Provide Adequate Power to Your Computer

There is one very important component in your computer and most users don't pay it much attention unless it completely fails. What is it? The power supply! This one "black box" provides power to your motherboard and all the components in your computer.

Is your computer unstable? Are you blaming the software? While that could be the problem, it could also be that your computer isn't getting enough juice. The list of possible causes is very long!

For those who buy off-the-shelf systems, you may need to replace a power supply one day as they do fail. If you build your own system (it really isn't that hard), you can choose a really good power supply. What is most important is that you get one that provides more power than you think you need.

I'm going to list four possibilities and they are listed in increasing amounts of power and price. The first one is definitely the least expensive and it probably is enough for an average powered system. What amount of power you need is dependent on the components in your computer. When in doubt, spent a few extra dollars to make sure you have more than you need!

• Corsair Enthusiast Series 650 Watt TX-650 - sells for approximately $80
• Corsair Professional Series 750 Watt HX-750 - sells for approximately $145
• Corsair Professional Series 850 Watt HX-850 - sells for approximately $150
• Corsair Professional Series 1050 Watt HX-1050 - sells for approximately $200