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Proper case cooling is essential for maximizing the efficiency of the processor cooler. The average cooler fan ranges from 80 to 120 millimeters in size. As with processor cooler fans, large-diameter case fans allow slow blade rotation speeds for low sound-to-noise ratios. Due to increased power current demands, only standard 4-pin Molex pass-through adapters should power large case fans. The common three-wire fan header connectors found on most motherboards cannot supply enough amperage to power most case fan designs. Simple 4-wire to 3-wire adapters are available, at low cost, for case fans with three-prong connecters.
Many modern power supply units are moving to a two-fan design to ensure adequate removal of high-temperature ambient air from both the power transformer and internal case devices. At least one case fan is recommended in addition to any power supply fans already in place. The additional case fan should be mounted to take in air, since most ATX-format power supply fans are mounted to exhaust air from the case.
The goal is to maintain a balance of exhaust air to intake air for consistent flow throughout the case interior. Most cases include predesignated mounting points for fans to enable the best possible airflow regulation. The most common mounting point on a tower is the bottom front side of the case. This placement allows cool air to circulate directly through the devices located in the expansion slots area.
Air filtration is another concern when installing any additional case cooling fans. Dust deposits that accumulate on system devices can become a serious problem, even in the cleanest operating environments. Microscopic dust particles quickly accumulate on surfaces due to increased airflow inside the case. Basic filtering solutions work best in most scenarios. A piece of low-density foam, sandwiched between two coarse mesh layers and secured between the fan and mounting surface, offers excellent filtration for all but the tiniest of dust particles. The foam filter should be installed in front of the fan's air intake side for maximum efficacy, though either side should work.
Increased noise from multiple case fans can be a real concern, especially for users in a small office or home setting. The best trick to reduce fan noise is to eliminate or dampen vibrations caused by the fans' rotation, which are transferred to the case chassis. A simple rubber washer, installed between each fan and case mount point, usually provides enough cushioning. A thin layer of silicon or nonadhesive RTV sealant can be applied along the fans' edges if you are concerned about possible air leaks in true sealed-case architectures.
Additional cooling components are available to boost the effectiveness of case cooling designs. Slot coolers can be installed in an expansion slot to exhaust hot air from warm cards, such as the powerful AGP video cards. Bay coolers can be installed to regulate hard-drive temperatures. The intake-style varieties will often direct airflow onto internal system components. Nidec coolers are a type of squirrel-cage fan that moves air through an internal slotted wheel. Nidec coolers can move a large amount of air for their low profile. These coolers are best for directing air into the case, and can be secured easily to nearly any internal surface with screws or even double-faced adhesive tape.
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