PC Power Supply Types and Components

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of a power supply unit (PSU) in a PC?

To manage network connections

To store data for the computer system

To convert AC from a wall outlet into DC for computer use (correct)

To cool down the internal components

Which type of power supply is most commonly used in desktop PCs?

Flex ATX Power Supplies

SFX Power Supplies

Redundant Power Supplies

ATX Power Supplies (correct)

What distinguishes modular power supplies from non-modular ones?

Non-modular PSUs have permanently attached cables (correct)

Modular PSUs are more expensive than all non-modular types

Non-modular PSUs provide better airflow

Modular PSUs are larger in size

Which type of power supply is designed for compact or proprietary systems?

TFX Power Supplies Signup and view all the answers

What key component of a PSU steps down high-voltage AC to a lower voltage?

Transformer Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of redundant power supplies?

Hot-swappable configuration with multiple units Signup and view all the answers

What advantage do SFX power supplies have over standard ATX models?

More compact size for small form factor cases Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone choose a modular PSU over a non-modular PSU?

Improved airflow and cable management with modular design Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of rectifier and filter capacitors in a power supply unit (PSU)?

To smooth out DC current Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ratings indicates the total power a PSU can supply?

Wattage Signup and view all the answers

What function do cooling components serve in a PSU?

To maintain a safe operating temperature Signup and view all the answers

Which protection circuit is responsible for preventing damage from excessive voltage?

Over-Voltage Protection (OVP) Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum efficiency for a PSU to receive an 80 PLUS standard certification?

80% Signup and view all the answers

Which connector is primarily used to power a modern motherboard?

24-Pin ATX Connector Signup and view all the answers

What role do rails play in a PSU?

Provide pathways for different voltages Signup and view all the answers

Which efficiency rating tier requires at least 90% efficiency?

80 PLUS Platinum Signup and view all the answers

What does Over-Current Protection (OCP) do in a PSU?

Monitors and restricts current to prevent overheating Signup and view all the answers

How do SATA power connectors function in a PSU?

Supply power to storage devices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following features is NOT typically found in a high-quality PSU?

Multi-processor support Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of filter capacitors in a PSU?

To stabilize and smooth the DC output Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if a PSU fails to supply adequate wattage?

Components can experience damage or instability. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

PC Power Supply Types

ATX: Most common type, designed for desktop PCs, follows ATX12V standard, includes 24-pin motherboard connector, CPU and graphics power connectors.
SFX: Compact version of ATX power supply, ideal for mini-ITX PCs, smaller but still capable of high power output.
TFX: Designed for very slim desktop systems, long and narrow shape suitable for compact or proprietary PCs.
Flex ATX: Smaller than standard ATX, still follows ATX12V standards, used in compact PCs, servers and NAS devices.
Redundant PSUs: Used in server environments, offer multiple independent units, ensuring power supply even if one PSU fails.
Modular PSUs: Allow users to connect only necessary cables, improve airflow and cable management.
Non-Modular PSUs: All cables permanently attached, tend to be cheaper but creates clutter.

Key PSU Components

Transformer: Steps down high-voltage AC to lower DC voltage for PC components.
Rectifier and Filter Capacitors: Rectifier converts AC to DC, filter capacitors smooth out the DC current ensuring stability.
Voltage Regulators: Regulate output voltage to ensure correct voltage levels for components, preventing overvoltage or undervoltage.
Cooling Components: Fans expel hot air to maintain safe temperature, high-end PSUs may be fanless or have hybrid modes.
Protection Circuits: Include OVP, UVP, OCP, SCP, protecting the PC from electrical damage.

Power Ratings and Specifications

Wattage: Total power output PSU can supply, essential for component compatibility.
Efficiency Ratings: PSU efficiency measured in % conversion of AC to DC.
80 PLUS Certification: Widely recognized standard for PSU efficiency, tiered based on efficiency levels, with Standard, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium tiers.
Rails and Amperage: Separate pathways for different voltages, +12V rail is crucial for CPU, GPU, and other components. Amperage on the +12V rail is important for power-hungry GPUs.

PSU Connectors

24-Pin ATX connector: Main power connector for motherboard, replacing the older 20-pin connector.
8-Pin EPS (CPU Power Connector): Delivers power to the CPU via the motherboard, may come as 4+4-pin for older systems.
PCIe Power Connectors: 6-pin and 8-pin connectors supply additional power to graphics cards.
SATA Power Connectors: Power storage devices like SSDs and HDDs, replacing older Molex connectors.
Molex Connectors: Older type still found in some systems, powering older hardware like fans or optical drives.
Peripheral Connectors: Designed for case fans, liquid cooling pumps, and other peripherals.

Safety and Protection Features

Over-Voltage Protection (OVP): Prevents excessive voltage to components.
Under-Voltage Protection (UVP): Ensures adequate voltage to prevent system instability.
Over-Power Protection (OPP): Shuts down PSU if it draws more power than it can safely supply.
Over-Current Protection (OCP): Monitors current flow to each rail and shuts down PSU if exceeding limits.
Short Circuit Protection (SCP): Protects against short circuits, instantly shutting down PSU in case of contact.
Over-Temperature Protection (OTP): Monitors internal PSU temperature and shuts down if it exceeds a safe threshold.

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Description

This quiz covers various types of PC power supplies, including ATX, SFX, TFX, and more. It also delves into key components like transformers and rectifiers that are essential for their functioning. Test your knowledge on power supply standards and configurations for different computer systems.