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2 separate PSU's?

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  • PCI Express
  • Computers
  • Components
Last response: in Components
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February 28, 2014 9:51:05 PM

I just found an old computer my mom had, with a 350w PSU w/ a 6 pin PCI-e cable. Right now im using a pre-built 350w PSU in my computer. If I wanted to put in a newer GPU like a 660/670 or 760.. could I just run that GPU straight off the 2nd PSU, or would I have to worry about voltages and frying the card? And please dont tell me to just go buy a new PSU, I just want to know if this 'experiment' would work and is it worth a shot. Thanks guys :) 

More about : separate psu

February 28, 2014 10:00:37 PM

Well, if they are quality PSU's then yes, you could run them both... But;

As you said "please dont tell me to just go buy a new PSU"

In the back of your mind you're already thinking, why risk quality parts on older PSU's that could cause trouble?

Best regards, Vel.
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February 28, 2014 10:12:53 PM

There are adapters which allow two PSU's to be used on the same rig and it is possible BUT because the PSU is old, it has three major disadvantages; 1) Age causes the capacitors in the PSU to dry out and they can no longer supply the power levels they could when new. 2) The design of older PSU's places most of the power on the 5v rail while newer ones have more power on the 12v rail (which is where you are looking for power). Check the label of the old PSU, if it lists 12A or less on the 12v rail, I doubt it'll provide the power you want from it (age and use dependent) and almost positively won't reach it's spec'd wattage. 3) Older PSU's likely do not have the protections in place that a newer quality design will have.
Just some things to be aware of
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February 28, 2014 11:13:32 PM

Not worth the time, effort, risk, and ugliness. The ugliness since you will have to run one of them outside the case. Unless of course you like the Frankenrig look.
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