What is a power supply and why is it so important for your computer?

The power supply, or power supply, is an important device for all kinds of applications. An example of this is the equipment that runs on a PC and that serves to ensure that the system has sufficient power supply to operate without problems.

For this reason, it is not unusual for many people to want to know more about its operation, importance, characteristics, etc. Don't worry! If you are one of them, here we will give you more details about it.

What is a power supply?

The power supply A PC's main device is the primary function of which is to transform the input energy to provide the most suitable output for the system. It also performs other equally important activities, such as rectifying, filtering and regulating the electricity so that the receiving circuits operate correctly.

These devices cover the consumption needs of PC components, such as the following:

• Motherboard
• Hard disk
• Graphic cards

It also indirectly provides power to equipment connected via the USB and other system ports. For example, speakers, bluetooth adapters, etc.

Main features

These systems have several features that make them useful for any PC. Some of the most notable are:

• They have a power supply cable that is inserted into a socket located at the back.
• They have several electrical conductors that connect to the different receiving devices.
• They offer dual mode, as they are switched and have dual voltage, which is useful while the PC is operational and in “stand by” mode.
• They have a fan that is responsible for cooling the system and that also usually passes through the motherboard. The reason? To improve the overall temperature of the PC.

On the other hand, these teams They have various components that make the various stages of their system work (transformation, rectification, filtering and regulation).

Types of power sources

There are two main types that are responsible for powering the PC's electronic system. These are the following:

AT models

These are devices that are switched on manually and have a MOLEX connector, which is generally four-pin, as well as a similar one called BERG. Its initials, AT, are derived from Advanced Technology, and it is a standard that was introduced in the early 1980s.

This type of font has some interesting features. Among the most notable are these:

• They have a three-terminal connector to power the CRT monitor from the source (not applicable to all models).
• They have a mechanical ignition, since Its power supply depends on a manual switch.
• They are compatible with minimal older equipment with Intel 8026 microprocessors.
• It offers a continuous feeding system, since it never runs out. stand by.

Overall, this is a safe and reliable product. And, although they are mechanically switched on, pressing the switch usually interrupts the power supply to their internal circuit, avoiding general problems.

ATX models

They are devices whose representative acronym, ATX, means Advanced Technology eXtended and were born in 1995.

These systems represented a fundamental change to the AT format standard used until now. And its main features include the following:

• They avoid the use of an on/off button from the source. In this regard, they use the PC's own button. Therefore, they can be in stand by waiting for the signal to turn on.
• They have several connectors for hard drives, microprocessors, motherboards, etc.
• They have better energy efficiency, which is classified according to the 80 PLUS standard.
• They have operational optimization systems, for example, modularity (to disconnect unnecessary cables), moderate cooling, etc.

In general, this kind of power devices offer reliability and efficiency in larger terms, at least, compared to the AT models.

How to choose a power supply?

It is imperative that you consider several factors before choosing one of these products for your PC. Some of the main ones are:

• Pay attention to the size, as it has to fit into the space in the PC case. For example, certain models, such as the Aerocool Mecha RGB ATX case, have adaptations for different feeding systems.
• You have to review the technical specifications to consider whether its power is sufficient to power your PC systems.
• Be aware of the noise it generates. This does not affect its functionality, however, depending on the workspace you are in, it may affect your concentration.
• Pay attention to safety protection systems. This is important to safeguard connected equipment against electrical anomalies. In general, the most common protections are OVP, OCP, OPP, OTP and SCP.
• Consider the modularity of the cablesFor example, these products can be fully modular, semi-modular, and non-modular. The difference lies in the ability to disassemble the conductors to save space.
• Look at the energy rating level. 80 PLUS is the benchmark, and the higher the rating, the higher the overall efficiency rate.

An equally important aspect is that when you add a component to your computer system, such as a modern NVIDIA graphics card, it is essential to take into account its energy consumption. This way, you can know if your system is sufficient to cover the general consumption needs and those of your new electronic device.

In short, you should choose a power supply based on your PC's needs. So if your component causes you to exceed the power consumption, you should replace the power supply with one that offers higher power.