A CPU generates heat, and a CPU fan with a heat sink prevents it from overheating. The fan pulls air through the fins of the heat sink, dissipating the heat and cooling the processor. Manufacturers provide warranties for CPUs sold with heat sinks and fans, and overclockers use advanced aftermarket cooling systems to protect their CPUs.
A central processing unit (CPU) is the main microchip in a computer, while a CPU fan is the dedicated fan that helps keep the processor cool. Processors generate heat from internal electrical energy. The more demand placed on a CPU, the harder and hotter it gets. If the CPU gets too hot it can make mistakes and eventually “melt” becoming completely unusable. A CPU fan works in conjunction with a heat sink to prevent this from happening.
A heat sink is a metal device that sits directly on the CPU, drawing heat away from the chip into its cooler, aluminum, fin-like structure. The CPU fan attaches to the heat sink, pulling air through the fins. By dissipating the heat absorbed in the heat sink, the fan indirectly cools the processor.
A CPU fan comes in various sizes and is usually sold with a copper and/or aluminum heat sink. Specifications include the diameter and whether the CPU fan uses ball bearings, which are thought to be quieter than bearingless fans. The fan and heatsink will also indicate which processors it is compatible with or rated for cooling.
Processors sold with a heat sink and CPU fan typically have a 5-year warranty, while those sold without commonly (but not always) have a one-year warranty. While processors may be identical, manufacturers know that inadequate cooling can drastically shorten the life of a CPU. In the case of a CPU sold without a heat sink and fan, the manufacturer has no guarantee that a customer will provide adequate cooling.
Overclockers are computer enthusiasts who push CPUs, making them run faster than their marketed specifications. This causes the chips to get hotter than normal. Many overclockers prefer to supply their own advanced aftermarket heat sinks and fans to protect overclocked CPUs. These heat sinks are typically taller than average, and CPU fans are often more powerful while being quieter, adding less noise to the system than many commercial fans.
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