How many system fan headers do I need?

[Moab]

In response to this thread, how many fan headers do I want on a new motherboard for a new build?

I don't overclock or anything like that. I havent built a computer since 2003 and back then I never even considered fan headers as a potential downfall of a build. What's a fan header anyway? Does having 1 fan header mean I can only hook up one system fan?

 

[cubeless]

the only reason to have onboard headers is for monitoring and control (sometimes)... jsut get 4 pin molex fans and u can plug in as many as u want... i dont' think i'd let fan headers be the reason i chose a mobo...

 

[piasabird]

2 minimum better for 3.
1-CPU
2-REAR Exhaust maybe 2 here
3-Intake may not be needed. Can keep the Hard Drive cooler if it can be installed in the bottom of the case.

Fan Header is a 3 prong location to plug in the fan. Every case is different. Some cases have a fan on the side right where the CPU is. Other cases may have an exhaust fan on the top of the case. So it depends on the case. Motherboards can monitor the fans through the fan headers. They can tell if electricity is being used or possibly if the fan quits spinning.

 

[Fallengod]

IMO, 1 is all you need for the cpu. I guess if youre into monitoring fan speeds and voltages etc... Otherwise, I just connect mine directly to the psu.