The HW-585 PWM Fan Speed Controller offers an affordable and efficient solution for managing PC cooling fans. Designed for 4-wire PWM fans, this compact module uses a microcontroller to adjust fan speeds based on temperature, ensuring optimal cooling with minimal noise. Purchase the HW-585 PWM Fan Speed Controller here. This guide helps new users understand its features and setup process.
Understanding Fan Control: Fan1, Fan2, Fan3
The HW-585 supports three 4-wire PWM fan channels: Fan1, Fan2, and Fan3. Each fan connector handles four signals: ground (0V), power (+12V), TACHO (fan speed feedback), and PWM (speed control). Fan1 operates automatically, adjusting speed based on the temperature probe's readings. Fan2 and Fan3 allow manual speed adjustments via onboard trimpots, with PWM duty cycles ranging from 10%-100%. Fan1's PWM range is configurable via the TFL DIP switch: 20%-100% when TFL is OFF, or 40%-100% when TFL is ON. Only 4-wire fans are compatible, as 2-wire or 3-wire fans lack PWM support.
Voltage and Current Specifications
The HW-585 operates at 12V DC, with a maximum current of 5A per channel and a total bus current of 9A. This allows multiple fans to be connected in parallel, provided the total current stays within limits. A 78L05 voltage regulator powers the microcontroller, ensuring stable operation while routing 12V directly to the fans.
Temperature Probe: NTC 50K B=3950
The included NTC 50K B=3950 thermistor measures temperature, with a B constant of 3950 indicating its resistance-temperature curve. Position the probe near critical components like the CPU or GPU for accurate readings. The controller uses this data to adjust Fan1's speed, with error margins typically at 3-5%.
Configuring the DIP Switch
The 5-way DIP switch customizes the controller's behavior:
- TFL (Switch 1): Sets Fan1's PWM range. OFF = 20%-100%; ON = 40%-100%.
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TP1, TP2 (Switches 2, 3): Define temperature thresholds for Fan1:
- OFF, OFF: Accelerates at 35°C, full speed at 45°C.
- ON, OFF: Accelerates at 40°C, full speed at 55°C.
- OFF, ON: Accelerates at 50°C, full speed at 70°C.
- ON, ON: Accelerates at 60°C, full speed at 90°C.
- BF1, BF2 (Switches 4, 5): Enable fan stall alarms for Fan1 and Fan2. ON enables detection; OFF disables it. If both are ON, the buzzer and LED activate if either Fan1 or Fan2 drops below 700-800 RPM. The alarm stops when rotation resumes.
Installation Steps
Power off your system before starting. Connect the 12V power supply to the board’s input, ensuring correct polarity. Attach the temperature probe to its 2-pin port and place it near your heat source. Plug 4-wire fans into Fan1, Fan2, or Fan3 connectors, matching ground, power, TACHO, and PWM pins. Secure the board in a well-ventilated area using provided mounts. Power on and verify the display shows temperature and RPM.
Troubleshooting Tips
If fans don’t spin, check the 12V supply and connections. Ensure fans are 4-wire PWM models. Inaccurate temperature readings may indicate a misplaced or faulty probe; reposition or test it in known conditions. For alarm issues, confirm BF1/BF2 settings and fan compatibility. Reset by unplugging power briefly if needed.
Conclusion
The HW-585 is a budget-friendly tool for precise fan control, ideal for PC enthusiasts and DIY projects. Its automatic and manual modes, combined with a robust stall alarm, make it versatile. Enjoy efficient, quiet cooling. Ready to add precise cooling control to your setup? Order the HW-585 PWM Fan Speed Controller today