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Testing PSU thoroughly? Like with a mulitmeter?

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ChadTower:

I would look up the current draw of both hard drives, then determine the difference.   Then I'd find a way to simulate that additional load on the PSU, maybe adding a little bit progressively until it fails.

Com[Plex]:

--- Quote from: spystyle on April 02, 2007, 01:35:47 pm ---I figured there could be a thorough test for the PSU and also a way to test it's source - the power strip and wall socket.

--- End quote ---

I think your answer is simple, and right there in front of you.
if the PSU works with your 200 gigger, it must be OK. if not, then you might want to consider getting a new psu. :)

probably not the answer you are looking for...

spystyle:
You're all fired

:)

BobA:
You can test any supply with a multimeter but you also have to test it under load.   You can make up a load tester by using a bunch of power resistors and a switch.   Many arcade testers have a way to test the PS under different loads.   If you measured the voltages with your 200 Gig drive plugged in you would probably see with your multimeter that one or more of the voltages were pulled down to unacceptable levels.   

If you do not test under load you are not testing.    I give plug in power testers 2 out of 5 power supply testing points.

Samstag:

--- Quote from: spystyle on April 02, 2007, 01:35:47 pm ---
--- Quote from: Samstag on April 02, 2007, 12:55:41 pm ---...Your best bet is to figure out whether the supply or the drive is causing the problem and throw away the bad part.


--- End quote ---

Truly, I was just wondering if there were steps I could add to my "PSU testing routine" - I lost allot of time over this PSU.

I figured there could be a thorough test for the PSU and also a way to test it's source - the power strip and wall socket.

I guess there aren't any computer techs who are also electricians in the room?

Thanks,
Craig

--- End quote ---

You can test more thoroughly but I was trying to get the point across that it's not worth the effort.  If you really want to test your supply correctly you need to have a custom testbed with variable loads.  Yeah, you can half-ass it with big resistors and old hard drives but unless you know what you're doing you're probably not going to get accurate results.

What you would need to do for a minimal test setup is:


* Put a small load on each of the 3.3, +5, and +12 lines.
* Measure current in series with the load you want to test.
* Increase the load in steps and verify the current/voltage until you approach the rated current.
* Repeat for each output (3.3, 5, 12)
I'm an electronics guy and have access to expensive variable load testbeds at work.  Here are my power supply testing steps:


* Replace suspect supply with a $20 500W supply.
* If it works, order a new supply.
Get yourself a cheap spare supply and sell your testers.

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