Enermax Warp UB-12AEBS 120mm Fan Blue Springs MO

Rating: 7/10

Enermax are makers of fine computer hardware, so I was a little bemused as to what they might do with the humble case fan. Those that know them would expect something 'different' and their latest 'Warp' series fan certainly delivers on that.

I was sent both a 120mm and 80mm design which only significantly differed in scale, and they make a 90mm version for those that need it.

The most visible new feature is the inbuilt fan controller, which is designed to be mounted on a corner of the fan frame, and includes a bling gold dial control. This worked predictably, but it isn't quite as convenient as the rheostat-on-a-card-plate solutions some manufacturers provide. It might be possible to mount the controller externally, but you'd be sacrificing a locating screw to do it. Otherwise you be forced to open to case to adjust it.

Another special feature is more revolutionary, the Enlobal bearing. In their effort to provide longer operating time and a very low rate of failure, Enermax have developed a new bearing technology that doesn't require oil lubricant. What's really cute about it is the simple structure, which allows the fan to be dismantled for cleaning. When I found the instructions on how to remove the fan I was sceptical, because doing this on other designs will trash the fan entirely. On the Warp series a dust-encrusted fan can be removed from its frame, cleaned thoroughly and replaced. It's also remarkably quiet in operation, even with the speed control set to maximum velocity.

How does it do this? It seems that electron magnets centre the spindle while air pressure essentially floats the bearing surface apart. Using this technique the surfaces never actually touch, reducing friction and therefore noise simultaneously.

How cool is that, for a fan? These aren't cheap, but they don't sound like a Russian tractor after six months either.

For more information, visit Micromart.co.uk