Micro-ATX Power Supllies...future?

[Jie]

Just curious, but does anyone have some decent knowledge with regard to Micro-ATX PSUs and how fast they evolve? I'm obviously aware that their wattage will always be lower than a normal ATX, but I'm curious if anyone has read any articles or knows if future micro-atx PSUs will evolve to accommodate high-end next generation components (i.e. DX10 VGA Cards). Do they evolve slowly? I'm very interested to know what PSU upgrade options are available for those with micro-atx desktops who like to run a single high-end video card.

Thanks!

 

[Jie]

mpilchfamily,

Thanks for the speedy replies! I know going ATX form factor is the safe way to go. I think I'm reaching for the stars for wanting a console like PC sitting on my desk lol. I need to WIkipedia "Computer Power Supplies". Not sure I completly understand the guts of them and how it affects the size of a PSU.

 

[jaguarskx]

There are several desktop options out there that will hold a regular ATX PSU. So you don't have to give up on a small desktop case.

Yep, here are some examples:

AMS CF-1089BK Black Steel/Plastic MicroATX Mini Tower - $30

Athenatech A3603BB.400 Black Steel MicroATX Mini Tower - $41

COOLER MASTER Centurion 541 RC-541-SKN1 - $46

APEVIA (ASPIRE) X-QPACK-NW-BK - $80

LIAN LI PC-V300B Black Aluminum MicroATX Desktop - $100

nMEDIAPC HTPC 280BA Black Aluminum/Steel MicroATX Desktop - $140

SILVERSTONE SST-SG01-B - $148

 

[kukito]

There are several mATX mini-tower and desktop cases that support conventional ATX PSUs. Because mATX motherboards consume less power, you can get away with lower wattage PSUs in the 300-450 watt range. Another option if you don't want a monstruous full or mid tower case is to get a mini-tower that accepts standard ATX motherboards and PSUs. If you want an HTPC type form factor you might have to sacrifice performance for size but I have seen some builds over at ExtremeTech that are quite flexible.