CPU fans are essential components in modern-day computers that help regulate the temperature of the central processing unit. These fans come in different designs and sizes, but the four-pin CPU fan is the most common. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the 4 pin CPU fan wiring diagram, including its functions, connections, and troubleshooting tips.
Overview of 4 Pin CPU Fan
A 4 pin CPU fan is a fan with four wire cables that connect to the motherboard of a computer. The fan comprises of the rotor, stator, and the blades that rotate to cool down the CPU during intense usage. The four wires on the fan are responsible for supplying power, regulating speed, and transmitting signals to the motherboard.
Unlike the 3 pin CPU fan, the 4 pin CPU fan has an additional wire cable that controls the fan speed. It allows users to adjust the speed of the fan according to the heat output of the CPU.
Functions of 4 Pin CPU Fan wires
The 4 pin CPU fan wires have different functions that are crucial to the proper functioning of the fan. They include:
| Wire Name | Function |
|---|---|
| Ground (GND) Wire | This wire ensures that the fan has a complete electrical circuit. It connects to the motherboard to ground the fan and dissipate any static electricity. |
| Power (VCC) Wire | This wire supplies power to the fan. It connects to the power supply unit (PSU) or a 3 pin connector on the motherboard. |
| Tachometer (TACH) Wire | This wire sends signals to the motherboard to detect the speed of the fan. It helps in regulating the speed of the fan to avoid overheating. |
| Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Wire | This wire regulates the speed of the fan. It sends PWM signals to the motherboard, which adjusts the speed of the fan according to the temperature of the CPU. |
4 Pin CPU Fan Wiring Diagram
Proper wiring of the 4 pin CPU fan is essential to ensure optimal performance of the fan and avoid any damage to the computer’s motherboard. The wiring diagram of the 4 pin CPU fan comprises four wires: GND, VCC, TACH, and PWM.
The wiring diagram is as follows:
| Wire Name | Pin Number | Color | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| GND | 1 | Black | Ground wire |
| VCC | 2 | Red | Power wire |
| TACH | 3 | Yellow | Tachometer wire |
| PWM | 4 | Blue | Pulse Width Modulation wire |
It is important to connect the wires to the correct pins on the motherboard to ensure the proper functioning of the fan.
Connecting the 4 Pin CPU Fan to the Motherboard
To connect the 4 pin CPU fan to the motherboard, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Locate the CPU Fan Header on the motherboard
Locate the CPU fan header on the motherboard. It is usually labeled as CPU_FAN or SYS_FAN1.
Step 2: Identify the pin configuration of the header
Identify the pin configuration of the header by referring to the motherboard manual. The manual will provide details on how to connect the wires to the correct pins on the header.
Step 3: Connect the wires to the appropriate pins
Connect the wires to the appropriate pins on the header as per the motherboard manual.
Step 4: Turn on the computer to test the fan
Turn on the computer to test if the fan is working properly. You can use the BIOS to monitor the speed of the fan and adjust it to your desired speed if necessary.
FAQ
1. Why is my 4 pin CPU fan not working?
If your 4 pin CPU fan is not working, it could be due to several reasons, including faulty wiring, a damaged fan, or a malfunctioning motherboard. Check the wiring to ensure that it is connected to the correct pins on the motherboard. If the wiring is okay, try replacing the fan with a new one to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists, it could be a faulty motherboard, and you may need to seek professional help.
2. Can I use a 3 pin CPU fan on a 4 pin header?
Yes, you can use a 3 pin CPU fan on a 4 pin header. However, note that you will not be able to control the fan speed using the motherboard as the 3 pin fan does not have a PWM wire.
3. How do I adjust the fan speed of a 4 pin CPU fan?
You can adjust the fan speed of a 4 pin CPU fan using the BIOS of your computer. Access the BIOS by pressing the appropriate button during startup. Look for the fan settings and adjust the speed to your desired level.
4. Is it okay to remove the CPU fan from my computer?
No, it is not recommended to remove the CPU fan from your computer. The fan is essential in regulating the temperature of the CPU, and removing it could cause the CPU to overheat and damage the motherboard.
5. Can I connect multiple 4 pin CPU fans to a single header?
Yes, you can connect multiple 4 pin CPU fans to a single header using a fan splitter cable. The splitter cable allows you to connect several fans to a single header, making it easier to control their speed and optimize the airflow in your computer.
Conclusion
The 4 pin CPU fan is an essential component in modern-day computers that helps regulate the temperature of the CPU. Understanding the wiring diagram, connecting the wires to the appropriate pins on the motherboard, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise is crucial in ensuring optimal performance of the fan and avoiding any damage to the computer’s components.
