Power supply

[stu]

I have an ATX case and I seem to be continually putting in new hardware that requires power directly from the power supply using the double connectors. How will I know when I am putting too much strain on my power supply ???

[Stan]

Yep, I am glad you are asking that question... as I'd like to know too.

I have a 230W ATX PSU with:
- 4 fans (5 with the CPU fan)
- 5 PCI slots all used
- 2 HD, 7200rpm
- CD-rom

No problem so far, but I am thinking of buying a 300W PSU...

Stan

[Nathan G]

The only way i know of to figure power consumption with any degree of accuracy is to use a AC ampmeter and find out how much current the unit is drawing. without getting too detailed, i believe the formula is :
Watts = Volts x Amps
please note that you cpu should be under full load during measurment of current. ie... running RC5 , using modem, quake loop or something..You should alway runs less than the Max rating of PS(de-rate) ,i feel by at least 10% . Never run your Power distribution on the ragged edge.
BTW= i installed AC case fans and use a solid state relay to turn them on with power. that way the only load on PS for fans is the relay itself.. mA range versus >1/2 Amp. (note that is on the DC side of supply).
Dont mess around inside PowerSupply unless you know what you are doing.. it can be hazardous to people and property.
Nathan G.

[This message has been edited by Nathan G (edited 08-26-99).]

[ANTONIO E GUERRA]

As Nathan says, there is no serviceable parts in the power supply: so, if it is damaged, replaced it. If you have one of those monitors hooked to the powe supply, connect directly to the electric outlet. The monitor will weak the power supply. Usually a 230-250 watts power supply will be enough for a regular user.