ID-Cooling AT-120-K: Ring below blade tips?

The first ID-Cooling fan in our database, and it immediately features one unconventional element—the blade ring is positioned differently than usual. Its placement bellow the blade tips is typical of high-speed fans, and the AT-120-K model indeed spins at very high speeds. Despite that, it can also be significantly slowed down while maintaining attractive cooling efficiency even at lower noise levels. And all of this comes at an attractive price point.

Results: Frequency response of sound with a hexagonal grille

Measurements are conducted using TrueRTA, which captures audio data across 240 frequency bands within the 20–20,000 Hz range. To facilitate comparisons between articles, we extract and present the dominant frequency from each of three spectral bands: low (20–200 Hz), mid (201–2000 Hz), and high (2001–20,000 Hz) in standardized bar graphs.

However, for an even more detailed analysis of the sound expression, it is important to perceive the overall shape of the graph and the intensity of all frequencies/tones. If any aspects of the graphs or data tables are unclear, detailed interpretation guidelines are provided in this article.

Most fan-related acoustic activity occurs within the 70–7000 Hz range. Frequencies above 7000 Hz typically represent electromagnetic interference from the test environment, while the lowest bands below 70 Hz may also include such noise, albeit mixed with aerodynamic sound. Although we could exclude these frequency extremes, they are retained to detect and visualize potential anomalies.


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Wordpress Table Plugin
Why is a value sometimes missing for a fan? There can be several reasons. Most commonly, it’s because the fan couldn’t be regulated to the target noise level. Some fans have higher minimum RPM (or they spin slowly but have an excessively noisy motor), or they are simply slower models that can’t reach higher decibel thresholds. Results are also omitted from graphs if the impeller scrapes against the mesh of a nylon filter. In such cases, we classify the combination as incompatible. And of course, a zero in the graphs naturally appears in situations where we record an actual 0.00. This often occurs at extremely low speeds when obstacles are present or during vibration measurements.


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Which fan to choose—and when? From premium to budget models

Too inaccessible for “ordinary” readers? That is how our fan testing is sometimes described, and we understand why. That is exactly why the following initiative exists—we will try to ensure everyone can quickly orient themselves around which of the many available fans makes the most sense under specific circumstances. More expensive, cheaper—there is room for everything. And of course, you can also ask questions. Read more “Which fan to choose—and when? From premium to budget models” »

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Noctua NF-A12x25 G2 PWM fans now also available in black

For users who do not like the original brown-and-beige color scheme, Noctua is releasing NF-A12x25 G2 fans in the chromax.black variant. This combines more visually attractive styling with the exceptional aerodynamic properties associated with top-tier positions in charts measuring relative airflow per unit of noise. Yes, the foundation remains the highest possible cooling performance at the lowest possible noise level. Read more “Noctua NF-A12x25 G2 PWM fans now also available in black” »

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Analysis: Which PC fans vibrate the least?

So which ones? Vibrations of more than a hundred PC fans collected in one place, in both 120 mm and 140 mm formats—the ones most widely used among PC builders. Some models vibrate more, others less, or not at all. The scenarios vary, as is natural. The task is to make sense of it all based on exact measurements. These are compiled into clear graphs. Yes, you’ve seen them before. Read more “Analysis: Which PC fans vibrate the least?” »

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