Yes, You can plug the AIO pump into the CPU fan but it is not technically recommended. Not the AIO pump, but the CPU fan is the only device intended to receive power and control from the CPU fan header.
If you want to get the best performance, you can join a separate AIO pump with the motherboard instead of the CPU. These headers can provide the required signals and control power, by ensuring you the best performance.
The CPU fan is specifically designed to be powered and controlled by the CPU fan header. Compared to the AIO pump, it often offers lower voltage and alternative control signals.
If the AIO pump is plugged into the CPU fan header, performance problems or even system damage may ensue from insufficient power delivery or inappropriate control.
It is best to refer to the paperwork included with your AIO cooler and motherboard to ensure appropriate operation and performance.
This can help you determine the proper connection for the AIO pump, which may require a motherboard header for the AIO pump that is optional or a dedicated pump header.
Your AIO cooler will operate at its best and be free from problems if you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the right headers.
Compatibility of AIO Pump and CPU Fan?
The working of the AIO pump and CPU fan is almost the same. Both products are used to cool down the CPU to maintain its temperature. The difference is only in its quality and usage.
AIO pumps are self-operated, which means that they control the temperature of the CPU by the liquid present in it and with the help of a radiator.
The liquid present in it revolves through the radiator which absorbs all the heat produced by the CPU. In the whole apparatus, liquid controls the overall performance of the motherboard.
Meanwhile, the CPU is a more convenient cooling method. It uses the air that blows through the heatsink. It dissipates heat through the fan to blow air onto the CPU. Direct connections to the motherboard or a specific fan header are made by the fan.
Most of the users operate both cooling systems to protect their devices from overheating. They frequently include exclusive connections or headers for the two different kinds of cooling systems.
The AIO pump is attached to the AIO header or other specified connection. As it is clear by the name CPU fan is attached to the CPU header.
Always keep in mind that you can use both of the equipment just if your computer supports both of the systems and supply the suitable power needed to run both the cooling systems.
How to Determine If You Can Plug AIO Pump into CPU Fan Header?
If you are worried to know how to plug an AIO pump into a CPU fan, relax your mind and don’t think about it more. Because here I’m going to share a few key points or factors with you.
By reading these features you can easily find out the ways that how to determine if you can plug the AIO pump into the CPU fan header. Here is the detail of these factors:
Voltage Compatibility:
Before plugging the AIO pump into the CPU fan, you must check the voltage provided by the CPU fan header.
If the voltage provided by the CPU fan header matches the requirements of the AIO pump, then you can easily plug the AIO pump into the CPU fan header.
Current Draw:
You must consider the limits of the current drawing in the AIO pumps. If it exceeds its limits, it is not suitable for the CPU fan header. It is very important to maintain the current flow to save your gadget from any type of disaster.
Fan Speed Detection:
You are not able to find out the exact fan speed if you have no proper fan speed detector. Commonly, AIO pumps have separate fan speed detectors, which can detect the speed of the fan easily. But it is possible just in case the CPU fan header can support the separate cable.
By remembering these key factors you can plug the AIO pump into the CPU fan header, but I suggest you consult with the professionals to clear all the doubts.
Read: LGA 1200 Vs. LGA 1700 – A Detailed Comparison!
The Risks of Plugging AIO Pump into CPU Fan Header?
You can face several problems by plugging the AIO pump into the CPU fan header. Some of the risks you may observe are given below:
- More likely, AIO pumps are designed to consume more power, if the CPU fan header cannot handle the much voltage, the AIO pump may overloaded and it can cause overheating or may damage the motherboard.
- AIO pumps require more advanced features, which are not supported by the CPU fan. If you failed to manage the settings of the AIO pump it becomes a reason for a big disaster.
- One of the major risks is a mismatch of voltage. Normally, AIO pumps require 12 volts for proper functioning, if you don’t provide it the required voltage, it may damage the whole motherboard.
Everything has advantages and disadvantages, you must acknowledge both aspects before doing any activity which is not highly recommended.
By compiling Data:
By considering all the points discussed above, you can plug the AIO pump into the CPU fan but you can only do this under some terms and conditions.
Finally, I just say that you must have knowledge about both devices and then match all the requirements needed for AIO pump insertion. If you fulfill all the commands regarding AIO pump and CPU fan header, you can put it safely.
