Required PSU to run a Dual core q6400?

[gazjam]

Mabye looking to build a "spare parts" pc to be used as a Music server / download machine. So basic basic, onboard graphics etc and no overclocking.
(might even underclock it if i have to)

All I need is a case and a PSU.

As the machine would be on 24/7 (and I want to save on electricity bills!) I want the lowest rated PSU I can get away with.

Thing is, the CPU I have is a Q6400 dual core so I wonder what the MINIMUM rated PSU I could get away with, given the PC's usage.

Would a 250W do?

I want to save on electricity bills!


Thanks in advance.

 

[dntbloodshot]

It's more important to buy a more efficient PSU, rather than a lower rated one.

 

[Phil2008]

Yeh, cos that doesnt mean It will use 620watts if you got a 620watt psu, It will use just what it needs to power your system. For example I have a 620watts psu,, but when Im messing in windows and not gaming it use about 150watts and when Im gaming it uses about 300watts.

 

[AbsenceJam]

Why so powerful for a machine you're not doing much on? I'd go MiniITX or at least 45w AMD chips, then you can easily use a picoPSU.

 

[gazjam]

"Why so powerful for a machine you're not doing much on? I'd go MiniITX or at least 45w AMD chips, then you can easily use a picoPSU."

I totally get what your saying, its just that I had these bits lying around spare...

I'm looking into those options now.
Anyone any pointers where to go? My Google-fu is weak.

ta!.

 

[lukeharvest]

As said, it's all about getting the best quality PSU, rather than just the one with the lowest Watts. The PC will only take up what it needs, and that's all you're charged for.

 

[Phil2008]

Plus if its going to be running 24/7, you need a good quality psu.

 

[gazjam]

Thanks guys, most helpful.