Dell PSU question

How can you tell if you are not getting enough power to your system?


I have a Dell 8250, and it came with a ATI 9700. I recently upgraded to the X800 XT PE. I was just wondering if I was getting adequate power to my system.

If not, can a Dells PSU be easily upgraded? And if so, which PSU would you suggest I purchase?


thanks

Dell's P4 series usually have standard power supplies. Take a look at the connectors and see for yourself. That can't be said of their older systems as those used standard connectors with a different wire arrangement!

If it all looks good, you're good to go! But wait! Dell doesn't leave a completely open hole behind the power supply for mounting it, so most power supplies will go in with the power cut-off switch or power socket (or both) covered with sheet metal. So go to a site like Newegg and look closely at what they have, to see what fits.

Pay attention to the offset screw to see if the picture they show is upside-down or rightside-up compared to the way it's mounted in your system, then figure out whether the thing will fit.

Or cut part of the case out

PC Power & Cooling claim to sell special Dell compatible PSU's that fit ... I'd call their 800 number and get a confirmation ... they offer a 30 refund policy - but that won't help if it fries your mainboard (you could tell Dell it was their unit that did it ... but that's dishonest, I guess).