hey :)
before I get a motherboard, I'm between the z87-a and the z87 pro. I have 4 case fans, and on the z87-a, there's only 3 care fan headers. Would it be bad to run 2 120mm fans off the same header using a y cable?
Thanks guys :)
You have said Y cable? [aka. splitter]
I would check with the mobo manufacturer to be certain.
Consider all the upgrades on the Pro though vs. price difference, at least that is what I always do.
Check the cable that you are going to use. Some Y cables like the one above do not take into account speed settings for fans. I would have one of your fans connected to the PSU and the other 3 connected to the mobo. If you have a rear or top fan then I would suggest connecting that to the PSU directly.
boba's splitter is probably fine for a plain case fan with no speed controls, forgot about those, I bought a nice set of case fans for $15 for 4 on newegg, only used 1, but I know those break or get so dirty, and it's nice to just replace if it's over 2 years old, so I am prepared!
COOLER MASTER R4-S2S-124K-GP 120mm Case Fan 4 in 1 pack - Newegg.com
^reasonable case fans^
I am indeed running 4 case fans, but 2 are special ones that came with the case, and at least 1 is a weird shape, I hope it lasts forever!
I would think any new mobo would handle two 120's, using a splitter off the system fan connector. My GB990fxa runs three 200's and a 120 off the system header using a splitter and bios for speed control.
This could be a clean alternative and keep all fans off the mobo except the CPU cooler.
Amazon.com : Phobya 4-Pin to 6 x 3-Pin Fan Splitter PCB (Power Six 3-Pin Fans from One 4-Pin Molex Connection!) : Computers & Accessories
you could use an alternative idea, a fan controller connected directly to the psu. This will negate the problem of connectors on your mobo and may allow for extra options that you had not thought of.
thanks for all the responses guys :)
I was hoping to be able to use ASUS's Fan Expert 2 in the BIOS to control the case fans, which is why I want to put all the case fans on the mobo.
But after evaluating my options between the pro vs the a, I think I'm going to get the Pro.
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