Simple Power Supply Questions

[mjs90201]

I just purchased a "600 Watt ATX Power Supply" to replace the original power supply (the fan is starting to make some noise) that came with my Dell Dimension 8100 desktop computer. The first thing I noticed is that the fan on the new power supply is oriented differently...it would be facing downward (blowing air down toward the CPU) rather than back (blowing air out the back of the case). The second thing I noticed is that I would probably have to drill a couple of holes into the new power supply to secure it in the case with screws like my old one. Is this because I purchased the wrong type of power supply? Do Dell desktops have a non-standard case?

Before attempting any installation, I tried to test the new power supply by plugging it in [after confirming it was set to the proper voltage setting] and turning it on. I expected the power supply fan to start spinning but nothing happened. Is this because the power supply will not operate unless it is connected to a motherboard? Or do I have a defective power supply?

 

[pkrush]

To turn on a power supply if it's not connected to the motherboard, short the green wire on the 20 or 24 pin motherboard connector to any black wire. The fan in the power supply won't blow toward the CPU, it'll blow out the back even though it's on the side of the supply.As for putting the power supply in a Dell case, you're on your own there.

 

[s44]

Careful! I believe that the Dimension 8100 used a non-standard PSU connector on the motherboard, so that plugging a standard one in could fry the thing.

 

[mjs90201]

Thanks for the responses. I did discover that my Dell computer uses a proprietary power supply. Guess I'll be returning the ATX power supply.

 

[AstroGuardian]

Originally posted by: s44
Careful! I believe that the Dimension 8100 used a non-standard PSU connector on the motherboard, so that plugging a standard one in could fry the thing.

I would consider the same. Watch out

 

[dderolph]

What does fried motherboard taste like?

 

[StopSign]

Blood.