Will a dell dimension 3100 psu work in a dell dimension 5000

[pcpotech]

will a dell dimension 3100 psu work in a dell dimension 5000

1) dell dimension 3100 is 230w output
2) dell dimension 5000 is 305w output


the 305w is dead or flashing amber on the startup

I presume the 3100 230w is compatible? 75w less will this matter?


Thanks in advance

 

[TheViper]

I do not advise dropping down to a 230 watt PSU. It will not be enough to safely operate the Dimension 5000.

Take a look at your motherboard. Does it have the following pin set up?

If it does, you can buy an adapter from here that will allow you to use any common ATX PSU.

If it does not have that kind of pin set up (just 1 set of pins, not 2 next to each other) then you can use any common ATX PSU.


I recommend the following:

Corsair CMPSU-400CX 400W - $34.99 after rebate ($49.99 before rebate)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139008

 

[pcpotech]

No the motherboard does not look like that.

What problems would occur if I did use the 230 watt?

Or Does anyone no of a dell supplier in the uk?

 

[TheViper]

Not supplying enough power to your system can simply prevent it from starting up or crash/reboot unexpectedly often.

Another problem here is simply that the 230 watt PSU no longer puts out 230 watts. PSU's degrade over time, especially low grade PSU's. That 230 watts may be just 180 watts now. If Dell felt your system needed a 305 watt PSU, then 180 is most certainly not going to cut it.

The good news is that since your motherboard has the standard ATX power connector you can use any ATX PSU you like. ATX is the common form factor for most motherboards, PSU's and cases.

Since you are in the UK, take a look at this one. Same unit I listed above but from a reputable UK online vendor.

Corsair CX 400W ATX Power Supply - £36.98 inc VAT
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-017-CS&groupid=701&catid=123&subcat=