Newbie DIY Qns

[xxdivinityxx]

Hi guys,

I've just DIY-ed my own fans according to petfrd.com's article.

I've obtained a similar ac/dc converter as shown in their pic. Currently I've got 2 DC 12v Fans attached to it.

QUESTION:

Can i add more (2 - 4) fans to the same converter? Will it blow up?

Appreciate the help, Thanks guys

[loupgarou]

check the amperage requirements of each fan and that the convertor can drive/supply the necessary current.

[vinz]

Eh... from my recent experience: You need to make sure the transformer is rated at least 1.5 times the actual load. I.e if your total fan amperage is say 1amp, then make sure the transformer is rated for 1.5amp. Of course make sure the voltage match too... usually 12V (don't need to add up the fans voltages).

If you load exactly (which is what I did), then the transformer will burn out quickly (within days) and you find your fans either stopped or moving much slow then before. If you overload, the thing could overheat, melt the plastic, and maybe cause a fire.

Currently, I'm running my fans on an old PC power supply unit. You can get second hand ones at SLS for around $15 to $20. New ones are not much more expensive. You also need to get the molex connectors to connect the wires. The old AT ones run come with a switch, but you need to fashion a box for it, else you could get electrocuted if you touch the connections. The newer ATX models don't have a switch, and you have to short-circuit (can be safely done) certain pins of the motherboard power connector to get them started.

If I remember, I'll take some pictures tonight.

[xxdivinityxx]

Cheemalology...
Please do take pics. This i gotta see..

[victri]

Hi,

Hope these urls help. Actually all describe the same process. I just included more links so there are more pics to look at. One thing to note, if you are just going to power fans with the psu, then you don't need to purchase a high wattage one, and make sure the psu has preferrably 2 built in cooling fans to prevent overheating.

http://www.gideontech.com/guides/psu_powerup/

http://www.virtual-hideout.net/guide...mods/print.htm

http://modtown.co.uk/mt/article2.php?id=psumod

[vinz]

Okie, to "uncheem" Victri's links. Those all show how to switch on the ATX PSUs (power suppy unit) or attach a switch to it.

ATX PSUs do not come with a switch. They are switched on by the motherboard. The old AT PSUs on the other hand come with a switch which can simply press to switch it on or off.

Ok, my pictures are coming. Took them last night but have not loaded into my PC yet.

[xxdivinityxx]

Thanks for sharing bro victri.

Bro Vinz, in eager anticipation of your pics

[vinz]

The coloured wires lead to the PSU. The white ones are from the fans. The white plugs are called molex connectors.

Update: Apologies, the pix are gone because I gave up my pacnet account and the pictures were inside. I shall have to go find a backup.

The switch to the PSU is in the white plastic box on the top. The knob above is the switch.

[victri]

Thanks Vinz for linking the urls. Nice DIY u have going there. Actually with a psu, it's possible to attach a fan controller as well. This can usually control the speed of up to 4 fans. Along with the speed, noise can be somewhat controlled as well. Plus it'll look really cool if nicely mounted. I might try doing that when I can salvage parts from my pc. It'll be nice to see some tank mods as wild as pc mods.

Here's some cool ones to drool over. Some are available at Sim Lim Square:


http://www.bit-tech.net/review/209/

http://www.bit-tech.net/review/257/2

http://www.pccasegear.com/category18_1.htm

- Vic