Error 511commonly pops up on HP computers, where the system fails to recognize the CPU fan.
But how do we make this error disappear?
Well, we troubleshoot the fan first and replace it if needed.
So, lets dive right in.
Why your PC shows the Error 511 CPU Fan Not Detected?
This oops message is pretty much self-explanatory.
Your PC shows Error 511 due to the CPU fan being broken or not detected by the BIOS.
It can happen if too much dust accumulates on your CPU coolers fan.
The blades are covered with dirt, and hence itdoes not rotate as fastas it would normally do.
Sometimes, the situation is so bad that the blades are unable to move entirely.
For example, just take a look at the insides of a university computer.
This wasnt cleaned for years, and no wonder the picture implies that.
The same dirt can hinder the connection points between the processors cooler pins and the socket on the motherboard.
As a result, the CPU fan is simply not detected.
This has major implications, primarily safeguarding it from high temperatures.
A cooler ensures that the processor remains cool and within acceptable temperatures.
Lastly, the BIOS itself can sometimes not detect the CPU fan.
After updating it you may get the error 511 randomly.
You are just risking your components in a desperate bid to boot up your gear.
Now, lets see what fixes you oughta apply.
Do not allow any dust and grime to build up on the fans and the connection pins.
Now connect the CPU cooler properly and power on your system.
As a last resort, it’s possible for you to reset the BIOS.
I have explained these in detail below.
These are the methods to fix the error 511 CPU fan not detected:
1.
Dust off the fans, particularly their blades and the connectors.
A can of compressed air really comes in handy here.
The small pipe can reach the insides of the heatsinks, which is difficult to clean using a cloth.
Or you’re able to use a blower and simply blow off the dust.
Sprayingcleaning alcoholis not necessary, but you’ve got the option to do that.
The fans will then look brand new after the liquid dries off.
Reconnect the CPU Cooler Cables
Align the CPU cooler on top of the processor and connect it securely.
Connect the fans power connector to the motherboard.
The fan connector is usually found near the CPU socket.
If you see a connector accepting 4 pins, this is the one.
Remember, the connector should always connect to theCPU_FANconnector.
Now power on your system.
Does it go past the BIOS?
Or are you back in the loop again?
If you get the same error again, it seems that maybe yourCPU cooler is damaged.
In that case, skip to the very last step of the article, where I talk about replacements.
Reset the BIOS
you might reset a BIOS in two ways.
Remove itsCMOS batteryor reset it from theBIOS options.
When you remove theCMOS batterythe stock configs are back, and all your custom tweakings or updates are gone.
If your BIOS is acting wired after an update, this is the easiest way to fix it.
For HP computers, the BIOS key isF10,and users of DELL PCs can press theF2key.
Once inside the BIOS, findLoad Default configs.
This is mostly present on theSave and Exitpage or at the bottom of the BIOS screen.
Just press it, and the computer should restart loading with the stock BIOS controls.
Replace the CPU Fan
You could also try looking at the fans for damages.
And honestly, sometimes the damaged fans will look perfectly okay.
The only way to distinguish them is that theCPU cooler does not workanymore.
you might evenreplace the CPU fan with a case fan.
A typical CPU cooler for an HP desktop looks something like this.
On most occasions, the CPU fan is at fault.
Rarely do we see a similar defect on the motherboard.
In that case, replacing the cooler is the only way out.
If your system is still under warranty, get in touch with the PC manufacturer for a replacement unit.
Search using your PCs model, and you will get good recommendations.
Then simply check out how toreplace the fans on a CPU cooler.
Additionally, go through the completeCPU fan RPM guide.
The instructions provided in that article will greatly increase the durability of the processor fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fix a CPU fan error?
you might fix the CPU fan error by connecting the fan connectors securely to the motherboard.
What is post-error 511?
This is a mechanism designed to protect the processor from the build-up of heat without any dissipating source present.
On the other end of the spectrum, things are not looking good.
Unless you do not purchase a new cooler, the error isnt going away anytime soon.
That summarizes this article for you.
I hope you had a good time going through it.
