Choosing a good ATX power supply is essential for the optimal functioning of your PC. In this guide, we will explain what you should look for when selecting a power supply for your computer, considering aspects such as power, efficiency, compatibility and safety. With these tips you can choose the ideal ATX power supply for your computer, whether it is an office computer, gaming computer or for high-demand tasks.
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What is an ATX Power Supply?
The ATX power supply is an essential component of any desktop computer, responsible for transforming alternating current (AC) from the electrical network into direct current (DC) for the internal components. The ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) standard defines the specifications for this type of power supply, ensuring that they are compatible with a wide variety of motherboards and other components.
Key Features of an ATX Power Supply
ATX power supplies have several specific features that influence their performance and system compatibility:
Energy Efficiency: Rated in 80 Plus levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium). The higher the certification level, the less energy is lost in the form of heat.
Modularity: Power supplies can be non-modular (all cables fixed), semi-modular (some cables fixed and others removable) or modular (all cables removable), which makes internal organization easier.
Ventilation: Cooling systems, such as fans or heat sinks, ensure that the power supply remains at an optimal operating temperature, protecting components from overheating.
Internal protections: ATX power supplies usually include protection against overvoltages, overcurrents and short circuits, which ensure the safety of the PC.
ATX Power Supply Types by Power
The power range of an ATX power supply varies by system needs:
350-500W: Suitable for office PCs or basic tasks.
500-750W: Ideal for moderate-use computers, such as designer rigs or basic gaming.
750-1000W: Power supplies aimed at advanced gaming and workstations with high-end graphics cards.
1000W or more: Recommended for extreme configurations with multiple GPUs or high-performance systems.
Why is it Important to Choose the Right Power Supply?
A quality power supply is essential to ensure that all of your computer’s components operate properly and stably. Choosing a low-quality or underpowered power supply can lead to system instability, crashes, overheating, and in severe cases, permanently damage other components.
Impact on Performance and Stability
An inadequate power supply can cause voltage drops, affecting processor and graphics card performance and reducing component lifespan. For example, in a gaming PC, an unstable power supply can cause stuttering in games due to insufficient power to the GPU, resulting in a poor experience.
Safety Tips
It’s critical to ensure that your power supply is well ventilated and stays within the manufacturer’s recommended temperatures. Also, make sure the power supply has basic protections like OVP (over voltage protection) and OCP (over current protection). These protections help prevent serious damage to the system in case of fluctuations in current.
How to Choose the Ideal ATX Power Supply for Your PC?
Selecting the right power supply requires evaluating your needs based on the type of PC and its use. Here are some key criteria:
Criteria by PC Type (Gaming, Office, etc.)
Office or general-use PC: A 350-500W power supply is sufficient if the computer is used for basic tasks such as browsing, office work, or multimedia playback.
Designer or basic gaming PC: If your computer includes a mid-range graphics card or a powerful processor, a 500-750W power supply with 80 Plus Bronze or Silver certification will ensure safe and efficient operation.
Advanced gaming PC or workstation: In this case, choose a 750-1000W power supply with 80 Plus Gold certification or higher. These power supplies offer efficiency and stability, essential for taking full advantage of the power of the latest generation of graphics cards.
Extreme Configurations: For systems with multiple graphics cards or processors, a 1000+ W power supply with 80 Plus Platinum or Titanium certification is the safest option to avoid power supply issues.
Compatibility with Other Components
When choosing a power supply, make sure it is compatible with the motherboard and the connector type of the graphics card. Also check that it has enough connectors for the storage devices and other peripherals you plan to install. Modularity can be an advantage if you want better cable management, avoiding clutter and improving airflow in the case.
Bottom Line: The Perfect ATX Power Supply for Your PC
Selecting the right ATX power supply for your PC is an investment that ensures the stability and longevity of all your components. Consider both power and energy efficiency and certifications when making your decision. A good choice of power supply will prevent future problems, improve the performance of your equipment and allow you to make upgrades without worrying about power supply.
