Fan controller?

[TorguL]

Is it worth buying a fan controller to install in my PC build or is it better to use a software to contol them? I know the Asus P8Z77-V i'm after has fan xpert that you can download. So, would it be best to use this instead of buying an actual controller, like this one: http://www.amazon.co.uk/NZXT-SENTRY-Touch-Screen-Controller/dp/B002L16OMO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1369172135&sr=8-5&keywords=Fan+Controller

 

Thanks.

[everything count to life]

Yes it would be better using mobo software

[Guest]

I think it depends, if my motherboard could control fans via software I wouldn't buy a touchscreen fan controller that essentially does the same, however I would be tempted by a dial/fader style one that pushes voltage to the fans based on how far turned up it is.

 

The problem I have found with software-based Fan Controllers is they communicate with your fans and if your fans are a bit temperamental at certain RPMs it can throw the fan controller out a bit and as a result limit how much you can adjust the fans. 

 

All in all though I would just go with your motherboards fan controller since its an ASUS board.

[sk8ermanblue]

Here is the rub for me. If im using more fans then the mobo can support then a fan controller is a must for the most part. How many fans are you going to be running and are you wanting to undervolt the fans for silent mode operations? if you answer yes to these questions an aftermarket fan controller is a good choice for you. I would reccommend something like the NZXT LX they are on sale right now too at newegg.com!

[TorguL]

I will most likely be using more than 3 fans. Just say if i was to use a fan splitter and hook up 2 fans to 1 header, would i be able to use the software to control both of them or would it only register as one fan?

[mgsstar]

I will most likely be using more than 3 fans. Just say if i was to use a fan splitter and hook up 2 fans to 1 header, would i be able to use the software to control both of them or would it only register as one fan?

Never tried it but it could cause issues when the software is reporting the RPM. It will either work and run at the same speeds that were set on the software or not work at all and report the wrong RPM.

[BADxASSxBubbles]

I have the Asus z68 board and I have had problems with the built in fan xpert. It was crap. I ended up buying a 5 switch off 5v 12v controller. My issue was that the Asus suite was giving me incorrect CPU temps, by as much as 19 degrees Celsius. My CPU would start burning and the fans wouldn't kick up. I just set my fans to 5v on the controller and left it at that. I know it was the Asus suite and not other things because I have confirmed on other software like core temp, real temp and other things that it was incorrect. I would also recommend not to install any of the Asus crap because it caused system instability. Also had issues with my overclovk because I would set it in the bios and then the software would adjust my voltages and other things. It drove me insane. But don't get me wrong, Asus has some nice quality stuff but their software is no where close to ready.