I want a new video card, but when i look at the requirements they talk about 500w min. How do i find out what my pcs power supply is?
2007-05-30 18:54:36 · 6 answers · asked by Ian H 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
You need to open the side panel to see the label sticker of the power supply.
New video cards require more power, especially on the +12V rail (ATI HD 2900XTX draws 240 watts; 8800 Ultra draws 163 watts). Old power supplies are strong on the +3.3 and +5V rails but weak on the +12V rail. Today, total wattage of power supply is less significant than wattage (or amps) on the +12V rail (or rails).
Also, do not rely on minimum power supply recommendation. You would just run it HOT at FULL LOAD. A higher rated power supply runs cooler and lasts longer.
2007-05-31 04:36:00 · answer #1 · answered by Karz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Think you must check the power supply itself and as far as I know all new power supply have do have 500w but old ones have 200w
2007-05-31 02:03:10 · answer #2 · answered by blackmaskofthehawk 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there is a tag on the power supply unit. It is usually visible from the back. if the minimum is 500w for your video card you will need at least 750w for your whole system.
2007-05-31 01:59:31 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Open your case and look for a sticker on the side of the power supply. You can also check the msnufscturers website. If it is a PCI-X card you are going to need PCI-X connectors like on this supply:
http://www.gamegiants.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_13&products_id=1152
Or an adapter cable:
http://www.gamegiants.net/product_info.php?cPath=1_50&products_id=1171
.
2007-05-31 14:22:59 · answer #4 · answered by decker 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there are documentation on the power supply itself. most ps for P4 computers are about 400 and should be sufficient. 500w is overkill.
2007-05-31 01:59:25 · answer #5 · answered by Mr. Teng 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it might be in your specifications depending on the computer, but it will also be on the sticker that is on the power supply..this might be hidden in between the PSU and case
2007-05-31 01:58:57 · answer #6 · answered by Astroman 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋