4-Pin PWM Fan Connector

What is 4-pin PWM Fan Connector?

A 4-pin PWM fan connector is a type of fan connector found on computer motherboards and fan controllers. The connector is used to connect a case fan to the motherboard or fan controller for power and control.

The four pins on the connector correspond to ground, +12V power, and two control signals: tachometer and pulse-width modulation (PWM) control. The tachometer signal provides information on the fan's speed, while the PWM signal allows the motherboard or fan controller to adjust the fan's speed based on the system's temperature. PWM control is superior to voltage control because it can adjust the fan's speed more precisely, resulting in quieter operation and longer fan life. Additionally, PWM fans have a wider range of speeds than voltage-controlled fans, allowing for better performance and cooling. In summary, a 4-pin PWM fan connector is an important component of a computer cooling system that allows for precise control of the speed of the case fan, resulting in improved cooling performance and quieter operation