Hi ; I recenly purchased older Dell I am upgrading as a second computer. It came with a 250w psu and I am looking for a reliable unit in the 400-500w range. I'm considering purchasing a ZALMAN ZM460B-APS460W to power the new geforce 6200 video card and the addition of a larger HD and the new DVD-RW. Size is a factor in a mid-tower case of course,so i looked for one of similar LxHxW. I'm not rebuilding a supercomputer here just one for light gaming and photo editing. Its a Dell Dim.P4 1.8g 512gb ram- 250g master/80g slave Hd. So, any opinions would be welcome.


This post has been edited by C.Morse: Jun 29 2008, 01:13 PM

Size is a factor in any case - that is why leading hardware makers, lead by Intel, created and agreed to adhere to the ATX Form Factor Standards. Sadly, many of the big PC makers decided to use proprietary parts, reportedly to expedite the assembly process. This often forces users to buy new PCs rather than mess with adapters and patches. Proprietary parts also forces users to buy the upgrade parts from the original maker. Not cool, and usually more expensive. Dell was one of those companies - they often used proprietary power supplies and motherboard in many of their older computers. You need to open the case and determine the exact model number of the PSU and the motherboard to see if that motherboard requires a proprietary PSU. Plugging standard ATX PSUS into a Dell motherboards that requires a proprietary Dell supplies has fried many motherboards and the CPUs and RAM plugged into them. There are adapters, but I have never used one.

Thanks for the quick response! I had heard Dell used proprietary parts in their computers. I thought I researched the power supply for the 8200 and no adapter was needed. I followed your link and I think that may be the case. The model number of the psu is HP-2507F3P the stamped number on the mother board is E210882. Luckily my brother builds his computers, and I'm using one of his older builds. He wouldn't touch the Dell and said I wasted my money. Is the 8200 a lost cause? Or can I make a serviceable machine out of it? I already found out the Ram is a rare (expensive) type, the cheapest I could find was over $100.00 for two 256mb modules. It came with 512mb 2x256 and has room for two more. I would like to know the brand psu you prefer to use. I have read reviews until my eyes begin to glaze over, one thing I have learned is not to go too cheap. Whats your opinion?

I don't think the 8200 is lost cause, but I think your options are limited.

A good PSU is critical. Look for power supply brands listed under the "Good" column of PC Mechanic's PSU Reference List. Ensure the supplied amperage on the +12V rails of your chosen PSU meets the requirements of your video card. Don't try to save a few dollars by getting a cheap supply. Digital electronics, including CPUs, RAM, and today's advanced graphics cards, need clean, stable power. A good, well chosen supply will provide years of service and upgrade wiggle room. I strongly recommend you pick a supply with an efficiency rating equal to, or greater than 80%. Look for the 80 Plus - EnergyStar Compliant label. And don't forget to budget for a good UPS with AVR (automatic voltage regulation).

Thanks Digerati;
I already have a UPS , now I can write a book from all those links you posted " Everything you wanted to know about power supplies but were afraid to ask."
Seriously, good sound advice is what I have always found on there forums. I guess I will go with Antec if I can find one to fit properly. I sent off a question to Dell asking about adaptability but they are to busy selling bloatware to answer.
Thanks again.

Unless you have a micro-sized case, finding a PSU that physically fits is no problem - they all MUST adhere to the ATX Form Factor standard for mounting holes sizes and locations, physical dimensions, voltages and connectors.