Computer power supplies do not affect the performance of a computer, but they do determine what hardware a computer can use. Upgrading to a more powerful processor or video card often requires a power supply upgrade as well. Changing your old power supply out for a new one can seem daunting at first, but it doesn't have to be an ordeal. This guide will take you through the process one step at a time.

Preparation to Change PC Power Supply

Before you do anything, you should make sure you prepare the space in which you'll be working. Find a level working space on which you can place your computer. You will need at least a screwdriver to complete this task, and it can also help to have a flash light. Finally, it is recommend that you use an anti-static wrist band. Static electricity from your body can in rare instances damage your computer. The anti-static wrist band makes sure that this doesn't happen.

Getting Started

Unplug your computer and move it to your work space. Position the computer so that you are viewing it from the front. The panel on the left side if the one that you will want to open. This panel is secured by screws which are usually found on the rear of the case along the left edge. Take out the screws and then open the panel. If the panel doesn't open at first, examine the top, bottom, and front of the case to locate any addition screws.

Locating the Old Power Supply

Once you have the case open you will need to find your old power supply. The power supply is a metal box with a huge bundle of wires coming out of one end. It is usually located at the top and rear of the computer, although a few computers will place the power supply at the bottom of the case.

Detaching PC Power Supply Cables

The power supply is, of course, currently connected to the components in your computer. You will need to unplug everything before removing the old power supply. You don't need any tools for this - a firm pull will detach most of the cords. There are a few exceptions, like the large 24-pin motherboard power cord. This has a plastic latch which must be pressed in order to remove the cord.

Extracting the Old PC Power Supply

Locate the four screws on the rear of the case which correspond to the position of the power supply. Unscrew these and then remove the power supply by pulling it firmly up and out of the case. Watch carefully for anything which is still connected to the power supply - you don't want to accidentally pull a component out of your case.

Placing the New Power Supply

Gently lower the new power supply into position. Use the four screws which were just removed to screw the new power supply firmly into place.

Reconnecting Cords

Connect the new power supply to all of the equipment in your computer. It is best to do this systematically in order to make sure that you don't miss anything. Do the motherboard first, since the computer won't boot without those connections, then the video card. After that connect your hard drives and your optical drive, then finally connect any other devices in your computer.

Test Run

Without closing your computer fully or connecting the computer to any other devices, plug the computer in and press the power button. The fans should begin to operate and the power LED should turn on. If the computer does not boot, unplug it again and make sure all of the connections, particularly those connected to the motherboard, are tight.

PC Power Supply is now Changed:  Completion!

Once you've completed a brief test, close the computer's left panel using the screws we took out when disassembling the computer. That's it! You've successfully changed your computer's power supply.

admin | May 30th, 2011
Tags: Change PC Power Supply, Changing PC Power Supply steps, How to Change PC Power Supply
Categories: Hardware

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