Power supply upgrade

[jyjazz]

Hello.

I have a Compaq SR2020NX system that I was thinking of upgrading - particularly the PSU.

I'd like to get to at least a 350W unit.  Would anyone be able make any suggestions?

[kcnwa · Accepted solution]

I'd personally get the CORSAIR CMPSU-400CX 400W ATX12V V2.2 80 PLUS Certified if you are looking for ~400w. You can find it for $40 at some eggcelent sites, you can't get a better PSU for the price. 

[erico]

Here is a link that covers the subject authored bya forum member called RoyalSerpent,

[jyjazz]

Great!  Thanks for the assistance!

Next question is....is replacing the PSU a technically complicated job?  Or is it pretty simple?

And are there any issues I might look out for?

Thanks again!

[erico]

It is pretty simple. Remove all connectors at the rear of your PC (inluding the PSU power connector) for ease of maintenence.

PSU replacement only requires a philips screwdriver for the four screws that hold it to the inside of the case.

Open the side cover of your PC.

Take a look at where the connectors go before you remove them from their mating connectors. 

Remove the connectors from the old PSU at the motherboard and peripherals one at a time and note where they were plugged in. (squeeze the locking tab and they will come loose as you apply only a slight amount of force)

As you remove the PSU be careful that you don't hit the CPU fan when removing the old PSU and when installing the new one,

Put in the new PSU oriented correctly at the rear and secure it with the four screws.Proper orientation means that the PSU power switch is in a position where you can correctly read the switch from the rear of the PC.

Carefully plug in the connectors where you removed them from. Use small plastic (not metal ones) tywraps when you are routing the connector wires to ensure that none of the connectors block the operation of the fans.

Connect the monitor connection.

Connect the CAT5 internet cable to the network connection.

 Connect the speaker and microphone connectors, paying attention to the color of the plugs,

Leave the case cover off while you test the operation of your PC so you can see that the CPU fan comes on.

Plug in the power connector back in at the rear of the PSU.

Turn on your monitor.

Place the PSU switch in to the 1(on) position.

Turn on your PC and watch and listen for any noise indicating inoperative fans and cable routing problems. If you hear any turn off your PC and correct the cable routing.

If everything operates as expected, close up the case after you shut down windows.

Enjoy your PC!

Message Edited by erico on 05-12-2009 02:53 PM