Running without side panels

[mc2310]

hello all,

I'm running my desktop without the side panels in a pathetic effort to lower my temps. Would this be advisable in the long run? Is it more effective (in terms of heat dissipation) to run without side panels or to install fans?

[lost-and-found]

well, I ran my PC w/o a fan for a long time. The only bad thing is the amount of dust that gets in there, and also if you're not careful other objects can land inside your PC.

By getting fans you increase the noise level, but you also increase the airflow.

I have a small old CPU fan dangling inside and one side open. Works well for me and very little noise.

[the jester]

shahani > dangling? please post a pic - sounds a touch precarious, if I might make so bold

Ok, hanging by a wire. The old CPU fan circulates air inside the case. I have a 350W PS and 3 drives, an entry level (cheapo) 800MHZ duron, a cr writer, nothin' fancy.

[the jester]

aww shahani - no pic

[agathodaimon]

ROFL! dangling on a wire? haha, that's good.

Actually, even with how odd it sounds, i am considering doing the same thing in my case to get a little added airflow.
I don't think I'm up to the task of cutting any holes in my case to add fans, so I might as well just rig one up with a wire to hang down over the cpu/mobo.

[GroundZero3]

all my machines at home have no side panels. a quick clean some with some canned air when they need it is all that is required. it depends on how cool your house is or the area your computer sits.

[howste]

Originally posted by mc2310
...I'm running my desktop without the side panels...

What? computers have side panels?!

[bill1971]

mc:
Are we to assume that you have no front intake or rear exhaust fan mounts in that case??

- Bill