. This serves the purpose but can result in extra noise due to the vibration of the mechanical parts. More expensive case fans often use fluid or magnetic bearings. These bearings generate less noise and are typically more durable.
Features
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There are not a lot of features to be found on computer case fans. Some fans do allow for the user to adjust the speed of the fan by using a switch or by using the motherboard's BIOs. The ability to adjust fan speed is convenient because it allows fans to run slower at idle for quiet operation and faster at load to expel as much heat as possible.
Noise
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The level of noise generation of a computer case fan is one of its most important traits. High-quality computer case fans using well-constructed bearings will generate a low amount of noise. This makes a computer more pleasant to use, as no one likes to use a computer with a fan that buzzes.
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References
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- Photo Credit fan image by dr0p from Fotolia.com
