ATX Power Supply

The ATX power supply provides the power for the ATX form factor. The dimensions of this form factor are used in many motherboards, towers and various other parts.

General Characteristics

The device works by changing the current coming from the electrical outlet into voltages that the computer can recognize. The wattage will vary per power supply.

If the computer is equipped with powerful peripherals, (lots of RAM, DVD drives, hard disks etc) a stronger power supply will be required. It is possible to upgrade it without changing the operating system. If the computer is hot or the power supply inadequate, the device might burn.

How to Check the Power Supply

The device resembles metal cubes with one fan or two. It is usually found at the upper back of the PC case. To see it, the case must be opened. You will need a screwdriver.

Step 1

Turn the computer off. Unplug the cable. Remove the screws on the left side panel of the computer. Take off the panel.

Step 2

Check the top back of the case. You should see it there. This is the component you insert the power cord into. There is usually a label showing the manufacturer name, amperage and other data. If you cannot find the data, you will have to remove the ATX power supply.

Step 3

To remove it, unfasten the mounting screws on the back case. Slide it out of the mounting bay. If needed, rotate the device to see the data. Warning: never open the power supply because it may have electrical charges.

Step 4

To put the device back in place, slide it into the bay against the case’s back. Put the screws back in.

How to Test the Power Supply

If there is a problem with the power supply, some components may not function. Follow these steps to test the device.

Step 1

Unplug the pin power connector from the motherboard. This will be a 20 or 24 pin.

Step 2

Shape a paperclip into the letter U.

Step 3

Position the pin power connector so the part that faces down and hooks up to the motherboard faces you. Make sure the connector retention clip is to your left.

Step 4

Find the green wire that hooks up to the main power. The green wire is used by the power supply to indicate it is working. Put one end of the paperclip into the green wire socket.

Step 5

Insert the other end of the paperclip into one of the black wires. There are two of these on the green wire’s side; choose one.

Step 6

Turn the power supply on by setting the external power switch on.

Step 7

Check the housing unit. If the fan moves, the power supply is okay. If it does not, there is an internal problem. You need to get a new power supply.

The ATX power supply performs such a basic and important function that its failure may damage the computer. Knowing how to identify and test this device can prevent this from happening.