Maelstrom Fan Controller

Since I could not fit all of this information on the product detail page, I made a page specifically for this product. The detail information is included, as well as notes, main points, and pictures.

Maelstrom is the first child in a series of control devices that Ryan "Uller" Myers and I have been designing and working on. Maelstrom is a fan speed controller that uses potentiometers and voltage regulators to adjust fan speed. 11 Watt Heatsinks keep the regulators cool, and the unit is compact enough to fit in a single drive bay. The package includes everything needed for installation, including Allen hexagonal key for the aluminum knobs. Fans connect to the unit via screw terminal, but how many fans can be connected per channel? I'll spare some technical jargon, but because the most heat is created when the fans are at half-speed (6 volts), this is where we'll take our measurement. According to that method, a good rule of thumb is no more than 1.5 Amperes of current per channel. There are four channels on the unit, so one can get roughly 6A worth of fans on one unit. If the unit ever, under normal conditions (1.5 or less amps per channel), burns out, or stops working, we will replace it with no questions asked. Here are some of the main points about Maelstrom:

• Each unit is tested
• Each unit assembled in-house by myself (Cole) or Jeremy
• PCB's are dark blue :)
• Comes with acrylic drilling template, four aluminum knobs, Y Cable, and Allen key
• Mounts easily with double-sided tape (tape included)
• Can be mounted in the side or top of a case
• Practical, everything you need, nothing you don't
• Compact
• Can handle 1.5A per channel, four channels
• Warranty*

I took these pictures of a completed unit. The case badge is not included, but I thought it looked kind of cool ;)

I will update this area with feedback from customers concerning the product, and also anything important about Maelstrom. If you have any questions, post them in the Maelstrom FAQ area. These entries will also be featured in the Maelstrom FAQ.

1.) The acrylic template is the exact size of a normal faceplate. However, the edges of faceplates are designed differently, one may have to adjust where the holes are drilled, because the edge of the board may conflict with the drive bay tabs.

2.) Use a 1/4-inch drill bit to drill the holes for the unit.

3.) One may have to use a Dremel or another tool to "grind" down any obstructions that would keep the baybus from being applied flush to the faceplate.

4.) As with any other fan controller using either an LM317 or LM350 as a voltage regulator, the maximum output voltage is 11.25 V.

5.) We do not suggest connection neons or lamps to the Maelstrom. This will not act as a dimmer, and it may damage the light's inverter.

6.) We heatsink based on dissipation, not peak draw, so you don't need a full 17W of heatsink to handle the full 1.5A.

We construct these units in-house, and I personally approve each unit to be sent to a customer. All faulty units are either fixed or thrown away. I expect there to be a couple "duds." If your Maelstrom stops working, and it is NOT because you've overloaded it, smashed it, shot it, etc., I will personally make sure that you get a replacement and that you are happy with the unit.