How to Hook Up a Power Supply to a Computer
A computer power supply provides the electricity and power to computer components that make a computer run. A power supply, which screws into a computer case, has an AC power connection on the outside (for connecting to a wall plug) and multiple power adapters on the inside (for connecting to various computer components that require power). Hooking up a new power supply to a computer requires spending some time inside of your computer case.
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Instructions
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1
Open your computer case. All computer cases open differently, but most have a side that slides on and off. This side will probably be screwed on with two finger-tightened screws. Consult your computer documentation if you don't know how to open the case.
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2
Find the proper placement for your power supply inside of the case. This area should be easily located as there will be a rectangular opening in the back of your computer with four small screw holes (for securing the power supply in place). Once located, carefully insert your power supply into the proper area. Be careful not to bump any computer components.
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3
Hold the power supply in place with one hand and carefully insert and tighten the power supply screws (these should come with any power supply) through the back of the computer case into your power supply. Once all four screws are tightened, take a Philips head screwdriver and tighten the screws until snug. Your power supply is now ready to be hooked up to your motherboard and computer components.
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Insert the internal power connection into your motherboard. The power connector will be labeled on your motherboard, so this shouldn't be too difficult. Consult your power supply and/or motherboard documentation if you can't figure out which cord goes to it. Once the motherboard is connected, insert the remainder of the available power cords into the components that require power. If you don't know which of your components require a power connection, consult your computer documentation or individual parts documentation (if purchases are separate from the computer).
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5
Connect your power supply to a wall plug or power strip with the supplied cord. Your power supply has now been successfully installed and your computer is ready to be started.
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Tips & Warnings
Computer components and static electricity do not mix. If an antistatic wrist strap is not available, it is highly recommended that you constantly keep yourself grounded by touching the metal of your computer case. This will discharge any static electricity in your body and keep computer components safe from accidental bumps.
