12V Fan Controlled by 5V USB

[HaloZero]

Hello, this is my first post here so I hope I am going about this right. My project is an Entertainment Console Venting Fan that comes on when my PS3 is turned on.

I am trying to get a 12V computer case fan to switch on only when it receives a signal from a 5V USB port. I have seen some similar designs online but they all seem to be for higher rated voltages.
I understand that I need a Solid State Relay that will accept a control voltage of 5V, I was hoping someone would be able to recommend a specific one for me that would get the job done.
Here's what I have:

Computer Case Fan (12VDC, 280mA Max Current)
A/C adapter (Output 12VDC, 500mA)

Thanks for any help.

 

[(*steve*)]

Just use a transistor, or perhaps a logic-level mosfet.

The 5V from the USB can turn on a transistor or mosfet connected to the common ground and switch the fan on.

This page has some examples (the fan takes the place of the relay or the LED in the various examples).

And here are some more examples/information.

 

[HaloZero]

Thanks

Thank you for the response Steve. The links you gave seem to make sense on the basic level but are somewhat technical and I am not well versed. I wouldn't know where to begin to choose the right Transistor for my task.
Would you possibly be able to recommend a specific one or type for my situation? It would go between the A/C adapter (Output 12VDC, 500mA) and the Computer Case Fan (12VDC, 280mA Max Current) but I'm not even sure how to wire it. The diagrams of the transistors seem to indicate only a single lead for the Base current (no +/-).
I apologize for my ignorance here, but I am going to need a photo or a step-by-step or a basic diagram at the very least. I appreciate any help you can offer.

Thanks again.

 

[(*steve*)]

Sorry about the delay.

You can use a circuit something like this:

Note that the single transistor could be any of a number of things. I have shown 3 alternatives, a single transistor, a darlington pair, and a mosfet.

All have their advantages and disadvantages.

 

[NickS]

Here are some parts that will work for your design.