Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U) making loud noises?

[Ant]

Hello.

A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.

Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.

Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck? Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?

If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost? Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).

In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.

Thank you in advance. :)

[Arno]

Post by Ant
Hello.
A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.
Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.

Shot bearings. The problem here is a) it will get worse and b) when
it vibrates, the air throughput goes to hell. Dust and heat are
not to blame foe this, it is puerly low fan bearing quality, which
translates to low fan quality and price. Antec is high-priced trash
IMO.

Post by Ant
Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck?

The fan very likely is of the ElCheapo variant, which makes the
whole PSU suspect. Normally this is not bad luck either, but
a systematic problem. And no, a reasonable quality bearing will
not have this problem after 8 months.

Post by Ant
Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?

Antec was crap 5 years ago. Seasonic is so-so, but good value for money.
Antec is vastlu overpriced.

Post by Ant
If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost?

Low cost is always a high risk.

Post by Ant
Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).

Basically depends on your reliability needs. If computer downtime
is a problem, get an Enermax. They start at around $100. If you
take into account that you need to replace that Antec several times
in the lifetime of one Enermax, that is really cheap.

Post by Ant
In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.

400W should still be plenty for that.

Arno

[Ant]

Thanks Arno. I heard my fan a little noiser this morning. I had to tap
the PSU fan vent a few times to silent it, but yeah it is slowly getting
worse in terms of noises. :(

[Ant]

I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

Post by Ant
A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.
Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.
Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck? Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?
If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost? Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).
In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.
Thank you in advance. :)

[Arno]

Post by Ant
I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

The shot bearings have a resonance frequency that results from the
mechanical characteristics of the whole propellor assembly. If it gets
close in RPM to this frequency or a multiple thereof, it can go into
these vibrations. The temperature differences will have the FAN spin
at different temperatures it if it is temperture controlled.

But it does not matter. The bearing will get worse fast and the
opnly two options are a fan replacement (requires considerable
insight to get right) and a PSU replacement.

Arno

Post by Ant

Post by Ant
A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.
Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.
Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck? Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?
If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost? Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).
In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.
Thank you in advance. :)

--
"When the water rises the fish eat the ants, when the water falls the
ants eat the fish." --Thai Proverb
/ /\ /\ \ Ant's Quality Foraged Links: http://aqfl.net
| |o o| |
\ _ / If crediting, then use Ant nickname and AQFL URL/link.
( ) If e-mailing, then axe ANT from its address if needed.
Ant is currently not listening to any songs on this computer.

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

The shot bearings have a resonance frequency that results from the
mechanical characteristics of the whole propellor assembly. If it gets
close in RPM to this frequency or a multiple thereof, it can go into
these vibrations. The temperature differences will have the FAN spin
at different temperatures it if it is temperture controlled.

Inteesting. I didn't know PSUs were temperature related. I thought that
was for video cards and CPU. Can one control PSU fans manually with
software or CMOS like keep it at maximum speed at all time?
--
"If someone makes you angry, I think the thing to do is tie them down to
the ground, cover them in honey, and then release a swarm of killer ants
on them. That way, you can hit them over and over again and say, 'Hey!
I'm just trying to help!' and they can't really get mad at you." --R.M.
Weiner
/\___/\ Phil./Ant @ http://antfarm.ma.cx (Personal Web Site)
/ /\ /\ \ Ant's Quality Foraged Links: http://aqfl.net
| |o o| |
\ _ / If crediting, then use Ant nickname and AQFL URL/link.
( ) If e-mailing, then axe ANT from its address if needed.
Ant is currently not listening to any songs on this computer.

[Arno]

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

The shot bearings have a resonance frequency that results from the
mechanical characteristics of the whole propellor assembly. If it gets
close in RPM to this frequency or a multiple thereof, it can go into
these vibrations. The temperature differences will have the FAN spin
at different temperatures it if it is temperture controlled.

Inteesting. I didn't know PSUs were temperature related. I thought that
was for video cards and CPU. Can one control PSU fans manually with
software or CMOS like keep it at maximum speed at all time?

No. The regulation is completely PSU internal. I dod not like
the characteristic of mine and built a custom regulator, but that
is really the only way.

Arno

Post by Ant
--
"If someone makes you angry, I think the thing to do is tie them down to
the ground, cover them in honey, and then release a swarm of killer ants
on them. That way, you can hit them over and over again and say, 'Hey!
I'm just trying to help!' and they can't really get mad at you." --R.M.
Weiner
/ /\ /\ \ Ant's Quality Foraged Links: http://aqfl.net
| |o o| |
\ _ / If crediting, then use Ant nickname and AQFL URL/link.
( ) If e-mailing, then axe ANT from its address if needed.
Ant is currently not listening to any songs on this computer.

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

The shot bearings have a resonance frequency that results from the
mechanical characteristics of the whole propellor assembly. If it gets
close in RPM to this frequency or a multiple thereof, it can go into
these vibrations. The temperature differences will have the FAN spin
at different temperatures it if it is temperture controlled.

Actually, how does one know if a PSU is temperature controlled? I never
really noticed if it is faster or slower from its audio (just the
annoying loud noises that come and go). I only hear them from stock fans
on CPUs and video cards. It doesn't seem like I can see temperature
readings from BIOS/CMOS and Linux's sensors command:

$ sensors -f
acpitz-virtual-0
Adapter: Virtual device
temp1: +71.2°F (crit = +206.2°F)

k8temp-pci-00c3
Adapter: PCI adapter
Core0 Temp: +105.8°F
Core1 Temp: +82.4°F

adt7473-i2c-4-2e (NVIDIA GeForce GT 8800 video card)
Adapter: NVIDIA i2c adapter
in1: +2.99 V (min = +2.94 V, max = +2.94 V)
+3.3V: +3.20 V (min = +4.31 V, max = +4.31 V)
fan1: 2683 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan2: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan3: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM) ALARM
fan4: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
temp1: +161.6°F (low = +368.6°F, high = +368.6°F)
Board Temp: +145.4°F (low = +368.6°F, high = +368.6°F) ALARM
temp3: +159.8°F (low = +368.6°F, high = +368.6°F) ALARM

[Arno]

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I noticed something else... I think there are more chances of loud
noises if the weather is cooler (70F degrees in my room). When it was
hot/warmer (e.g., 80-90F degrees in my room), I didn't hear the loud
noises much. Maybe a coincident?

The shot bearings have a resonance frequency that results from the
mechanical characteristics of the whole propellor assembly. If it gets
close in RPM to this frequency or a multiple thereof, it can go into
these vibrations. The temperature differences will have the FAN spin
at different temperatures it if it is temperture controlled.

Actually, how does one know if a PSU is temperature controlled? I never
really noticed if it is faster or slower from its audio (just the
annoying loud noises that come and go). I only hear them from stock fans
on CPUs and video cards. It doesn't seem like I can see temperature
$ sensors -f
acpitz-virtual-0
Adapter: Virtual device
temp1: +71.2??F (crit = +206.2??F)
k8temp-pci-00c3
Adapter: PCI adapter
Core0 Temp: +105.8??F
Core1 Temp: +82.4??F
adt7473-i2c-4-2e (NVIDIA GeForce GT 8800 video card)
Adapter: NVIDIA i2c adapter
in1: +2.99 V (min = +2.94 V, max = +2.94 V)
+3.3V: +3.20 V (min = +4.31 V, max = +4.31 V)
fan1: 2683 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan2: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan3: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM) ALARM
fan4: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
temp1: +161.6??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F)
Board Temp: +145.4??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM
temp3: +159.8??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM

I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Arno

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
Actually, how does one know if a PSU is temperature controlled? I never
really noticed if it is faster or slower from its audio (just the
annoying loud noises that come and go). I only hear them from stock fans
on CPUs and video cards. It doesn't seem like I can see temperature
$ sensors -f
acpitz-virtual-0
Adapter: Virtual device
temp1: +71.2??F (crit = +206.2??F)
k8temp-pci-00c3
Adapter: PCI adapter
Core0 Temp: +105.8??F
Core1 Temp: +82.4??F
adt7473-i2c-4-2e (NVIDIA GeForce GT 8800 video card)
Adapter: NVIDIA i2c adapter
in1: +2.99 V (min = +2.94 V, max = +2.94 V)
+3.3V: +3.20 V (min = +4.31 V, max = +4.31 V)
fan1: 2683 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan2: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan3: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM) ALARM
fan4: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
temp1: +161.6??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F)
Board Temp: +145.4??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM
temp3: +159.8??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM

I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Ah thanks. I guess the technician didn't hook it up.

[Arno]

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
Actually, how does one know if a PSU is temperature controlled? I never
really noticed if it is faster or slower from its audio (just the
annoying loud noises that come and go). I only hear them from stock fans
on CPUs and video cards. It doesn't seem like I can see temperature
$ sensors -f
acpitz-virtual-0
Adapter: Virtual device
temp1: +71.2??F (crit = +206.2??F)
k8temp-pci-00c3
Adapter: PCI adapter
Core0 Temp: +105.8??F
Core1 Temp: +82.4??F
adt7473-i2c-4-2e (NVIDIA GeForce GT 8800 video card)
Adapter: NVIDIA i2c adapter
in1: +2.99 V (min = +2.94 V, max = +2.94 V)
+3.3V: +3.20 V (min = +4.31 V, max = +4.31 V)
fan1: 2683 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan2: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan3: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM) ALARM
fan4: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
temp1: +161.6??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F)
Board Temp: +145.4??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM
temp3: +159.8??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM

I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Ah thanks. I guess the technician didn't hook it up.

Looks like it.

Arno

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
Actually, how does one know if a PSU is temperature controlled? I never
really noticed if it is faster or slower from its audio (just the
annoying loud noises that come and go). I only hear them from stock fans
on CPUs and video cards. It doesn't seem like I can see temperature
$ sensors -f
acpitz-virtual-0
Adapter: Virtual device
temp1: +71.2??F (crit = +206.2??F)
k8temp-pci-00c3
Adapter: PCI adapter
Core0 Temp: +105.8??F
Core1 Temp: +82.4??F
adt7473-i2c-4-2e (NVIDIA GeForce GT 8800 video card)
Adapter: NVIDIA i2c adapter
in1: +2.99 V (min = +2.94 V, max = +2.94 V)
+3.3V: +3.20 V (min = +4.31 V, max = +4.31 V)
fan1: 2683 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan2: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
fan3: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM) ALARM
fan4: 0 RPM (min = 82 RPM)
temp1: +161.6??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F)
Board Temp: +145.4??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM
temp3: +159.8??F (low = +368.6??F, high = +368.6??F) ALARM

I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Ah thanks. I guess the technician didn't hook it up.

Looks like it.

Actually, I think I see it in CMOS after rebooting to it. I found out
recent Kernels did major changes with for sensor readings according to
http://www.lm-sensors.org/wiki/FAQ/Chapter3#Mysensorshavestoppedworkinginkernel2.6.31
... So bah to check in Linux/Debian, and I have to check.

Funny thing is that I turned off the PC, with its noisy PSU fan, for a
few seconds. I turned it on and it has been quiet so far... I am sure it
will be back again. I even checked the CMOS' readings for the three fans
(not sure which is which from two of them since one was CPU):

24xx-25xx
23xx-24xx
34xx-35xx

I will check again when the noises return.

[Ant]

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant

Post by Arno
I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Ah thanks. I guess the technician didn't hook it up.

Looks like it.

Actually, I think I see it in CMOS after rebooting to it. I found out
recent Kernels did major changes with for sensor readings according to
http://www.lm-sensors.org/wiki/FAQ/Chapter3#Mysensorshavestoppedworkinginkernel2.6.31
... So bah to check in Linux/Debian, and I have to check.
Funny thing is that I turned off the PC, with its noisy PSU fan, for a
few seconds. I turned it on and it has been quiet so far... I am sure it
will be back again. I even checked the CMOS' readings for the three fans
24xx-25xx
23xx-24xx
34xx-35xx
I will check again when the noises return.

Checking the BIOS/CMOS' readings with the noisy fan and stopped fan
with a plastic straw saw no changes. So definitely not connected to
read. I was told this PSU doesn't and others don't even have sensor
readings. Which ones can do temperature readings then if connected?

[Arno]

Post by Ant

Post by Ant

Post by Arno

Post by Ant

Post by Arno
I you PSU has a fan speed monitoring output and you plug that
into a monitored fan connector, you can monitor the PSU fan
speed. Practically all PSUs have fan speed regulation today.

Ah thanks. I guess the technician didn't hook it up.

Looks like it.

Actually, I think I see it in CMOS after rebooting to it. I found out
recent Kernels did major changes with for sensor readings according to
http://www.lm-sensors.org/wiki/FAQ/Chapter3#Mysensorshavestoppedworkinginkernel2.6.31
... So bah to check in Linux/Debian, and I have to check.
Funny thing is that I turned off the PC, with its noisy PSU fan, for a
few seconds. I turned it on and it has been quiet so far... I am sure it
will be back again. I even checked the CMOS' readings for the three fans
24xx-25xx
23xx-24xx
34xx-35xx
I will check again when the noises return.

Checking the BIOS/CMOS' readings with the noisy fan and stopped fan
with a plastic straw saw no changes. So definitely not connected to
read. I was told this PSU doesn't and others don't even have sensor
readings. Which ones can do temperature readings then if connected?

The PSU does not do it. There is an extra fan-like cable on
some PSUs, that you plug into a monitord fan socket on the
mainboard. This cable does not have the fan power line,
only ground and the impulse line used for measuring
fan speed. No normal PSU has an exported temperature
sensor reading, as there is no standard for it.

Arno

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
Checking the BIOS/CMOS' readings with the noisy fan and stopped fan
with a plastic straw saw no changes. So definitely not connected to
read. I was told this PSU doesn't and others don't even have sensor
readings. Which ones can do temperature readings then if connected?

The PSU does not do it. There is an extra fan-like cable on
some PSUs, that you plug into a monitord fan socket on the
mainboard. This cable does not have the fan power line,
only ground and the impulse line used for measuring
fan speed. No normal PSU has an exported temperature
sensor reading, as there is no standard for it.

Oops, I meant to say fan sensor reading not temperature. It was late for
me last night (tired). :(

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
Checking the BIOS/CMOS' readings with the noisy fan and stopped fan
with a plastic straw saw no changes. So definitely not connected to
read. I was told this PSU doesn't and others don't even have sensor
readings. Which ones can do temperature readings then if connected?

The PSU does not do it. There is an extra fan-like cable on
some PSUs, that you plug into a monitord fan socket on the
mainboard. This cable does not have the fan power line,
only ground and the impulse line used for measuring
fan speed. No normal PSU has an exported temperature
sensor reading, as there is no standard for it.

Oops, I meant to say fan sensor reading not temperature. It was late for
me last night (tired). :(

[Ant]

I forgot to mention that this PC is on 24/7. It is rarely powered down
except for repairs. I do reboot once in a while though. Maybe I should
try shutting down and powering on when the noises return? I doubt that
will do anything.

Post by Ant
Hello.
A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.
Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.
Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck? Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?
If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost? Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).
In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.
Thank you in advance. :)

[Arno]

Post by Ant
I forgot to mention that this PC is on 24/7. It is rarely powered down
except for repairs. I do reboot once in a while though. Maybe I should
try shutting down and powering on when the noises return? I doubt that
will do anything.

Will not realy help. It will just return. The only fix is to get
a new fan, with or without attached new PSU. One a bearing is
shot, there really is no way to repair it except melting it down
and making a new one from the metal.

Arno

Post by Ant

Post by Ant
Hello.
A technician installed a new Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U) on 1/23/2010 into my old PC to replace a dead previous, old PSU
since I am not a computer hardware person.
Lately, its PSU fan has been making loud noises. I have to hit/tap the
PSU fan area to make it stop. This always doesn't work either. I noticed
different its fan output, has noticeable changes in air output and
vibrations, between its quietness and noises. It doesn't look dusty
(can't open the PC case due to my physical disabilities, but can see the
fan through the dark vents). My place does get dusty and can get very
hot (almost 90F degrees in the heat waves) due to Los Angeles/L.A. weather.
Is this normal for a less than eight months old PSU? Or is this Antec
PSU brand/model just crap or am I just having a bad luck? Online, I saw
mostly positive reviews. There were a few that mentioned loud fans, but
not like mine. My old 600 watts SeaSonic S12 PSU, from 2006, still
works. It seems like Antec is crap these days?
If I do need to replace it when it gets worse or dies, which one should
I get that is better and low cost? Or should I keep the same brand and
model when RMA'ed Here is my old computer setup: AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual
core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost K8 A1838 model),
MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4), 2.5 GB of RAM
(one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots) refurbished (RMA'ed
twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight 7237-ATX mid-tower
case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU (BP500U), two case 80mm
case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A; 7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an
IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B
16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210 PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE),
3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness 10/100 (82559) NIC. Running
32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel v2.6.32-...-686).
In a few months, I will be upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel
Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core; default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a
Scythe Andy Master 120mm CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F
(MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.
Thank you in advance. :)

--
"Everyone knows an ant can't move a rubber tree plant." --Motto of FTL
Foundation (in Isaac Asimov book)
/ /\ /\ \ Ant's Quality Foraged Links: http://aqfl.net
| |o o| |
\ _ / If crediting, then use Ant nickname and AQFL URL/link.
( ) If e-mailing, then axe ANT from its address if needed.
Ant is currently not listening to any songs on this computer.

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I forgot to mention that this PC is on 24/7. It is rarely powered down
except for repairs. I do reboot once in a while though. Maybe I should
try shutting down and powering on when the noises return? I doubt that
will do anything.

Will not realy help. It will just return. The only fix is to get
a new fan, with or without attached new PSU. One a bearing is
shot, there really is no way to repair it except melting it down
and making a new one from the metal.

It made noises again earlier this morning, so I tried a plastic straw
through the PSU fan's vent. The straw stopped PSU fan from spinning and
no noises. Sometimes releasing the straw made the fan quiet, but noises
came back again. I repeat and sometimes quiet. Right now, it is quiet.
Who knows how long that lasts. At least I can make it quieter faster
with a straw than tapping the PSU fan. :P I also checked to see if I
could get fan's RPM sensor reading. It is definitely not hooked up
according to Linux's lm_sensors results to ensure I am not confused with
video card's sensors (never saw zero or low values with the straw in the
fan).

I did notice wires (red, black, white, etc.) in front of the fan. I
didn't notice them before since it was dark and right now is brighter
with the sunlight and flashlight. I don't see any wires out of position
or anything through the vents.

OK, I am researching on another PSU to replace the crappy eight months
old Antec PSU I have right now in my old Debian/Linux box (made noises
this morning and it is confirmed the fan since I stuck a plastic straw
in it and it stopped). I am going to get this one RMA soon before its
year, get something better that won't fail me easily, and sell the
Antec's RMA one.

How does a Seasonic Corsair HX450 sound? Am I reading correctly that
both SeaSonic and Corsair share the same PSU designs and Corsair has
longer warranty (five years)?

Again, here is my current old computer setup for a few more months: AMD
Athlon 64 X2 (dual core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost
K8 A1838 model), MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4),
2.5 GB of RAM (one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots)
refurbished (RMA'ed twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight
7237-ATX mid-tower case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U), two case 80mm case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A;
7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba
DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B 16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210
PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE), 3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness
10/100 (82559) NIC. Running 32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel
v2.6.32-...-686).

In a few months (most likely at the end of thies year), I will be
upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core;
default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a Scythe Andy Master 120mm
CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F (MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS
v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.

Thank you in advance. :)


P.S. Sorry if this is a dupe. For some reason, my posts didn't show up
earlier. Weird. :(

[Ant]

OK, I am researching on another PSU to replace the crappy eight months
old Antec PSU I have right now in my old Debian/Linux box (made noises
this morning and it is confirmed the fan since I stuck a plastic straw
in it and it stopped). I am going to get this one RMA soon before its
year, get something better that won't fail me easily, and sell the
Antec's RMA one.

How does a Seasonic Corsair HX450 sound? Am I reading correctly that
both SeaSonic and Corsair share the same PSU designs and Corsair has
longer warranty (five years)?

Again, here is my current old computer setup for a few more months: AMD
Athlon 64 X2 (dual core) 939 4600+ CPU (using a Thermaltake Silent Boost
K8 A1838 model), MSI K8N NEO4-F (MS-7125) motherboard (NVIDIA nForce4),
2.5 GB of RAM (one 1 GB + three 512 MB; use all four memory slots)
refurbished (RMA'ed twice!) EVGA GeForce 8800 GT (PCIE; NVIDIA), Enlight
7237-ATX mid-tower case; Antec Basiq 500 Watt ATX Power Supply/PSU
(BP500U), two case 80mm case fans, Seagate Barracuda 7200.7 (ST380011A;
7200 RPM; 80 GB) HDD, an IDE Quantum Fireball Plus LM 15 GB HDD, Toshiba
DVD-ROM SD-M1612 Rev. B 16X/48X ATAPI/IDE drive, Plextor PX-W1210
PlexWriter (12/10/32A; IDE), 3.5" disk drive, and an Intel InBusiness
10/100 (82559) NIC. Running 32-bit Debian (Linux) OS (Kernel
v2.6.32-...-686).

In a few months (most likely at the end of thies year), I will be
upgrading my system to an old Intel Intel Core 2 Q8200 (quad-core;
default clock speeds); Socket 775 LGA) with a Scythe Andy Master 120mm
CPU cooler (SCASM-1000), MSI P43 NEO3-F (MSI-7514) motherboard (BIOS
v2.3), etc. with the same mid-ATX case.

Thank you in advance. :)
--
At length, when they came to a (lowly) valley of ants, one of the ants
said: "O ye ants, get into your habitations, lest Solomon and his hosts
crush you (under foot) without knowing it." --Surah 27. The Ant, The
Ants, line 18
/\___/\ Phil./Ant @ http://antfarm.ma.cx (Personal Web Site)
/ /\ /\ \ Ant's Quality Foraged Links: http://aqfl.net
| |o o| |
\ _ / If crediting, then use Ant nickname and AQFL URL/link.
( ) If e-mailing, then axe ANT from its address if needed.
Ant is/was listening to a song on this computer: The Ting Tings - Hands
(Low Sunday Indie Fix)

[Arno]

Post by Ant
OK, I am researching on another PSU to replace the crappy eight months
old Antec PSU I have right now in my old Debian/Linux box (made noises
this morning and it is confirmed the fan since I stuck a plastic straw
in it and it stopped). I am going to get this one RMA soon before its
year, get something better that won't fail me easily, and sell the
Antec's RMA one.
How does a Seasonic Corsair HX450 sound? Am I reading correctly that
both SeaSonic and Corsair share the same PSU designs and Corsair has
longer warranty (five years)?

First, same design does not imply same fan. So a longer warranty
period may indicate a better fan. However, you should make sure that
the warranty actually covers the fan. If, for example, it does not
cover "normal wear and tear", then the fan bearings are not included.
THat said, 5 years warranty would be a strong indicator of a quality,
long-life fan being used and also other components (capacitors)
being higer quality.

Arno

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
OK, I am researching on another PSU to replace the crappy eight months
old Antec PSU I have right now in my old Debian/Linux box (made noises
this morning and it is confirmed the fan since I stuck a plastic straw
in it and it stopped). I am going to get this one RMA soon before its
year, get something better that won't fail me easily, and sell the
Antec's RMA one.
How does a Seasonic Corsair HX450 sound? Am I reading correctly that
both SeaSonic and Corsair share the same PSU designs and Corsair has
longer warranty (five years)?

First, same design does not imply same fan. So a longer warranty
period may indicate a better fan. However, you should make sure that
the warranty actually covers the fan. If, for example, it does not
cover "normal wear and tear", then the fan bearings are not included.
THat said, 5 years warranty would be a strong indicator of a quality,
long-life fan being used and also other components (capacitors)
being higer quality.

Thanks. Hmm, I wished there were easy to find information about their
parts being quality. Well, they have to be way better than Antec!

I did find http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/PSU_Manufacturers :

"Basiq – FSP (Fortron Source)"

Ha, I had Fortron FSP650-80GLC PSU (650 watts) that died (5/14/2007 to
12/5/2009) and damaged my Linux/Debian box's hardwares before that Antec
Basiq PSU!

I have bad lucks with these Antec and Fortron/FSP PSUs according to my
http://alpha.zimage.com/~ant/antfarm/about/toys.html history! I am
avoiding these brands! :P

[Arno]

[...]

Post by Ant

Post by Arno
First, same design does not imply same fan. So a longer warranty
period may indicate a better fan. However, you should make sure that
the warranty actually covers the fan. If, for example, it does not
cover "normal wear and tear", then the fan bearings are not included.
THat said, 5 years warranty would be a strong indicator of a quality,
long-life fan being used and also other components (capacitors)
being higer quality.

Thanks. Hmm, I wished there were easy to find information about their
parts being quality. Well, they have to be way better than Antec!
"Basiq ? FSP (Fortron Source)"

Interesting! Looks like Antec is buying from however is cheapest
for a specific design.

In other news, contrary to an earlier statement of mine, it seems
FSP also manufactures (and designs?) their own units. Not that
they are particularly good.

Also Seasonic and CWT do their own manufacuring, design sources
unknown.

Post by Ant
Ha, I had Fortron FSP650-80GLC PSU (650 watts) that died (5/14/2007 to
12/5/2009) and damaged my Linux/Debian box's hardwares before that Antec
Basiq PSU!

I had one that died in a server after a power failure (24 CWT PSUs
did not suffer any damage).

Post by Ant
I have bad lucks with these Antec and Fortron/FSP PSUs according to my
http://alpha.zimage.com/~ant/antfarm/about/toys.html history! I am
avoiding these brands! :P

Hehe. Wise decision.

Arno

[Ant]

Post by Arno

Post by Ant
I have bad lucks with these Antec and Fortron/FSP PSUs according to my
http://alpha.zimage.com/~ant/antfarm/about/toys.html history! I am
avoiding these brands! :P

Hehe. Wise decision.

Yeah, I might get another SeaSonic or a Corsair. Weird that my
problematic PSU is behaving, but weather was warmer lately but still
cool in the morning hours. The only thing different since Sunday's
morning was manually turning off PC for a few seconds and turning it
back on. Weird... I am sure its noises will be back. :P