I'm trying to re-use an old Dell PowerEdge SC1420. It has a single 3GHz NetBurst Xeon. The CPU heatsink is cooled using a Nidec Beta V TA350DC M35291 92x92x38 mm fan. Here are the fan specs:
Air Flow: 150 CFM
Nominal Voltage: 12 V
Voltage Range: 10.8-12.6 V
Current: 2300 mA
Power: 27.6 W
Sound Level: 57.0 dBA
Fan Speed: 6,000 RPM
Bearing: Ball
Even at idle, this fan is pretty loud. Any tips to bring down the sound level? Should I try:
A) Replacing the fan with another PWM fan? (If so, any recommendations?)
B) Replacing the fan with a non-PWM fan? (I'm not sure the Dell mobo will like this)
C) Try using a Zalman PWM Mate controller?
The system's not going to be seeing any hardcore action so I think I can get away with something slower than 6000 RPM...
Thanks in advance!