Running a GPU on minimum PSU

[tbean1]

Hello,
So I was just curious if it's still safe to run a GPU on the minimum wattage for PSU. I was looking into getting a EVGA geforce GTX 550 Ti 1gb GDDR5 and it requires a six pin power hook up, which my PSU has, but it says minimum wattage for PSU at 400W and that's exactly what my PSU is. Is it okay to run the GPU on that, or should it be upgraded? The computer itself is just a Dell Optiplex 780 MT so it'll fit in the case. Thanks in advance!

 

[Wolfshadw]

You should be ok, as they tend to overstate the required wattage. The 6-Pin PCI-E power only adds a maximum 75 watts, so the card, itself will only use under 150 watts at full load (75 watts PCI-Ex16 slot, 75 watts PCI-E power). which should leave plenty for the rest of your system.

-Wolf sends

 

[tbean1]

Awesome, I assumed so, but thank you for the response!

 

[captaincharisma]

i am assuming this is a brand name computer like a HP or Dell so it should be fine as long as it a good quality PSU. you never know where these companies cheap out on parts to keep the costs down

 

[tbean1]

Yes, I bought an after market GPU for it, EVGA

 

[dontlistentome]

I think you'll be fine. It's likelier that the power supply, if it fails, will fail due to being a cheaply made PSU than it is due to you adding that card.

 

[Wolfshadw]

Based on the Specs for the Dell Optiplex 780 MT, it originally came with a 305 watt Power Supply. Since the OP states they have a 400 watt PSU, it seems apparent the power supply was replaced at some point.

-Wolf sends