computer fan

iglowce · 01-31-2007, 11:36 PM

hi everyone. can someone show me how to connect the computer fan to a reef tank? they have weird electrical outlet. i heard of a power converted but am still not sure how to connect them.

**Seahorsedreams** · 01-31-2007, 11:50 PM

I'll make a couple tonight and post a little thread with pictures. But in the meantime....

Get a 12 volt adapter/power supply.

Cut the end from the adapter.

Split to two wires and remove the casing leaving about an inch or so of exposed wire.

Get the fan and repeat the process.

Lightly twist one wire of the fan with one wire of the adapter... do this with both wires.

Plug it in to see if the fan works.

If not, disconnect the wires and twist them again but switching who was connected to who.

Test again.

I then wrap eletrical tape around each set of exposed wires separately and then cover both bits of tape with some more electrical tape. Done in 5 minutes.

I'm actually going to make a panel on the back of my hood where you plug each fan cord in... like plugging a guitar into an amp. It's gonna be sweet.

Small Fry · 02-01-2007, 12:31 AM

to add, if you have the equipment and skills (not much needed :s) SOLDER, SOLDER, SOLDER! Its not crucial or anything, but once in a while, the tape may get wet and unravel, or maybe the wires werent twisted well enough, but it ensures that the wires wont come undone without an intentional tug.

Again, not necesary, but helpful.

iglowce · 02-01-2007, 12:32 AM

cant wait to see some pix. im more of a visual learner =]

**Seahorsedreams** · 02-01-2007, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Small Fry

to add, if you have the equipment and skills (not much needed :s) SOLDER, SOLDER, SOLDER! Its not crucial or anything, but once in a while, the tape may get wet and unravel, or maybe the wires werent twisted well enough, but it ensures that the wires wont come undone without an intentional tug.

Again, not necesary, but helpful.

I need to teach ya the art of the twist. Mine has never had any issues.

Quote:

Originally Posted by iglowce

cant wait to see some pix. im more of a visual learner =]

I hear ya and am with ya.... looking for the parts. I actually think I photographed it before but I can't seem to find the pics.

***Rob*** · 02-01-2007, 11:40 AM

this would make a great little DIY article..

**Seahorsedreams** · 02-01-2007, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob

this would make a great little DIY article..

heh... I'm on it.

**Seahorsedreams** · 02-02-2007, 12:09 AM

I can't find the electrical tape but definately will go get some tomorrow. We were going to go get some tonight but me and the man are sitting here with our fingers in vinegar. Darn urchin.

***Rob*** · 02-02-2007, 10:41 AM

Renee.. when you do post this, please feel free to post it in a new thread so i can "stick" it then we can put a link to it in this thread

George · 02-02-2007, 02:55 PM

This could also be done quite easily with a computer power supply. You'd have to cross the power switch leads, but you'd be able to easily plug in PC case fans and have all kinds of power.

**Seahorsedreams** · 02-02-2007, 11:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob

Renee.. when you do post this, please feel free to post it in a new thread so i can "stick" it then we can put a link to it in this thread

Will do. I'm putting the thread together now.

***Rob*** · 02-03-2007, 02:53 AM

Thanks Renee, its looking great

and for everyone interested here is the link to the thread
Make a No-Frills Tank Cooling Fan