A power supply unit (PSU) converts AC voltage to DC voltage for internal computer components. Desktop and laptop PSUs differ in design, with desktop units having multiple cable bundles and laptop units being external. The most common type of PSU is the ATX, which is self-contained and rated by the amount of power it can deliver. Laptops use external power converters that turn AC voltage into 12 volts DC, which is supplied to the laptop via a coaxial power connection.
A power supply unit (PSU) is a type of power converter that supplies direct current (DC) voltage to internal computer components. Some of these units are specifically designed for use with 110 or 230 volt alternating current (AC), while others can be switched between the two or even accept any voltage within that range. The level of DC voltage they supply can also vary, typically between 3 and 12 volts DC. Desktop and laptop computers both use power supplies, although they are slightly different in design. A desktop power unit usually has several bundles of cables designed to connect directly to various internal components, while laptop “power bricks” are external units that typically use coaxial power connectors.
The most common type of power supply is designed specifically for use in the Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) form factor. These ATX power supplies are similar to earlier Advanced Technology (AT) drives, except how they connect to motherboards and power switches. An ATX power supply is a self-contained box that screws inside a computer case and converts AC line voltage to DC. Different DC voltages are usually given due to common computer hardware needs. It’s also possible that a power supply will provide some level of voltage regulation to protect it from spikes or spikes that could damage internal components.
Desktop power supplies are typically rated by the amount of power they can deliver. This figure is usually expressed in watts, although there are other factors to consider. Some power supplies have multiple rails, which are different cable assemblies using separate current-limiting circuitry within the power supply. Each rail still uses the same power source, but the load can be split to avoid the possibility of a wire failure. Power supplies that have multiple 12-volt rails are typically used in high-end systems that require significant power.
Laptops also use power supplies, although they have a slightly different design. Most of these power supplies are external power converters that take AC line voltage and turn it into 12 volts DC. The DC voltage is then supplied to the laptop via a coaxial power connection, which usually takes the form of a general purpose barrel connector. A variety of proprietary designs are also used by various manufacturers. Most laptops also have extra internal circuitry that can convert the 12 volts they supply to the lower voltages required by various components.
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