5.2. Fan Module Replacement

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Installed Fan Modules

The W50 has a series of 4 separate fan modules which are located at the back of the device. Each module contains two rotating fans giving a total of 8 fans for cooling the internal electronics. The power supply units (PSUs) contain their own separate fans for cooling and are not discussed in this section.

Figure 5.1. The Installed W50 Fan Modules

The Recommended Replacement Interval

The fan modules in the W50 are liable to wear from mechanical movement. Any fan failure can lead to much more serious internal failures from the overheating of electronic components. Although W50 fan modules are built for prolonged use, it is nonetheless a recommended precaution that modules be replaced every two years.

Detecting Fan Failure

Any of the 4 fan unit modules can be hot-swapped on-site if they require scheduled replacement or an internal failure is detected. Fan failure can be detected by using the cOS Core Hardware Monitoring feature and this is fully described in the separate cOS Core Administration Guide. This feature can tell the administrator if one or both fans inside a module have failed.

	Important: Dusty environments reduce fan module lifetimes
	The W50 fan modules are designed to operate in environments with reasonable air quality. Elevated dust levels in the surrounding air can substantially reduce the operating lifetimes of these fan modules.

Fan Replacement Steps

To replace a fan module, use the following steps:

Unscrew the individual fan module's retaining screw. This is located at one corner of each module.

Firmly grip the fan module and pull it out from the W50 chassis.

Insert the new module and secure its corner retaining screw.

The new module should start up immediately if power is available.

	Tip: Having spare fan modules available on-site
	Having spare fan modules on-site and available will mean no delay if a replacement is required. Modules can be ordered from your Clavister sales representative.