Power Supply

[NUWildcat]

Quick question and I'm not sure if this is the right forum for it. I am trying to do a science project and am using a computer power supply. Unfortunately, when I plug the power supply into my load, it only supplies a few watts and it is rated for 200. Someone told me that you need to have a connection to a motherboard to get maximum power. If this is true, why is that, and is there any other way in which I can fake the connection by adding other circuit components to make the power supply attain maximum output? If its not true, do you have any other ideas as to why this isnt working.
Thanks in advance.

[YODA74]

An ATX PSU will not work without being connected to a motherboard but an AT will If you can get an AT PSU it would suit your purposes better. A typical 250w power supply is able to put out 10amps at 12v. This means that out of 250w total, only about 120w is available through 12v (amps x volts = watts)
There are 20 pins on a standard ATX connector. You must first locate pin 14. This pin is very easy to spot since it's the only one with a green wire. All you have to do to make the power supply start is to ground this pin. All pins with black wire coming out of them are grounds.

http://www.speedy3d.com/articles/case_mod_p3/images/casemodp3_1.jpg

hope this helps you some.And just for a note some ATX will not preform properly this way either there is a chip in the MOBO that an ATX relyies on for sensoring so for the sake of not burning out the PSU I would suggest you find an old AT PSU. Good luck with your project


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YODA74@windows-sucks.com
CCMR (http://www.dreamwater.net/tech/yoda74/index.html)

[This message has been edited by YODA74 (edited 05-16-2002).]

[NUWildcat]

The PS I have has two cables that each have 5 prongs on them. Not sure how this would work out with your advice than. If you have any other ideas, that would be great, but thank you so much for your time already.

[Paleo Pete]

The PS I have has two cables that each have 5 prongs on them.
That's an AT power supply. ATX will have one plug as described and pictured above.

You might want to consider an alternative power source, the computer power supply might not be suitable for your purposes. I find 9-12V AC adapters in resale shops constantly, it might be worthwhile for you to check around and see what is available in your area. I rarely pay more than $1 for them.

If you need more amperage than the AC adapter can muster check with electronic shops, they might have some ideas.

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