Vienna, August 2nd 2006 - Noctua today introduced the new NF-S12 120mm fan series. Specifically developed for the ultra-low-noise range, the NF-S12 fans are up to 10% quieter at the same flow rate than current high-end fans due to the sound-optimised blade geometry of the Noctua Straight-Blade-Design and the self-stabilising oil-pressure bearing (SSO bearing).

The NF-S12 is the first fan employing a novel rotor which was developed by the Austrian Institute for Heat-Transmission and Fan Technology (Österreichisches Institut für Wärmeübertragung und Ventilatorentechnik, ÖIWV). Thanks to the special optimisation of the blade geometry towards ultra low noise application, it works more efficient than comparable products at low RPM.

"In order to make their products more silent, fan manufacturers usually simply reduce RPM without adapting the rotor design to the modified fluid dynamic parameters", explains Mag. Manfred Stadler MBA of the Austrian Institute for Heat-Transmission and Fan Technology. "Using a blade geometry specifically optimised for lower speed ranges like the Noctua Straight-Blade-Design allows for much better performance than simply reducing RPM."

Running at 1200rpm, the NF-S12-1200 provides a flow rate of 81m³/h at a noise level of only 17dB(A). Using the supplied Ultra-Low-Noise adaptor, the noise level can be reduced below 6dB(A). The NF-S12-800 delivers 59m³/h at 800rpm producing a mere 8dB(A) and can be throttled to below 5dB(A).

The NF-S12 series are equipped with a magnetically centred, self lubricating oil-pressure bearing (SSO bearing) that surpasses current types of ball-, sleeve- and liquid bearings in long-term stability and quietness thanks to its new, improved principle of operation.

"We are proud that the SSO bearing is not only more durable than current top-level ball bearings and works quieter than modern sleeve bearings, but also provides significant advantages in longevity over normal fluid-dynamic and hydro-dynamic bearing thanks to the additional magnet", says Mag. Roland Mossig, CEO of Noctua. "The NF-S12 fans provide the maximum in quality and quietness available today!"

The scope of delivery of the NF-U12 series includes an Ultra-Low-Noise adaptor (U.L.N.A.) that allows for a further reduction in noise emission, 4 vibration compensators for vibration-free installation as well as a 3:4 pin adaptor and fan screws.

Technical specifications
Detailed data and background information on the Noctua Straight-Blade-Design and the SSO bearing can be found at www.noctua.at.

Prices and availability
The NF-S12 fans will be available on August 14th. The recommended retail price is EUR 19.90 /USD 24.90.

About Noctua
Noctua arises from a cooperation between the Austrian Rascom Computerdistribution Ges.m.b.H and the Taiwanese Kolink International Corporation and entertains a development partnership with the Austrian Institute of Heat Transmission and Fan Technology (Österreichisches Institut für Wärmeübertragung und Ventilatorentechnik, ÖIWV). These connections form the key to the development of sound-optimised premium components "Designed in Austria": The partnership with the ÖIWV permits the application of scientific measurement instrumentation, methods of calculation and simulation technology in the R&D process. Rascom's long, customer-oriented experience in developing and distributing sound-optimised high-end products ensures a clear focus on the users' needs. The use of Kolink's advanced manufacturing technology and ultra-modern production plants allows Noctua to efficiently implement its technical edge and provide solutions of the highest standard in quality and performance.

that burgandy is just so damn attractive, staring at my noctua, id like to see there 92mm fan version, and maybe some high speed fans for enthusiats, and not just noisless style

is the sso bearing the same as a normal fluid dynamic bearing?

nope if u read the release it has self stabilizing bearing

Expect a review on these as soon as they become available.

Awsome AntiM are you going to be doing the review? I'd love to see how they do.