<snip>
> There's also one REALLY strange noise
> that comes from my machine that someone
> may be able to identify.
>
> Whenever I run something that needs heavy
> use of the processor (or maybe memory,
> I can't tell) a consistant noise in the
> computer will change pitch (higher). Why
> do you suppose I get this change in pitch ?
> Is this the bus, ram or cpu or something
> else ?
Most likely one of two things caused by a large increase in CPU
power consumption due to extra activity. Linux is VERY green :-)
If this is a raspy (for want of a better word) buzz and the PSU has
clocked up a lot of hours you are probably hearing switcher noise
caused by bad/aged filter caps in the PSU. Its a sign of an old
supply thats going to not start one of these days when you turn it on.
Replace the caps with higher temp units (or you'll be back again in a
year or two) or better yet replace the PSU (easier :-).
If its fan noise you probably have a more modern unit with variable
speed fan. Once again just reacting to the uncreased CPU power
consumption.
>
> What should I focus on when selecting
> parts for a new computer and even perhaps
> a case ? Obviously i'll need a CPU fan and
> a PSU fan, a little video card fan and the
> hard drive .. this pretty much leaves me
> with "secondary case fan" which I think is
> not required.
>
OK, for the record, I hate the rotating peice of excrement disguised
as a PC fan shipped in 90% PC of clones. Its design goal is that it
should probably not cause the PC to fail prior to the warranty
expiring. They're worth $5 and cause other items to fail as well.
If you want to reduce the fan noise and can afford the cost a
PAPST 8412NGL (20CFM 12dbA@1m) will produce half or less the
noise of the standard fan and outlast the PC case. The downside is
$50 from Farnell, I dont know a cheaper source for low volume :-/.
Its a worthwhile mod for anyone who needs long term reliability from
an unattended PC.
The standard fan opening is also pretty poor on most PSU's.
Cutting it out and putting a wire finger guard/grill may reduce the air
noise.
<snip>
Good luck.
-Rod
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