how do I wire a 12v computer fan to the household current?

[Coffee with Mango]

I bought two 12v computer fans to install in my aquarium hood. They are 12v DC. They come with three wires: red, black, yellow. How do I wire them to a transformer of some sort (what sort?) so that I can plug it into the wall? Second choice would be to a battery with a switch.

Thanks.

 

[Platehead]

You will need a 120VAC to 12VDC power supply. Red is +12VDC, black is ground. Yellow is control to turn the fan on.

A cheaper alternative would to buy a couple of USB powered fans.

 

[Archit]

from personal experience, yellow is not always control so definitely test it out.

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[Coffee with Mango]

I've decided to buy an AC fan that plugs into the wall. Electricity is just not my thing. This is what I'm going with:

http://www.acinfinity.com/cabinet-f...eater-and-av-quiet-cabinet-fan-system-8-inch/

Hope it holds up to the salt air -- at least for a couple of years. Might get the auto-temp controller for $29 to enhance the experience

 

[Phinfan]

I would be afraid of that one. The salt air corrodes it and zaps you with 110v not a good combo.

 

[Platehead]

Should not be an issue. 120vac is at the wall. Unit runs on 3-7vac.

 

[Marshall O]

Fyi, I usually just by a cheap phone charger to use as a power supply.

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[dilligaf29]

Fyi, I usually just by a cheap phone charger to use as a power supply.

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^ plus 1 to this

 

[Platehead]

Correct - this unit is USB powered.

 

[letoan]

In 3 pin fan, yellow is use for sense, red is for +, black for -.

Ideally is run 9-10v on these fan will prolong their life and noise. Between 10 vs 12v, you don't get that much air different.

Standard USB is 5v and won't be able to spin a 12v fan unless you get one that designed to start at lower voltage.. Not that many out there.



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[Coffee with Mango]

thanks everyone. very helpful comments!