How to Convert a Case Fan to USB

In this Instructable I will show you how you can convert an old case fan for a pc to usb power.

Step 1: Materials Needed

For this project, you will need:
A pc case fan
scissors
a usb cable (doesn't matter what the end of the cable is as long as one end is a full size male usb jack)
a wire stripper and electrical tape

Step 2: Cut Fan Connector

The start of our journey is to use your scissors to cut the connector off of the case fan.

Step 3: Strip Fan Wires

Now we need to strip the ends of the black and red wires with your wire stripper. If you want, you can cut the other wires short so they stay out of your way. We will not be needing them.

Step 4: Cut Usb Cable

Now cut the end of your usb cable that is not male off.

Step 5: Strip Usb Cable

Now you need to strip the usb cable to reveal the shielding. peel back this shielding to reveal the red and black wires. You can cut the other ones, as we don’t need them.

Step 6: Strip Usb Wires

Next, you need to strip the red and black wires.

Step 7: Twist Wires

Now we need to twist the red wires together and the black wires together. Make sure to tightly twist them so you get a stable connection. If you want to take this a step further, you can solder the wires instead of twisting them, but twisting the wires should be enough.

Step 8: Tape It Up

Now you should individually tape up the black connections and the red connections. Then you should cover those in a layer of electrical tape as shown. If you want a cleaner look, you can use shrink wrap over the individually wrapped wires instead of tape.

Step 9: Test It

Step 8 is to simply plug it in to either your computer or a usb charger to test it. (The fan is actually spinning in the picture)

Step 10: Enjoy

Have fun staying cool with your new USB fan!