Do-It-Yourself Solar-Powered PC: Hardware

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Efficiency Is Where It's At, Continued

Fan mounted on top cover

Circuit board in its enclosure

Completed enclosure ready for mounting and use

Completed and assembled, from top

Completed and assembled, from the side

Completed and assembled

Completed and assembled

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12 Volt Solar-PC-System
ComponentIdleMax load
PSU5.00 W14.20 W
Total:61.23 W115.60 W
Maximum 160 Watt Custom PSU

The cable strands for this power supply are pretty short, which makes it tricky to find a good place to put it inside a PC case. Remember that many parts suppliers offer extension cables - don't be afraid to call them into service to help out if needed!

The Editors of Tom's Hardware
The Editors of Tom's Hardware

Tom's Hardware is the leading destination for hardcore computer enthusiasts. We cover everything from processors to 3D printers, single-board computers, SSDs and high-end gaming rigs, empowering readers to make the most of the tech they love, keep up on the latest developments and buy the right gear. Our staff has more than 100 years of combined experience covering news, solving tech problems and reviewing components and systems.

1 Comment Comment from the forums
  • Raigedas
    i bought this M2-ATX PSU (actually to of them). but i was unable to start it.

    1. first quick question: is it possible to start (for testing purposes) the PSU without connecting it to the computer? is it enough to short circuit J8 only to start?

    2. docummentation is unclear about 10 (J6). it looks like J6 is purely for controlling stereo amplifier. but other place of the manual says "if J6 is cnnected to the motherboard". where to motherboard?

    3. how should PSU be connected?
    for testing i have taken 12V 7Ah lead acid battery fully charged.
    connected battery "-" to J4.
    battery "+" to J1.
    J3: tried to leave not connected and tried to connect battery "+".
    disconnected power switch cable from motherboard and connected it to J9.
    connected J8 with motheboard (using little cable included in the package) where power switch was originally connected.
    left J6 not connected.
    J10 not connected (P0 mode). also tried P1 mode.
    connected ATX and P4 (J2).
    pressed power on my pc but nothing happened and no voltage on MOLEX cable.

    could authors of the article (or maybe other owner of the PSU) describe how did they start the PSU?
    Reply