It is important to check the fan on your graphics card regularly to make sure it is functioning properly and is able to provide adequate cooling for your system. Proper maintenance of your graphics card can help to extend its lifespan and protect against costly repairs or replacements. In this article, we will explain how to check the fan on your graphics card in detail.
First, you will need to power down your computer and unplug all connected cords. Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the inside of your system. Next, locate the graphics card within the system. Depending on your specific system, the graphics card may be either integrated onto the motherboard or an individual device that has been installed into a slot on the motherboard. Once you have located the graphics card, examine it for any visible damage around its fans.
Next, you will need to install software on your computer that will allow you to monitor the temperature of the graphics card and its fan speeds. This can typically be found for free online, such as the MSI Afterburner or EVGA Precision applications. Once you’ve installed the software, you can open it and check for a “Fan RPM” option, which will allow you to view the speed of the fan. You should expect to see a reading of at least 1000 RPM (or revolutions per minute). If the fan speed is below 1000 RPM, then there may be an issue with the fan and you should take steps to address it.
If the fan speed is acceptable, you should then check the graphics card’s temperature. Many graphics cards will have their own on-board temperature sensor, which can be accessed using the software you installed. The ideal temperature range will vary between graphics cards and you should refer to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the appropriate range. If the temperature is higher than what’s recommended, it could be an indication of inadequate cooling and should be addressed.
Finally, if your fan is running but the temperature is still too high, you may need to replace the fan. To do this, first you’ll need to purchase a replacement fan that is compatible with your specific graphics card. Once your new fan has arrived, carefully disconnect the old fan from the graphics card and install the new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also make sure to reconnect the power cables and plug the fan back into the graphics card before you begin using your system again.
By following these steps, you can easily check the fan on your graphics card and ensure that it is working correctly. Doing so will help to keep your system running optimally and extend the lifespan of your graphics card.