Choosing Computer Power Supplies

Power supplies are essential components for many desktop computer systems. They sit inside the computer chassis and feature the socket that a power cord connects to. Choosing the right power supply is especially important for gamers and others who may be custom building PCs, since their choice determines if all their machines' components are able to run efficiently.

Choosing and Installing a Desktop PC Power Supply

Computer power supplies from brands such as EVGA and Corsair are ranked by efficiency in categories ranging from Bronze to Titanium. This creates a selection of products at different price points, to meet varying power needs. Choose a wattage that meets or exceeds the total watts used by all of your system's components, such as hard drives and graphics cards. Most computers won't need more than 750W, while large, more component-intensive systems require 1000W or 1200W power supplies.

When installing a power supply inside a computer case, it's important to make sure it doesn't restrict airflow so the inner workings remain cooled down. The power supply also has its own cooling fan, which runs with minimal noise. For laptop-based workstations, there are external breakaway box power supplies and expansion chassis that may provide additional PCIe slots.

What Makes a Power Supply Modular

You may see some power supply models described as modular, which means that their internal power cables are detachable from the supply, for a more customized installation. This is especially useful for gaming PC builds, because it lets you attach only the cables you need to the components inside the system, creating more room for airflow. In non-modular power supplies, the cables are permanently attached.

How Server Power Supplies Work

Servers need their own type of power supply for their unique requirements. They feature a different form factor to fit inside rack-mounted servers, and feature redundancies to help prevent any downtime, allowing servers to run continuously. Some server power supplies also offer switches so you can turn off the supply and the server with a switch rather than by removing the power cord.

Whether you're building your own personal PC or running a busy enterprise, B&H Photo and Video has the power supply gear you need to keep them running efficiently.