If you’re wondering how to reduce server fan noise, there are several options. You can install active heatsink/fans or aerodynamic axial fan noise reduction technology. Soundproofing the floor, rack fans, and active heatsink/fans are some of the other options you can consider. Read on to learn more about server fan noise reduction. The best way to keep your server quiet is to monitor its temperature.
Aerodynamic axial fan noise reduction technology
The development of new fan blades with improved noise performance is one way to address the growing issue of aerodynamic noise in server fan applications. This type of noise is often associated with the operation of high-speed cooling fans in IT and telecoms equipment. The development of new fan blades relies on concurrent requirements for high efficiency, low noise, and low pressure. The development of new fan blades involves numerical simulations, experimental measurements, and the use of anechoic chambers. However, these high-end resources are prohibitive for most companies, especially for volume manufacturing of final products.
The new type of fan reduces server fan noise by approximately 1.7 dBA, allowing it to operate at the same volume flow rate and volume without making as much noise. The new design also reduces fan noise by controlling the heat generated by the server. The improved noise reduction technology is available in several forms. The most commonly used type is the high-performance version. The other common form is the low-KWA version.
Rack fans
Rack fans produce excessive noise, so reducing this noise is an important part of sound-proofing your computer room. Several methods can be used, including adding QBS Blankets to the walls of the room. Those blankets, which can be free-hanging from the ceiling, can help block out sound and protect employees working within the room. If you do not want to use QBS Blankets, you can also consider buying Pyramid Foam panels, which absorb sound echoes from the back of the rack.
To start, you can use mass-loaded vinyl, or sound-deadening mats. These mats are designed to minimize sound in homes, studios, and automobiles. They can be placed against the rear of a rack cabinet or the wall, and reduce the noise significantly. After deciding on the best method, it is time to install the fan. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a proper fit.
Soundproofing the floor
Soundproofing the floor can help you get a more comfortable office space. You can use carpet and thick rugs to muffle impact noise. Another way to soundproof the floor is by installing polyurethane foam underlayment. This is the least expensive underlayment option, but it provides only a limited level of insulation beneath your new floor. This underlayment is also thinner and less dense than other underlays, which makes it less effective soundproofing.
If soundproofing the entire room is not possible, you can opt for mass-loaded vinyl. This material is versatile, so you can cut it to fit any shape and adhere it to the floor. However, make sure to avoid the floor with air holes, as these can allow noise to seep through. You can also try applying the appropriate adhesive to the vinyl. However, you should pay special attention to the floor, since it can also be an issue.
Active heatsink/fans
The first step in reducing server fan noise is to select a more quiet processor. Smaller fans tend to make more noise than large ones, so larger ones may be a better choice. Active heatsinks are also more effective in keeping the temperature of CPU components within a certain range. Ultimately, you should opt for a server rack that has the proper ventilation to keep your server cool.
While using a heatsink/fan configuration with deep fins will increase fan performance, shallow fins will result in back-pressure. In such cases, you should install the fan in the “suck” direction to ensure the airflow distribution is optimal. Alternatively, you can choose a heat-sink with longer fins and install the fan at one end. Either way, you’ll find that a smaller fan will reduce the overall noise level of the server.
Pulse-width modulation
In order to reduce server fan noise, hardware manufacturers have come up with techniques to control their fans using PWM. PWM is a technique that modulates fan speed by applying a series of pulses to a fan’s power supply. PWM is inexpensive and simple to implement. It works by applying a series of pulses to the fan’s power supply, which causes a slight physical perturbation in the fan assembly. As a result, this method can reduce server fan noise to a moderate level.
PWM uses a high-frequency signal to drive the fan. This signal reduces the number of external components in the system. PWM eliminates commutation and pulse stretching noise because the drive FET is integrated into the fan. PWM is also more energy-efficient, because it is always on or off. The output voltage of the fan should be at least 40% of the full scale. Different fan models have varying operating voltages.
Cooling with liquid coolant
There are many benefits to cooling server fan noise with liquid coolant. First, liquid cooling systems are more environmentally friendly than traditional air-cooled models. These systems eliminate the need for large fan trays and heat sinks that create significant amounts of environmental noise and energy. In addition to this, liquid-cooled systems take up less space than traditional cooling systems, which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per server. However, many of the pros outweigh the cons.
While utilizing this cooling method may seem like an easy option, it’s important to remember that it will void any manufacturer warranty and may even lead to component failures if you over-exert it. Moreover, liquid-cooled systems use compressor pumps to cool the server components instead of fans, which means you’ll have fewer components to worry about. Once you’ve decided on a liquid cooling system, you’ll want to consider the noise it produces before upgrading.
