Generic Power Supplies

[Darrenct]

I've been thinking I need to upgrade to a larger power supply, I only have 300 Watts...
I've seen generic 400 Watt PSU's for as low as $16. What is the difference between buying a Generic or a name Brand PSU? If they are rated for the same power, why are they different?

[spazzkid]

sumtimes they are, sumtimes they arent. get something from a known company, maybe like antec. for me, am using a 340w from enlight that comes with the case. works well for me.

[flounder43]

I would refer you to this thread...
http://forums.overclockers.ws/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=62822&highlight=combined

I think that this is a good guideline. Many big 400 and 500 watt psu's just don't have the real guts that you want when you need good voltage that counts.

flounder43

[klosters64a]

Chewing gum and aluminum foil vs. rock steady voltage values under varying and punishing loads. A high quality PS will handle small mains voltage sags with ease, and a cheap one will crash your box. A high quality PS has a three year warranty. Does brand X have any warranty?

Some folks get away with using cheap PS's with K7 boxes. Many folks only consider the PS as an afterthought. In way of example, I don't get on airplanes with "Brand X" on the nacelles. The PS is the engine of your PC. Personally, I'd rather see the equivalent of "Rolls-Royce" on the PS.