Power supply usage question...

[ksherman]

Is there a way to test how much power my compy is using? I have a 380PSU and am thinking of upgrading the ram so I can overclock, but I am wondering how much power I am using.

 

[ProviaFan]

You should be able to use something like this handy device for around US$30.

Keep in mind that the reading from that device includes power used up inside the power supply itself, because PSUs are not 100% efficient. Your components' total usage will be a bit less than what is reported by the device.

 

[furballi]

Connect an ammeter in series with the 120VAC line. Record the peak current (in amp) by running Prime95 and multiply this value by 120, then by 0.75 (efficiency of power supply). This will give you a good estimate of the actual output in watts of the power supply.