Computer

Important Power Supply Form Factors Explained!

Power supply form factors are the dimensions, shapes and other physical specifications of power supplies. These specifications define how a power supply will fit into and interact with its surroundings, including enclosures, connectors and cooling systems. There are several different power supply form factors in use today.

The most common are ATX, BTX and ITX. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for a given application depends on the specific needs of that application.

  • ATX is the most common power supply form factor. It is used in most desktop computers and many servers. Its main advantage is its flexibility; it can be used with a wide variety of enclosures, connectors and cooling systems.
  • BTX is a newer form factor that is designed to improve upon the ATX form factor. It is used in some high-end desktop computers and servers. Its main advantage is its improved cooling performance; it uses a different layout that allows for better airflow through the power supply.
  • ITX is the smallest of the power supply form factors. It is used in small form factor computers and other space-constrained applications. Its main advantage is its small size; it can be used in very small enclosures.

When choosing a power supply form factor, consider the specific needs of your application. ATX is the most common and versatile form factor, while BTX offers improved cooling performance and ITX is the smallest form factor. Choose the form factor that best meets the needs of your application.

Power Supply ATX12V

Power Supply ATX12V

ATX power supplies come in various sizes. One of the most common sizes is ATX12V. This size will fit in most cases. However, some cases use a smaller size, such as microATX or mini-ITX. If you have one of these cases, you will need to buy a power supply that matches the size of your case.

The form factor is not the only thing to consider when buying a power supply. You also need to consider the wattage. The wattage is the amount of power that the power supply can provide. When your power supply has a higher wattage, it can provide more power to your components.

EPS12V, SFX12V, and Others

EPS12V, SFX12V, and Others

SFX power supplies are smaller than EPS (ATX) power supplies. They are often used in small form factor computers and gaming consoles. SFX power supplies can also be used in some desktop computers, but they usually require a special adapter to fit into the larger EPS (ATX) case.

TFX power supplies are even smaller than SFX power supplies. This type of power supply is usually found in slimline computers and laptops. TFX power supplies can also be used in some desktop computers, but they usually require a special adapter to fit into the larger EPS (ATX) case.

Conclusion

When choosing a power supply, it is important to choose one that is compatible with the form factor of your computer. If you are unsure about which form factor to choose, you can always consult your computer’s manual or contact the manufacturer.

Eli Overbey

Elioverbey is a Hillman professor of information science and human-machine emeritus at Carnegie Mellon University. Elioverbey has a broad interest in design technology and social effects, spanning from computer-based teamwork and computer-assisted collaborative research to human-robot interaction.

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