What makes 1 power supply better than others? How much money is a reasonable price. Also how can i figure out what brands are good. Also is a U.P.S. a good idea?
2006-12-08 06:32:14 · 3 answers · asked by Fate 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
From what I have seen the power supply seems to be the part of the computer people know the least about, and therefore tend to skimp on, which they later regret. The guy talking about brands not being important, brands are always important, a good name brand is always of better quality than a cheap knock off, and quality is important in power supplies, a lot of cheap ones will go out in a matter of 6 months.
As for stuff to look for, try one of these brands: Thermaltake, OCZ, PC Power and Cooling. There are other good brands as well, if you want to ask about a specific brand send me an email. As for features, look for Active PFC for one. Also make sure to get a high enough wattage, 400W for a plain computer, 500W+ if you are building a gaming computer. Don't buy off ebay, spend the extra to know you are getting a good part. Look to spend at the very least $60, but really $100 is a good idea. A UPS is a good idea, just make sure you get one with enough wattage.
If you need further help, feel free to email me.
2006-12-08 10:39:37 · answer #1 · answered by mysticman44 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What makes 1 power supply better than others?
Dude I have never heard of any one power supply brand being better than the other. I would look into getting a high wattage before I look @ brand. Most cases come with a cheap 300 or 350 watt....I would go for a 450 or 500 watt.
How much money is a reasonable price
@ least 100-200 bucks
Also how can i figure out what brands are good.
www.tomshardware.com
Also is a U.P.S. a good idea?
Depends.....if you will be typing up tons & tons of important documents that you could lose in a power failure, then yes. Otherwise no.
2006-12-08 14:38:59 · answer #2 · answered by SoccerBoi 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Like anything else...check the warranty. I buy all my power supplies off of eBay. Seller feedback is important. Make sure the seller will exchange if you have problems. For price, you need to be more specific. 600W for a P4 system? 450W for a Dual Athlon setup? SATA Power connections? Convertable 20 or 24 Power Plug?
I exchange the Power Supply annually on my Dell Server (P4 3.6, 24 Power Plug, 4 SATA) and have never had problems. I only spend $20 but your setup may cost more.
UPS is an excellent idea! In Central Illinois the power goes off all the time! I am often found surfing the net in the dark!
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2006-12-08 14:39:40 · answer #3 · answered by John H 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋