I'm building my own PC and was going to start off with a case with a 400watt PSU. Is this a suitable power? I want my PC for gaming (good but not serious) and movies, internet etc.
Also are there any good sites that will help me decide on specific specifications of hardware components?
2007-07-02 05:31:27 · 10 answers · asked by thespoonmachine 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
OK some conflicting info but you are saying a higer PSU like 500watt will not do any harm? What are the cons of having a high watt?
2007-07-02 05:52:45 · update #1
It depends on the specifics of what you are going to be putting into it. 400 watts most likely wouldn't be enough for a machine with a current processor and a mid-level graphics card.
In deciding what components would be best, you might do well to go into one of those custom computer stores and talk it over with one of the geeks they have working in there.
2007-07-02 05:35:34 · answer #1 · answered by firstythirsty 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Determine what all the component parts will be: i.e. CPU, Video Card; Audio Card; RAM; HD, CD/DVD drives; etc., etc., etc.
Read the tech info on each component. Make a list of how many watts of power each uses and then add it all up. That will tell you where you need to be in regards to power.
Generally speaking, a 400W PS should do it. But PS's are realtively cheap so even going to 500W is not an unreasonable thing to do. It will give you lots of options down the road for upgrading your pc as the technology develops.
Hope this helps.
2007-07-02 05:39:29 · answer #2 · answered by Dick 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's a little bit more complicated than 400w versus 500w. And most systems, even mid-range gaming machines don't even require 400w, as long as it's a quality PSU and you aren't overclocking your processor/videocard [see: http://www.silentpcreview.com/article28-page4.html].
You want to look for specifications that list the amps on each "rail," 3.3V rail, 5V rail, 12V rail.
An easy guideline: the more amps on the 12V rail, the better for modern day systems. Look for a power supply with at least 26amps on the 12V rail (26*12=312W from the 12 volt rail).
You'll need 26amps on the +12V to run the highest end video cards out now. So... if you want to upgrade to an 8800gtx or something, you shouldn't run into any problems.
Higher wattage PSUs are usually more expensive and less energy efficient than lower wattage PSUs.
2007-07-05 09:38:25 · answer #3 · answered by wruwtrix 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The power supply should be good enough to grow with your upgrades while providing clean power to all the parts. The unit will also provide a level of protection for your computer components.
Don't skimp on the PSU, Newegg.com has a great selection with reviews.
2007-07-02 05:36:38 · answer #4 · answered by JMKyler3 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are going the PCIe route, you should get nothing smaller than 600watts. Your motherboard that you decide to base everything off of will determine what hardware can be used in your computer. There really isn't a good answer without this info.
2007-07-02 05:36:31 · answer #5 · answered by waltzme2heaven 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, it really depends on the video card you get and how many dirves you plan on running,
If you are only using one video card, one or two optical drives (DVD/CD) and one or two hard drives, then 400W is probably OK.
If you check the prices at Newegg, you will see that there is not much difference in price between 400w and 550w.
If you ever plan on running two video cards in SLI or Crossfire, then get a 600w or more PSU now, instead of buying a newer one later.
2007-07-02 05:35:27 · answer #6 · answered by wyntre_2000 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, for ram you does not might desire to be bothered with regard to the ability furnish. i comprehend the ATI X1300XT demands a minimum of a 350 Watt ability furnish and this is pronounced to have this is own man or woman 12 volt ability rail for stability. A equipment can run on a decrease ability unit like yours yet for a fashion long? Plus if ability circulate is risky it would desire to ultimately carry approximately harm to different significant aspects mutually with your motherboard, pictures card etc. you will possibly desire to attempt to atleast get a 450 or 500 watt ability furnish to be on the risk-free side and to have slightly room for destiny enhancements.
2016-10-03 10:12:16 · answer #7 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
PSU is depend on your workload of your mother board + CPU + RAM + especially VGA and so on.
I think it is more than enough for your mentioned usage.
yahoo
2007-07-02 05:38:30 · answer #8 · answered by yahoo 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
400 to 500 is pretty much standard unless you are adding a gazillion devices.
Sounds good.
AAS Comp Networking
2007-07-02 05:38:46 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can try mwave.com You can build your pc by case/mb/cpu
400 watts should be plenty.
2007-07-02 05:35:07 · answer #10 · answered by intel233 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋