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The Power Supply

The power supply is consists of a transformer that changes the incoming alternating current (a.c.) from the 'mains' into a direct current(d.c.) to power the computer.

Normally the supply is within the main case in a smaller 'shiny' case of its own. It contains a fan, to cool the circuitry and a power plug coming out the back of the case. It also has a number of smaller 'power conectors' for powering the components, such as hard drives, floppy drives and cd-roms, that make up the computer. It also has two larger power connectors maked P8 and P9 to deliver a voltage to the 'motherboard'. In most systems the two connectors are attached to a single connection point, with the black wires on each connector next to each other.

Most power supplies are rated at at least 200Watt.

Some typical wattage ratings to various elements in the computer system is given below:

Given below are the wire assignments to the various connectors.

Devise connector

P8 connector to Motherboard

P9 connector to Motherboard