How to make the Framework Desktop run even quieter
4 hours ago
- #Noise Reduction
- #Framework Desktop
- #3D Printing
- The Framework Desktop PC is notable for being the first desktop to use the AMD Ryzen AI Max APU, originally designed for laptops, offering high performance and integrated graphics suitable for gaming and AI tasks.
- Noise reduction efforts included integrating a Noctua NF-A12x25 fan and a fan duct, significantly lowering system noise while maintaining safe temperatures.
- A custom Noctua fan grill design was adapted to meet safety and EMC standards for standalone mini PCs, featuring smaller openings and more struts.
- A custom funnel-shaped fan duct was designed to maximize airflow through the custom side panel, leading to noise reductions of up to 7 dB(A) at lower fan speeds.
- 3D CAD files for the custom side panel and fan duct are available for download, allowing users to 3D-print these components at home for quieter operation.
- Testing additional modifications, such as adding an 8cm exhaust fan or upgrading to an NF-A12x25 G2 fan, showed limited benefits, with trade-offs between noise and performance.
- The NF-A12x25 G2 offers slight noise reduction but lacks the performance headroom of the original HS-PWM fan, making it suitable only for users prioritizing quiet operation over peak performance.