Sound/vibration dampening HTPC

doodah · 2024-10-20T09:08:24+0100

We recently bought a unit to go under the TV and I've plonked my HTPC inside. I've replaced the default fans with quieter ones but it still makes a humming noise (think the PSU it the loudest component in there) and one of thr HDDs causes a right racket (it's 7200).

Wondering if there are any sound/vibration dampening solutions or suggestions? Seen some mats and pads but they look like they'd make air intake at the bottom worse. I will be upgrading the system (modular and quieter PSU, better cable management and hopefully air flow, rubber grommets for vibration) but thought there might be a solution for the whole PC as well.

PermaChanged · 2024-10-20T18:15:29+0100

What capacity is the HDD? If relatively small, you could pick up an SSD for cheap, and make big changes to the acoustics.

alex24 · 2024-10-20T18:39:32+0100

Yep, remove HDD for SSD or to a NAS perhaps.

Diggsy · 2024-10-20T19:53:35+0100

As above - without getting shot of the HDD, or wrapping them in one of those heat sinks that completely enclosed them (can’t recall the name, even though I have 2 of them!), you’re fighting something of a losing battle.

As you say, PSUs can make a heck of a racket. Look at getting one that has passive cooling until a certain point when the fan slowly kicks in.