Tom's Hardware > Forum > Graphic & Displays > Graphics Cards > External PSU to video card.
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briantadhorrocks   02-27-2008 at 11:11:52 PM

I currently have a 350 W Max power supply in my system which is too weak to power most new video cards.

SO, if I took an old power supply around 250W and dedicated it solely to the video card, would I have any problems?

I hope it is clear what I am trying to say.

I want to leave my system as is, add a new video card, and use an external power supply with a cable going straight to my video card.

Would this work and has anyone done it?

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rgeist554   02-27-2008 at 11:27:43 PM
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It may work... but without the motherboard to tell the PSU what amount of power to supply, I don't know if it would be desirable. Personally, I think it's pretty odd to try and do that, especially since you can get a nice OCZ StealthXtream 500 for about $50.00.

Also, your 250W won't run anything if it's amperes are too low. That's what you really need to be paying attention to.

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geofelt   02-28-2008 at 12:00:19 AM
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There are special psu's for this purpose. They are called "booster" psu's. Here is an example from FSP which is a decent manufacturer: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6817104019

------------------------------ I7 920@3.3
TRUE w/1366 kit
6GB patriotDDR3 1600
Asus P6T Deluxe
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ZOldDude   02-28-2008 at 12:33:24 AM
- 0 +

There is a $6 adaptor that you plug both PSU's into and has an end that then goes into the 24 pin MB connector from the main PSU.

Basicly it just lets the 2nd PSU turn on when the main one does...which then lets you use all the 2nd PSU's 12V connectors for ROM/HD/FANS/RAM HD's and extra GFX or water pumps.

Some cases like the CoolerMaster TO-1 that I like to use (large-roomy and still the coolest running) have locations for two PSU's.
The PC Power & Cooling Turbo line come with the adaptor or you can order one off their website.


Message edited by ZOldDude on 02-28-2008 at 12:35:28 AM
------------------------------ *While we crash and burn, small, low tech, agrarian societies such as the Hmong in the mountains of Laos will continue on without so much as blinking an eye.*
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