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Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 2:59 pm
by djf711
I am building a new computer using the Fractual Define R4 Computer Case (http://www.fractal-design.com/?view=product&prod=99). It comes with Two Fans One in the back on top and one in the front on the bottom. The Motherboard is a Asus p8z77-V lx with Intel I7-3770k processor. COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 EVO will cool processor. The Graphics card is a Evga Geforce GTX 660 ti. I will be adding a sound card. It will have a SSD and Regular 2tb Hard Drive. Should I be adding more fans to this case?? What are some recommendations?? I am a Novice when it comes to overclocking and only play around with it a little bit. Thank you in advance!!! David

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 3:08 pm
by Washer
I'd personally add another intake fan in the front and call it a day.

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 5:27 pm
by Forge
I have a similar system in a similar case. How about getting it, and using it, before deciding summarily that it needs more airflow?

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Fri Dec 28, 2012 5:44 pm
by djf711
Good Idea!! Thanks!!

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Sat Dec 29, 2012 12:11 am
by frumper15
I actually have an identical setup to you with the exception of the GPU where I have a 5850 instead, which is probably a bit hotter than the 660 anyways. I haven't added any fans, it's dead quiet, never had a temperature problem to speak of. I'm not overclocking, but haven't felt the need to either. I couldn't remember what the configuration I ended up with was so I popped the case open - I have the upper section of drive trays removed and the front fan blows directly toward the graphics card that blows its exhaust out the back of the case. The other fan is the back of the case behind the CPU fan that is also blowing toward the back. The ssd and hdd are in the lower drive bays and get enough airflow from the front intake and the PSU exhausting out the back at the bottom. I really like the case - I came from an Antec P180 for the last 5 years or so and 2 or 3 revisions of the Sonata before that. I think you'll be fine with the default setup, but there are plenty of options should you find you need more in the future.

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Sat Dec 29, 2012 8:19 am
by JustAnEngineer
I'm of the opinion that if you do install new case fans, they should be PWM speed controlled by your motherboard, like these.

Re: Advise on adding Case Fans for Fractal Define R4

Posted: Thu Jan 03, 2013 2:08 pm
by continuum
Yep, try it without extra fans first...

Still mystifies me why high-quality PWM fans are so hard to find from some makers (such as Corsair, Scythe (before their US arm closed), etc.). Looks like the Nexus D12SL-12PWM isn't bad for the money, tho...