Power Supply Compatibility

5 minutes 5 Questions

Power Supply Compatibility is an essential consideration when assembling or upgrading a computer system. The power supply unit (PSU) is responsible for converting the alternating current (AC) from the wall outlet into direct current (DC) to be used by the components within the computer. The wattage…

Guide on Power Supply Compatibility

Power Supply Compatibility is a crucial aspect of CompTIA A+ certification. This concept is highly important because it ensures that a power supply unit (PSU) is not only physically fitting into your machine but also it provides the correct amount of power needed by all components.

What it is: Power Supply Compatibility refers to the assessment of whether a specific power supply unit (PSU) is suitable for a certain computer. It involves checking PSU dimensions, connector types, wattage, and more to ensure that the PSU will work effectively with the computer's components.

How it works: In order for a power supply to be compatible with a computer, it must fit the computer's case, have the right connectors for the motherboard and peripherals, and deliver enough wattage to power all components. One method to ensure this compatibility is by using a power supply calculator to determine the needed wattage. It's also important to note that different PSUs come in various form factors, such as ATX, BTX, etc., which must match with the computer's case.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Power Supply Compatibility
An understanding of power supply specifications and compatibility is crucial for the CompTIA A+ certification exam. Here are some tips for answering such questions:
1. Know the different PSU form factors: Understanding the difference between ATX, BTX, microATX, etc., can help you answer questions related to the physical compatibility of the PSU.
2. Understand the power requirements: Be familiar with how to calculate the total power (wattage) required by a system and how to match it with the correct PSU.
3. Be aware of connector types: Understand the different connector types, such as the 24-pin motherboard connector, 8-pin CPU power connector, and peripherals connectors.
Remember, if a question pertains to a specific computer configuration, always refer back to these basic PSU compatibility checks.

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Question 1

A technician needs to replace a faulty power supply for a gaming PC. The system requires 450 watts and has a GPU with 8-pin and 6-pin power connectors. Which power supply is the most suitable?

500W PSU without PCIe connectors 400W PSU with 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe connectors 450W PSU with only 8-pin PCIe connectors 500W PSU with 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe connectors

Correct Answer: 500W PSU with 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe connectors

The 500W PSU with 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe connectors is the best choice. It provides enough wattage for the system's requirements, along with the necessary power connectors for the GPU.

Question 2

A user has purchased a new ATX motherboard and wants to install it into an older mid-tower case. The power supply in the case has a 20-pin ATX connector. Which of the following options is the best solution?

Modify the 20-pin ATX connector to fit the 24-pin ATX motherboard Connect the 20-pin ATX connector to the motherboard and leave the remaining 4 pins unconnected Use a 20-pin to 24-pin ATX adapter Replace the power supply with a 24-pin ATX connector

Correct Answer: Replace the power supply with a 24-pin ATX connector

Replacing the power supply with a 24-pin ATX connector is the best option, as it ensures compatibility with the new ATX motherboard and provides the necessary power for all components.

Question 3

A user recently added multiple hard drives and a high-end graphics card to their PC. After the upgrades, the PC shuts down randomly. What should be done to fix this issue?

Replace the power supply with a higher wattage unit Check the power connections to the graphics card Swap the graphics card for a lower-end model Add more cooling to the case

Correct Answer: Replace the power supply with a higher wattage unit

The most likely cause of the PC shutting down randomly after adding multiple hard drives and a high-end graphics card is that the existing power supply does not provide enough wattage to support the increased power demands of the new components. Hard drives and high-end graphics cards can significantly increase the power consumption of a PC. If the power supply is not sufficient, it can cause the system to become unstable and shut down unexpectedly. Replacing the power supply with a higher wattage unit should resolve the issue by ensuring the system has enough power to operate all components properly.

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