PSU clicking noise

kollapse

Junior Member
Oct 30, 2008
4
0
0
Hi, it's me with another PSU problem, as if my endless streak of PSU issues isn't enough.

My brand new Xigmatek NRP-MC651 PSU (only 1-2 weeks old) started making a strange clicking/crackling noise.
I pulled it out and listened carefully... It's the fan, 100% sure. This clicking noise slowly starts to occur as the fan starts to spin and fades away as the fan slowly lowers it's RPM.

I also tried to blow some air into the fan when the PSU is off so that I can make sure it's not the PSU, and while it's spinning it also generates the clicking noise (altough slighlty faint as I can't turn it's rpm high by just blowing on it).

The PSU does not overheat, it's only slightly warm on full system load.
I don't have any other capable backup PSU around so I can't RMA it.

My system doesn't require full 650 W, just about 500-550, so the fan controller will never set the fan on higher rpm.

The only capable PSU I have / will have is a TT TR2 550W will I sent to RMA and still waiting for it.
Should I worry about the fan getting loose and going razor style inside the PSU? How long until it fails completely.

Also, here's the most important part. I recorded this sound. Here it is : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otB-pSvFjqY
 

Zap

Elite Member
Oct 13, 1999
22,377
7
81
I'd say it was the fan based on the noise in your video.

First thing to try is to loosen (but not remove) the fan screws, and then snug them back down. I have actually had doing just that "fix" fan rattling problems.

You can also examine it to make sure that there isn't a wire (or clear plastic air dam) that is hitting the fan on the inside.

The next step is to replace the fan because if it isn't the first two, then it is the bearings going out.

If you've already RMA'd another power supply and are waiting for it, then I'd suggest just waiting until you get it back (how long does TT take anyways?) and then RMA'ing this one. If you replace the fan yourself, you void the warranty.