Are you trying to figure out how to wire your 4 wire fan? Look no further! This article will explain the ins and outs of 4 wire fan wiring and help you get your fan up and running in no time.
What is a 4 Wire Fan?
A 4 wire fan, also known as a PWM (pulse-width modulation) fan, is a type of computer cooling fan that uses a four-pin connector instead of the traditional three-pin connector. The fourth wire is used to control the speed of the fan, allowing for more precise control over the cooling system.
4 wire fans are commonly used in high-end gaming computers and server rooms where precise temperature control is necessary. However, they can also be used in any computer or electronic device where noise reduction is a concern.
Wiring a 4 Wire Fan
Wiring a 4 wire fan is relatively simple, as long as you have the right tools and know the right steps to follow. Here is a step-by-step guide to wiring your 4 wire fan:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To wire your 4 wire fan, you will need:
- A 4 wire fan
- A PWM fan controller
- A power source (usually your computer’s power supply)
- A wire stripper
- A pair of wire cutters
- A soldering iron and solder (optional)
Step 2: Identify Your Fan’s Pins
Before you begin wiring your fan, you will need to identify the pins on your fan’s connector. There are four pins: +12V, ground, tachometer, and PWM. The +12V pin is used to provide power to the fan, while the ground pin is used to complete the circuit. The tachometer pin is used to measure the fan’s speed, and the PWM pin is used to control the fan’s speed.
Step 3: Connect the Power and Ground Wires
The first step to wiring your fan is to connect the +12V and ground wires. The +12V wire is usually red, while the ground wire is usually black. Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation off of the ends of both wires, and then twist them together. You can then use a soldering iron and solder to secure the connection, or you can use a wire nut or electrical tape to cover the connection.
Step 4: Connect the Tachometer Wire
The tachometer wire is usually yellow. This wire is used to measure the fan’s speed and send the information back to your computer’s motherboard. You will need to connect the tachometer wire to your motherboard’s tachometer header. Consult your motherboard’s manual to locate the tachometer header.
Step 5: Connect the PWM Wire
The PWM wire is usually blue. This wire is used to control the fan’s speed. You will need to connect the PWM wire to your PWM fan controller. Consult your fan controller’s manual for instructions on how to connect the PWM wire.
Step 6: Test Your Fan
Once you have wired your fan, you will need to test it to make sure it is working properly. Turn on your computer and check the fan’s speed. If the fan is not spinning, double-check your wiring connections and make sure everything is connected properly.
FAQs
What is PWM?
PWM stands for pulse-width modulation. It is a method used to control the speed of electronic devices, including fans. PWM works by rapidly turning the device on and off, with the amount of time the device is on (or off) determining its speed.
Can I use a 4 wire fan with a motherboard that only has a 3 pin header?
Yes, you can use a 4 wire fan with a motherboard that only has a 3 pin header. Simply connect the +12V, ground, and tachometer wires as you normally would. The PWM wire can be left unconnected.
What is the difference between a 3 wire fan and a 4 wire fan?
A 3 wire fan uses a three-pin connector and does not have the PWM wire. This means that the fan’s speed cannot be controlled as precisely as a 4 wire fan.
Can I use a 4 wire fan with a fan controller that only supports 3 wire fans?
Yes, you can use a 4 wire fan with a fan controller that only supports 3 wire fans. Simply connect the +12V, ground, and tachometer wires as you normally would. The PWM wire can be left unconnected.
Conclusion
Wiring a 4 wire fan is a simple process that can provide more precise control over your computer’s temperature and noise levels. Whether you are a hardcore gamer or just want a quieter computer, a 4 wire fan is a great option. Follow the steps outlined in this article to wire your fan and get it up and running in no time.
