How to Speed Up a 5V Fan

The processor fan or case fan installed in a computer is a 5-volt fan used to cool the processor and keep it from overheating. However, as these fans age, and as dust infiltrates them, they start running more slowly. To compensate for this slowdown, you can clean the dust and debris from the fan blades and configure Microsoft Windows to speed the fan up through one of the Windows system tools.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Compressed air
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol
• Set precision screwdrivers

Instructions

Desktop maintenance

1. Remove all the cords from the back of the computer and turn it so the back faces you. Unfasten the screws from the case cover or right side panel and slide the cover off. Some computers only require the removal of the right side panel while others require the removal of the entire cover.

2. Blow compressed air in the processor fan and any other case fan that helps cool the computer. Blow all the dust out of the fan blades.

3. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Swipe the nooks and crannies of the fans to remove any caked-on dust that prevents the fan blades from moving correctly.

4. Replace the desktop cover and cables. Turn on the PC as you normally do.

Laptop Maintenance

1. Remove all the cables from the laptop and remove the laptop battery. Unfasten all the screws from the underside of the case. Lay the plastic covers that come off to the side.

2. Open the laptop and pry up the switch plate up with a small flat-blade precision screwdriver. Unfasten the keyboard screws that are now visible. Lift the keyboard enough to view the processor fan. Blow compressed air in the fan to remove dust and debris.

3. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and wipe the fan blades clean.

4. Reassemble the laptop and reconnect the cables.

Configuration

1. Click the "Start" icon and open the "Control Panel." Locate and click on the "System and Security" category.

2. Locate the "Power Saver" category and select "Change advanced computer settings." Choose "Processor Power Management" and "System Cooling Policy" from the list that appears.

3. Check mark the "Active" setting and press the "OK" button to save the changes.

4. Close the window and use the computer normally.

References

• Bleeping Computers: Cleaning the Interior of Your PC
• IThinkDifferent:Different New Power Saving Options in Windows 7