power supply questions

  • Thread starter Thread starter rodchar
  • Start date Start date
But which power supply ratings are we talking about here? The AC input
power is not the same as the DC output power (i.e. DC output voltages X
their respective DC output currents). The AC input power is larger, of
course, due to its inefficiency (the rest being converted/lost in heat).
Click to expand...

Still does not matter. As Lil' Dave notes, current requirements for
each load voltage must be known. Power is not relevant. Current for
each voltage provides the useful and accurate answer to the OPs
question.

Dell or HP might list their power supply as 350 watts. A clone
power supply provider might rate the same supply at 500 watts. But
then remember who he is marketing that 'discounted' supply to. Just
another reason why total wattage says little that is useful.
 
w_tom said:
Still does not matter. As Lil' Dave notes, current requirements for
each load voltage must be known. Power is not relevant. Current for
each voltage provides the useful and accurate answer to the OPs question.

Dell or HP might list their power supply as 350 watts. A clone
power supply provider might rate the same supply at 500 watts. But
then remember who he is marketing that 'discounted' supply to. Just
another reason why total wattage says little that is useful.
Click to expand...

It probably matters in the broader context: that is, all other things being
equal, a higher wattage one will presumably provide more output current
capacity (at least in some of its DC outputs). But as you say, that spec
and that spec alone doesn't tell you too much.
 
Bill in Co. said:
It probably matters in the broader context: that is, all other things
being equal, a higher wattage one will presumably provide more output
current capacity (at least in some of its DC outputs). But as you say,
that spec and that spec alone doesn't tell you too much.
Click to expand...

Have seen some 500W power supplies rated less in amps per voltage leg on +5V
and +3.3V legs compared to some 350W and 400W power supplies. Don't assume.
The former voltage leg current can be especially important in a big box
maxxed with stuff.

--
Dave

How about a tax to support any military conflict/police action over 3 months
old?

An actual war, we can do what's been done in the past.
 
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