Can I use 4-Pin PWM Fans on a 3-Pin header?

[CreepyBobo346]

I looked at EK watercooling kits and noticed that the EK Vardar fans are all 4-Pin PWM fans.

Can I use those 4-Pin fan connectors with a 3-Pin fan hub like the NZXT Grid+ (Or Grid V2 I don't remember) or the Phanteks PWM Fan Hub? (From the pictures it looks like the fan headers are 3-Pin).

 

[Mattios]

Google has the answers.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Can+I+use+4-Pin+PWM+Fans+on+a+3-Pin+header

 

[Dunlop0078]

Google has the answers.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Can+I+use+4-Pin+PWM+Fans+on+a+3-Pin+header

Oh that is awesome, I didn't know this existed.

 

[Mattios]

Google has the answers.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Can+I+use+4-Pin+PWM+Fans+on+a+3-Pin+header

Oh that is awesome, I didn't know this existed.

Great - happy to help.

 

[norseman4]

Yet the easy answer is: Yes, and their speeds can be controlled through voltage.

 

[nukemaster]

While 4 pin PWM fans are designed to be backwards compatible(so they can run on voltage control with the PWM portion of the connector hanging over the edge), They may not fit the fan hub you have selected because some of these hubs does not allow for the extra room needed.

On the plus side it appears they may include some 3 pin to 4 pin Y cables with the unit. Please check the exact model you want to buy.

It may work without adapters with the plastic case off.

The old Zalman Fanmate had an inset plug in a similar style and could be cut to allow PWM fans to fit. The same goes for 3 pin fan extensions.

Please note that not all boards will control 3 pin headers so in general you can connect 4 pin fans to 3 pin headers, but they do not always control speed. Since you are asking about a controller, you are good to go(adapters may be required.)

 

[Saga Lout]

@Mattios - and I will call you out for your threatening signature so change it please.

Many folks use Google to find Tom's where many good answers are to be found so sending them back there is counter-productive.

If you either can't or don't want to answer properly, don't post at all.

 

[CreepyBobo346]

K thanks.

 

[nukemaster]

When your system is all set, you should drop by any post some pictures in this thread

Tom's Hardware Member System Gallery