4-wire Cooling Fan Wiring Diagram

Are you looking for information about 4-wire cooling fan wiring diagram? Well, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about 4-wire cooling fans, including their wiring diagrams, tables, and frequently asked questions. So, let’s get started.

What is a 4-Wire Cooling Fan?

A 4-wire cooling fan is a type of fan that has four wires coming out of it. These wires are used for controlling the speed of the fan and also for providing power to the fan. The four wires are usually color-coded, and each wire has a specific function.

Wire Colors and Functions

Wire Color Function
Red Power
Black Ground
Yellow Tachometer Signal
Blue Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Control

Now that we know the wire colors and their functions, let’s move on to the wiring diagram.

4-Wire Cooling Fan Wiring Diagram

The wiring diagram for a 4-wire cooling fan is pretty simple. All you need to do is connect the wires according to their functions. Here’s how:

  1. Connect the red wire to the positive terminal of the power supply (usually 12V).
  2. Connect the black wire to the negative terminal of the power supply (usually ground).
  3. Connect the yellow wire to the tachometer signal on the motherboard.
  4. Connect the blue wire to the PWM control signal on the motherboard.

That’s it! Your 4-wire cooling fan should now be ready to use.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the tachometer signal?

The tachometer signal is used by the motherboard to monitor the speed of the fan. This allows the motherboard to adjust the fan speed according to the temperature of the system.

What is PWM control?

PWM control is a method of controlling the speed of a fan by adjusting the voltage supplied to it. By rapidly switching the voltage on and off, the average voltage supplied to the fan can be adjusted, which in turn adjusts the speed of the fan.

Can I use a 3-pin fan with a 4-pin connector?

Yes, you can. A 3-pin fan can be connected to a 4-pin connector by simply using the first three wires (red, black, and yellow). The blue wire (PWM control) is not necessary for a 3-pin fan.

Can I use a 4-pin fan with a 3-pin connector?

Yes, you can. However, the fan will not be able to be controlled by PWM, and will instead run at full speed all the time.

What happens if I connect the wires incorrectly?

If you connect the wires incorrectly, the fan may not work at all, or it may work improperly. It’s important to double-check the wire colors and their functions before connecting them.

Can I use a 4-wire cooling fan for other purposes?

Yes, you can. 4-wire cooling fans can be used for a variety of other purposes, such as cooling electronic devices or providing ventilation in small spaces. Just make sure to check the voltage and current requirements of the device before using the fan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a 4-wire cooling fan is a versatile and useful device that can be used for a variety of purposes. By following the wiring diagram and connecting the wires correctly, you can easily use a 4-wire cooling fan for your cooling needs. If you have any further questions, feel free to refer to the FAQ section or reach out to a professional for assistance.