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Swapping PSU fan

E

EnderW

[H]F Junkie
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Sep 25, 2003
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I want to swap the fan in my PSU. What precautions do I need to take when opening it up so I don't shock myself or damage the PSU? Do I need to discharge it first?
 
Just ground yourself first, and wear anti-static gloves if you're paranoid about it. Shouldn't have any problems otherwise.
 
I've changed the fan in my PSU a few times, it's fairly straight forward. If you have a PWN operated fan you'll have to use a similar fan and or swap connectors. I heard from a few people that it takes a long time to discharge, but as long as you don't touch any capacitors you'll be fine. Don't go poking around with a screwdriver.
 
is this a wise thing to do.

im sure psu's hold electricity for sometiime after they are switched off
 
Just do not touch anything inside the supply except the fan and the wires that connect it. You will probably have to cut these because they are probably hardwired to the board on the powersupply. In this case you can either use a proper crimp connectors (or solder and tape/shrinktubing) to attach the new fan's power or cut these wires off completely and power the fan externally to the powersupply.
 
Don't touch the big cap(s) and you'll be fine. Use the one-hand rule for added safety. Turn on the PSU after it is disconnected from the outlet to discharge it.

The fan itself can be connected in a variety of methods. To make it work with the new fan may require some modifications as they can have the fan leads soldered directly into the (controller) PCB or employ a mini-fan header connector. Directly soldering the new fan's leads into the PCB is probably your best bet.
 
Elledan said:
Don't touch the big cap(s) and you'll be fine. Use the one-hand rule for added safety. Turn on the PSU after it is disconnected from the outlet to discharge it.

The fan itself can be connected in a variety of methods. To make it work with the new fan may require some modifications as they can have the fan leads soldered directly into the (controller) PCB or employ a mini-fan header connector. Directly soldering the new fan's leads into the PCB is probably your best bet.
Click to expand...
I plan on simply attaching the new fan to a fan controller
 
Yep, I ran the wire on the little notch on the fan (120mm) and connected it like a normal molex/3 pin. I always did leave the pc off for a few minutes before opening it.

Also swap in a good fan. ;)
 
Casper312 said:
Yep, I ran the wire on the little notch on the fan (120mm) and connected it like a normal molex/3 pin. I always did leave the pc off for a few minutes before opening it.

Also swap in a good fan. ;)
Click to expand...

I did the same exact thing :O
 
Be careful with anything that conducts electricity. I guess you could swap out the fan but I'm not sure it's worth the time and effort. Finding a proper replacement could bring more trouble than it saves.
 
Elledan said:
Don't touch the big cap(s) and you'll be fine. Use the one-hand rule for added safety. Turn on the PSU after it is disconnected from the outlet to discharge it.
Click to expand...

+1. But a fan replacement usually doesn't get you too close to any dangerous electronics, as single-fan psu's normally have the fan attached to an otherwise empty cage.

Just keep your hands out of the psu board enclosure and you should be okay (as you aren't connecting the fan inside the psu). You won't get shocked just opening up the unit, unless something is horribly wrong with the psu. =]

I like to blow the dust out with a shop vac, if it's really dusty. Just cover your face, or be attacked by bunnies.

edit:
if you haven't already, you should consider using a ball-bearing fan. Sleeve bearing fans wear out more quickly in the hot environment of the psu, and shouldn't be mounted horizontally.
 
paul-e-wog said:
+1. But a fan replacement usually doesn't get you too close to any dangerous electronics, as single-fan psu's normally have the fan attached to an otherwise empty cage.
Click to expand...

When in close proximity to something which can hurt or kill you, it's a healthy thing to never make assumptions or shortcuts :)
 
If you have to ask the question you shouldn't open the PSU in the first place...
 
Cyant said:
If you have to ask the question you shouldn't open the PSU in the first place...
Click to expand...
if everyone followed your example, no one would learn anything new

btw, I replaced the fan last night, 0 problems
 
Elledan said:
When in close proximity to something which can hurt or kill you, it's a healthy thing to never make assumptions or shortcuts :)
Click to expand...

I intend to make myself famous one day by disregarding that sage advice. :D

In fact, my last words will be "Nah, it's totally safe. Well, sort of."

Anyway, Ben Franklin made it out okay.

[but seriously, in the future, it is a good idea to observe the precautions stated by the other forum members in this thread.]

Good job EnderW!
 
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