controlling fans with software?

[XYU]

I would like to know through which program can I controll the fan connectors (the 3 pin fan connectors on the mobo) independent of the CPU temp (manually). I would like to at least turn them on and off, or if possible gradually change their speed (I doubt it though).
Also, how to turn the monitor on and off (considering i'm controlling the machine remotely).
Thanx.

[Gandalf]

Check this thread out.

http://forums.overclockers.ws/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=52767

Also, go to www.fanbus.com to look at FanBus's and BAyBus's.

Both of these can control your fans (at variable speeds) or you can get some that control there RPM's (!!).

[Monaco]

You can build a circuit off a parallel port that will turn a 12V gate on and off, and control the circuit with software. Or control a PWM chip with the port.

But it won't be easy! Easy to find a pinout for a parallel port, but I imagine the software is a real bear. I had to use a prewritten prog for mine.

[XYU]

OK, so how do you do that? Any articles?

[Monaco]

well, take a look at Point of no Return.org (http://casemods.pointofnoreturn.org/)

I did the first project, the external LED meter. I imagine if you are up to a bit of work, you can modify that basic design-and the code as well- to get software controlled fans.

I'm pretty sure a PWM circuit is your best bet, as you can't control the signal from a port other than off/on. Pretty obvious, since it is digital, but it took me a looooong time to realize that on my own:)