Which PSU should I use in my rebuilds - Have 3 on hand

[IndieSnob]

I already posted this on the great jonnyGURU's forum, but I thought I'd get as much input as I can.

I am currently upgrading my file server and main desktop, as well as swapping out my old parts for a new build for a friend.

Here are the specs of the three systems:

#1 Main Desktop:

Abit IP-35 Pro Mobo
C2D E7300 OEM w/ stock Q6600 HSF
2x2 Gigs G-Skill DDR2-800
Palit 512 Meg 9600GT
WD6400AAKS - WD 640 Gig SATA HD
22x Samsung SATA DVDRW
Antec Three Hundred Case with two case fans

#2: Windows Home server box:

ECS 945GCT-M/1333 Mobo
Celeron 430 Conroe-L 1.8 GHZ w/ Retail HSF
2x1 Gig Crucial DDR2-667
2 x 160 Gig Seagate SATA HDs
An additional assorted 5 ATA HDs running from 160 to 300 Gigs
16x Pioneer ATA DVDRW
Old Antec File Server case (forget exact model number) with 3 case fans

#3: Build for friend:

ECS GF7050VT-M Mobo
C2D E4500 w/ Retail HSF
2x1 Gig Crucial DDR2-667
160 Gig Seagate SATA HD
80 Gig WD ATA HD
4x Pioneer ATA DVDRW
COOLER MASTER Centurion 532 RC-532-SKN1 Case with 1 case fan

Currently the only system up and running in my main desktop (first system listed). The current PSU being used in it is an Antec Earthwatts 430W.

The two spare PSUs I have laying around are the following:

#1: FSP Group FSP400-60THN 400W with the following ratings:

+3.3V = 30A, +5V = 28A, +12V1 = 14A, +12V2 = 15A, +5Vsb = 2A, -12V = 0.5A

(+3.3V & +5V = 150W Max) (+3.3V & +5V & 12V1 & 12V2 = 385W Max)

#2: Ultra X-Connect 500W Specs @ Ultra Site

It has the following ratings:

+3.3V = 28A, +5V = 30A, +12V = 34A, -12V = 0.8A, -5V = 0.3A, +5VSB = 2A

#3: Antec Earthwatts 430W Specs @ Antec Site

It has the following ratings:

+3.3V = 20A, +5V = 20A, +12V1 = 17a, +12V2 = 16A, -12V = 0.8A, +5VSB = 2.5A

Now my question is this:

Should I stick with the Earthwatts 430 in my Abit-IP35 w/ C2D E7300?

Seeing as how the Ultra-X Connect only has a 20 pin ATX connector, would I be OK with running it on the ECS 945GCT-M/1333 Mobo w/ Celeron 430 Conroe-L 1.8 GHZ?

If it were up to you, which PSU would you put in each system?

I'm also open to trying to sell the Ultra X-Connect off and buying a different PSU with the money, provided I could actually get much out of it.

Thank you so much for any help, I really appreciate it!

 

[Zap]

Originally posted by: IndieSnob
Should I stick with the Earthwatts 430 in my Abit-IP35 w/ C2D E7300?

Seeing as how the Ultra-X Connect only has a 20 pin ATX connector, would I be OK with running it on the ECS 945GCT-M/1333 Mobo w/ Celeron 430 Conroe-L 1.8 GHZ?

Yes and yes, leaving the FSP for the third rig.

 

[IndieSnob]

Originally posted by: Zap

Originally posted by: IndieSnob
Should I stick with the Earthwatts 430 in my Abit-IP35 w/ C2D E7300?

Seeing as how the Ultra-X Connect only has a 20 pin ATX connector, would I be OK with running it on the ECS 945GCT-M/1333 Mobo w/ Celeron 430 Conroe-L 1.8 GHZ?

Yes and yes, leaving the FSP for the third rig.

That's the way I was leaning, but wanted to make sure.

Now one last question if I may...since the Ultra-X Connect only has a 20 pin ATX connector and the ECS board has a 24 pin ATX connector, I can use is it that way, correct?

I know that you can buy 20 to 24 pin adapters, but from what I've read it really doesn't do anything but close up the 4 open pins.

Thanks again for your input Zap!

 

[StarvinMarvin22]

The Earthwatts 430 is a great little PSU

 

[Zap]

Originally posted by: IndieSnob
Now one last question if I may...since the Ultra-X Connect only has a 20 pin ATX connector and the ECS board has a 24 pin ATX connector, I can use is it that way, correct?

Try it. If it boots up, then it is fine. Theoretically some boards may not POST if they don't detect those pins, but most work just fine. If you find out you need those pins, then look for an adaptor. If you can't find one cheap enough, I probably have a spare I can toss your way... free if you pick it up from me (PM for zip code) or for the cost of postage/Paypal fees.