Athlon/Duron and 250W PS

[gossamer]

If I calculate the amount of watts that each device uses on a system and it is less than 250, then shouldn't a 250W PS be sufficient? The reason I ask is that one of AMD's recommended PS for an athlon is 250W. I'd like to use my existing 250W PS instead of buying a new one.

------------------
The internet? Is that thing still around?

[mjc]

Works out ok if you don't plan on adding any extras to the system, you also have to remember that certain devices, like drives use slightly more power at startup than during regular use so try to frind the max power ratings for your calculations. Things like extra fans and add on coolers eat up the wattage fairly quickly, too. so keep them in mind.

------------------
mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

[tjaymadison]

But is your specific PS model on AMD's recommended list? If yes, then you need to decide on how much growth potential there is with a 250 watter. Don't forget, PS's degrade with time, so what was 250 when brand new, isn't after a year or two. Then too, you shouldn't run a PS at close to its rated maximum output. They run better and cooler at 60-75% of capacity than at 90-95%. For a less tactful treatment of this subject, check out the topic "These Guys Are Brutal" in the After Hours section. Good Luck! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

------------------
"When I nod my head, hit it with the hammer."
-- (Moe, holding nail, to Curly, holding hammer)