Need Help!!! SR1830NX

[Ansepheth]

I just recently bought a new video card, e-GeForce 8800 GT from NVidia (EVGA), and it says it requires a 400 watt power supply minimum with 26 amps on the +12 volt rail and a PCIe supplemental power connector (or two hard disk drive connectors).  My current power supply is only 300, so I know it won't work, but I just need help choosing a new power supply.  I've done a little research and it seems like http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8545158&type=product&id=1188560188623 this product will work, it got great ratings and everything, but I'm wondering if it will even work with my computer.  Again, I have a Compaq Presario SR1830NX and am just wanting to upgrade to a better power supply.  Will the one I've chosen work w/ my motherboard?  Thanks for any assistance!

[Kalt]

That's a nice power supply, and I would use it  ----> But this is a better price.  You'll have no problem installing it...it's compatable.

Message Edited by Kalt on 11-30-2008 02:11 PM

[Ansepheth]

Oh, that's a nice site, it shows the rails and their output.  I noticed, though, that it has 2 separate +12V rails, each of them at 17 amps.  I need 26 ams from the +12V rail.  Will it work?  Do both of the +12V rails work in conjunction (meaning a 34 amp output) or are they completely separate to where it wouldn't work?

[Blaydrnnnr]

I personally stick with single rail PSU's, PC Power and Cooler has never let me down and provide a great CONSTANT voltage. this is important for my card, on an 8800, it RECOMMENDS 400W, but I know lots of people running on 350....I'm not a huge fan of Antec,....make sure with an Antec that Best buy will let you return it after its been installed. 500W will work... but its the constant voltage you need to worry about, not all PSU's that say 500-600W are running sufficient constant voltages...plugs are something to look for as well...many dont come with the plugs will need, or may need to be adapted...you can usually go to the PSU maker site and get the info on the plugs it has on the unit.. making sure you have enough to hook up and run everything and trying NOT to come off the same line of plugs for your HD....dont want power drainage on your data drives and a video card thats going to run hard. An 8800 isnt as power hungry as the bigger cards, ( I'm running a 4870 ) so... 500W will be OK. Also... just a reminder....bigger PSU, bigger Card = more heat. Make sure your case is well ventilated.

[Kalt]

Honestly, I'm not quite sure how it works..I just know that the amperage has never been a problem as long as the wattage was high enough.  If you want to know more, this article might help...or someone else here might offer more advice.

PS - Antec is a great company, and their PSU's have 3 YR warranties on them.

Message Edited by Kalt on 11-30-2008 02:22 PM

[Ansepheth]

Seems to me like the two +12V rails are separate, meaning one would not supply sufficient power to the video card.  I could very well be wrong, as I am new to hardware replacement.  I will continue looking for a 500 watt supply with a single 26 amp +12V rail.  Thank you both for your help!

[Kalt]

No problem, I'm sure www.newegg.com will have the PSU you need...and for a good price too.

[Ansepheth · Accepted solution]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371006  I think this is the one I'm going to end up buying.  =D  Someone left a comment stating that the +12V "dual rail" was actually a single 30A rail, and it's 430 watts, so I think it should definitely work!  =D  Thanks so much for all your help!