Low I/O voltage - motherboard or PSU?

XMan

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
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The 12 and 5 volt rails are fine, but the 3.3V for I/O is only 2.5. The 3.3 is derived via step down on the motherboard, isn't it? Or is the PSU bad?
 

Zepper

Elite Member
May 1, 2001
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I assume you are getting your Voltage readings from the health chip. I would measure with a DVM before worrying too much, as long as things are working OK. It would make sense if the I/O voltage came direct from the PSU as there is too little differential between 5 and 3.3 for efficient regulation. The higher the input/output differential on a regulator, the more stable and efficient it is.
.bh.
 

XMan

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
12,513
49
91
Well as far as worrying too much, the system isn't stable and the voltage warning siren keeps going off. ;)

This is on an NF7 2.0 with a 3200+.
 

Zepper

Elite Member
May 1, 2001
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Well I'd still want to check it with a DVM so I would know for sure (a DVM is something any home should have anyway, and a good enough one is available in most areas for $10. or less). But if the system isn't stable, go ahead and get a new PSU. Threre are plenty of discussions in GenHdwr and Cases/Cooling about which brands are best. If you don't have a heavy AMP sucking video card or a slew of drives, a good brand 300W PSU should be plenty.
. I would try to borrow a known good PSU just to be sure it is the PSU. If you need to order one, the the Enlight 360 is pretty good for $35. shipped or the Sparkle 300W "FSP300-60PN" at $36.
.bh.
 

daveybrat

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Jan 31, 2000
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why don't you tell us what model of power supply you are getting this with? :)
 

XMan

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
12,513
49
91
It's an Enermax 351 that worked perfectly fine in a P4 system. I pulled it to replace it with an Enermax 431 and stuck it back in the box for a couple of months, then re-used it in the AMD system.