Buying a new processor fan: what do I need to find out/know?

[Coroloro]

My computer has a Pentium II 400 Acer computer with 64 megs of RAM. Her processor fan is making that loud "lawn-mower" sound that says there has to be something wrong, so I am going to replace it for her. I've never done a fan replacement for a working computer, but I have taken one off and put it on for a motherboard nobody uses. What I want to know is this: what do I need to find out about her computer/motherboard/fan to get the right specs on the new fan. Also, is there anything I should specifically know about changing the fans on a processor? It seems pretty elementary, just unscrew it, unplug the small cords, then rescrew the new one, plug it in.

Thanks for the advice, I know computer basics but I'm still earning my stripes when it comes to some of these other tasks. I've done RAM, hard disks, DVDs, pc cards, all that basic stuff. But better safe than sorry!

-Patrick

[kenja]

Common sizes of heatsink fans are 40mm, 50mm, and 60mm (length of the square sides). If you don't want to solder, get a fan with a three-pin connector (fits on the motherboard) or a four-pin connector (fits on a spare drive power connector (a wye might be needed)).

Might be easier to buy a complete HSF (HeatSink/Fan) assembly. If this is a slot (not socket) CPU, newegg.com (http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduct.asp?submit=manufactory&catalog=62&manufactory=1281&Type=Refurbish) has a "refurb" fan for $5 (delivered).

Oh, and if you replace the heatsink, be sure to use thermal compound. (Usually included with a new unit. Lots of people dislike the "preinstalled" type, but I'm sure it would be adequate for your application.)

[This message has been edited by kenja (edited 12-10-2001).]