Can't figure out specs on psu

[farlex85]

I have a xion case and the psu that came with it, well, this one actually: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811208011

Thing I can't find out is the amps, particularly on the 12V rail. I have inspected the supply closely but have seen nothing to indicate amps. There is a row that goes: +5V, +12V1, +12V2, -12V, and a few others. I believe this indicates the rails maybe? But I cannot figure out how to get the amps. I need to know because I am planning to get a new vc soon and need to know if this can handle it. If anybody can see something I can't or has ideas about where else I can look to find this (already checked mf website and a few other retailers) I would very much appriciate it. Thanks.

 

[Thermopylae_480]

Look at the row directly below the +12v and you will see a number that looks something like 19a (19amps). That is your amperage. Since the power supply has two +12v sections it is a dual rail power s upply.

 

[Namslas90]

Read the reviews on newegg about the case in link, you will find out a lot about the PSU. Most "pre-installed" PSU's that come with a case are garbage. Xion no longer markets a 450 watt version and the specs on the 400 are realy bad. Whenever I purchase a Pre-built with PSU, I change out the PSU as soon as possible...just not worth the chance, as when the PSU goes it most likley takes something else with it.

 

[farlex85]

Ah yes, that makes sense enough doesn't it. Well, my ratings are 3.3V-22A, 5V-18, 12V1-14, 12V2-16, -12V-0.3A, and I cant remember the last one. So what I want to know is, should this be enough for the 8800GT(S) or the 3870 with my current specs above. I have indeed heard that psus that come with the case are not too good, and that the ones xion packages are likewise, however this particular case seems to have gotten decent reviews on newegg. I have had the case for almost a year now with not a hitch, so I was hoping to have it last a little longer. I was planning on getting a new one, but was trying to hold off for a few months since the video card is the thing most readily needing attention. Whatdya think? Can I do it? Thanks.

 

[sneekypeet]

You MAY be able to do this, but honestly I dont belive anyone here will readily advise a yes to this question. Here is the thing to look at, A bad PSU and a high draw system at best means when the PSU pops, you dont run until the new PSU can be afforded. On the flip side of that idea is this, It may burn parts on its way out.

So the best advice is this(comming from experience) buy the PSU first , then get the 200-300 dollar GFX card. What good is a 300 dollar paperweight if you PSU takes it out when it goes? So in essence the 2-300 invested in the new card turns into another 100-150 on a descent PSU pluss the 2-300 for a new card.

Best advice you can take from this is...Buy right once instead of buying wrong twice!!!!!

 

[farlex85]

Fair enough, not particularly what I wanted to hear, but I suppose I will have to listen if I am going to ask. lol. Any suggestions on psu. I would like to stay under $100 if possible so I can go ahead and get the gfx card too, but I am also going for longevity. I was looking at this one: http://www.newegg.com/product/product.asp?item=N82E16817812005

I would like to go cheaper though if possible though.

 

[sneekypeet]

your mushkin is a good choice..
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817341001

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139001

just a couple more that hit right in your range....check this thread out and inform yourself as much as possible b4 making your final decision!

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=39758&highlight=PSU+thread

 

[desadarius2002]

As far as i can find out, the 8800GT uses around 22amps and the GTS uses about 24amps. your two rails combined are 30A. This should run one of these cards ok, but i agree with sneekypeet.
Better to be safe than sorry.

This is a nice powersupply and is 80% plus certified. It has four 12v rails with 18A each. It does have blue LEDs if that is a con. Only 100usd after rebate. Could save you frrom a very bad day.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817341002

 

[farlex85]

That looks like a winner. Yea, I thought I should be ok, and indeed I think I probably would be. But, like I said I was going to upgrade that next as I will be doing a complete system overhaul over the next 6 mo or so, so better to do this first and secure all that money.