What is a CPU Fan?

A Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the main microchip in a computer, while a CPU fan is the dedicated fan that helps keep the processor cool. Processors generate heat from internal electrical energy. The more demand placed on a CPU, the harder it works, and the warmer it gets. If the CPU gets too warm it can make errors and eventually ‘melt’ becoming completely inoperable. A CPU fan works in conjunction with a heat sink to prevent this. A heat sink is a metallic device that sits directly on the CPU, drawing heat away from the chip into its cooler, aluminum, fin-like structure. The CPU fan attaches to the heat sink, pulling air through the fins. By dissipating heat drawn into the heat sink, the CPU fan indirectly cools the processor. A CPU fan can come in a variety of sizes and is normally sold with a copper and/or aluminum heat sink. Specifications include diameter and whether the CPU fan uses ball bearings, thought to be quieter than non-bearing fans. The CPU fan and heat sink will ...  more

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