I tried @eskimo’s solution and it works perfectly. Here’s my setup:
Main steps:
- Cut the noctua extension cable and solder the wires according to the picture (based on @eskimo’s post). I used a glue gun for proper insulation and to avoid the wires breaking during assembly.
- Glue the fan to the board (the anti-vibration mounts are too large for the sata-hat board holes). You can also use M3x20mm screws.
- Mount the sata hat on the aluminum case using M3x10mm screws and nuts. This blocks the noctua fan connector against the case but it also adds a few millimeters rendering the 4 small screws useless.
Performance
With the same settings, I had an average temperature of 39°C with the original fan, and now it’s up to 43°C with the noctua.