Fans with smaller 3pin connector?

Oct 25, 2005
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Hi all,

I've got a NAS device which is pretty great except for the fact that the fan is on all the time. I'd like to replace the fan with a quieter one, or mod the current one to quieten it.

I've got an extra Zalman fan mate around, so I was going to use that, but the OEM fan has a smaller than usual connector.

Take a look here. The bigger one is the standard-size connector from the Zalman controller.

I figure my options are as follows:

1. find a replacement 60mm fan with a small connector. If anyone knows of a slim (must be <= 20mm, preferably about 15mm) 60x60mm fan that's quiet and comes with a small connector, let me know.

2. swap the connectors on the fan & the controller. I would probably need new crimps for this - does anyone know what size this connector is? It would help with finding new parts.

3. get a quiet slim fan and swap connectors.

Thanks for any help.
 

Zepper

Elite Member
May 1, 2001
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Best is to cut the stock connector off the stock fan leaving a few inches of wire attached and put a standard 3-pin male connector on it. Solder type 3-pin male, PCB mount, header connectors are widely available and easily attached to wire with solder and heat-shrink tubing to cover, or crimp on male contacts and shells are also available on sites like jab-tech.com. Then you have an adapter and can put any fan on there you want.

.bh.
 
Oct 25, 2005
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Good idea, thanks for the advice.

Too bad all the electronics stores around here are in the boonies... I'll see if I can order the headers online.