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Additional Considerations for Temperature Controllers |
This section features optional controllers for our fan systems. There are several options in relation to the running of fans. The first option is leave the fans running full time. The second option is to switch the fans from the equipment (from a switched outlet on a receiver, amp, or other components). Those two options do not require purchasing any additional equipment. The next options involve adding a controller into the cooling system. The more basic controller option is to use the Basic Controllers which simply turn the fans on and off based on temperature. The next option is to use the Advanced Controller which provides on and off control as well as variable speed control both based on temperature.
Best Practices. There are several principles when considering the different options for powering the units. The first is to consider when components require additional airflow. Some components such as cable and satellite receivers generate heat in both the on and off modes. This is simply because the receivers are continually downloading menus and are simply on all of the time. Then other components generate heat only while on and others only when being driven played loudly
For always on components, cooling products can and probably should be run full time with those units. Since the rest of the system is off, this heat most likely will not cause any damage but the fans could be run full time just to keep the heat in check. Then switching products from the component they are on is a great control option that comes with no additional costs. Nowadays, more and more receivers do not have switched outlets but if you do have a switched outlet, strongly consider switching the cooling products from that outlet. A tip is to use a lamp cord to plug into the amplifier or receiver and then plug the power supplies into the other end of the lamp cord. This just keeps the bulky power supply off the back of the receiver.
Another option for the always on components and most other situations is to use the Basic Controllers. When the heat rises to the set point (80 or 88 degrees F), the fans turn on. Then when the temperature goes below those points, the fans turn off. This simply ensure that the fans are only running when necessary. Our fans are very high quality and are rated for at least 50,000 hours of operation but it is not a bad idea to only run them when necessary. For the different set points, use the 80 degree unit when measuring the temperature in a closet and the 88 degree unit when measuring the temperature close to components. When then measuring around the components, you can further manipulate the on/off point simply by moving the sensor closer or further from the components either directly on a component or on the back of the cabinet or shelving (further from the components).
Then the most extreme option is to use the Advanced Controller which again, turns fans both on and off but also varies the speed of the fans as the temperature changes. As the heat increases, the fans spin faster. The benefit to this unit is that it does provide a greater level of protection of components. It allows the fans to cool at a minimum speed for the most quiet operation when heat is at lower levels but then as things heat up, the controller speeds up the fans automatically which provides maximum protection.
Product Usage Tips - While there are specifications that indicate a setpoint and degrees of variance, several factors and challenges exist when measuring ambient air temperature in an uncontrolled environment. Adding cooling and ventilation products add in a degree of control, but unless working with a sealed enclosure, it is still difficult to regulate and control the amount of pathways of airflow. For this reason, the temperature controllers may not seemingly operate in the range specified. If encountering an issue, the best course of action is to simply consider the placement of the controller. Very generally speaking, if the controller activates too early or does not turn off, back it away from components and put in a known airflow pathway. In other words, do not leave it resting on a component. If it is delayed in activating fans, then do the opposite, move it closer to the component and area where heat will accumulate.
Common Issues & Misconceptions Related to Temperature Control. There are a few misconceptions when it comes to control options so take it from the pros who are most concerned that your systems run effectively and do not have a desire to sell you features or options that you do not need.
1) You Must Have Temperature Control. As you have already read, there are control options that do not require added equipment or expense. Because these options exist and are completely valid, why have built-in control? As with most things, it is best to keep things simple and only add features and options if required. With our controllers, simply plug them inline between the fan units and power supplies for advanced control.
2) More Control is Better. It may be enticing to simply order the Advanced Controller and have the highest level of control and protection but such protection is not always necessary. Many components are very easily cooled and just by switching them from the equipment will solve heat problems in most cases. In other situations, simply turning the fans on and off using a Basic Controller is effective both in cost and functionality. All of our cooling and venting products have been tested at quiet settings so by setting the units to be quiet and then adding in a controller, you should have an effective solution.
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