Looking for a QUIET computer fan for lighting system

[Steelerfan747]

Hi all. I am needing some help finding a QUIET computer fan for my Current Nova Extreme Pro light fixture. It takes 2 80mm fans that I want to replace as they are extremely loud so I want to go with the lowest dba's possible but do not want to skimp on the cfm's as I do not want to cause the fixture to run hotter that it should and cause damage to the bulbs.

What is the best fan I could use. Please remember I need the lowest dba's along with the highest cfm's. Please give me your suggestions.

Thanks

 

[cparka23]

If you're looking to simply swap out the old fans, you need to find the sticker on them and figure out what voltage and current they require. Nobody can answer your question, otherwise.

 

[azjohnny]

This might work, I havnt used any of thier products yet but will in the future

Fans - 80mm - Rapid LED

 

[Reef Breeders Verified Sponsor]

Th arctic f8 is great, completely silent and moves a lot of air.

 

[Steelerfan747]

If you're looking to simply swap out the old fans, you need to find the sticker on them and figure out what voltage and current they require. Nobody can answer your question, otherwise.

Sorry I guess I should have specified I am looking for a computer fan that I can replace the stock fixture fan with, so the fan would be a 12v and I will be using a power supply for them.

 

[cdness]

For airflow to noise ratio I have always been happy with the Vantec Stealth fans. They are also extremely reliable as I've had more fancy fans go out before my Vantecs. I have had two of them in a computer that has been upgraded twice and been running solid always on for about 5 to 6 years.

Another thing you could do is get a really cheap fan from Radio Shack and run them at a lower voltage. This will allow you to control their speed and noise level.

 

[redfishbluefish]

Sorry I guess I should have specified I am looking for a computer fan that I can replace the stock fixture fan with, so the fan would be a 12v and I will be using a power supply for them.

To further elaborate on what cparka23 said, voltage will determine the speed of your fans. Most computer fans have ratings of 12 v, but can be run at lower or higher voltage, which again, will effect the speed of the fan. If the fans are too noisy, get a voltage supply that’s less than 12v…they will work fine.

What is more important is amps. The amp ratings on the fans (when added) CAN NOT exceed the rating of the power supply. As an example, if the power supply is rated for 1.0 amp, the total of two fans can’t exceed 1.0 amp (two 0.5 amp or less fans would work.) You wouldn’t be able to run two 0.6 amp fans on this power supply since the total (1.2 amps) would exceed the rating on the power supply..

I hope that clarifies the voltage /amp thing.

As far as a brand of fans, I’m not familiar with the Nova Extreme, but if it has fans that are lying flat (horizontal), you will want fans with bearing. Bushing (sleeve) style fans were designed to run vertical and don’t last long when mounted horizontal. JMTC

 

[Steelerfan747]

Someone recommended this fan

Newegg.com - Nexus SP802512L-03 80mm Case Fan

It's a Nexus brand fan rated at 20.2 cfm and 17.6 dba (does anyone have any experience with this fan?)

 

[Steelerfan747]

To further elaborate on what cparka23 said, voltage will determine the speed of your fans. Most computer fans have ratings of 12 v, but can be run at lower or higher voltage, which again, will effect the speed of the fan. If the fans are too noisy, get a voltage supply that’s less than 12v…they will work fine.

What is more important is amps. The amp ratings on the fans (when added) CAN NOT exceed the rating of the power supply. As an example, if the power supply is rated for 1.0 amp, the total of two fans can’t exceed 1.0 amp (two 0.5 amp or less fans would work.) You wouldn’t be able to run two 0.6 amp fans on this power supply since the total (1.2 amps) would exceed the rating on the power supply..

I hope that clarifies the voltage /amp thing.

As far as a brand of fans, I’m not familiar with the Nova Extreme, but if it has fans that are lying flat (horizontal), you will want fans with bearing. Bushing (sleeve) style fans were designed to run vertical and don’t last long when mounted horizontal. JMTC

Thanks for the clarification. The fans run upright mounted on the right side of the fixture

 

[Steelerfan747]

I also found this one [h=1]SilenX EFX-08-12 80MM CASE FAN[/h]

Which states 12dba and 25cfm @ 1400 rpms

and this one (SilenX EFX-08-12 80mm Case Fan)

which states 15 dba and 32 CFM and 1700 rpms

 

[Steelerfan747]

They also make this last one in black with red blades

not thrilled with the red blades but I figure since it goes in the fixture it should not be a big issue. What do you guys think. Should this one be ok?