Volts calculations, power suppley needed

[Hydro]

Hey

I would like to know how to calculate the power a pc is using. So i can see what kind of power suppley is needed.

How much volts is a p3 733?
pc133 sdram 128
20 gig HD

How do u calculate each compunent

[tjaymadison]

The "power a pc is using" isn't measured in volts, but in watts. Power supplies plug into either a 115- or a 230-volt AC circuit outlet, and convert the AC to DC for use by the system components. PS's are rated by the maximum wattage they are able to supply, and are generally only available in a relatively few wattage ranges -- 220 to 250 watts, 300 to 330 watts, and 400 to 450 watts. A 300-watt model seems to be the best choice for many systems, and will be enough the CPU and RAM, one or two hard drives, a CD- or DVD-ROM, a CD-RW, sound and video cards, and a modem, with some capacity for growth. ATX and AT power supplies have different dimensions and motherboard connectors, so you need to get the correct model for your system.

If you really need to know the power needed for an individual component, you will have to check the manufacturer's specification for each one. If only amperes are stated, then you must know the voltage requirement -- either 5 or 12 -- to calculate watts. Watts = Volts x Amps. Good Luck! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

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

[Hydro]

thx, guess ill jsut buy a 300wat ps.

one more thing though. which is the best brand do buy? and which models e.t.c(if there is any)

[CLTEK]

Hydro:

Damn. I'm at work, so I don't have the link handy. Go to http://www.coolcases.com and DL his .pdf catalog. There is a link in the catalog to a 'power calculator'. Aside from being filled with a ton of other useful information, of course.

Good luck... Cory

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Age and Treachery will forever triumph over Youth and Skill.

[yawningdog]

Most of the wattage used by a computer is applied to the monitor. If power usage is a concern, use a small monitor or an LCD.