Case fan = HSF?

[Criticalmass2001]

I'm sorry I'm such a newbie when it comes to cooling but I'm wondering if there is any difference between the standard case fan and the average HSF, or are they one in the same? I ask because I am purchasing an Alpha PAL8942T Heat Sink and am wondering if a CoolerMaster Model:TLF-R82(TLF-R82-E1)Blue 80mm Neon LED Fan can run as the HSF. I've got a few laying around the house and might as well use them if I can. If they aren't compatible please suggest a cost/sound effective HSF. Thanks.

 

[MedicBob]

As long as that heatsink can have an 80mm fan on top of it. HSF=Case fan. There are some fans out there with reostats to adjust their speed and most people use those on their HS(heat sink).

 

[dpm]

Sure, the Alpha HS you are buying should take any 80mm, fan, so that coolermaster one should be fine.

Most heatsinks come with stock fans that blow a lot of air, and sound like jet turbines... Try the one you've got out, and see if you can live with the temperatures it gives you, and the noise it puts out.