Kitz Forum

Computers & Hardware => PC Hardware => Topic started by: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 02:15:06 PM

Title: PC Power Supply.
Post by: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 02:15:06 PM

Hello all,
            I seem to be having an issue with my PSU, well it's not really an issue but a question, well here goes :) . I had a quick look around inside my PC yesterday and I noticed my PSU is only rated at 250W

12v +/- 250W
5v +/- 110W
3v +/- 110W

I checked manufacturers websites for all my components and all of them require ATLEAST 400W but nothing is unstable or underclocking so why is this ??

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: Floydoid on January 05, 2009, 04:38:13 PM

If your PC is working fine, then don't worry about it.

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: oldfogy on January 05, 2009, 04:47:23 PM

Quote from: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 02:15:06 PM

 but nothing is unstable or underclocking

If it ain't broke don't fix it.

However if and when your PC start to constantly re-start its-self (PSU over heating) then maybe it's time to reconsider.

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 06:00:29 PM

My PC has been restarting but not due to the PSU mostly driver errors I use/edit drivers quite a bit  :)

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: HPsauce on January 05, 2009, 06:06:07 PM

Every component will have a maximum load with some margin for error and different configurations/activity.
Some may hit near to maximum power load at startup, others at different times. But rarely all together.

e.g. Add up all the rated power of the stuff in your house and work out what it would cost to run 24*7 at maximum consumption.

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: Floydoid on January 05, 2009, 07:20:05 PM

Quote from: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 06:00:29 PM

I use/edit drivers quite a bit  :)

Any particular reason for that?

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 07:30:43 PM

Quote from: Floydoid on January 05, 2009, 07:20:05 PM

Quote from: Imagine. on January 05, 2009, 06:00:29 PM

I use/edit drivers quite a bit  :)

Any particular reason for that?

I mostly tweak the graphics drivers to improve performance usually I get an extra 5fps usually doesn't cause errors.

Title: Re: PC Power Supply.
Post by: exo on January 05, 2009, 08:34:23 PM

The PSU wattage will be chosen in relation to the other components installed.
A standard computer used for Office applications and the internet will not require high rated components.
A computer designed for games will require a high spec CPU and graphics card and a higher rated PSU to match.

As an aid to what may be required, this may be of interest.
http://www.journeysystems.com/?power_supply_calculator