How can I tell if PSU genuinely tells its wattage?

Question

I have a 500w psu but it is generic. Aside from the sticker, how can I tell if it is really 500W? So far, it is working ok and I've subjected it to a stress test (literally on 24 hrs for 6 days d/l-ing torrents) and it is still ok. I have 2hdds, 3 120mm case fans, 2 optical drives, 2 ddr sticks, a sempy, an msi mobo, and a 7300gt that is connected to one of the molexes of the psu. Theoretically it should run on 380W on full load but I still can't tell if it is a 500W. I'm afraid it'll go "low power" on me one of these days.

Oh yeah, what's the longevity of the generic psu? I mean can it last as long as branded ones or be as durable as branded ones? Thanks!

Answer 1

The more the certifications there are in the sticker, the better the assurance that the power supply will deliver its rating SAFELY and RELIABLY as per ATX 1.3, 2.0 or 2.2 specs. Look for markings like Nemko, TUV, UL, FCC, CE, etc.

Old power supplies based on ATX 1.3 have strong +5V and +3.3V rails but weak +12V rail.
Newer motherboards and devices now require more juice on the +12V rail that is why ATX V2.01 requires dual +12V rails. ATX V2.2 imposed a higher efficiency rating.
For a good 500W PSU to power new PCs and its devices, it should have dual +12V rail w/ at least 16amps per rail or better.
Do not follow the minimum PSU requirement. They will just run HOT at full or near full load and may not last long. PSUs run cooler and last longer if load is 80% or less.

Answer 2

you can buy a meter that reads the wattage, it goes between the computer and the power cord, the only other way is to add up all the wattage of all the peripherals and then you'll know, if it exceeds 450 watts then the power supply is probably under strain, i myself use a Enermax power supply, its expensive but is very reliable and has many protection circuits for over load, it also has adjustable fan speed.

Answer 3

im looking into upgrading my psu right now and am trying to figure them out too, here is a tutorial i ran across http://www.sapphiretech.com/en/forums/showthread.php?t=12909 i dont really understand it though myself. i know ive read about cheap power supplies not actually having the stated W because of an issue, i think amerage or 12v rail related

i have no idea about longevity, i just read reviews at places like newegg.com and see what other people's experiences have been

Answer 4

i hit upon that one thousand watt will run maximum computers, and that they may be particularly low-fee. besides the undeniable fact that, word which you probably did no longer get a CPU cooler, and your pc wil no longer run precise without one.