The
power supply, absolutely the most vital component of a computer is all
too often overlooked. Without it, what would you have nothing but an inert
cube of mods and ends. “But I have one already, my drives are spinning,
lights are glowing, everything’s peachy keen” you say. What
most of us don’t realize is that there’s more to a power supply
than just converting the alternating current (AC) line from your home
to the direct current (DC) that your components need. Power needs to be
stepped down to many separate voltages to ensure everything is getting
the power it requires. These voltages must be kept to safe and strict
standards set forth by the UL, IEC, FCC and countless other acronyms.
The voltages your power supply unit outputs range from +12 Volts all the
way down to -12 Volts. “There are Negative Volts?” That’s
right. Let’s take a look at the most important ones and what there
uses are.
|