power supply unit replacement for HP m9255.uk

[morehopeless]

Hi everybody, I've got an HP Pavillion Desktop m9255.uk running windows vista home premium, no hardware added or changed since it was bought in 2008, but the fan on the power supply unit has stopped spinning and so the unit gets very hot. I have turned the computer off and I now need to buy and fit a new power supply unit, preferrably one with a beter quality fan and better quality in general.  I've got the video and pictorial instructions from the HP website and am confident that I can carry out the replacement safely and effectively, my problem is how to approach the purchase of a replacement psu.  I live in the UK and would be grateful for any advice from support members.

Thank You in advance

66 year old newbie-ess

[Big_Dave]

Hi,

If you don't plan on adding a big video card then a PSU such as the Corsair CX430 might be a good choice. If you think that you might add a higher performing video card then the Corsair CX500 might be a good choice.

You should open up your PC and measure the physical dimensions of your power supply. Here is a list of things to consider:

1. Specifications
2. Total wattage - important
3. 12+ volt amperage rating - important
4. Modular - not mandatory but I like the flexibility
5. Warranty
6. i7 and SLI ready
7. Efficiency rating -- nice to have
8. Cost
9. Physical size -- standard ATX PSU is 5.5" by 5.9" by 3.4" give or take a few tenths
10. A single 12+ volt rail is a better choice.

You might try a can of compressed air and blow out all of the dust from the PSU and CPU heat sink.

[morehopeless]

Hi thank you for your speedy response, I did have the case off and give it a good blow with the can of compressed air, but the fan still didn't start up, which is why I think the psu needs replacing,

I don't understand how the heatsink area could cause the psu fan to stop working, but then I know less than nothing where computers are concerned. I'll take the case off again later today (it's 5am as it's time for bed now) and I'll give the inside of the case a good spray again particularly around the heat sink area.

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge.

[Big_Dave]

Hi,

The CPU heat sink cleaning is a "good practice". So while you are cleaning one area with compressed air then do the other areas.