[coldalarm]

Hey,
I'm currently running on a 300W Bestec (came with the PC), and I'm looking to upgrade to a more efficient and higher power PSU. I'll be using an Athlon X2 4200+ (939), 2GB PC3200 RAM, my MSI Amethyst-M 1.0 board, 2 IDE hard drives, 1 DVD drive and probably a HD2600XT.
Will a 430W Antec EarthWatts PSU cover this happily? And if not, what PSU should I be looking at?

[Krlll]

You can use an online test to check.Like This
These will usually suggest a higher wattage PSU than is really necessary but is a good guideline.

[coldalarm]

I've used one before, it gave a possible 399W, so would 430W have enough of a safety margin?

[Krlll]

Yes I would say so.They are more inclined to suggest higher than you need rather than lower.

The recommended total Power Supply Wattage gives you a general idea on what to look for BUT it is NOT a crucial factor in power supply selection! Total Amperage Available on the +12V Rail(s) is the most important, followed by the +5V amperage and then the +3.3V amperage.

This is important especially with high end graphics cards.Check to make sure the 12V rail has enough power for your graphics card.I am not sure what the suggested amperage is for the HD2600XT.
You should also buy a good quality PSU and not be tempted by cheap junk.It may save you alot of heartache later on.

[coldalarm]

Originally Posted by Krlll

Yes I would say so.They are more inclined to suggest higher than you need rather than lower.

This is important especially with high end graphics cards.Check to make sure the 12V rail has enough power for your graphics card.I am not sure what the suggested amperage is for the HD2600XT.
You should also buy a good quality PSU and not be tempted by cheap junk.It may save you alot of heartache later on.

Well, I know Antec is a trusted brand, so I'm probably going to go with them =]

[alex]

Just to throw in a comment.

The psu you quote is rather a good one, stable and quiet.

Good efficiency as well.

I wouldn't get 'just enough' wattage/amps psu though as it will be forced to run at nearly peak constantly thus reducing lifespan and increasing noise.