Overview
I store my Laptop, Xbox, Ethernet Switch, Set Top Box & Printer in a media cabinet in my office. Whilst my electronics (and cables) were neatly hidden away, I quickly realised my media cabinet was getting rather warm inside.
This project’s focus is to install media cabinet cooling fans and automate turning the fans on/off, depending on the internal temperature.
Objectives
Stop Devices From Overheating
My first objective is to prevent my electronic devices from overheating. I need to improve air circulation around my devices and make sure they are not placed together, in one section of the media cabinet, that could trap heat.
If electronic devices overheat, they can cause permanent damage and stop working entirely. Overheating can occur when devices in a media cabinet are in direct sunlight, used for long periods, or if the ambient temperature is constantly high.
Automate Media Cabinet Cooling Fans
My second objective is to automate my media cabinet cooling fans. I want the fans to switch on when I turn on my devices or if the temperature inside the cabinet rises above a certain level.
I also want the fans to switch off when I turn off my devices or after a set time from being activated by the temperature level inside.
Solution
I thoroughly researched media cabinet cooling fans and discovered most people either remove the door or drill & cut holes in their cabinet to fit fans.
Cooling Fans
I nearly chose AC Infinity Airplates but I purchased the SCCCF USB Dual Control Fans instead as they represent better value for money.
I can power the SCCCF fans with a USB port, hub or adapter. The fans have a three-speed controller so I can set the fan speed to the best noise and airflow level to suit my environment.
You can also connect both fans with a metal buckle to provide greater air volume. The size of each fan is 9.64″ X 4.92″ X 1.81″, which makes it a perfect cooling solution for my media cabinet.
Cooling Pad
As my laptop is located on the bottom shelf, I purchased a TECKNET Laptop Cooling Pad to aid rising cool air.
The TECKNET laptop cooling pad is USB powered and has 3 powerful fans that can help stop my laptop from overheating. The fans work at 1200 RPM to pull in cool air from the bottom. There is 1 extra USB port for powering other devices.
The cooling pad is ergonomically designed with 2 adjustable levels to lift and tilt your laptop if needed. Rubber grips at the bottom will prevent this cooling pad from sliding around too.