3.5 – Power: Computer Power

Always disconnect the computer from the power source before working on it.

Capacitors store power even after disconnecting from the power source.

Never touch any part of the electrical system, including the ground.

Direct Current (DC) power is used by computer components.

Alternating Current (AC) power is supplied by the power outlet.

Converts AC power to DC power for computer components.

Measurement of the rate of electrons flowing through a point in one second.

Measurement of electrical potential difference.

The range of frequencies a power supply can operate within.

The amount of electrical power a power supply can deliver.

The primary power connector that connects the power supply to the motherboard.

A type of power supply that has removable connectors, allowing you to customize the connections based on your system's needs.

A power supply designed with fixed, non-removable connectors.

A power supply with a combination of fixed and removable connectors.

A configuration where a server has more than one power supply, providing redundancy and increased reliability.

A system where a power supply can be replaced without shutting down the system.

The process of determining the required wattage for a computer system based on its individual components.

A website or tool that helps calculate the required wattage for a computer system.

The amount of power a component consumes.

A component, such as a graphics card, that consumes significant power.

A rule of thumb to ensure a power supply has enough capacity for a system by doubling the calculated wattage.

The standardization of the physical size of power supplies, ensuring compatibility across different manufacturers.

The use of a power supply that exceeds the calculated wattage requirement for a system.

The amount of force pushing water through a hose. Think of it as the pressure of the water flow.

A measurement of power consumption. It's calculated by multiplying voltage (Volts) by current (Amps).

The type of power we get from wall outlets. It constantly switches direction, with the direction switching a certain number of times per second (frequency).

The rate at which alternating current changes direction. Measured in Hertz (Hz).

Electrical current that flows in one direction only. This is what comes from the power supply inside your computer.

The difference in electrical potential between two points measured relative to a ground point. It can be positive or negative.

Voltage used by most modern motherboards for various components like RAM, M2 slots etc.

Voltage used for legacy motherboards and other components such as older RAM and M.2 connections

Voltage specifically designated for standby mode, used when your system is hibernating. It's constantly checking for power button presses.

Voltage used by older components such as integrated network connections and older serial ports.

Voltage that was used in older motherboards for specific components, but most modern motherboards no longer need it.

The ability of a power supply to automatically switch between 120V and 230V, making it usable in different countries.

A manually operated switch on a power supply that allows you to select between 120V and 230V, ensuring compatibility with different power sources.