Connect an external Noctua fan to a 10GbE switch
Connect an external Noctua fan to a 10GbE switch
Hi, I'm purchasing a MikroTik CRS309 with 8xSFP+ and want to enhance its cooling. Following MikroTik guidelines, using a RJ-45 10G transceiver requires additional cooling, particularly when employing passive cooling switches. You're wondering how to connect a Noctua fan aimed at the switch to provide effective cooling. Essentially, I was expecting this setup to be straightforward, but it seems adding computer fans outside the PC is still considered a bit of a DIY challenge, mainly for enthusiasts. I'm looking for a quick, ready-to-use solution without needing a Wish USB fan. A 120mm 5V Noctua fan could really boost the cooling performance of the passive switch. Why do I need the transceiver? Because my ISP router supports 10G over RJ-45. I'm hesitant to buy a standard RJ-45 switch since: 1) they tend to be pricier or lack the same port variety as this model for the same cost, and 2) even if they have fans, they often produce noticeable noise—though reviews like those on XS708T claim silence. Most feedback from local sellers suggests fans aren't overly loud but can be annoying due to their pitch. Would it be better to install a smaller 40mm Noctua fan instead? Since the CRS309 is passive cooled, it likely doesn’t have any internal 3-pin or PWM ports, making it harder to see in STH reviews. Edited April 15, 2021 by kriegalex
The PCB includes holes for a four-pin fan, though the connector isn’t soldered. You can test it with a multimeter and soldering iron to remove the fan, or use a USB charger to power any 5V fan. Alternatively, you can cut the fan wires yourself or create a USB-to-fan adapter.
I've been looking deeper and it looks like using a Noctua 5V works fine now. What I'm after is a 3D-printed device to position the fan near the switch or attach it to an arm.
In an ideal scenario, you could purchase the stand and install any fan you prefer, similar to Noctuas. It should work well enough, right?
It would have been better if Mikrotik had simply added a fan and made enabling it optional in the interface. This situation is quite confusing—having an SFP+ adapter that could overheat is a clear design flaw.
Join a landscape designed to minimize expenses so end users can access 10GbE networking affordably. Skip the hassle and invest in an actual switch—prices start high or double. Expect bulky, loud fans inside. 10GbE is intense. Very intense. Premium copper wiring. Observe the massive heat dissipation on the interior of that Cisco small-office 10GbE switch. The large heat sink shielding the copper ports on the board is a key feature.
I would have liked to invest $500 in a genuine switch such as an XS708T from Netgear, complete with proper cooling and large, noticeable heatsinks. However, the fan design isn’t feasible for me in a SoHo setting. Based on my research, the noise level doesn’t improve significantly compared to an XS708T. Most other options either match the noise or are louder. I’m aware that many home lab enthusiasts in the U.S. have spacious homes with dedicated rooms, but that’s not common here (average house price around $1 million). Edited April 20, 2021 by kriegalex
I don't think the Netgear switches are genuine. I meant the rack-mounted Cisco small office switches. Typically, there are fan replacement kits that are much quieter. In fact, the picture I took was just after I swapped the OEM fans in that switch with a kit. The original ones were extremely loud, but the replacements are very quiet.
It seems you're weighing options for a media server setup. Consider the cost-benefit of spending a lot on equipment versus the actual performance gains. Some users find the XS708T surprisingly quiet out of the box, but others in busy environments notice fan noise. A 3090 might be a better value if you're not looking for the most expensive gear. Testing with the CRS309 and Rj-45 transceiver showed noticeable temperature differences depending on whether a small fan was running.