Whether you've just purchased or are about to purchase our Sx2-PP fan sets of the G2 fan series, you're probably wondering how best to position them in your build. In this FAQ, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your new fans. If you just want a quick overview, you can skip to the checklist.
What are PPA and PPB fans?
The Sx2-PP fan sets contain two fans each: one PPA and one PPB fan.
These two fans are deliberately made to run at slightly different speeds. The PPA fan runs slightly slower and the PPB fan runs slightly faster This speed offset prevents periodic humming noises that can occur when identical fans spin side-by-side at almost the same speed.
How should I arrange my fans?
For an optimal placement, remember this simple rule: Arrange the fans so that PPA and PPB alternate by never placing two fans of the same type next to each other.
An ideal pattern looks like this: PPA - PPB - PPA - PPB - ...
Which fans do I need for my build?
For an ideal setup, we recommend buying several Sx2-PP sets. If you need an uneven number of fans, say 5 fans, combine the Sx2-PP set(s) with a single standard PWM fan that is sold separately.
Tip when using an uneven number of fans: For even smoother acoustics, place the standard PWM fan next to a PPB fan and adjust the speed of the standard PWM fan to create a larger speed offset to its neighbouring fan.
For example, if you are using a regular NF-A14x25 G2 PWM fan next to an NF-A14x25 G2 PWM PPB fan (maximum speed: 1525rpm), we recommend setting the regular PWM fan's maximum speed to 1475 RPM to match the speed of NF-A14x25 G2 PWM PPA fans (maximum speed: 1475rpm). This can be done with software such as Fan Control. Alternatively, you can also use a Low-Noise Adaptor with this fan.
Example scenarios
Checklist
1. Plan the fan setup in your case and purchase the fans needed. Combine Sx2-PP fan sets with a regular PWM fan for an odd number of fans (3, 5, 7, …).
2. Identify the fans by their label.
3. Place the fans in an alternating sequence (PPA - PPB - PPA ...) throughout the case. If applicable, place the standard PWM fan either at the beginning or end of your sequence so that this fan has only one neighbouring fan.
4. (Optional) When using a standard PWM fan, place it next to a PPB fan and either use the fan with its Low-Noise Adaptor or adjust its maximum speed so that it matches the maximum speed of a PPA fan.
Mentioned products
Explore the products featured in this article.
NF-A12x25 G2 PWM Sx2-PP
NF-A14x25 G2 PWM Sx2-PP
NF-A14x25 G2 PWM Sx2-PP chromax.black
NF-A14x25r G2 PWM Sx2-PP
