testing power supply

[WingWizard]

Hi all,

I'm a novice at building computers (this is my first) and I just got my case w/ psu...I was just wondering if there was a way I could test my psu without any components (I just have the case and fans) just to make sure it's not a lemon. Is there a way I can just hook up the fans and what not just to see if it works? If so, how? Thanks!

[JPMiller]

real easy...
http://www.thetechboard.com/tutorials/atx.php
http://www.speedy3d.com/articles/case_mod_p3/01.shtml
just remember to be carefull.... PSU can hold a nice charge for a long time...I always wrap the center of the paper clip with electrical tape to protect myself and have a place to grab it...dont put paperclip in while the unit is plugged in.

[JPMiller]

do the fans have 4 pin Molex connectors that plug into power supply molexs?

[WingWizard]

Yeah, they have the 4 pin molexers...I plugged them in last night and turned ont he psu but nothing happened. Of course, I have no idea what i'm doing

[JPMiller]

you have to "trick" it into thinking its connected to a motherboard for it to turn on.....Those wiley power supplies are not easy to dupe, but those links will help....use a paperclip bought from ACME, they work the best!!!

[WingWizard]

Thanks JP!

[cbuddha42]

if you dont feal comfortable sticking paper clips in your power supply atx connetor you can buy special testers that you plug in. they give you some load and a little led to say if its got power or not as well as allowing you to check fans and stuff.

[Xeroid]

I liked that first link, JP. Lots of good info there (videos, tutorials, troubleshooting, etc).

Mike