Genuine replacement mini fans for Argon cases โ keep your build running cool with a ready supply of drop-in spares.
The Argon Mini FAN Pack of 2 (SKU: ARG-MINI-FAN, Model: A20-004 AR-FAN) is an official Argon 40 replacement fan kit designed to restore or upgrade the active cooling in compatible Argon cases. Whether your original fan has reached the end of its life, has developed bearing noise, or you simply want to keep a spare on hand for field repairs, this pack gives you two identical units in one purchase.
Designed as a universal small-fan replacement across the Argon case range, the Mini FAN is built to the same specification as the fans shipped with supported Argon enclosures. Having a genuine replacement on hand ensures compatibility with the original mounting points, connector, and any fan-control circuitry built into your case โ avoiding the guesswork that comes with sourcing a generic equivalent.
The pack is aimed at makers, home-lab operators, and hardware enthusiasts who rely on their Raspberry Pi builds for sustained workloads and cannot afford unexpected downtime due to a failed cooling component.
๐ Note: This page covers the replacement fan kit only. For initial case assembly instructions, refer to the assembly guide for your specific Argon case model.
๐ Note: No additional mounting hardware, cables, or accessories are documented as included. [TODO: Confirm whether a connector cable, screws, or adapter is included by consulting the full printed manual or the Argon 40 product team.]
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | ARG-MINI-FAN |
| Model Number | A20-004 AR-FAN |
| UPC / EAN | 670924947028 |
| Package Contents | Pack of 2 mini replacement fans |
| Product Category | Thermal / Cooling |
| HTS Code | 8414.59.6590 |
| Unit Weight (each) | [TODO: Confirm individual fan weight โ total package weight is 0.026 kg] |
| Package Weight | 0.026 kg |
| Fan Dimensions | [TODO: Add height ร width ร depth / diameter in mm from datasheet or physical measurement] |
| Operating Voltage | [TODO: Confirm โ likely 5 V DC based on Argon case architecture; verify with datasheet] |
| Current Draw | [TODO: Confirm rated current in mA from datasheet] |
| Power Consumption | [TODO: Confirm in watts] |
| Connector Type | [TODO: Confirm connector type and pin count โ e.g., JST, 2-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin PWM] |
| Pin Assignment | [TODO: Add wiring diagram details โ VCC / GND / TACH / PWM] |
| Speed Control | [TODO: Confirm โ ON / PWM / OFF modes indicated in manual; full PWM parameters needed] |
| Bearing Type | [TODO: Confirm โ sleeve or ball bearing] |
| Rated Speed (RPM) | [TODO: Add from datasheet] |
| Airflow | [TODO: Add CFM or mยณ/h rating from datasheet] |
| Noise Level | [TODO: Add dB(A) rating from datasheet] |
| Operating Temperature Range | [TODO: Add from datasheet] |
| Rated Lifespan (MTBF) | [TODO: Add from datasheet] |
๐ Note: Several specifications above are pending confirmation from the full technical datasheet. If you need these values urgently, contact Argon 40 support at www.argon40.com or consult the instruction manual (AR_MINI_FAN_INSTRUCTION MANUAL.pdf).
The Argon Mini FAN is described as a universal replacement for "various Argon cases." The specific list of compatible case models, and therefore the specific Raspberry Pi board generations supported, depends on which cases accept this fan form factor.
๐ Note: The compatibility matrix below is incomplete pending an explicit list of supported Argon case SKUs from Argon 40. Once the supported cases are confirmed, the corresponding Raspberry Pi board specifications should be added here following the template below.
[TODO: List all compatible Argon case models by name and SKU โ e.g., Argon NEO series, Argon ONE series, Argon EON, Argon Fylo. Cross-reference with the fan's mounting dimensions once confirmed.]
Because the fan's compatibility depends on the case it is installed in, the supported Raspberry Pi board list is derived from the case compatibility above.
[TODO: Once the compatible case list is confirmed, add a specification block for each supported Raspberry Pi board model using the template below. Source all board specifications from raspberrypi.com.]
Template โ repeat for each confirmed compatible Raspberry Pi board:
[TODO: One-line description of the board โ source from raspberrypi.com]
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | [TODO] |
| RAM | [TODO] |
| Storage | [TODO] |
| Wi-Fi | [TODO] |
| Bluetooth | [TODO] |
| Ethernet | [TODO] |
| USB | [TODO] |
| HDMI | [TODO] |
| GPIO | [TODO] |
| Power Input | [TODO] |
| Recommended PSU | [TODO] |
| OS Support | [TODO] |
| Dimensions | [TODO] |
Source: raspberrypi.com/products/
Compatibility caveats: [TODO: Note any case-revision or board-revision caveats specific to this fan in this case/board combination.]
โ ๏ธ Warning: Always power off and unplug your Raspberry Pi and case completely before opening the enclosure or touching any internal components. Handling electrical connections while powered can damage your board, the fan controller, or both.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Static discharge can damage Raspberry Pi components. Ground yourself by touching an unpainted metal surface before handling the fan or internal connectors.
๐ Note: The steps below are generalised from the product description and partial manual header. The full AR_MINI_FAN_INSTRUCTION MANUAL.pdf should be consulted for diagrams, torque specifications, and case-specific guidance. [TODO: Replace these placeholder steps with the numbered steps from the complete manual once it is retrieved.]
Power down your system completely.
Shut down Raspberry Pi OS (sudo shutdown -h now), wait for the activity LED to go off, then disconnect the power supply from the case.
Open your Argon case.
Follow your specific Argon case disassembly guide to remove the lid or base panel and expose the internal fan assembly. Keep any screws in a small container to avoid losing them.
Locate the existing fan.
Identify the fan inside the case. Note its orientation โ the airflow direction (intake vs. exhaust) is usually indicated by an arrow moulded on the fan frame.
[TODO: Add photo or diagram showing fan location inside supported case models.]
[TODO: Confirm connector type and insertion/removal method from full manual.]
[TODO: Confirm fastener type, count, and tool required โ e.g., Phillips #0, M2 screws.]
Prepare the replacement fan.
Remove one of the two fans from the pack. Check that the airflow arrow on the new fan frame matches the orientation of the fan you removed.
Mount the new fan.
Seat the replacement fan onto the mounting bracket, aligning the screw holes or clips. Secure it using the original fasteners.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Do not overtighten screws on the fan frame โ the plastic can crack. Tighten until snug and stop.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Reversing polarity on the fan connector may damage the fan, the fan controller, or both. Consult the wiring diagram in the full manual before connecting. [TODO: Add pin assignment diagram here.]
Reassemble the case.
Replace the case lid or base panel and secure all screws.
Power on and verify.
Reconnect the power supply and boot your Raspberry Pi. Confirm the fan spins up within a few seconds of boot or after the system reaches its configured temperature threshold.
[TODO: Add confirmation steps specific to the fan control mode (ON / PWM / OFF) once software and configuration details are confirmed.]
๐ Note: The partial instruction manual header references ON / PWM / OFF operating modes, indicating the fan is capable of software or hardware speed control. Full configuration details are pending retrieval of the complete manual. [TODO: Replace this section with verified commands and configuration steps once the full manual is available.]
| Mode | Behaviour |
|---|---|
| ON | Fan runs at full speed continuously |
| PWM | Fan speed is modulated based on temperature or a configured duty cycle |
| OFF | Fan is stopped (may still be powered; depends on controller) |
[TODO: Confirm how modes are selected โ via hardware jumper, GPIO pin, config file, or Argon control software.]
Many Argon cases use a companion fan-control daemon or script. If your case supports software fan speed control, the typical setup pattern is:
# Example only โ confirm the correct script/package for your specific case
# before running. Do not run this command without verifying it applies to your case.
curl https://download.argon40.com/[TODO: correct-script-filename].sh | bash
[TODO: Insert the exact, verified installation command from the Argon 40 official download page or GitHub repository for your specific case model.]
If the fan is connected to a GPIO-controlled header, you can check or set pin state using raspi-gpio as a diagnostic tool:
# Install raspi-gpio if not already present
sudo apt install raspi-gpio
# Read the state of a GPIO pin โ replace XX with the correct BCM pin number
raspi-gpio get XX
๐ Note: The specific GPIO pin number depends on your Argon case model and its controller board. [TODO: Add the correct BCM GPIO pin number for each supported case once confirmed.]
# List available hardware monitor readings (requires lm-sensors)
sudo apt install lm-sensors
sudo sensors-detect
sensors
[TODO: Confirm whether the Mini FAN includes a tachometer wire. If it is a 2-pin fan, tachometer readings via software will not be available.]
Symptom: Fan does not spin after installation
- Likely cause: Loose or incorrectly seated connector; fan control set to OFF mode.
- Resolution:
1. Power down and unplug the system.
2. Reseat the fan connector firmly, verifying correct polarity against the wiring diagram.
3. Check your fan control software settings โ confirm the mode is set to ON or PWM and not OFF.
4. Test the fan by temporarily setting the control mode to ON (always-on) to rule out a software configuration issue.
5. If the fan still does not spin with a confirmed power connection, test the second fan from the pack to determine whether the unit itself is faulty.
Symptom: Fan spins briefly at boot then stops
- Likely cause: Fan control software is working correctly and the system temperature is below the configured start threshold; or the PWM duty cycle is set too low to overcome the fan's start-up friction.
- Resolution:
1. Check your fan control configuration for the temperature threshold setting.
2. Lower the start temperature threshold or increase the minimum PWM duty cycle.
3. Monitor CPU temperature to confirm the fan activates when the threshold is crossed:
watch -n 2 vcgencmd measure_temp
Symptom: Fan is making unusual noise (grinding, rattling, or clicking)
- Likely cause: Bearing wear; a cable is contacting the fan blades; the fan is not seated flat against its mounting surface.
- Resolution:
1. Power down and open the case.
2. Inspect cable routing โ ensure all cables are clear of the fan blades.
3. Confirm the fan is flush against its mounting bracket with all fasteners properly tightened.
4. If bearing noise persists with cables clear, the fan has reached end-of-life. Replace it with the second unit included in the pack.
Symptom: System overheating / thermal throttling despite fan running
- Likely cause: Fan installed in the wrong orientation (recirculating hot air instead of exhausting it); fan control threshold set too high; heatsink contact issue unrelated to the fan.
- Resolution:
1. Open the case and verify the airflow arrow on the fan frame points in the correct exhaust direction for your case model.
2. Re-check your thermal threshold settings and lower the activation temperature if needed.
3. Confirm the Raspberry Pi's heatsink (if present) is correctly seated with thermal compound or pad.
4. Monitor temperatures under load:
# Monitor CPU temperature every 2 seconds
watch -n 2 vcgencmd measure_temp
Symptom: Fan connector does not fit the case header
- Likely cause: Incorrect case model โ the Mini FAN may not be compatible with your specific Argon case variant.
- Resolution:
1. Cross-check your Argon case SKU against the confirmed compatibility list for ARG-MINI-FAN. [TODO: Add explicit compatibility list when available.]
2. Do not force the connector โ forced connections can bend pins or damage the controller board.
3. Contact Argon 40 support at www.argon40.com with your case model and fan SKU for confirmation.
Symptom: PWM fan speed control has no effect โ fan runs at fixed speed only
- Likely cause: Fan control software not installed or not running; PWM signal wire not connected; 2-pin fan connected to a 4-pin PWM header without an adapter.
- Resolution:
1. Verify the fan control daemon is installed and active:
# Check whether the Argon fan control service is running
# Replace 'argon-fan' with the actual service name for your case
sudo systemctl status argon-fan
Q: Can I use the Argon Mini FAN in a non-Argon enclosure?
A: The fan is described as a universal small replacement, but fit depends on matching the fan's physical dimensions and connector type to your enclosure. Without confirmed dimension specifications, we cannot guarantee it will fit third-party cases. [TODO: Add confirmed dimensions here when available.] If you are replacing a fan in an Argon case, using a genuine Argon replacement is the safest choice for connector and mounting compatibility.
Q: The pack includes two fans. Can I install both fans in one case at the same time?
A: This depends entirely on whether your Argon case has two fan mounting positions. Most Argon cases have a single fan bay. The second fan in the pack is intended as a spare. Refer to your case assembly guide to determine whether dual-fan configurations are supported.
Q: How do I know when my fan needs to be replaced?
A: Common signs of a failing fan include: unusual bearing noise (grinding, clicking, or rattling), the fan failing to spin up when the system is under load, or persistent thermal throttling despite the fan appearing to run. Running a small diagnostic such as vcgencmd measure_temp while under load and comparing it against expected temperatures for your case model is a good starting point.
Q: Does the Argon Mini FAN work with Raspberry Pi 5?
A: Compatibility depends on which Argon case you are using.