PC PSU for networking equipment?

[HKPolice]

I have 2 modems, 2 routers & a VOIP device all on the same table in the basement and the AC adapters for them are starting to die off. I've had 2 go within the last 2 years. Since they all use either 12v or 5v DC inputs, I was thinking about hooking them up to a PC PSU instead which has 12v & 5v outputs and a lot less ripple/better regulation than cheap AC adapters.

Would that be an issue? I thought about it a bit more and I know that using a common ground with sensitive audio equipment can cause a feedback loop. What about networking equipment? Would sharing the same power source cause some kind of interference or short over the CAT6 cables?

Thanks in advance!

 

[cmetz]

I have 2 modems, 2 routers & a VOIP device all on the same table in the basement and the AC adapters for them are starting to die off. I've had 2 go within the last 2 years. Since they all use either 12v or 5v DC inputs, I was thinking about hooking them up to a PC PSU instead which has 12v & 5v outputs and a lot less ripple/better regulation than cheap AC adapters.

Conceptually this is doable. Modern PC power supplies - especially the higher efficiency ones - are touchy about needing a certain amount of load on each rail or they won't start. Also watch for voltage drops in your splices and cabling. Ground loop / signal quality wise you should be fine. And of course you'll have to ground the start wire to start the PSU at all.

But this all is a hack, and if you're trying to increase relability, hacks aren't good for that. Consider buying higher-quality replacement AC adaper bricks from hobbyist electronics places (e.g., Adafruit).