COMPUTER BUILDING
COMPUTERS
Computer Buying
Computer Building
AUDIO / VIDEO
Camcorders
GENERAL INFO.
FEATURES
The Webcast
The Forum
Monthly Broadcast
Why Widescreen?
HDTV Images
HOME
What should I look for in a case and power supply?
There are a few considerations when purchasing a case and power supply. Here a some things to look for:

- The Case: Look for a model that opens easily, provides easy to remove and replace back slot covers and plenty of drive bays. If it includes a power supply, be sure it is rated for no less than 400 Watts. Make sure the case offers front USB ports and a firewire port if your motherboard has connections for them.

- Power Supply: If this doesn't come with your case, look for a model rated for a minimum of 400 Watts. This is one area where price often reflects quality. Better units will actually offer sustained power at their rated wattage rather than just maximum levels. Be sure the power supply can handle all those system components powering up at startup. It doesn't pay to skimp in this area.

How do you tell the difference between a quality power supply and a poor one when you see them on the shelf? Pick them up and heft them a bit. A quality power supply will almost always weigh more. Those quality components have actual measurable mass. Of course, reading reviews and test reports will give you the real story reguarding the quality of a particular unit. Look for brands like Antec's TruePower line for best performance.


©Copyright 2003 Kimberlite Productions and GadgetFAQs.com
No part of this site may be reproduced or redistributed without written permission.

Some of the tips and advice may void your equipment or service warranty. When in doubt, consult your owners manual and/or seek professional assistance. GadgetFAQs.com does not recommend performing any task that may damage your equipment, void your warranty or violate applicable laws. The use of certain software may violate DMCA or other copyright laws. Since laws vary, depending upon your location, check local regulations regarding any activities you choose to engage in.

Apple, Ipod, ITunes, Windows, DirecTV, Dish Network, Dell, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD and other product names are trademarks of their respective owners. Use of those names is for review or demonstration purposes only. No infringement is intended or should be implied. In addition, no endorsement should be inferred.

GadgetFAQs.com is not responsible for the content of any outside site it may be linked to. In addition, GadgetFAQs.com is not responsible for any innaccurate or deceptive claims made by any outside web site. Links from GadgetFAQs.com to other sites does not imply our endorsement of those sites.