What PSU should I use?

aquaticcolor

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May 29, 2014
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Hello,
I am currently building a home server/Media HTPC, and these are the component list
CPU: Intel J1900 Celeron
MOBO: ASrock Q1900-ITX Mini-ITX motherboard
RAM: 2 X Samsung DDR3 PC-10600 2 GB 204-pin SO-DIMM
HDD: WD 3TB NAS Drive
Case: DIYPC HTPC-Minicube-Silver

So the system only draws around 30W at maximum. Is it okay to cheap-out on PSU, by using something like $15 logisys 350W ones, or should I at least use descent Seasonic PSU that costs $40?
 
Solution
The cheap ones may or may not work, usually depends on luck. But keep in mind that they are usually outputting less than they state. For instance the Logisys I took a look at only had 12a on the 12v rail which gives you a max of 144w for the CPU despite being called a 350w power supply. Also they like to use the terminology of maximum output rather than minimum so you aren't guaranteed a thing.
The cheap ones may or may not work, usually depends on luck. But keep in mind that they are usually outputting less than they state. For instance the Logisys I took a look at only had 12a on the 12v rail which gives you a max of 144w for the CPU despite being called a 350w power supply. Also they like to use the terminology of maximum output rather than minimum so you aren't guaranteed a thing.
 
Solution


Yes, I am actually very well aware of that. I once made a mistake of using a Prescott Pentium 4 system on a 300W cheapo-PSUs. Let's say it ended up in fire 🙁.

However, that was a "Prescott" which was a power hog. The baytrail-based celeron system won't draw more than 50W even during maximum loads....that's why I can't decide 🙁. Plus I already used up all of my budget and all I have is about $20.