Computer Fan Speed Controller And Fans

[elwood]

Hey guys I had an idea for venting a small cabinet. Let me know what you think...

 

Basically I want to use 4 12V DC pc case fans with a pc fan speed controller. 2 would be used for intake/output and 2 would run a cool tube (one either side of the globe, with minimal ducting

 

So basically I want to use this fan speed controller:

http://www.scythe-usa.com/product/acc/028/km01_detail.html

 

It controls 4 12V DC fans at 1.00 Amps max and has a digital screen with inputs for 4 temperature gauges.

I figure ill power it with a dick smiths power supply (12V dc 5amps max).

 

I'd probably use it with the quietest fans i can find, probably the Noctua NF-P12.

 

Has anyone done this sort of thing before?

I know it's a somewhat expensive way to do it, but it would be really quiet, I just think it would be cool to be able to control all your fans in the cabinet with one controller. It also gives the temps so i figure one gauge at the input, one at the output, and one either side of the cool tube.

[rosscopico0]

You could use a microcontroller and a few temp sensors.

You would need to program the microcontroller to read the temp values and output a PWM with a duty cycle proportional to the temp read by the sensor to the fan.

This way, the warmer it is, the faster the fan goes, as it cools down, the fan slows down.

You could also connect a lcd display to show the temps read and the duty cycle being putputted to the fan.

 

Have a look at the Arduino or the Embed. These are easy to use microcontrollers for the average joe. Doesnt take too much learning.

The great thing, is once you can use one, you start to see the possibilities for it.

[pug1010]

Hielwood

 

I use the Silenx External 4 Channel Fan Controller with AC/DC Adapter. It can be found for a good price at:

http://www.linkecomputer.com/products/1008135/IXA-FCEX/SilenX%20Corporation/

 

It is very easy to set up and uses 240v. I use the Noctua 140mm fan and a few silenx quiet fans, as well. Very quiet and cheap solution - although if you turn the fans right down, it has a slight hum.

 

Hope it helps

 

pug:)

[Ozzy420]

Just my 2 bob worth, pc style fans are ok if u are only running fluros to keep air temps down and a flow of fresh air through the growing area.

 

Any more stronger lighting u will need to have better fans to remove the heat and to have good air flow...