How to Replace a Power Supply

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Last Updated: June 25, 2019

Sometimes when you upgrade your PC, you will find that current power supply isn’t powerful enough to support your new system. If you need to replace your power supply, here is how.

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Static can mess up your video card and motherboard.
Unscrew the screws (there will be around 4 of them) connecting the power supply to the back of the case and put them in the cup.
The power supple will defiantly be connected to the motherboard, and will probably be connected to at least 2 fans as well. Remove these plugs carefully. Be especially careful when removing it from the motherboard because sometimes the SATA port will just snap off in the process, and you really can’t fix that. If the SATA port does snap make sure you bend the prongs in different directions so they can’t touch each other. This is not the worst thing in the world; you most likely have 3 more of these ports to use.
Again, be careful.
There is a device called a power supply tested that you can buy. It’s very inexpensive and it basically tests your PSU so that you don’t go through the trouble of installing a PSU that doesn't even work.
Connect the PSU to your motherboard (there are usually around 3 plugs you have to deal with, and pictures of the plugs are included with your power supply paperwork in most cases.)

Community Q&A

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Question

Can the power supply be fixed if it is dead?

Community Answer

It depends on what is dead. If it has damaged capacitors and other components it might be fixed, but replacing the PSU is the safest and probably easiest method.

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Question

I just took power supply out of dell Inspiron One all-in-one, 130w. Do I have to get same manufacturer's power supply, or can I get one with same wattage?

Carlos Craig

Community Answer

Go on eBay and find one pulled out of an old one, because the power supply on all-in-one computers is proprietary.

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Question

I have a power supply, Delta DPS-350AB-20 A , can anyone help me find a replacement for this?

Community Answer

I believe it's a 350W HP SMPS Power supply. Buy one from a local computer store near you that matches the supply watts.

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