Silence that switch

Some time ago I found a somewhat old Netgear Switch.

01_netgear_before

Nice!

  • 24 ports
  • 10/100/1000
  • Managed
  • Double SFP!

Well, the first port is broken :)
And it’s too loud! In our lab we have already a file server and an UPS, powered 24/7.

This is the fan that make so much noise:

02_internal1a

We need a solution to reduce the racket:

  • Reduce the RPM? No, someone told me that there won’t be enough air intake to cool down the heat sinks: those can be very hot!
  • Find another fan, same sizes but more quiet? I’ve could buy one, but we have plenty:

04_ventolame

  • Remove the original fan and apply some new tech :P
03_internal2

Fan, go home. You’re noisy.

 

05_twinfan

Old twin fans, I choose you!

 

06_concept1

This would be a nice mod

The old fan power source is about 5V, but I’ve chosen to not care much as long as the new fans move air.
Pros already love me!

Let’s begin with some tough work.

1. New holes on top

07_hardwork1

08_hardwork2

Metal is hard!

09_hardwork3

10_hardwork4

Done!

 

2. Mounting new fans and cabling

11_cables1

12_cables2

13_cables3

 

3. Results:

14_final1

Farewell nice logo!

15_final2

16_remains