HC2 running warm/hot

[ErwinM 0]

Recently we bought the HC2. 

I keep noticing that the Aluminium casing is warm and sometimes even hot.

 

Is this normal ? Should I add a fan ?

 

tnx

Erwin

[Sankotronic 2,370]

8 hours ago, ErwinM said:

Recently we bought the HC2. 

I keep noticing that the Aluminium casing is warm and sometimes even hot.

 

Is this normal ? Should I add a fan ?

 

tnx

Erwin

 

Hi Erwin, aluminum is metal and conducts heat very well, so it is very good for cooling electronics inside, much better than plastic that is isolator and doesn't conduct heat very well. On the other hand you can feel this heat when touching aluminum casing that gives you feeling that device is cooking inside. But it is quite opposite, plastic is cold on touch but electronics inside plastic casing is more heated than in metal casing.

 

Since HC2 doesn't have fans inside and uses metal casing to dissipate heat it is recommended to install it on ventilated place like open shelf. If you install it inside rack then it is recommended to have fans that will circulate air inside rack.

 

It would be nice that HC2 motherboard have at least one or two temperature sensors installed. Maybe in next version? Electronics normal working temperature can go up to max 60ºC. If temperature go above this limit it will still work, but lifetime will be shortened exponentially. In most cases devices stop working because electrolytic capacitors loose capacitance. Their electrolyte either dry out, leak out or change chemical properties especially if exposed to high temperatures for long time.

 

I have repaired dozens of computers and other devices just by replacing electrolytic capacitors!

 

So, I don't think that you have to worry much about the heat on HC casing except if you install it in closed space that has no natural or forced ventilation.

[petergebruers 1,268]

I agree with @Sankotronic

I've measured the temperature inside and outside and everything is OK.

[ErwinM 0]

Tnx.

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