Aquacomputer SPLITTY9 ACTIVE Splitter, 4-Pin PWM, Black (53283)

The Aquacomputer SPLITTY9 ACTIVE Splitter is an active ninefold fan splitter for 4-pin PWM fans: one fan output controls up to nine fans, which draw their power from a SATA connector on the PSU.

Properties

• Fan connectors: 9 black 4-pin PWM connectors
• Input: White "input" connector to a fan output, 4-pin cable of 70 cm
• Supply: SATA power connector, direct from the PSU
• Maximum current: 4.5 A
• Dimensions: approx. 57 x 39 x 16 mm

Why active instead of passive

Aquacomputer says the active splitter has three significant advantages over a passive splitter. First, the power supply through a SATA connector: the fans are not fed by the fan output but by a SATA power connector plugged directly into the PSU. This means fan power consumption is limited by the maximum power of one SATA connector, 4.5 Amps or 54 Watts according to specification, not by the maximum load of the fan output.

Second, PWM signal amplification. When using a passive splitter, each connected fan puts a strain on the PWM signal, and depending on fan output and fan type, a small number of fans might overload it. In this case the fans cannot be controlled. The SPLITTY9 ACTIVE amplifies the signal and so is able to control even problematic fans with out-of-spec PWM inputs.

Third, an adjustable switching threshold. PWM fans can usually not be switched off by their PWM signal, and this splitter adds that useful feature. If the PWM signal is below the threshold set on a rotary knob, the splitter will cut power to the fans. A LED indicates whether the fans are currently powered.

Wiring and setting the threshold

Connect the white connector marked "input" to a fan output with the supplied cable, then connect the SATA power connector to a compatible connector of the PSU. The PWM signal goes to all nine black connectors, and the speed signal from the connector marked "rpm" is forwarded to the fan output.

To adjust the threshold, set the fan output to the start-up power you want, rotate the blue knob clockwise until the red LED turns off, then slightly back until it lights up again. Turned counter-clockwise to the stop, the function is off.

A self-adhesive hook-and-loop strip is included for easy installation; alternatively, two mounting holes can be used.

What you need to connect it

The splitter needs one fan output that supplies a PWM signal, plus a free SATA power connector of the PSU. Up to nine 4-pin PWM fans then plug into its black connectors.

Notes

• Do not exceed the splitter's maximum current rating of 4.5 A.

In the box

• One splitter
• One 4-pin cable, total length 70 cm
• Self-adhesive hook-and-loop fastening strip
• Mounting material