ATX Power supply

[carbagi]

How can I switch on an ATX power supply without a mother

[scada]

I sorry but you can't. The ATX spec. calls for the power functions to be controlled by the motherboard. ATX power supplies will even refuse to power up if you have "wired" your computer wrong. Some ATX power supplies do have a switch at the back. But you still can't turn it on till it's hooked up to a MB. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/mad.gif

[ck]

how about AT pwr supplies?
Can I test the power supply by plugging it in and turning it on to see if the fan is spinning??
I've tried it but nothing happens....
I've got 2 baby AT power supplies and i'm trying to determine if either is working.

[Paleo Pete]

Occasionally an AT power supply will run if not plugged in, but not often, usually you have to have a motherboard connected. Not sure of the reason, I haven't checked into it and haven't run accross an explanation by chance either.

Checking a power supply is fairly easy though if you have a spare motherboard sitting around. Nothing needs to be plugged in but the power supply itself, simply switch it on long enough to see if the fan spins, then power it down.

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Soon as I come up with all the answers...they change the questions!!

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[ReddDogg]

There is a way to test an AT and an ATX power supply, it requires a paper clip and you connect two of the plugs that go on the motherboard, and the fan will start spinning if the Powersupply is good. I would have to some checking to find which one it is... but if anyone here is A+ certified, they should know what I am talking about

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Joe Redd
MCP

[xor_chad]

I used to test power supplies by the dozens and grew tired of plugginf them into mother boards. What you can do it this.

Find the wiring diagram for the ATX power supply. (this site has one...the one i used!)

Buy an ATX to AT harness. Clip the two wires and attach them to a Switch.

Now you have an ATX power switch.

AT has the switch wired to it...i dont think i need to explain that one! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

Consequently you should always put a load on the power supply before turning it on. Some power supplies will NOT power w/o a load. And a fan does not do the trick. Use a drive of some sort. ALSO if you DONT attach some load, the voltage will read VERY inaccrate. I labeled many many power supplies bad before i figured this out!! I had to go and re test them ALL!

LAter...



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Chad Wilson
C++/ASM Programmer
PC Support Technician

[Paleo Pete]

Hehe...that's why they say experience is the best teacher...I found out you actually have to have the monitor turned ON before you troubleshoot video cards the same way... http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif

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Soon as I come up with all the answers...they change the questions!!

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