If you’ve ever observed your graphics processing unit (GPU) making noises, then chances are it’s because you’re not giving it adequate ventilation.
Why is my GPU making noises? Is it a tragedy, or can be rectified by simply opening up the case and allowing fresh air in? Let me enlighten you on what could be causing that incessant racket!
Cooling Fan is High Speed Due to GPU Temperature
To prevent overheating, it’s imperative for graphics processors to have adequate cooling. GPUs operate at a substantial temperature when under stress, so in order to maintain optimal performance and longevity this must be taken into consideration.
Ensure that your GPU and all its components are sufficiently ventilated with an air-cooler or liquid-cooling solution – these not only provide a degree of flexibility regarding which components may be cooled more efficiently; but additionally offer enhanced thermal efficiency as well!
Fan is High Speed Due to Air Flow from the PC
The majority of your graphics card’s fans are designed to assist in cooling down the hardware. But, if they’re running at a speed that isn’t adequate – or perhaps even too high – they may start exhibiting excessive noise due to an insufficient flow of air within your chassis.
If you notice the fan on your graphics card is operating at full throttle, it could indicate an airflow problem. Even if its speed remains steady, be sure to scrutinize any potential issues with ventilation slots around your case and see if anything might be obstructing them; fans can often inadvertently become trapped in such areas!
Fan is High Speed Due to Air Flow through the PC Cabinet
If your PC is situated within the confines of an enclosed space, it could be that air currents are causing turbulence which results in a higher speed on the fan. This can be remedied by moving the machine to an open area where it’s possible for fresh air to circulate freely.
If you’ve recently upgraded from an older model with a quieter chassis, chances are that your equipment may have attained a new level of decibel output in the meantime. To help alleviate this problem and keep temperatures within reasonable limits then consider installing one of our solutions such as Antec’s CPU Cooler HCP-1200 or GIGABYTE NUCs!
Fan is High Speed Due to Vents in the Case
If your fan is operating at a high rate and yet still churning out noise, this may be due to its proximity to the heatsink. This can occur if the fan housing has openings – such as slits or grilles – that allow for increased airflow into it. These features don’t necessarily have an impact on cooling performance; however, they can introduce turbulence-causing wind currents within the case which could ultimately lead to increased sound production.
So, if you experience frequent buzzing from your graphics card, chances are that there’s some sort of hole in the case which is causing air turbulence. This could be rectified by using an aesthetic cover over your GPU – such as a slender one-size-fits-all heat sink pad – or adding extra fans and drive cages to increase airflow through the chassis.
Fan is High Speed Due to GPU Voltage Setting – Issue with Video Cards in Overvoltage State
If you encounter an issue with your video card’s fan, such as it running at its maximum speed, then this could signify that it is operating under a heightened voltage state.
Ensure that you have selected the appropriate voltage for your system and graphics card; if not, consider increasing it until optimal performance levels are attained.
Fan is High Speed due to a Hardware or Software Issue
If your fan is rotating at an elevated speed, that may indicate a hardware fault. If you’re experiencing any problems with video or gaming performance, be sure to check out our guides on fixing common issues!
This could be attributable to a variety of factors – including inadequate cooling system capacity; use of an outdated driver; or user negligence which can lead to unnecessary power consumption. In any case, if you experience this issue it is essential that you contact the manufacturer in order to rectify the situation.
Fan Is Slow Throughput Due to GPU Size
If your graphics card is exhibiting signs of becoming a noisy fan, don’t fret! This could be due to its size – being anything above a single slot can mean that the unit’s inherent noise levels are magnified.
To determine if this is the case for you, take a glance at your system motherboard specifications. If there is only one PCIe x16 slot present, chances are good your components will take up all available slots – resulting in complete silence from the cooling solution(s)!
Manufacturing Process or Design
If your GPU is experiencing noisy outbursts, it could be related to manufacturing process or design. The components are assembled in a particular sequence, which determine thermal conductivity and provide optimum cooling performance; this is why some designs may prove more conducive towards low level of noise generation than others!
If you’re curious about the specific configuration of your rig’s graphics card, simply refer to our list of available layouts. If the layout doesn’t match what you currently have installed – don’t fret – we can help with that as well!
Conclusion
The reason for your GPU’s rattle is that it’s attempting to expel debris from its cooling system. Granted, such a manifestation may appear inconsequential; however, if your PC is experiencing regular issues such as elevated temperatures and reduced performance levels – then it may be worthwhile investing in an additional fan to compensate.
For a more in-depth analysis of this topic, take a look at our piece: ‘Why Does My Graphics Card Rattle?’
