power supply

[thesimplecreator]

i have an old hp desktop
and its power supply is broke
does it really matter wut power supply i buy to replace it, arnt all the plugs the same?????

[oz]

Yes, it matters which one you buy.

Older motherboards use a 20-pin ATX connector, while the newer ones use a 24-pin ATX connector. You can use a 24-pin power supply with a 20-pin motherboard by attaching an adapter, but you can't do it the other way around. You might also need to make sure it will fit properly into the case. Make sure the wattage is high enough to handle all the devices that will be plugged into it. Make sure that it has connectors for all the different types of peripherals that will be plugged into it.

Have fun installing your new power supply.

[anomie]

Also, take it from someone who learned the hard way -- do not buy cheapo, "bargain" PSUs.

Here are the brands I've personally had OK experiences with, FWIW: Ultra, Thermaltake.

[oz]

-- do not buy cheapo, "bargain" PSUs.

Good point! The old rule of thumb regarding computer power supplies is to buy the best one you can afford.

[thesimplecreator]

thx i was wonderin if the pluggs were different

[coopstah13]

not to be too picky but you can adapt 20 pin to 24 pin I have one of those adapters

[oz]

not to be too picky but you can adapt 20 pin to 24 pin I have one of those adapters

Yes, I should have made it more clear that it is possible, but generally not recommended.