How to Install the Power Supply on an HP Computer
The power supply of a computer is a device that converts electricity from a wall socket into current the computer uses to operate. Power supplies are rated for a certain maximum wattage output; computer systems with more devices and more powerful hardware, such as high-end video cards and fast hard drives, require power supplies with higher wattage ratings. If you plan to upgrade an HP computer with more powerful hardware, consider installing a more powerful power supply as well.
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Instructions
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1
Turn off the computer, and unplug the power cord.
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2
Use a screwdriver to remove the panel on the left side of your tower case. Depending on the model of the HP computer, the positioning and number of screws may vary; in general, three Phillips-head screws must be removed.
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3
Unplug all the cords coming from your current power supply unit. There will be a bundle of cords coming out of your power supply that plug into all your system's devices. Unplug each device to free up the power supply for removal. As you unplug the cords, remember which devices you unplug and which type of plug they require.
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4
Remove the old power supply by unscrewing the mounting screws on the back of the case. Most power supplies have four mounting screws that solidify them in the upper-back corner of the case. After removing the screws, slide the power supply out of its space and remove from the tower.
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5
Mount the new power supply in the open power supply bay. Slide the power supply into the open space and screw it in place using the new screws that came with the power supply.
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6
Connect all your devices to the new power supply's power cords. The new power supply will have a bunch of power cords that will resemble the old one. Connect the new power cords to each of your devices in the same configuration as the old power supply. If you are adding new devices, plug extra power cords into them as well.
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7
Screw the side cover back on to close the case.
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Tips & Warnings
Power supplies can easily overheat and even burn up if they are overstressed. Using a power supply with more than ample wattage and keeping the computer cooled properly is the best way to avoid failure.
