Article Can the DXP and DXN of MAX31760 be left unused?

Theoretically, yes. The MAX31760 supports Direct Fan Control (manual mode) such that the fan can be controlled directly via the register. However, the MAX31760 supports a lookup table to automatically control the fan rotational speed. The fan speed can be automatically controlled after the configuration is completed. Without a need for intervention by a program, software cost can be saved. A diode-connected BJT can be used to facilitate temperature measurement.