I understand the need to use multiple PSUs cos of the say the amount of components one might have and offer greater versatility. So do the ppl that use them have special cases with 2 PSU slots or do they just sit the other one in or on the case? Is it safe to do this?
How do people use 2 PSUs?!!
- Thread starter manoz
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Most servers have 2 PSU's, so you would need a "server case" to hold both, but, if you had 2 on a normal case then yes you would need to run it outside the case, there are special ones which u can pick up which are ment for this.
I believe anyway.
But honestly there is no point unless you have a server :/
You can pick up a 900watt tagan !!
I believe anyway.
But honestly there is no point unless you have a server :/
You can pick up a 900watt tagan !!
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Some cases have mounts for a second PSU. Then it's just a case of using an adapter cable thingy that goes on the ATX connector of the primary PSU, and connect it to the ATX connector on the second PSU. When the first one is powered up, the second one will come on too.
No, both PSUs would still need a mains plug (kettle lead). The adapter cable allows both power supplies to switch on together when you power-up the PC (an ATX PSU won't switch on unless pin 14 is shorted to ground*. This is done on the motherboard, so without the adapter the second PSU would not turn on). It also ensures that both PSUs have a common ground.manoz said:
The reason that servers have multiple PSUs is for redundancy - if one PSU fails the other will take over, allowing replacement without any downtime (at least that's my understanding of it).
As TheVoice says, some cases have more than one PSU mount, such as the Coolermaster Stacker (I think!). If not, it should be ok as long as the second PSU isn't able to move around inside the case and short something out. If the case isn't moved much it shouldn't be an issue.manoz said:
Bear in mind that the Tagan 900W is more than double the price of their 480W version though.
*on a 20-pin ATX connector.
Way back when I modded my full tower to take two PSU (1 x 250w and 1 x 200w, Celeron 300A @ 450) internally. The wiring all had to be done manually but it worked for years and probably still would if I powered it up. (I'm a hoarder, never get rid of anything)
Now I run a Stacker, which takes 2 PSU without modification and comes with a cable to connect them so no more soldering. Not sure I need 2 PSU but I can't kick the habit.
Now I run a Stacker, which takes 2 PSU without modification and comes with a cable to connect them so no more soldering. Not sure I need 2 PSU but I can't kick the habit.