Recently I started a topic about 100% silent Linux server - viewtopic.php?f=29&t=83332
The hardware has arrived, and the PC is built. The only question remains about cooling.
Just to repeat, the system is built as follows:
Intel D2700DC (CPU + Mobo + GPU)
4GB Corsair value RAM
Seasonic X-400 Fanless PSU
Thermaltake V4 Black Edition case
+ DVD drive
+ Intel SSD
Now the question is - is it safe to leave the system with no fans at all, or should I leave the rear exhaust fan operational?
I'm currently running a stress test 'dd if=/dev/urandom of=/dev/null bs=1024 &' x4, with all cores pegged at 100%. And there is a little warmth above the top grille. The PSU seems to be completely cold, but the heat sink on the Atom is a bit warmer. I can touch the heat sink and it's warm, but if I don't remove the hand for 10+ seconds it starts to get hotter than I would prefer.
It's also autumn here, so the room temperature is a little lower than in summer.
Since the PC will be running 24/7 in a living room or bedroom, I would like to make sure the stupid fans can't be heard.
So far it seems that it should be fine, as I can touch the heat sink, and there is no way I could touch a modern GPU when under load, so I'm thinking running fan less should be ok.
The convection should take care of everything, right?