4-pin connector inside an RGB header box...
4-pin connector inside an RGB header box...
It was a really awkward error I made by using a low-cost 4-pin fan in one of my RGB headers. After turning it on, the fan began smoking and I shut down the system quickly. Now it’s working with the system fan header, but the colors are off. My main concern is whether I might have damaged the RGB header on my motherboard.
It's likely you're using fans with 3.3V or 5V connectors based on their model. A 4-pin RGB setup corresponds to a 12V header.
It appears there was a mix-up in the voltage levels. PWM control is applied at 3.3V or 5V, not the full fan power. The motor receives 12V on one pin, while the RGB headers have different configurations. This could mean excess voltage is being sent through the incorrect cable.
It makes sense now, appreciate your assistance. A valuable lesson taken.