May be a silly question...wattage usage...

[AndyD2k]

If I install a 700W psu, it will only use whatever watts it needs right? Not like all 700w will be used, right?

 

[John]

Correct. Be sure to choose an efficient (80+) psu to save electricity usage and money on your electric bill.

example:

210W @ 80% eff pulls 262W from the wall
210W @ 70% eff pulls 300W from the wall

48W / 1000 (kWhr) * .15 (cents per kWhr - you may pay more or less) * 24 (hrs) * 30 (days) = $5.18 savings per month

 

[AndyD2k]

Thinking about getting the OCZ GameXStream 700W to replace my Seasonic S12 500W. I probably won't see a huge difference right? Making the switch for better cable management and for new pc build later in the summer

 

[timswim78]

Originally posted by: John
Correct. Be sure to choose an efficient (80+) psu to save electricity usage and money on your electric bill.

example:

210W @ 80% eff pulls 262W from the wall
210W @ 70% eff pulls 300W from the wall

48W / 1000 (kWhr) * .15 (cents per kWhr - you may pay more or less) * 24 (hrs) * 30 (days) = $5.18 savings per month

Where can one get the efficiency ratings of a PSU?

 

[John]

Try the vendor sites first.

Examples:

http://www.corsairmicro.com/products/hx.aspx
http://www.antec.com/specs/NeoHE550_spe.html
http://www.silverstonetek.com/...o=st50ef-plus&area=usa

jonnyGURU and spcr are good places to look as well.


* forgot to close a tag

 

[Neurodog]

First time I hear of PSU efficiency, but good to know for next purchase.

Any brand in particular have the best efficiency?

 

[John]

Here's a good place to start looking for an efficient psu: http://www.80plus.com/

 

[PurdueRy]

Originally posted by: AndyD2k
Thinking about getting the OCZ GameXStream 700W to replace my Seasonic S12 500W. I probably won't see a huge difference right? Making the switch for better cable management and for new pc build later in the summer

IMO that's a step down...look into the Corsair 620HX from buy.com