How to find power consumption of my comp?

**atgcpaul** · 02-28-2009, 01:48 PM

Originally posted by jussi

I've upgrade many parts on my comp since I've ordered it and will probably upgrade more in the future. Trying to figure out how much power it's currently using to see if I need to up my psu. Anyone know of any free programs that do this?

You could get one of those Kill-O-Watt meters. You plug it in in-inline with
your computer and it tells you how many watts you're using.

**Daryl** · 02-28-2009, 03:08 PM

You could use a clamp on ammeter, then use your math skills to come up with wattage.

**OpaDC** · 02-28-2009, 03:26 PM

If you're a real geek and know every component in your computer,

you can use the Antec Power Supply Calculator.

**LCHIEN** · 02-28-2009, 04:16 PM

Clamp on meters and the Kill-o-watt only tell you the AC power. For DC power supplies you need it identify the DC loads. this electrical engineer says its not very easy for the average joe. It's not even easy for me.

I suppose you can estimate the DC power as 80% of the AC power, PFC corrected, as most DC power supplies are around 80% efficient. That won't tell you the loads on the individual outputs.

**jussi** · 02-28-2009, 05:01 PM

Originally posted by OpaDC

If you're a real geek and know every component in your computer,

you can use the Antec Power Supply Calculator.

Thanks. I used it in conjunction with a PC audit program for components I forgot. I got pretty much everything but what type of fan. Wound up with 386W. 11 more than my psu. Guess it's time to upgrade. I have noticed the fan making more noise than when I first got it and figured it was straining a bit. Prolly go with a 500W. Anyone get a new one recently they liked? I want to get one as quiet as possible without killing my wallet. I know the super quiet ones are insanely expensive.

**Mr__Bill** · 02-28-2009, 05:12 PM

I got a reasonably quiet one at Fry's for about 40 bucks on sale. If you Google quiet PC there is a wealth of info on what is available and reviews of various power supplies. Happy hunting

Bill

**jussi** · 02-28-2009, 05:15 PM

Originally posted by Mr__Bill

I got a reasonably quiet one at Fry's for about 40 bucks on sale. If you Google quiet PC there is a wealth of info on what is available and reviews of various power supplies. Happy hunting

Bill

thx Bill. I may swing by there tomorrow. That's about my price range.

How to find power consumption of my comp?

How to find power consumption of my comp?

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