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I have an Athlon XP 1800 running in a case which has two open spots for 80mm fans on the back wall.
One of the spots is occupied by an Antec fan(as an exhaust) - the other spot is vacant.
Since the computer works fine and I have no heat related issues whatsoever, I neither want nor need to have a second fan in that spot.
My gripe is that the open space allows the noise from the inside of the case out. The nature of the exhaust setup also pulls some air through that open space.
By closing the vacant spot I get to reduce the noise and ensure that my fan is performing as exhaust only.
I have an early ATX Gateway tower that had a blank over a vacant fan opening in the back of the case. Of course I can no longer find that blank (nothing more than sqaure piece of metal with four holes in the corner) - Anyone know where I could get one?
Cheers,
ICE
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Hey ICE, you are usually giving great advice, not needing any??
Your setup is the same as mine except that I have two blank fan spaces at the rear above the PSU (full tower). My harddisk is at the top (above the PSU) and I think that although air is drawn in the open spaces it goes across the harddisk (although maybe with exhausted air from the PSU). I have tested the temp of the HD and it is fine.
You make me wonder whether I should cover the blank spaces on mine. I would do some before and after temp tests if I did.
Suggest using some cardboard to make a cover first and watching any variances in temp. Then with trusty sheet-metal and drill make one to fit (what's the bet mine wouldn't? ).
Optional suggestion: where you live, run the tower outside!
Matt
PS If anyone is interested there is a free HDD temperature check here (small download): http://www.hddtemp.com/
If your HD supports it.
Last edited by mattman; 30th October 2003 at 07:25.
After looking for a while I am reserved to the idea that I will probably have to manufacture something.
The case temp is not significantly different whether the slot is covered or open. Adding another fan would only increase that noise that I am trying to reduce.
mattman: Yes, with the 6 inches of snow we got yesterday I could probably just put the tower outside for a much cooler and quieter solution - of course the moisture may cause some problems
If I remember my science correctly (somewhere in that hazy past), I think sound travels by changing air pressure. If you add another fan: 1) it should reduce the air pressure in the case; 2) the air pressure at the blades is very low (I think). If you come across a fan in your travels, then try installing it. It may act as a sound "barrier" (assuming the fan itself is not noisey and the sound is not vibrating through the case walls).
Matt
(Hence: if you create a vacuum inside the case it should be "noiseless". Unfortunately the CPU would cook instantly. , no, double )
is that the open space allows the noise from the inside of the case out. The nature of the exhaust setup also pulls some air through that open space. 
, no, double 
