9800GT in Dell Studio XPS?

[benhar_98]

Just bought a Studio XPS, first new desktop since the one I built in 2001. I opted for the low-end video card to knock off $200, and used part of that to buy an EVGA 9800GT (512 MB version). I threw it in, and it seems to be working fine. However, I've noticed that the PSU is 360W while the card specs say it needs a minimum of 400W. I figure there is some fudge room in the specs, but am starting to get paranoid that I may have to buy a bigger PSU. But after shelling out the money for the PC, I might have trouble convincing the wife why I need to spend another $100

So, after the long-winded backstory, what are the chances I will be ok with the stock PSU? I am only a casual gamer (Red Alert 3, Call of Duty, etc.) and wasn't trying to build a true gaming PC, just something for all-round use. I have no intention of overclocking, and will keep everything else stock and will only have 1 hard drive.

 

[delluser1]

So, after the long-winded backstory, what are the chances I will be ok with the stock PSU?

I'd say the chances were pretty good.
Dell Small Business sells the Vostro with a 350 watt power supply and a 9800GT, no reason why the same card wouldn't work fine with the 360 watt psu.

 

[coozie7]

Agree with DELLUSER1.
The Studio XPS ships with the same PSU and a HD4850 which draws 110W at full load, your 9800GT draws 80W at full load.
So, stop being paranoid, at least Dell is n`t out to get you.

 

[benhar_98]

Thanks, that puts me at ease. I didn't even realize the stock card pulls more power!

 

[delluser1]

So, stop being paranoid, at least Dell is n`t out to get you.

Unless you're looking to upgrade thru them ( $200 to upgrade to a 4850 sheesh )

 

[benhar_98]

Unless you're looking to upgrade thru them ( $200 to upgrade to a 4850 sheesh )

No kidding! I took that $200 and bought the 9800GT for $130, got Call of Duty 5 free with it, and still have the $15 rebate to submit.

 

[trueflu]

From what I understand the Dell psu's are underrated and if you don't overclock or add additional peripherals the 30amp 12v rail on that thing can power a 9800 gtx with ample head room. Don't go adding any higher cpu though, you'll want to keep you total system draw around 200-250 watts at full load. The rating system on dell psu's reflects actual constant wattage available, if it say 350w then much like shuttle psu's you get 350w out of it. Unlike consumer psu's dells rating is for part specification not to make sales. But give yourself the 100 watt head room and make sure that your 30 amp rail gives you ample head room, I believe a 9800 will draw 9-12 amps. People also run 4850s too.

Warning this is not a guide to a consumer PSU. Just Dell's and shuttles.

 

[trueflu]

From what I understand the Dell psu's are underrated and if you don't overclock or add additional peripherals the 30amp 12v rail on that thing can power a 9800 gtx with ample head room. Don't go adding any higher cpu though, you'll want to keep you total system draw around 200-250 watts at full load. The rating system on dell psu's reflects actual constant wattage available, if it say 350w then much like shuttle psu's you get 350w out of it. Unlike consumer psu's dells rating is for part specification not to make sales. But give yourself the 100 watt head room and make sure that your 30 amp rail gives you ample head room, I believe a 9800 will draw 9-12 amps. People also run 4850s too.

Warning this is not a guide to a consumer PSU. Just Dell's and shuttles.