What actually happens if you run a video card underpowered? (300W instead of 400W)

[riddlen]

I mean, clearly they have requirements for a reason, but dont most people not even look at that? I have a 7800GT that I am moving from a 400W PSU to a 300W PSU PC. My first thought was #$% I need a new power supply (not too mention it only has SATA, no molex). What actually happens though? Does it work worse?

 

[BladeVenom]

Usually it will cause your computer to crash. A cheap power supply may be destroyed and short out your PC.

 

[riddlen]

specifically, I am moving it into a Dell Inspiron 530. From what I have read, the power supply could go, but I am thinking of replacing it anyway so why not run it till it dies? I am really wondering if it degrades the video card performance much or if there is a data loss/mobo risk.

 

[krnmastersgt]

Different things happen under different circumstances, I've seen anywhere from just no posts to artifacts/graphical bugs and some people who forget to plug in their 6 pin connectors get something like a high pitched screaming noise from the card.

 

[error8]

Originally posted by: riddlen
specifically, I am moving it into a Dell Inspiron 530. From what I have read, the power supply could go, but I am thinking of replacing it anyway so why not run it till it dies? I am really wondering if it degrades the video card performance much or if there is a data loss/mobo risk.

Sometimes, in rare situations, when the PSU blows, it takes some pc parts with it: maybe a hard drive, or motherboard or just about everything. So, it's better to avoid the risk of being in one of those rare situations and just buy a good PSU.

 

[taltamir]

DEATH BY FIRE!

Seriously though, don't do it...

 

[Lithan]

Most commonly it will reboot or shut off during gaming.