Parts of the Power Supply for a Desktop Computer
The power supply unit (PSU) in a desktop computer is a component that converts mains AC current to the DC current that the computer requires. High voltages would destroy the internal components of the computer, such as the CPU and memory chips. The PSU is responsible for stepping down DC voltages to the lower voltages that power the internal components. Some PSUs have switching capabilities that allow them to be used in both 240-volt and 115-volt environments. These PCUs have an external switch so that the user cab choose the input voltage.
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Casing
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The PSU case keeps the internal components of the PSU isolated from the components inside the computer case. Some of the PSU components carry voltage that could do considerable damage if they were to access computer components. The case insulates against electromagnetic interference generated within the PSU.
Drive Connectors
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PSUs usually have at least five power connectors for delivering power to internal components not fixed to the motherboard. Typically, this includes hard disk drives and CD/DVD devices. Different cable and connector types are needed to connect PSUs to different devices, such as IDE-based drives and SATA-based drives. If more power connections are required, the number can be increased by using splitters, which create two connections from one.
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Motherboard Connectors
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Power is sent from the PSU to the motherboard via specific wired connections. The CPU, expansion slots, memory and other components all need to receive the correct voltage from the PSU, and there are locations on the motherboard designed to receive the PSU connections. Connections to the motherboard must be made accurately, since the wrong connections can result in damage to the computer.
Cooling Fan
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In early computers, the PSU fan was the primary cooling source for the whole computer. The PSU fan is located inside its casing. Having the fan control the incoming air means that filters can be used to limit the amount of dust getting into the computer case. More recently, this mechanism was switched when more powerful processors needed additional cooling.
Power Cable
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A power cable runs externally from the PSU case and is connected to the mains using a three-pin plug. The cable connects to the PSU using a standard three-point connector, which is similar to the connector on kitchen appliances. Some PSUs also have a pass-through connector, which allows them to feed mains power to other external components, such as monitors.
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