One first must learn how to select a power supply (what
specifications are important) to understand, for multiple
reasons, that a 400 watt supply is capable of supplying less
power compared than a 300 watt supply. These 'insufficient
power' problems are directly traceable to those who never
learned facts such as these citations:
http://firingsquad.gamers.com/guides/power/default.asp
http://www6.tomshardware.com/howto/02q4/021021/powersupplies-15.html
Provided above is background information necessary to select
power supplies. Failure to learn basic technical facts are
why some 400 watt supplies cannot even output sufficient power
whereas a 300 watt supply could. Demonstrated are functions
of load and of how that wattage is speced. Essential reading
for anyone who would insult others before learning. Being
technically ill informed is common among 'computer experts'
who recommend only on price or total wattage.
Kerry should be asking what essential functions are
necessary in the supply since total wattage and efficiency are
irrelevant. Information in those above citations demonstrate
just some of what is important in power supplies - which is
why a 300 watt supply could even provide more useful power
than a 400 watt supply. Forget about efficiencies and total
wattage. Worry about what a power supply must really do and
whether necessary functions are included. Worry first most if
that supply even provides a long list of numeric
specifications.
Only the misguided believe 400 watt supplies will always
output more power. Depends even on how they are playing
specmanship games. Martin should have known about these
common power supply vendor problems before posting
inaccurately - a subtle hint, Martin, that you probably have a
few less decades of professional experience.
