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Upgrade Guide: Keep It Powered, Keep It Cool

Keep your upgraded PC fully powered and properly cooled, step-by-step.

Stan Miastkowski

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2. Size it right.

It's crucial to purchase a power supply that matches or somewhat exceeds the power needs of your PC. Each component requires a certain amount of power. Using the chart at right, add up the power requirements of your PC's components, and then add another 30 percent for "wiggle room." Most systems will do fine with a 250- or 300-watt supply; there's no advantage in purchasing a supply with considerably more capacity than your system needs.

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