The Technology – Control Unit

The power and control unit basically contains a micro processor and an AC/DC switching mode power supply. This power supply delivers power to the cooling unit (both fan and TEC) and has a plug for case fan(s) as well. The micro processor controls the power supply, and also recieves input from various temperature sensors. These sensors detect the temperature and the control unit then adjusts the cooling power accordingly.

The control unit, ready to insert in a PCI slot

Another shot of the Control Unit.

The power adjustment also works as noise reduction, as the lower the temperature, the lower the fan speed. The chart below (from the Active Cool website) clearly shows how the Control Unit sets the fan voltages to either 6V, 8V or 12V according to the measured temperature. Low voltage equals low noise.

The control unit can be set to operate in two modes via a jumper: extra quiet mode and extra cooling mode.

<< Back | 1 | | 2 | | 3 | | 4 | | 5 | Next >>