Friday, April 27, 2012

PSU Upgrade for a Small form factor X3900 Desktop?

I have my hands on a Low profile GTS450, but problem is that now I do not have enough power supply. My computer is a very small desktop, and I would like to find an upgrade for it that's suitable for both X3900 desktop and GTS450.



*Or maybe I should buy a new case? Is it hard building it?|||A new case would be the best solution, finding a power supply that is over 300W for that type system is almost impossible. The biggest problem you'll have with a new case will be the pin outs. These are the front panel to motherboard connectors such as the power switch, power LED, hard drive activity LED, reset, etc. A lot of oem systems use a modular connector from the front panel that has all the wires in a single plug that connects to the motherboard, a custom case will have individual connectors...power + and -, power LED + and -, hard drive LED + and -, reset + and -, etc. Sometimes that info is marked on the motherboard, sometimes it isn't, so before you disconnect anything, make sure you know where the new connectors will go.



That's the problem with small form factor and slim tower units, they have very limited upgrade potential. If you even think that you might consider using your computer for gaming, avoid them like the plague.|||I'd definitely recommend buying a new case. This will make it much easier on your time and troubles as all ATX computer cases are standardized and you won't be having to use non-standardized power supplies and limited pin layouts on the connectors.



I recommend cheap gaming cases like those made by antec or cooler master. Here is an article reviewing 5 of such cases all for under $50.



For a power supply, go either antec or corsair. They are the top power supply brands if you don't want to break the bank.

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