SUPER MICRO Computer AS 1020C-3 System Fans, System Fan Failure, Replacing System Cooling Fans

Chapter 6: Advanced Chassis Setup

6-3 System Fans

Four high-performance, counter-rotating 4-cm fans provide all the cooling needed for the 1020C-3. Each fan is actually made up of two fans joined back-to-back that rotate in opposite directions. This counter-rotating action generates exceptional airfl ow airfl ow while dampening vibration levels.

These fans can adjust their speed according to the heat level sensed in the system, which results in more effi cient and quieter fan operation. Fan speed is controlled by a BIOS setting (see Chapter 7).

It is very important that the chassis top cover is properly installed and making a good seal in order for the cooling air to circulate properly through the chassis and cool the components. See Figure 6-2.

System Fan Failure

If a fan fails, the remaining fans will ramp up to full speed and the overheat/fan fail LED on the control panel will turn on. Replace any failed fan at your earliest convenience with the same type and model (the system can continue to run with a failed fan). Remove the top chassis cover (see instructions on p. 2-8) while the system is still running to determine which of the four fan units has failed. Then power down the system before replacing a fan. Removing the power cord(s) is also recommended as a safety precaution.

Replacing System Cooling Fans

1. Removing a fan

After turning off the power to the system, fi rst remove the chassis cover and unplug all the fan cables from the serverboard. Grasp the rectangular housing that holds the fan units and lift it out of the chassis (see Figure 6-2). Push the failed fan unit out through the bottom of the fan housing.

2. Installing a new fan

Replace the failed fan with an identical 4-cm, 12 VDC fan (p/n FAN-0083). Push the new fan into the vacant space in the housing while making sure the arrows on the top of the fan (indicating direction of airfl ow) point in the same direction as the arrows on the other fans. Reposition the fan housing on the mounting posts in the chassis, then reconnnect the fan wires to the same fan headers you removed them from. Power up the system and check that the fan is working properly and that the LED on the control panel has turned off. Finish by replacing the chassis cover.

6-3