Computer Power Supply
If there is any one component that is absolutely important to the operation of a computer, it is the power supply. Without power supply, a computer is just an inert box full of plastic and metal. The power supply converts the alternating current (AC) line from your home to the direct current (DC) needed by the personal computer. In this article, we'll learn how PC power supplies work and what the wattage ratings mean.
In a personal computer (PC), the power supply is the metal box usually found in a corner of the case. The power supply is visible from the back of many systems (Also known as SMPS) because it contains the power-cord receptacle and the cooling fan.
Power supplies, often referred to as "switching power supplies", use switcher technology to convert the AC input to lower DC voltages. The typical voltages supplied are:
• 3.3 volts
• 5 volts
• 12 volts
