Plasma Productions

Question: 

My power supply broke and I need to replace it.  How do I make sure my new power supply is compatible with my computer?

Answer:

Start by removing your old power supply and examining it to determine what type of power supply it is.  Specifically, you should identify what type of connection the power supply has to the motherboard (twenty pin, twenty pin and four pin, twenty-four pin, etc.) and what from factor the power supply is designed for (ATX, mini-ATX, micro-ATX, etc.).  The form factor is probably labeled on the power supply itself.  The connection type is determined by the number of pins on the connector that connects to the motherboard (some power supplies connect to the motherboard with two connectors ? a big one with twenty pins, and a small one with four pins.  Other power supplies just use one connector.)  Also, you should read the label on the power supply to learn how many watts the power supply uses.  Your new power supply should have at least the same number of watts as her old powers supply.  Your new power supply should also be designed for the same form factor that your old power supply was designed for, and your new power supply should use the same type of connection to the motherboard that your old power supply used.  If your new power supply meets all of these criteria, then it?s compatible.