New power supply?

[sps]

This is probably a dumb question, but I don't know what the difference between a "P4 compliant" power supply and an older non-compliant unit is. I am upgrading my computer with a new mobo (Abit IS7-E), CPU (P4 2.6C), and memory. My case is a Antec SX830 and I believe the power supply in it is a 300W Antec PP303X. I bought it before most power supplies were specifically "P4 compliant". Can I get away with using this power supply with the new system (even if only at stock speeds) for awhile, or is it likely to lead to an unstable system if it even works at all? I plan on a moderate overclock eventually (maybe 3.0 GHz) but if it will run ok at stock speeds for now, I'll be happy (I can always upgrade later if need be).

Thanks!

 

[WHipLAsh13]

P4 power supplies have an extra P4 connector that goes onto the motherboard to supply power directly to the processor. It is a square connector with 4 pins.

 

[sps]

I am not home now to see my power supply but I'm 99% sure it doesn't have this connector. Is there such thing as an adapter, or will I just have to buy a new power supply?

 

[WHipLAsh13]

Sure is. Never used one before but as long as you have enough power on the 12 volt you should be ok.

 

[sps]

Originally posted by: WHipLAsh13
Sure is. Never used one before but as long as you have enough power on the 12 volt you should be ok.

Thanks! Do you know if my 300W power supply would be enough for the system (Abit IS7-E, P4 2.6, Ti4200, DVD burner, CD burner, zip drive, floppy, 2 HDs)? Also, do you know if these adapters are available at places like CompUSA or Microcenter (I searched their websites but did not find them)?

 

[WHipLAsh13]

Originally posted by: sps

Originally posted by: WHipLAsh13
Sure is. Never used one before but as long as you have enough power on the 12 volt you should be ok.

Thanks! Do you know if my 300W power supply would be enough for the system (Abit IS7-E, P4 2.6, Ti4200, DVD burner, CD burner, zip drive, floppy, 2 HDs)? Also, do you know if these adapters are available at places like CompUSA or Microcenter (I searched their websites but did not find them)?

You would need to see how much it puts out on the 12 volt rail. If its 16A or more you should be ok. But I would really recommend getting a new powersupply just to protect your investment.

I don't see it on Radioshack or Compusa's site but I guess it couldn't hurt to go there and check it out. I have never seen one of these in store though.

 

[sps]

Maybe I should just skip the adapter and buy a new power supply. If I were to get a new one, I'd like to stick with Antec. Can anyone recommend one?

 

[fluxquantum]

Originally posted by: sps
Maybe I should just skip the adapter and buy a new power supply. If I were to get a new one, I'd like to stick with Antec. Can anyone recommend one?

hi there,

my enermax power supply is starting to fail on me so i bought an antec 480W true series because they were all out of stock on the true 430's at newegg. here you go: pick what you think satisfies your needs - antec

most people say you don't need anything greater than 350w...maybe go with a true 380w. good luck

 

[WHipLAsh13]

Originally posted by: fluxquantum

Originally posted by: sps
Maybe I should just skip the adapter and buy a new power supply. If I were to get a new one, I'd like to stick with Antec. Can anyone recommend one?

hi there,

my enermax power supply is starting to fail on me so i bought an antec 480W true series because they were all out of stock on the true 430's at newegg. here you go: pick what you think satisfies your needs - antec

most people say you don't need anything greater than 350w...maybe go with a true 380w. good luck

Sounds like pretty sounds advice to me. I don't think you can go wrong with either Antec or Enermax power supplies and 350 on up should be fine from either company.

 

[sps]

I noticed that there are a couple different types of Antec. There is a Smart Power and a True Power unit in several wattages each. The True Power is significantly more. For someone who wants a reliable power supply for the system I'm building (with only moderate overclocking), is there any reason to buy the expensive one, or is the "standard" Antec 350W enough?

 

[WHipLAsh13]

The true power is their higher end line of PS's. I have used the smart powers though and they seem pretty good.

 

[sps]

Originally posted by: WHipLAsh13
The true power is their higher end line of PS's. I have used the smart powers though and they seem pretty good.

Thanks! I think I'll stick to the cheaper Antecs then.

 

[Muzzy]

Originally posted by: sps

Originally posted by: WHipLAsh13
The true power is their higher end line of PS's. I have used the smart powers though and they seem pretty good.

Thanks! I think I'll stick to the cheaper Antecs then.

Or you can go with

http://www.newegg.com/app/Showimage.asp?image=17-104-966-08.JPG/17-104-966-07.JPG/17-104-966-06.JPG/17-104-966-04.JPG/17-104-966-05.JPG, or http://www.directron.com/fsp35060bn.html.