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I am also looking for a good fan controller and temp guide etc. It can be 5.25 or 3.5 size. What does anyone recommend? Thanks again.

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by newtocustompc

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For a 5.25" bay, 4-channel digital display unit the important things to check are the control method, current ratings, and what the readout actually shows. Fan speed can be controlled either by voltage (used with 3-pin fans) or by PWM (the 4-pin standard). Prefer a controller that explicitly supports PWM if using modern fans; otherwise get one with per-channel voltage control and a clear per-channel RPM display. Make sure each channel (and the unit as a whole) is rated for the combined current of the fans you plan to attach.

On wiring and the "Y-splitter" idea: do not tie the power outputs of two controllers together. Powering the same fan from two sources will create current conflicts and can damage the controllers or the fan. If the goal is to have both a speed-control device and a readout/monitor, use one of these safe approaches:

  • Power the fan from a single controller or a powered hub rated for the total current, and let the monitor only read temperature or RPM (check the monitor manual to confirm it accepts passive tach input).
  • Let the motherboard handle PWM control (via a 4-pin header) and use a bay monitor for temperatures only.
  • Use a dedicated powered fan hub that is fed by the PSU and controlled by one controller; do not parallel controller power outputs.

Placement and calibration of temperature probes matters. Put probes in representative hot spots (heatsink surface, VRM area, or exhaust airflow), avoid sticking probes to moving parts, and compare probe readings with motherboard/software readings to build a sensible fan curve with some hysteresis to avoid rapid on/off cycling.

Final tips: read the controller manual for per-channel and total current limits, prefer models with smooth ramping (not simple on/off relays), and check that adapters or splitters you buy are rated for the current. As hinted, wiring mistakes are the most common cause of trouble—double‑check which device supplies power before connecting multiple controllers.

Member Avatar for Member #23858

Actually it needs to be a 5.25" bay. If you were to buy a 4 fan controller/temp monitor which one would you buy? I like the digital readout ones. Anyone care to put down their 2cents. Thanks.

Member Avatar for Member #23858

Is there no one on this fourm that knows anything about these? I know to some they are gadgets but some like to control fan speed for noise and also like to control temp.

Member Avatar for Member #23858

See if any of you computer geniuses can answer this. With the digital doc 5+ is doesn't control fan speed, just off and on. Could I get a y connecter for the fan connectors and hook up one to the doc 5 and one to a speed controller. Does anyone know the answer to this?

Member Avatar for newtocustompc

Probably not as then it would be supllying it with double the amount of volts and amps that it needs also casuing the fan to blow up and both of the fan controllers. There are many out there that will be helpfull to you. If you are in the uk i would look at ebuyer.co.uk they have nice cheap ones that do all what you want.

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