Need New PSU to Use Graphics Card

[Daveybumper]

Hi

I need advise on purchasing a power supply unit for my Dell Studio 540.

I bought an ATI Radeon HD5850 graphics card and when i went to install it the Dell power supply is boxed in and has no leads to attach for power to go to the graphics card. I found this odd as there were slots in the motherboard for the graphics card to fit (PCI - Express).

My PC also has 6 usb ports, one of which is expanded using a usb hub which has its own power source.

Could you advise me on the appropriate power supply to get as i would be worried that i would pick one which is incompatible. I have been advised to get a 600w power supply. I dont mind spending a bit if it will improve the running of my computer also.

[nathanmitchell]

you will also have to change the motherboard if it dont support the PIC-E you know this yes ?

[Daveybumper]

Hi

I found this odd as there were slots in the motherboard for the graphics card to fit (PCI - Express).

Yes, My motherboard is compatible for the graphics card

[nathanmitchell]

sorry i cant resolve this you will need a PSU of 600w but i think you will have to have a ATX tower to fix a decent enough PSU into the system it self

[mctw]

As far as I can tell from Google Images, your PC uses a standard ATX case, which is good news!

(Dell usually make thier own cases, just so that you HAVE to buy Dell spares, at a stupidly high price)

Its not unusal to have a motherboard with PCIe on it, and no PCIe power connector. Some cards do not require additional power, as they can draw enough power from the board, or I would guess Dell put a different power supply in machines with a graphics card. Anyhow, as a standard ATX power supply SHOULD fit (90% certain), any will do. Mine (and most peoples on here) is Corsair. Cant go wrong with them.

EG, http://www.ebuyer.com/search?sort=pr...imit=10&page=1

[nathanmitchell]

yeh i coulded tell was unsure good post mctw

[Fordy]

If going Corsair, I'd opt for a 650TX as a minimum. That'll give you enough amperage and PCI-e auxillary power connectors for your 5850 and future upgrades too.

I would really recommend a modular PSU though, they're great and really easy to work with - Corsair's HX series are modular.

Antec's TruePower New Modular 650 is a bit cheaper, higher amperage, and modular. After much deliberation, it's the PSU I opted for when upgrading to a 5850 also.