Mesh filters are included with almost all modern computer cases. They are included in the front air intakes, top air intakes, and the PSU air intake at the bottom. But, how and when should you use them? Mesh filters can create a massive issue when misaligned, so using them at places where you do not require one is a bad idea. Let us find out more about mesh filters in this article.
What do Mesh Filters Look Like?
Mesh filters can have three major form factors:
1. Magnetic mesh filters, where the borders of the filters are covered with magnets and the filter slaps onto the metal face of the case.
2. Friction tab held mesh filters.
3. Ordinary meshes. They are held together using some indentations on the case surface, or can also be screwed into the intake of fans.
How do Mesh Filters Work?
Mesh filters have a very simple task. They filter the air passing through them and stop a lot of dust from entering your computer case. As we know, dust is not the best friend of any electronic device. Accumulated dust can also slow down fans, which may hamper airflow. Thus, mesh filters ensure the longevity and optimal performance of PC hardware.
How to Use Dust Filters in Computers?
Dust filters filter the incoming dust. Thus, you should only mount them in air intakes. Exhausts should never have dust filters on them, as this can end up trapping a large amount of dust from leaving your system which will cause more harm than good.
In case you have a negative pressure build, you can put mesh filters in every vent your case has, excluding the exhausts. Negative pressure PC builds pull air in from every case vent. All of these vents can thus pull dust in too, thereby making your PC dirty and hurting its performance.
This is how you should configure mesh filters in your computer case. Never plug one in the exhaust, and you will be good to go.