SpeedFan is a popular software utility developed by Alfredo Milani Comparetti for Microsoft Windows. Released in 2000, it is designed to monitor system temperatures, fan speeds, and voltages in computers.
The program can read various sensors on compatible motherboards and hard drives, providing users with real-time information about their system's health. One of its key features is the ability to control fan speeds manually, helping users maintain optimal temperature levels while reducing noise.
SpeedFan can also monitor S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) attributes of hard drives, helping to predict potential drive failures. The software supports temperature monitoring for multiple components, including CPU, GPU, and motherboard sensors.
While the interface might seem complex for beginners, experienced users appreciate its comprehensive monitoring capabilities and customization options. The program is free to use and remains a valuable tool for system enthusiasts and those concerned about their computer's thermal performance.
Despite its age, SpeedFan continues to be a reliable choice for users who want to maintain control over their system's cooling and monitor vital hardware parameters.
| SpeedFan Software Details | |
|---|---|
| Developer | Alfredo Milani-Comparetti |
| Initial Release | 2000 |
| Latest Version | 4.52 (as of 2016) |
| Operating System | Windows 95 and later |
| License | Freeware |
| File Size | ~1.4 MB |
| Main Features | • Hardware monitoring • Fan speed control • Temperature monitoring • Voltage monitoring |
| Monitored Components | • CPU temperature • GPU temperature • Hard drive temperature • System voltages • Fan speeds |
| Key Functions | • Automatic fan speed adjustment • Custom fan curves • Temperature alerts • S.M.A.R.T. monitoring • System health logging |
| Supported Hardware | • Most motherboards • Various temperature sensors • Compatible fan controllers • Hard drives with S.M.A.R.T. |
| Interface Features | • Real-time graphs • Customizable dashboard • System tray icon • Configuration profiles |
| Advanced Capabilities | • Custom temperature thresholds • Email alerts • Log file creation • Multiple sensor support |
| Limitations | • No automatic updates • Limited modern hardware support • Complex initial setup • Last updated in 2016 |
| Benefits | • Free to use • Low system resources • Comprehensive monitoring • Flexible configuration |
| Common Uses | • System temperature monitoring • Fan control optimization • Hardware diagnostics • Performance tuning |
| Safety Features | • Fail-safe mechanisms • Warning systems • Emergency shutdown options • Backup settings |
| Data Export Options | • CSV files • HTML reports • Log files • Screenshots |
| System Requirements | • Windows OS • Compatible hardware • Admin privileges • Minimal RAM/CPU usage |
| Additional Tools | • S.M.A.R.T. reader • Clock manipulation • In-depth hardware info • Debug features |
