DIY CPU Fan: Turn Old Fans into Desktop Coolers

In the previous post, DIY Desktop Fan: Repurpose Old Computer Fans, we discussed the process of converting a computer case fan into a desktop fan. So, how can you turn a CPU fan into a small desktop fan? If you're interested, keep reading.

The process of repurposing this CPU fan is also quite simple. The two corner brackets at the bottom will serve as the support. You'll also need an 18650 battery holder and batteries from an old power bank. Testing with a 12V 1A power supply was too loud, but two 18650 batteries work perfectly, providing just the right speed—not too fast, not too slow. The battery holder and batteries also serve as the base for weight. When facing forward, it acts as a fan; when rotated, it can be used as a smoke extractor during soldering.

Here is the original fan and the corner brackets you will use:

The setup with the corner brackets installed looks like this:

The back side: The battery holder is shown here (this is just temporarily connected with wires, not yet soldered, but you can also solder them securely):

Finally, the finished product looks like this—simple and definitely functional.

The end.