Choosing a power supply is essential for ensuring your PC functions properly. The better the quality of your power supply, the less likely you are to need to reconfigure your system or replace your computer. To achieve this, users should do everything possible to equip themselves with a high-performance power supply that is compatible with their machine. What type of power supply should you choose? Whether modular or semi-modular, you should always ensure you select a device that guarantees satisfaction and excellent noise reduction.
So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, start by analyzing your actual needs, as well as those of your PC. This will make it easier to choose and acquire the best power supply for your machine. But before you dive in, certain performance parameters should be analyzed on a case-by-case basis. A careful examination before making your purchase will ensure you get the best possible computer equipment.
Modular or semi-modular Power Supply : which to choose?
When you purchase a power supply unit, you receive all the necessary connectors for its operation. However, manufacturers have implemented a new concept that addresses customers' need for modular connectivity. Thus, we now speak of three types of power supply : modular power supply , semi-modular power supply , and non-modular power supply .
These designs allow all cables to be connected to the PC's power supply , and they cannot be removed. The result is that if the power supply has more connectors than the user needs, they will end up with several unused cables requiring careful organization to keep them tidy inside the case.
Modular power supply offer detachable cabling. This allows users to select the equipment they need and provides easy assembly, cable management, and uncluttered case ventilation. Furthermore, if the chosen case is customized, it's possible to select different colored, sleeved, or aesthetically pleasing cables.
Here is our comparison of the best power supply for PCs .
As with cooling systems, there's also a middle ground in the PC power supply market: the semi-modular power supply . Here, the cabling is primarily for the motherboard and CPU. These cables are available in fixed, optional, and detachable versions.
PC Power Supply : What is it used for?
Before explaining the various actual functions of a power supply system, it's important to first understand the concept. The PC power supply is considered the main component for managing a computer's electrical energy. Known as a power supply unit, its primary purpose is to transform the alternating current (AC) energy from the wall outlet into direct current (DC), which is used by the PC.
In fact, this electronic device is essential for any type of PC. Household power outlets deliver a variable voltage. Generally, the standard is 220V and approximately 50Hz. However, your PC only requires a voltage of around 12 volts. Most often, it operates on a direct current of 5V, or even 3.3V in some cases.
All PCs consume energy. And not a small amount, as evidenced by the electricity bill at the end of each month. From the processor to the hard drive, including the graphics card and RAM, all these components are involved, regardless of whether some are more power-hungry than others.
The role of a PC power supply is to provide the PC with usable power and to regulate voltage. It's a way to supply your computer with the necessary, high-quality power. Very often, electrical instability (voltage fluctuations) damages your devices and can even permanently destroy your PC. A quality power supply will reduce these risks and protect your computer.
Criteria for choosing a PC power supply
Like all the components necessary for a PC to function, choosing a power supply is not something to be rushed. It's therefore important that all the conditions are met so you can be confident you're making a sound investment. Here are the criteria to consider and absolutely not overlook when purchasing a power supply for your machine.
The power
This is one of the parameters to analyze very carefully. The power rating of a power supply for your PC tells you how much energy your PC needs to start up. This amount of electrical energy is expressed in watts (W). It will therefore depend on how much you use your machine. For example, if you have a desktop computer with standard multimedia software or applications, its operating power consumption will certainly be below 350 W.
However, if you're using a machine with multiple applications beyond the most basic ones, its operating power consumption will be higher and could exceed 350W. It's also worth noting that PC games have significant power requirements. All things considered, the power of the power supply device is a factor. Furthermore, a laptop designed for intensive use, equipped with multiple motherboards, demanding software, and substantial storage capacity, will require around 500 watts of power.
To be clear, an entry-level PC will consume around 400W of power, while a higher-end model may require between 500W and 600W. It's easy to see why it's essential to check the power consumption of your PC's power supply . This simple step will help you avoid overheating or power surges that could damage your computer.
Performance and safety
For safety reasons, current regulations mandate compliance with safety standards for PC power supply . This involves a technical means, even expertise, to distinguish product quality and performance. You will therefore find markings that provide more information about your device's efficiency level. Efficiency levels vary from one power supply to another. They are classified as follows:
- 80 Plus Bronze
- 80 Plus Silver
- 80 Plus Gold
- 80 Plus Platinum.
In fact, if you have a power supply with an 80 Plus efficiency rating, it means your equipment is of higher quality. Why? This rating is given to PC power supply with an efficiency of 80%, regardless of whether the load is 20%, 50%, or 100%. It represents the power efficiency ratio between the power supplied and the power consumed. You should be vigilant and choose an electronic device that will guarantee optimal efficiency.
The connectivity
You should understand that each power supply unit is equipped with two connectors or connection cables. These are included with your electronic power supply purchase. One is a 20-pin ATX cable with 4 pins, which powers the PC's motherboard, and the other is a 12V ATX P4/ATX cable, which power supply the CPU or processor of your PC. In practice, the connectors must ensure a reliable connection between the various electrical and electronic systems of your computer. It's best to choose high-quality connectors to ensure they function properly and prevent problems or fires.
The format
In the electronics and computer market, you'll find power supply in various sizes and formats. The ATX format (15 x 14 x 8.6 cm), for example, is the most common and widely used PC power supply . It's recommended for all laptop models, except for one small one. Power outputs typically range from 350 to 1000 watts. Smaller PC models, on the other hand, require a smaller form factor suited to their size. The most common is the SFX (12.5 x 10 x 6.5 cm), with a power output of 350 watts. Carefully choose the form factor that best suits your PC, keeping in mind that this decision shouldn't be made hastily.
The sheathing
Cables can be sheathed or unsheathed, and it's up to you to choose the model that best suits your computer. However, it's worth noting that sheathing provides more practical use for cables with bundled wires.
Noise pollution
The noise level of a PC power supply depends on the specifications of its fan. Its size and quality are generally considered. When a fan is quiet under load, its quality is generally good.
The larger fan provides excellent ventilation because the air circulates easily. Furthermore, it is quieter and therefore less noisy. You will therefore find so-called "passive" power supply , meaning those without a fan.
