Raspberry Pi 2/3/3B+ Case and Fan Set: Fit and Cooling Guide
By Official Hobby Components Online Store | Buy Electronic Kits, Components, Boards, Shields, Modules | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to fit the Raspberry Pi 2/3/3B+ case and fan set, install the 40mm fan correctly, and keep your board cool without blocking ports or shorting the PCB.
Quick answer
Fit the Raspberry Pi 2/3/3B+ Case and Fan Set by mounting the board into the base, securing the 40mm fan so it blows air across the processor, and closing the case without trapping cables. This guide walks through each step and the checks that prevent a loose fit or a short circuit.
Why the 40mm fan matters in a closed case
A closed enclosure traps warm air around the Raspberry Pi, and the processor can slow down when it gets too hot. The included 40mm fan moves air through the case to help keep temperatures in check during longer projects. The case is designed for Raspberry Pi 2 and 3B versions, so the port openings and mounting points line up with those boards. If you use a different model, check the physical layout before forcing anything into place.
When this case is the right choice
This case suits hobbyists who want a simple, sturdy enclosure that still allows access to the required connections. It protects the board from accidental damage and short circuits, which is useful on a workbench or in a classroom. If you need a case for a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5, this set is not designed for those boards, so look for a model-specific enclosure instead.
Step-by-step fit and fan installation
- Prepare the case and board: Unclip the case halves and set the base on a clean, non-conductive surface. Check that the Raspberry Pi 2 or 3B board is clean and that no metal debris sits on the case base. Common mistake: forcing the board into the base before checking alignment can crack the mounting holes or scratch the PCB. Confirm the base is flat and free of debris before placing the board.
- Seat the Raspberry Pi in the base: Lower the board into the base so the USB and Ethernet ports line up with the side openings. Press gently around the edges until the board sits flush. Checkpoint: the board should not rock or lift at any corner; if it does, the base may be upside down or the port cutouts misaligned. A flush, rock-free fit means the board is correctly seated.
- Mount the 40mm fan: Position the fan over the processor area with the airflow arrow pointing toward the board or toward the case vents, following the fan hub markings. Secure it with the supplied screws or clips without over-tightening. Common mistake: mounting the fan backwards, which pushes warm air back onto the processor instead of exhausting it. Check the airflow arrow twice before tightening the fan.
- Route the fan cable safely: Connect the fan lead to the correct GPIO power pins, then route the cable along the case edge and away from the processor and moving parts. Do not trap the cable between the case halves. Checkpoint: tug the cable gently; it should have slack and stay clear of the fan blades. Cable slack prevents strain and stops the fan from rubbing.
- Close the case and test: Align the lid with the base and press the clips or tabs until they click. Power the Raspberry Pi and confirm the fan spins freely and quietly. Common mistake: closing the case before checking fan rotation, which can hide a stalled fan or a trapped wire. Run the board for a few minutes and verify airflow before final assembly.
Product facts
- Raspberry Pi 2 / 3 / 3B / 3B+ Case and Fan Set: The case comes with a 40mm fan to help keep your Raspberry Pi cool and running efficiently. You get active cooling in the box, so you do not need to source a separate fan for basic thermal management.
Raspberry Pi 2 / 3 / 3B / 3B+ Case and Fan Set - Raspberry Pi 2 / 3 / 3B / 3B+ Case and Fan Set: The case is designed specifically for Raspberry Pi versions 2 and 3B and is simple to construct. Port cutouts and mounting points should align with those boards, reducing the need to modify the enclosure.
