How many pins does a fan need?

If it is to be a case fan, three pins would be usual. If it is for a CPU fan, you’ll want a “PWM” fan which will have four pins, ALTHOUGH three-pin fans often work (sometimes at full speed only).

How do you install a push pin cooler?

Place the cooler so that all 4 pins are oriented over the holes in the motherboard. Push down on the entire cooler so that all 4 pins are through the motherboard. When you push down on the top black pins, it expands the white plastic pins to fix the cooler in place.

How do I remove my CPU fan push pin?

Turn the push pins with a flat bladed screwdriver counterclockwise 90 degrees to release them. Pull up the push pins. Remove the fan. Turn the push pins clockwise 90 degrees to reset them.

How much thermal paste should I use?

When it comes to applying thermal paste, less is more: a small, pea-sized drop is all you need. Don’t spread it around, either—the heatsink will spread it out evenly as you screw it in.

What does the 4th pin on a fan do?

The Answer A four pin connector is a little different than the three pin connector since it has the extra (fourth) wire used for controlling and sending signals to the fan, which likely has a chip on it that tells it to slow down or speed up (in addition to the other wires the three pin connector has).

How do spring screws attach to CPU fans?

Position the CPU cooler so that the four spring-screws on the heatsink align with the four screw holes of the backplate. Once aligned, carefully place the heatsink onto the CPU. Using a screwdriver, turn each spring-screw a half turn clockwise to ensure the spring-screw makes a connection with the backplate.

Can you replace the pins on a CPU?

If it is still under warranty you can get it replaced. If not then will probably have to buy a new one. Using a credit card, be very careful to not touch the pins with your hand. Use the card to slightly bend the pins so they will fit into the socket again.