Why do I need a 300W PSU for AMD 1.2

[Ak]

Can some one explain to me why do I need a 300W PSU? I am running 3 different Duron O/Ced to 950 with 235 W. Wll my system crush? I have three very good PSU, SPI, Delta. Should I buy a new one while my system is working? I am planninf to put a 1.2 G CPU next week.

Thanks

AH

 

[bjc112]

Because the Athlon Draws much more power than a Duron... and if you don't have enough power, you will run into stabilty problems!

Go for the 300watt you will be a happy camper....

Good Luck...

 

[Jiggz]

Actually, the concern is on the +5V voltage supply line. If your 235W can supply decent +5V to a 1.2Ghz Athlon without drooping below +4.95 you should be OK. Check the specs of your PSU and see how much current is the +5V line is rated at. Typically, PSU's with higher total power output also have high +5V output. You do not need all the 300W since most of it will be supplied in the 12V which is only used to power up fans and motors on the unit. On the otherhand, the +5V and +3.3V supplies most of the power on the solid state circuits like the CPU. For a 1.2 Athlon you'll need at least a PSU rated at 175W on the +5V and +3.3V outputs combined.