The noise is subjective, and I suppose relative to where your cpu is situated.

I as well hear my fan running constantly, although I have used machines where I hear nothing.

Since I have not found it bothersome, I am not now going to let all the postings influence my initial acceptance.

Fans are mechanical, and it does not bother me that I hear it running: in fact, it's constant uninterupted hum is comforting.

The fan problems seen on Dell systems that most of the posts here are about concern the Bxxx and the 4100. The Txxx shouldn't have the problem. If it sounds like a BAe Turbo Prop then you should call Dell if you still have service warranty.

Joan,

It is a good question. When I first set up my new 4100 we all noticed and mentioned that it was loud...but I don't know if it is as loud as some are experiencing. I didn't like the thought that I'd be on the computer writing for hours with that next to me, so I called to order the new fan kit. The next day service that I purchased is taking a week. First, they lost the initial order and after the second order they had to send out the part, which the tech co got yesterday and finally they agreed to come tomorrow to put it in. I'll post with the results to let folks know how much quieter it is or isn't. Best of luck!

I just set up my new Dell Dimension 4100 and it makes a very annoying hum/buzz--inside the tower. Is the same thing ya'll are hearing?

My 14 month old Dell Dimension never had this problem--it is still completely quiet.

A tech guy said the fan is not good if it is loud enough to hear outside the room the PC is in and if it becomes bothersome while working near the PC ... that is your guage to check the volume

If it is annoying you then you should call Dell and get them to replace it. If the new fan is still noisy then it is probably just something you will have to live with. Cooling is such a major factor with todays high speed systems.
If the replacement fan is quieter you've solved your problem. Good luck

My fan is loud, much louder than any computer i have ever had (dell dimension4100) but it is 933mh so i just thought it was the facts of life when you have such a fast processor- i know they get VERY hot.

Until i get a computer desk, my cpu sits right next to me, and it really doesn't bother me, white noise does tend to be relaxing for me, if it were ticking or whistling, that might be annoying...akin to a leaky faucet... hmmm

I got a 4100 a month ago, my 4th Dell PC. The fan was excruciatingly loud, unbearable and impossible to deal with. The noise was not just loud but very irratating. I called Dell, was told it was a known problem and they did replace the fan. The new fan is much quieter, but after a week now it seems to have gotten a little nosier with periodic clacking, though much better than the original fan.

Truthfully, Dell should not have shipped one single PC with the problem fan. It is insanely loud and not fit for a $2000 PC, or any PC. Also Dell should alert all buyers of this issue and let them know they can get a replacement. I feel awful that many users may just think that is how nosiy PCs are, or at least the new top end PCs.