I tested two cheap 1000W power supplies—one literally went up in smoke
Summary
Investing in a quality power supply is crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of your computer setup. The authors emphasize that skimping on this component can jeopardize the entire system, despite spending significantly on other hardware.
Key Insights
Why can a cheap power supply damage other computer components even if it doesn't fail completely?
Cheap power supplies often lack adequate voltage regulation and protection circuits, causing inconsistent voltage spikes and fluctuations that stress vital components like the motherboard, CPU, and graphics card. These voltage instabilities can lead to long-term wear and reduced lifespan of hardware, or in severe cases, cause immediate damage. Additionally, cheap units generate excessive heat due to poor cooling systems, which spreads to surrounding components and accelerates their aging process. In rare cases, a failing cheap power supply can send power surges capable of frying connected hardware.
What are the fire and safety risks associated with cheap power supplies?
Cheap power supplies pose genuine fire hazards due to low-quality components, inadequate heat dispersal, and poor protection circuits. Documented cases include a computer that burst into flames in 2012 due to a faulty power supply, and as recently as August 2021, faulty power supplies were sold in GPU bundles at major retailers like Newegg. When a cheap power supply fails, it can cause melted connectors, scorched motherboard pins, and in extreme cases, fires that endanger both the computer and surrounding property.