sferrazza
Level 1 (4 points)
Wireless

Q: Amber light, loud fan.

3Tb Time Capsule in an open space began to make a loud fan sound while flashing amber light. When the fan stops, the light goes green. Out of warranty.  Fixable?

3Tb TimeCapsule, iOS 9.3.5

Posted on Aug 29, 2016 8:44 PM

Close
sferrazza

Q: Amber light, loud fan.

  • All replies
  • Helpful answers

  • by LaPastenague,

    LaPastenague LaPastenague Aug 30, 2016 2:10 AM in response to sferrazza
    Level 9 (52,255 points)
    Wireless
    Aug 30, 2016 2:10 AM in response to sferrazza

    3TB covers both the Gen4 and the Gen5 TC.. maybe even the occasional Gen3 managed 3TB.

     

    Each has different issues. If you have the Gen5 TC you can pull it apart and clean the fan.. they can be clogged with dust. But it can be due to other things as well.. the fan itself might be damaged and need replacement.. they run 24/7 in the Gen5.

     

    See comments from Bob here.

     

    Noise from Time Capsule

    Diagnostics and Usage in the airport utility can tell you a fair bit about what is going on.. overheating and fan RPM etc.

     

    For the Gen4 it will depend on the state of the hard disk and power supply.. hard to guess without a peak.. They are considered 3 year lifespan devices at which point it should be replaced.. You can recover the hard disk and it is possible to repair the Gen4 with a bit of DIY.

     

    Look at the ifixit website for instructions to open the TC.

     

    https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Apple_Time_Capsule