Is it reliable to test PSU with software?

[sbab123]

Hi guys,

Just wanted to know whether it is reliable to verify the PSU voltages using CPUID HWMonitor? Is it reliable even though CPUID HWMonitor is actually reading voltages from the VRM and not directly the PSU? Or is it useless?

Regards

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

HWMonitor is poor software , not reliable.

 

[sbab123]

HWMonitor is poor software , not reliable.

Which software do you suggest?

 

[greens]

kind of... the problem is it can be hard to see and catch.

Basically lets imagine we have a computer that is crashing due to power loss.
Well the thing boots and starts no problem at all - you got 12v power for the most part.
The mobo will show 12v power, no problems.

But then when you try and play a game - the demand on the PSU goes up, beyond the amps it is capable of providing. You would in theory (and in practice) see a voltage drop in relation to this. BUT it only takes a second of droop for a crash. So while yes, it is possible, in practice it is incredibly difficult.

Most PSU testers use an adjustable load and precise monitoring - they are able to slowly increase the draw until they see droop. But you don't have that luxory or equipment. When your GPU asks for power its wants it ALL and NOW.

I hope that clears it up a bit for you.