Power ratings and PSU problems

[Matt Phelps]

I have a 300W PSU and I've had a lot of trouble in the past with my machine randomly rebooting itself. Epox swear that 300W is not enough juice for my system (see specs below)and have told me that I have to get a 'non-macron' PSU of 350W or more.

Does this sound like a cop out to you, or are they telling me the truth? Will more juice solve my rebooting problem do you think?

[juppy]

Hi Matt,

If the system specs you gave are all you're running, the 300W supply should easily be ample power. Just my opinion but it sounds like they're giving you the run-a-round or trying to sell another PSU.

[HAL9000]

I agree, I'm cranking a lot more devices than that on my P4 system all on 300w.

[Matt Phelps]

Well, well, well.......I'll get back to Epox about this.

[HAL9000]

Keep in mind though, that's not to say that it isn't a power supply problem. If you are getting inconsistent power from your supply, it can cause all kinds of problems.

[DrZaius]

It depends on what brand PSU it is and how clean the output is. The wattage raiting can be misleading, it might be a flaky unit. I would do a swap at a local shop with a different brand (Antec, Enermax, Enlight, or Sparkle) to test it out.

[Matt Phelps]

What's a good make of PSU and where can I get one? Please don't say newegg because I'm UK based. ;)

[DrZaius]

Matt: I listed the good brands above - Antec, Enermax, Enlight, and Sparkle. Can't tell you where to get 'em in the UK though. ;)

[LawyerRon]

Just installed an Enermax with dual cooling fans and it's awesome. Stay away from "Deer" power supplies.

[morriswindgate]

Before you do anything else, move the power for the CPU Heatsink/Fan from the Motherboard header to the Power Supply leads using a 3 pin to Molex Adapter. I am will to be through experience that this solves your problem with the EPOX board.

[mike breck]

Hi Matt,

Try these sources for PSU's in the UK

http://www.overclock.co.uk/

http://www.dabs.com/products/produc...fb=Manufacturer

Enermax is very expensive in the UK but top-quality.

HTH