How To Install an ATX Power Supply

How-To Topics » computers & programming tutorials, computer hardware tutorials, power

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Last edited 5 months ago

Installing an ATX power supply in a new computer case or an old computer case. You will need a screw driver set and possibly wire cutters.

Step 1

Unplug the power from the ATX power supply, if there is currently a power supply installed in the computer.

Step 2

Remove the side panel from the computer tower. These are usually shut by thumb screws, which you can easily remove, but you may require a Phillips head screw driver.

Step 3

Assess the position of the current power supply in the case. That is, is it installed length-wise, or width-wise?

Step 4

Unplug all connections from the power supply to components in the computer.

Step 5

Remove the screws from the power supply at the rear of the case.

Step 6

Slowly and carefully remove the power supply.

Step 7

Take the new power supply and work it into the position of the old power supply.

Step 8

Reinstall the screws that hold power supply in the case.

Step 9

Return all power connections to devices in the computer.

Step 10

Plug in the power supply.

Step 11

Turn on the computer and boot.

Step 12

Turn off the computer.

Step 13

Return the side panel to the computer and reinstall screws to hold side panel in place.

Tips

If there are obstructions when removing the power supply, (e.g. a video card, the processor heatsink), only remove them if it is absolutely necessary. If not, try to work the power supply around them.
There may be tie straps in the case, which may need to be cut.
Test all components on your computer before returning the side panel and reinstalling the outer screws.
If the computer still does not power-up, check all cable connections again, then begin troubleshooting your motherboard and CPU chip.

Warnings

Remember that all power supplies contain various capacitors inside of them that retain power even after it has been turned off. Never open up or insert any metal objects into the vents of it, as you can risk electrical shock.
When removing power supply screws, hold on to power supply. The torque from removing one screw can affect the removal of the others.
Check twice, cut once before removing any tie strap restraints. You do not want to clip a power cable by accident!