Power Supply Testers

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chuckles2666

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Aug 29, 2013
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I've gotten a lot of great advice from these forums, so I thought I would ask again for some more advice. I am needing a good power supply tester. I'm planning on working on computers as a side job and I want to make sure I have the right equipment. I already have everything else picked out, but can't decide on this part. Any suggestions on software or hardware I should have would be greatly appreciated as well.

Thank You.
 
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C12Friedman
I'll suggest using a multi-meter and even then you'll only be able to consider the test to be rudimentary. The problem with testing a PSU is that it's voltages may be perfectly fine until it is put under a load and then they get all wonky. Also, on modern active PFC PSU's voltage swings can happen faster than they can be detected by a multi-meter. In order to fully test a PSU, it must be at load and oscilloscopes and other tools are used - this is a good article about that http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/Why-99-Percent-of-Power-Supply-Reviews-Are-Wrong/410
edit: while the article is directed toward PSU reviews, it covers testing rather thoroughly
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C12Friedman

C12Friedman

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Jan 25, 2012
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I'll suggest using a multi-meter and even then you'll only be able to consider the test to be rudimentary. The problem with testing a PSU is that it's voltages may be perfectly fine until it is put under a load and then they get all wonky. Also, on modern active PFC PSU's voltage swings can happen faster than they can be detected by a multi-meter. In order to fully test a PSU, it must be at load and oscilloscopes and other tools are used - this is a good article about that http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/Why-99-Percent-of-Power-Supply-Reviews-Are-Wrong/410
edit: while the article is directed toward PSU reviews, it covers testing rather thoroughly
 
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toyftw

toyftw

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Jul 29, 2012
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Hi - Actully C12 gave you the best info - The HW Secrets article. If I remember correctly (read it quite a while ago),
Mr Torres lists the equipment they use to test. That should be your starting point. The thing that struck me about that article is how many reviews and awards of PSU's get posted by people that don't even use an oscilloscope!

Kind of tragic when you think about it.
 
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