Where can I get this adapter?

[firerock]

I'm thinking of buying an extra 12cm case fan, but I want it to connect to a regular AC power. All computer fans comes with 3 pin adapter and I need some sort of 3pin adapter that will connect to a wall plug. Is it even possible? Where can I find such thing? TIA

 

[mechBgon]

12cm case fans operate on 12-volt direct-current (DC) power. So you wouldn't want to see what would happen if you connected it to 120-volt alternating-current (AC) power. One workaround would be to buy a 12V DC power supply from an electronics outfit. Another workaround would be to buy a 120V AC fan in a 12cm size.

 

[firerock]

mechBgon, thanks for your quick reply. So, where can I find the 120 AC fan in a 12cm size? I doubt my local electronic store/Radio Shacks have them... Actually, what name should I use to search for those kind of product?

 

[GregANDTCH]

Here's a pdf showing some (9900 series)
http://www.ebmpapst.us/allpdfs/9900%2EPDF
They have one here, but it's $44+
http://www.alliedelec.com/Search/ProductDetail.asp?SKU=600-9890&desc=9906L
I'm sure there's a cheaper place, don't give up

 

[FlyingPenguin]

WHY do you want a 120 VAC fan? There are several reasons you don't:

- 120v AC fans are DANGEROUS. Unlike a 12v DC fan, a 120v fan will slice your finger clean off.

- You do not want to have have live 120vac anywhere inside the case.

- 120VAC fans are LOUD

- An AC fan produces a large magnetic field. It can potentially interfere with hard drives and CRTs.

There's no sensible reason to install an AC fan in a computer.

 

[firerock]

GregANDTCH, thanks for your reply, I guess the solution/product is much more expensive than I thought...

FlyingPenguin: Well, I want to install it because my computer doesn't have a good air circulation in my current setup. My system is placed inside of my desk, which has a special enclosed area for putting a computer but has about 6 inch of open space in the back for cables (front end is totally open). When I put my hand inside that space, I can feel the hot air is kind of trapped inside that area. So, I'm thinking of installing a 12cm computer fan in the back to draw out the hot air. And I already have a small fan that is blowing air to the front. A 12 cm fan is quiet and it moves a lot of air (and cheap), and that's how I got to the idea of finding such adapter.

 

[birdpup]

Maybe I missed something relevant but a standard 12cm case fan should work well if it is connected to the PSU and rigged inside the case to direct airflow where you want it.

 

[firerock]

Yes, I can plug that directly to my PSU and drag out the cable from the back. Even though it is a bit messy, but that's probably the cheapest/easiest solution for now. Thanks!

 

[birdpup]

Now I understand the situation. It may also be possible to purchase a small AC fan from Wal-Mart or something similar, and rig it appropriately to circulate the air behind your case. But rigging a computer case fan to circulate that air would best be connected to the PSU.

 

[Megamister]

Just go to Walmart or wherever and buy a 6" destop fan or the clip on type they are like $10. Set on low, problem solved!

 

[FlyingPenguin]

Oh if you mount the AC fan in the desk, you can use it. Wire it to a lamp cord. Let me warn you though, they're LOUD. I have a few clients that did that.

If you have kids or pets, put a cage on both sides. AC fans will take your fingers off.

A better suggestion would be to use a jigsaw to cut open the back of the compartment the tower is in to let in more air.

Have you checked your system temps? If the front of the compartment is open and the back has a 6" opening, you should have more than enough air flow. Yes it'll feel warm at the top of the compartment because warm air is trapped there, but I seriously doubt that the computer is overheating (unless you're running it very hot by overclocking for instance).

I have plenty of clients with enclosed computer desk compartments with LESS air flow than you have and they have no problems.

Make sure you have adequate airflow in your case. In any enclosed space like yours you should definately have an intake fan on the front of the case and I'd recommend an exhaust fan on the back of the case near the CPU (most modern cases have a place to mount a fan there). Your PSU should also be a dual fan model (no excuse at all to own a single fan PSU nowadays).