Best PSU to get for my system, thanks!

[irenealan]

Hi:

I have a system with A64 3000+ on a Chaintech VNF3-250, 1gb Corsair PC3200 ram, 9800 Pro, 3 HD (2 internal, 1 external) and 2 optical (1 internal CD-Rom and 1 external DVD burner). Can someone suggest me what PSU should I get for the system. I would like something that gives more than enough power for my system... I guess something with a high 12V? Sorry I am very new to PSU so I don't know what's best for my system, thanks!

Also is there any good deal running currently for the power supply, my budget is around $60 - $80 with a $20 buffer so I guess the most I can spend is $100... of course the cheaper the better =) thanks.

Irene

 

[akira34]

I'd go with either the Antec 430W or 480W True Power PSU... External drives are irrelevant for the PSU since they should have their own power supplies... I'm running with a 400W Antec PSU (Smart Power) and it has plenty of power left over.

 

[irenealan]

Thanks but if I want to leave room in future to OC the A64 chip and the ATI 9800 Pro, should I get something more powerful? Cuz I read some reviews about Antec True Power 430 is not too much different from an Antec 350W given that the 12V is not too much different. I don't know if that would be a bottleneck for OC or even regular support of a 3ghz chip. Thanks for your help.

 

[akira34]

I seriously wouldn't worry about it. I also would seriously question a review that made those kinds of comments about the True Power line. I have all my stuff (see my sig) running on a 400W PSU (Antec Smart Power) and it has no issues of any kind. I don't overcock my computers, so I can't say for certain there, but I'd imagine that either the 430W or 480W True Power will be MORE than enough for your overcocking needs. Of course, I'd never suggest overcocking a processor unless you can afford to replace it. If you picked the chip up because you didn't have the money for a faster one, then don't OC until you absolutely HAVE to just to run software. As it stands the A64 is MORE than enough to do everything you could think of.

 

[HardWarrior]

Well, in general I would suggest the highest total wattage, highest 12v rail, best reviewed brand-name/supported/featured/warrantied PSU that you can afford. Being that your PSU is the place from which all blessings flow, you can't go wrong buying the best.

 

[Operandi]

The Tagan 480 is one of the stongest, cleanest powersupplies out there, it should do well in an overclocked system.

review 1
review 2

 

[Gravity]

I'd get a Zalmon 400 or the seasonic 400. Both are reliable and very quiet. Antec makes good stuff but it's not exactly the quietest. Both of those will fit in your budget. I own them both, I'm pretty happy with them.