Help with PSU

[SonOfCrusader76]

In case I need to buy a new one for my new specs, can you suggest some (cheaper) models? I don't really want to go much higher than £30, unless you think that's really too cheap.

What sort of PSU would I need for that lot, in watts? I won't be doing any overclocking.

Also, someone once said that if a PSU is heavy, that's usually indicative of good build quality. Surely that's being a bit too general?

Worst case scenario: If the PSU I go with damages my PC, am I entitled to asking the shop to carry out any necessary repairs?

[Roman Clone]

If it ain't a horrible company like Geek Squad[They Charge you 100 ****'n dollars to download a free program!!]

I would suggest a 600 Watt, you can get one for >120$.

[SonOfCrusader76]

Thanks for your help. Looking at my specs, what would be the minimum I could get away with?

By the way, I hope you're making progress with your PC problems!

[Roman Clone]

Sadly, It's getting worse. My Wireless Reviever Strength is down a lot and I can't reinstall a stick of RAM I took out. Thats 512 MB down the Drain. I'm hoping to dump windows in the future.

[SonOfCrusader76]

Do you know if I'm covered by the PSU's warranty if it damages something?

[Shaun]

However, Watt's alone is not the best measure of a good PSU; remember the quality matters a hell of a lot. A 500W ultra high quality one is better than a 600W piss poor quality one. The rule is always go for a good branded PSU.

[SonOfCrusader76]

The PSU that the shop gave me when building the original PC has not let me down, so shouldn't I be ok going with their suggestion this time (if I need a new one)?

Have you heard of a make called Sumvision?

Also, when a PSU dies (whether it's a good make or not), does it always take one or more of your components with it?

Some people have said that EZCool haven't given them any problems, others say it has. The problem is, I don't think they've got anything other than Sumvision/EZCool in stock.

Is it accurate to say that if a PSU is heavy then that points to good build quality? Surely that's being a bit too general?

[mrmouth]

Ive never heard of Sumvision, could be a UK exclusive brand, I don't know. I was kind of waiting and expecting for one of the regulars from the UK to point you in the right direction in terms of a good retailer.

The two you are looking at are budget PSU's, as is most likely the one you are running now. At this point though you don't even know the make or model of the PSU you are running, let alone whether or not it will be suitable for your upgrades. So I don't know what to say, I guess just wait until you take it into the shop.

I am of the opinion that you shouldn't skimp on the PSU, it just makes sense. So even if your current PSU is enough you should make a point of buying a quality PSU in the future. The PSU I run would cost you £100, its way more than I need but it also future proofs me. I can toss it in another future build without any worries.

The 580w Hiper I pointed you to for £39 is a nice PSU, with a 3 year warranty and active PFC.

530w Hiper for £36
http://www.misco.co.uk/applications/...261108&CatId=0
580w Hiper for £39, might as well go with the 580w.
http://www.misco.co.uk/applications/...274474&CatId=0

Again, Im sure someone in the UK can point you to a better retailer and perhaps a even better PSU close to your budget, but from what I have heard Hiper is good. We just started getting them over here.

[spartan_phalanx]

Hiper seems to make some decent budget PSU's and they have a nice unique design. Here is a good collection of some good sources if you want to learn about a power supplies.

Most likely your best bet is to ask the shop all these questions, in particular if they are going to stand behind it if the PSU takes something out.

[SonOfCrusader76]

Thanks, they seem like good prices for good PSUs!

If they say that I don't need to change the PSU, then I'll just stick with my current one, I suppose and pre-order a nice Antec or similar, when it's time to upgrade to Dx10. It'll help if I can keep the PSU, other wise, they'll have to order an Antec and I really wanted to get the PC sorted by the time my nephew comes home from holiday (Thursday). I checked PC World store, they do something called 'Jeantech', is that any good? Anyone know of any London, UK retailers where I could get an Antec or similar? That way, I could just give that to the shop and they can get on with upgrading this damned PC of mine!!!

When your PSU gives up the ghost, whether it's any good or not, does it always take an (important) component down with it? If so, how often would you recommend changing your PSU (assuming it's a good make) or even if it's not so good?

Edit: Just found this at Maplins. Any good? http://www.maplin.co.uk/images/Full/a01gw.jpg It's £25, down from £49.99 (sale).