I have an older computer that the power supply went bad on. I'm running an Athlon xp 2.2 gHz, w/ 768 ram, GeForce 5700 LE video card, 3 Western digital HDD's, 1 Sony DVD-RW, powering 2 external USB devices. I had an Atnec SP400 that only lasted me about a year. I am trying to hold off for as long as possible the building of a new computer. Any suggestions?
2007-02-26 08:12:01 · 9 answers · asked by Just Z 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
Check this link that helps you determine what wattage you need for the hardware installed. Sounds like you had an overloaded power supply...
2007-02-26 08:16:58 · answer #1 · answered by mrresearchman 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Kind of sounds like you may have under powered your system originally. Always calculate the total wattage you are going to use then, calculate a 25% to 30% more then needed. This would also account for your USB connections. USB may be only 5 volts but they can draw upwards of 2 amps per device! Most computer stores (i.e. Compusa, Micro Center) will have power supplies that are a fit for your computer and do not cost much. I assuming that you are using a desktop system?
2007-02-26 08:26:26 · answer #2 · answered by dick_bee_bad 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Power supplies are actually quite easy to replace. New ones usually run about 30 dollars and up, depending on what wattage and brand. I always recommend at least 300 watts, to ensure that there is adequate power. Of course, if you plan on adding several drives and/or a high-end video card with a separate connector, you may want even more. Most likely, you need a standard ATX supply, which can be bought at most computer retailers including Best Buy, or you can find better deals on newegg.com or tigerdirect.com. Used ones may be able to be purchased on ebay as well. Good luck!
2007-02-26 08:19:07 · answer #3 · answered by rclarksworld 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I have found that the input voltage provided by your power company is less then what is considered 'clean' power, depending on where you live.
I use a Furman power conditioner and surge protector to clean up the power and i havent lost a power supply since.
2007-02-26 08:16:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm sure you'll be able to find a new power supply for less than $50.
2007-02-26 08:16:45 · answer #5 · answered by Carlo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check your local computer stored for a used PS if you don't want to buy new. Or check out NewEgg.com or Frys's Electronics for good prices on a new one.
2007-02-26 08:16:11 · answer #6 · answered by BigRez 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the flexibility furnish is unquestionably a power converter. the laptop runs on a number of diffrent voltages on the comparable time. lots of the structures in a working laptop or laptop run on 12v others at 5v and yet others at 115v.
2016-10-02 01:02:54 · answer #7 · answered by mechem 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
400Watts barely meets the needs of this configuration, you system constantly stressed the PSU that's probably why it failed. Here's a handy calculator that will calculate your PSU needs.
http://www.extreme.outervision.com/psucalculator.jsp
2007-02-26 08:23:52 · answer #8 · answered by Fremen 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's an "older computer?" Way to make me feel geriatric.
2007-02-26 08:15:11 · answer #9 · answered by Chris A 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋