The power supply is a critical component of any computer system, be it a desktop, laptop or server. It is responsible for converting power from the electrical grid into a form that the computer can use. There are several types of power supplies, each with its own characteristics and advantages. This article will explain the different types of power supplies and help you choose the best option for your needs.
ATX Power Supplies
ATX power supplies are the most common in desktop computers. They were introduced by Intel in 1995 and are characterized by having a single 12V output, which is used to power the computer's components. ATX power supplies also have several other outputs to power other components, such as the hard drive and CD/DVD drive.
SFX Power Supplies
SFX power supplies are a smaller version of ATX power supplies. They are commonly used in small computers such as mini-ITX. Despite their smaller size, SFX power supplies can still deliver the same amount of power as an ATX power supply. However, due to their smaller size, they may not have as many outputs as an ATX power supply.
TFX Power Supplies
TFX power supplies are even smaller than SFX power supplies and are commonly used in slim form factor computers. They are similar to SFX power supplies in terms of functionality, but are thinner and longer. This allows them to be used in slimmer computer cases, but also means they have fewer outputs available.
Flex ATX Power Supplies
The Flex ATX power supply is an even smaller version of the ATX power supply. It is designed to be used in very small and compact computer cases. Despite its small size, the Flex ATX power supply can still deliver a significant amount of power. However, due to its compact size, it may have fewer outputs available than a standard ATX power supply.
Redundant Power Supplies
Redundant power supplies are commonly used in servers and other highly available computer systems. They consist of two or more independent power supplies that can power the system simultaneously. If one of the power supplies fails, the other can take over without interruption. This provides an additional layer of protection against power outages and can be critical for systems that need to be available 24/7.
External Power Supplies
External power supplies are used in laptops and other portable devices. They are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them ideal for use on the go. External power supplies connect to the device via a cable and supply power directly to the device instead of powering the internal components individually.
In summary, choosing the right power supply depends on the type of computer system you are building, the size of the case, and the power needs of the components. It is always important to ensure that the power supply you choose is capable of providing enough power to all components in your system.
