Which component can be easily damaged by the direct spray of compressed air when cleaning inside the computer case?

The fan is particularly susceptible to damage from the direct spray of compressed air due to its design and the materials used in its construction. Fans have spinning blades that can become easily unbalanced if subjected to excessive force from compressed air. The impact of the air pressure can cause the blades to bend or break, leading to improper functioning or failure of the fan. Additionally, the bearings in the fan can be affected by sudden bursts of air, potentially resulting in wear or damage that can shorten the lifespan of the component.

In contrast, other components like the hard drive, processor, and power supply have different levels of protection and are typically less affected by cleaning methods involving compressed air. For instance, a hard drive is housed in a rigid enclosure making it more resistant to physical damage, while the processor is fixed into the motherboard and is protected by its design. The power supply also has enclosures that prevent easy access and protect its internal components from external forces.