Power supply to PC

[chil]

The power seems to have failed on my PC. I think it is the power supply box at the back that is at fault.Is this a high tec job or one that I should be able to carry out myself?

[wideboy]

Quite easy to replace the PSU, just don't go inside it! Hopefully the failure hasn't affected any other components. Get the most powerful PSU you can reasonably afford, ready for other upgrades later eg. graphics cards and more drives.

[vehelpfulguy]

I agree with wideboy, it is easy to replace your power supply, but do not try to fix your existing one.

Do not buy a cheap power supply as they give unreliable voltages and can fail. Buy a decent one, say �20 or more. 

They are measured in wattage, and start from about 200W up to 500W or more. Unless you have a lot of components on your PC a 350W or higher should be OK.

As you remove the wires on your existing PSU make a careful note of where they go so you can refit the new one.  

Note that a power supply will have extra wires that you will not need. Just use the ones you need, then carefully 'hide' the unwanted ones, maybe keeping them tidy with a cable grip.      

It is important not to have wires all over the place inside your PC as this can reduce the air flow and make it too hot.

If you are not happy about doing this job then look for a PC support person or shop in your local paper.  

[Phantaxus]

Some pc's can have none standard power supplys - to be safe take your old power supply out and take it to your local computer store. Try the line "I think this has failed can you check it for me - I dont want to buy a replacement PSU if that is not the problem" In my experience they will usually just confirm your diagnosis and sell you a new supply

[Ralph]

Phantaxus' post reminded me, Dell use a specific power supply that cannot be replaced with any old power supply. If you have a Dell, you'll have to go back to them.

Otherwise, as has been said before, a 350W power supply should be enough (perhaps 400W if it's a top-end AMD system) and it's fairly easy to fit yourself.