Computer power supplies convert the alternating current (AC) electricity from your wall outlet into direct current (DC), which is the kind of power your PC uses. They power all the other PC components with dedicated connectors that limit the need for additional outlets. ATX power supplies have a 20-pin connector, while the ATX12V versions have a 24-pin power connector to fit compatible motherboards. ATX12V motherboards have dual 12V rails that split amperage for added safety. Smaller power supplies take up little space in small laptop cases. Many power supply unit (PSU) models have an 80 PLUS® certification to ensure optimal energy efficiency.
Whens putting together server power supplies, consider the needs of the PCs connected to the system. The computer wattage should be equal or greater than the amount of power required by all the components of your PC, and you can use simple online tools to calculate this value. You only need to input the model of your CPU, GPU, motherboard and other computer accessories, and these tools automatically calculate the minimum wattage you need. Using a computer power supply with a slightly higher wattage than needed provides protection for your components. The PSU runs at less than its maximum capacity, which could prevent overheating inside the computer case. Higher wattage computer power supplies let you upgrade your CPU or GPU in the future without worrying about power consumption. A PSU only consumes the amount of electricity your computer components use, so you won't have to worry about electric bills, even if you choose a model with a higher wattage. If you have a limited budget, choose a refurbished power supply that provides the same performance of a brand-new one at a lower price point.
Many power supplies have an 80 PLUS certification that classifies their energy efficiency. PSUs with the standard 80 PLUS certification offer 80% efficiency at 20%, 50% and 100% loads. There are also Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Titanium 80 PLUS power supplies with higher energy efficiency than the standard 80 PLUS options. This helps maximize efficiency even in high-load situations.
ATX computer power supplies feature a 20-pin main power connector and SATA connectors for storage drives that require an outside power source. ATX12V PSUs have a 24-pin main connector, and do not require the auxiliary power connector. This PSU standard supports dual 12V rails to power modern computer components safely and effectively. EPS12V power supplies use an 8-pin power connector for plugging directly into the processor. Many servers or high-end desktop computers use these power supplies for efficient energy options. There are also smaller power supplies that fit easily into laptop cases.
Many PSUs feature hardwired cables to power all the CPU accessories. Modular computer power supplies offer flexibility, as they let you add or remove cables as needed. Removing unneeded cables allows optimal airflow inside the computer case for protection against overheating.
“ I wanted a quality power supply and didn't want to spend a bunch of money being that it wasn't my main system (which would need more the 600W). ”
Thermaltake Smart Series 600W SLI / CrossFire Ready Continuous Power ATX12V V2.3 / EPS12V 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Power Supply Haswell Ready PS-SPD-0600NPCWUS-W“ I was looking to replace my 10+ year old Seasonic power supply in anticipation of the new RTX 50 series cards coming out. ”
ASRock SL-1000G 1000W ATX3.1 & PCIe5.1 80 PLUS GOLD Certified Full Modular Power Supply“ Great price point for a very reliable brand and power supply. ”
CORSAIR RMx Series RM850x ATX Power Supply - Fully Modular - ATX 3.1 - PCIe 5.1 - Cybenetics Gold - Low-Noise - Japanese Capacitors - 850 Watts“ Cables were long enough to fit a full tower ATX case (Antec Performance 1) ”
be quiet! Pure Power 12 M 1000W ATX 3.0 Power Supply | 80+ Gold Efficiency | PCIe 5.0 compatible 10 Year Warranty“ I'd purchase if cheaper or equivalently priced as other ATX 3.0/3.1 models. ”
ASRock SL-850G 850W ATX3.1 & PCIe5.1 80 PLUS GOLD Certified Full Modular Power Supply“ Seems to be a really good value and checks all the boxes of ATX 3.1, 12VHPWR, Gold rated. ”
ASRock SL-750G 750W ATX3.1 & PCIe5.1 80 PLUS GOLD Certified Full Modular Power Supply“ At the time of reviewing this seems to be the best power supply on the market for the price. ”
ASRock SL-650G 650W ATX3.1 80 PLUS GOLD Certified Full Modular Power Supply“ Quieter than old power supply ”
EVGA SuperNOVA P3 220-P3-1000-X1 1000 W ATX12V / EPS12V 80 PLUS PLATINUM Certified Full Modular Active PFC PFC Power Supply