I'm looking to set up 14 computer fans in parallel and power them with a PC power supply. I also want to control their speeds. Does anyone have advice on how I can achieve this? Any specific wiring or power considerations I should keep in mind?
3 Answers
To connect all 14 fans in parallel, start by ensuring the power supply can handle the overall amperage. Each fan draws about 400mA, so you'll need a power supply that can deliver at least 5.6A to safely power them all. Use proper wire gauges to avoid overheating.
Watch out for the PWM control limitations! A single PWM signal can only effectively control one type of fan unless you use a buffering method to manage the signal for all fans. You might want to check out wiring schemas online for clarity. Also, make sure the inrush current at startup is accounted for so you don’t fry your wires!
Running 14 fans might seem daunting, but it’s quite doable. Just make sure you split your PWM signal effectively for even control across all fans. A transistor or MOSFET could help with that. Also, keep in mind the RPM feedback should not be mixed up between fans; it’s crucial to manage separate feedback lines to avoid getting false readings. Check out some community posts on fan setups for practical advice!
If you're looking for fan speed control, there are modern fan controllers that come with their own PWM controls. These hub-style controllers connect to a USB header on your motherboard, allowing a tidy setup where you can manage multiple fans without the headaches of complex wiring!
A throwback to old-school fan speed knobs is interesting, but consider finding a PWM controller that supports your fans if you want a smooth experience. Brands like Thermaltake have decent options if you're not into DIY electronics.
Good point about the inrush current! To mitigate that, you might consider adding some resistance to limit the start-up current. Also, wiring them up correctly ensures they all get the same PWM input without issues.