possible to run a ti4600 w/o a fan during normal operations?

[theNEOone]

i just realized that the majority of the noise coming form my comp is due to the fan on my video card, so i'm thinking about installing a switch on the fan, and engaging it only when i'm playing a game or during other gpu intensive applications. i was under the impression that the gpu is basically "silent" during normal computer functions (e-mail, web browsing, word, etc.) so the card wouldn't really heat up. is this correct?

any ideas?

 

[Dman877]

I have a crystal orb cooler on my 9700 Pro with a homemade 12v/5v/off switch. My card runs fine without the fan on during 2D stuff. I have pretty good case airflow though, that probably helps.

 

[Todd33]

Zalman has a fanless setup, it's like $30. I used a thermaltake HSF with the Zalman fanmate. The fan is spinning slower, quiet as hell too and together they were $14+$5 = $19. It doesn't take up an extra slot either and it's still activly cooled.

 

[Pete]

I'm not sure I'd try running a 300+MHz 4600 without a fan on its diminutive stock heatsink. My first recommendation would be to oil the fan.

 

[theNEOone]

Originally posted by: Dman877
I have a crystal orb cooler on my 9700 Pro with a homemade 12v/5v/off switch. My card runs fine without the fan on during 2D stuff. I have pretty good case airflow though, that probably helps.

hmm, ok so there's hope then. does the 9700 run cooler than the 4600's or no? i'm really tempted to get the 9800pro fanless cards - but at $350+ it's not really worth it to me right now.

 

[VIAN]

A Cheap Silent Solution.

The Ultimate 9600 Pro. Similar performance to the Ti4600; a little better. Much better with AA & AF.

 

[JBT]

350 for a fan less 9800 pro? uhh where u can grab a 9800 pro for 210 at newegg and also they have some coolers for like 20 bucks those new artic coolers come to mind they are VERY quiet too. so like $230-240 not 350...

 

[Blastman]

Do like Todd -- get a 9800pro for $220 slap a Vantec ICEBERG4 Copper VGA cooler on it and slow down the fan with a Fanmate1~ $6.

 

[Pete]

Originally posted by: theNEOone
does the 9700 run cooler than the 4600's or no?

Idle, no. When gaming, definitely no. Link.