Reference number: CH000422

Installing a PC computer power supply.

Question:

Installing a PC computer power supply.

Additional information:

• See our power supply dictionary definition for additional information about this term.
• See document CH000800 for additional information about determining how big a power supply is.

Answer:

Before getting started
Remove previous power supply
Install power supply
Connect cables
Troubleshooting

Before getting started

1. Difficulty of installing computer power supply should be a 1 out of 5.
2. Write down important information from the top or bottom of the power supply such as the Model Number, Serial Number and specifications (such as voltage...).
3. Ensure you are familiar with ESD and its potential dangers.
4. When physically installing the power supply, ensure the computer is off and the power plug is disconnected from the power supply.

Remove previous power supply

If you are replacing a power supply that is already in the computer, remove the power supply from the computer by first disconnecting the power supply from the motherboard and all other devices and then unscrewing the screws on the back of the power supply and possibly within the computer case.

Install power supply

Once no power supply is installed into the computer, place the new power supply into the computer and screw the screws into the back of the power supply. Most computer cases today also have a screw within the computer case; if present, also screw a screw into this hole.

Connect cables

Once the power supply has been physically installed into the case and is being held in the case, attach the power supply cable from the power supply to the motherboard. Next, connect each of the power connectors for the hard disk drive, cd drive, floppy drive and any other peripherals.

Troubleshooting

If additional issues are encountered during or after the installation of the power supply, please refer to our power supply page for additional help and information.