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    Cooler Questions

    Discussion in 'Notebook Cosmetic Modifications and Custom Builds' started by KnightMoves, Dec 31, 2009.

  1. KnightMoves

    KnightMoves Newbie

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    I can't seem to find a cooling stand/lapdesk that suits all my needs, so I've decided to make my own. I'm using a macbook pro, and I've pulled some fans out of some ancient computers that I was hoping to use in this project.

    Unfortunately, they all seem to be 12V or more. Can USB can only power a maximum of 5V? If I use a USB port to power a 12V fan do I risk damaging my laptop?

    Some of the fans are attached to heat sinks. Why not use one of the heat sinks to pull heat from my MBP? Is it just inefficient, or is there a risk it will get too hot and cause damage? I'm thinking I could put one where it is in contact with the bottom of the MBP while it is resting on the stand. I haven't seen anyone doing this on their DIY coolers, which means I'm probably missing something.
     
    KnightMoves, Dec 31, 2009
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  2. akshep

    akshep Notebook Guru

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    You cant power it using USB. USB only provides 5v and 500ma, and trying to power a 12v fan will fry your USB port. If you are looking into making a cooling pad, then you are going to have to get a power supply that can handle the fans. For example my cooling pad uses two 120mm fans that take 12v and 400ma, so i got a 12v 1.5A (1500ma) power supply. Check out my threads if you want to see how to wire something like this up. (Custom Cooler Questions, and My Finished Cooler)
     
    akshep, Dec 31, 2009
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