Can I Use a Different Type of Fan on My PXI Chassis?

Issue Details

I would like to replace the fans of the PXI chassis with another type of fan that is less noisy than the ones that come with the chassis. Is there a process to do this?

Solution

This is not an option, you can only replace the fans if NI provides a fan replacement kit with the specific fans you need to use for that chassis. The reason is that using other fans different than the ones NI provides could violate the safety specifications, not only for the chassis and controller but also for the modules in the chassis, so it is a risky decision that NI does not support. 

NI performs different cooling tests to guarantee that the system will be functional with the fans provided, and we can't guarantee the functionality of the system with a fan that we have not tested. You can consult the Sound Power section in the datasheet of your chassis to take this into account. NI is actively working to improve the acoustic noise in newer models of PXI chassis. 

Additional Information

Here are some workarounds that can be implemented to reduce the impact of the noise:

• Connecting to the PXI systems remotely to perform the tests from a different location.  
• Changing the Fan Mode Programmatically of a PXIe Chassis. This will be useful to automate having the fans running at High speed just when the test is running.
• Use a third-party cabinet to isolate noise or to provide extra cooling capabilities.