suedenim Posted May 8, 2007 Posted May 8, 2007 I'm seriously considering getting a device to test my PSU (could be a cause of a major PC death). Are the PC PSU specific devices worth getting or should I stump up the extra cash for a proper multimeter. As I see it the pros and cons for PC specific are: Pros - easy to plug in connectors (no need to compare against wiring diagrams) - easy to read indicators (I guess) - cheap Cons - what about PCIe connectors (the 6 and 8 pin variety) - Unlikely to give voltage or current(Ampage) values So, Have you used any of these devices. Are multimeters more difficult to use and more expensive. Any other comments on this? The reason I'm asking is that I really don't want to uncable my Antec to test the PSU. Thanks in advance. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HITandRUN Posted May 8, 2007 Posted May 8, 2007 I use a Multimeter to do all this! You can measure your rails on a not used PSU connector on full load to see if there is a significant voltage drop! Look in my sig there is a link that explains how to do it! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Praz Posted May 8, 2007 Posted May 8, 2007 The inexpensive psu testers available are really nothing more the go-no go gauges. If your system is booting with the psu you are wanting to test you already have as much info as the tester is going to give you. The power supply needs to be tested under load. Ideally with a scope so that noise and ripple can also be measured. But since this type of equipment is out of the reach of most users a DMM is the next best thing. You will still be able to measure under load the voltages and to an extent the ac ripple. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
suedenim Posted May 9, 2007 Posted May 9, 2007 Multimeter on its way... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
HITandRUN Posted May 10, 2007 Posted May 10, 2007 Multimeter on its way... Let us know how it worked out! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
suedenim Posted May 13, 2007 Posted May 13, 2007 Got the multimeter used the guide from HITandRUN's sig' plus the link to driverheaven. The PSU is fine. 12V - runs at 12.35/12.36 5V - runs at 5.04/5.03 3.3V - runs at 3.36/3.37 All well within tolerance. One curio; Powering off the PC left a residual voltage of 0.2V which only went to zero by turning off the juice into the PSU. Having ruled out a problem PSU I'm left with a dead mobo! (http://www.diy-street.com/forum/showthread...5306#post725306) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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