ok, just wondering how far i could push my 250W PSU. i would rather not try to test it and have it blow...I'm running 2 hard drives, a cd rom, a cd burner, cpu fan and an 80mm intake fan, and a neon. would it hurt anything if i added a cold cathode? or would that be too much stress on the PSU? time for an upgrade?
2 Light's might be a bit much for a 250Watt PSU... I personally would reccomend getting either a high quality 350Watt or a Enhance 420Watt. Who makes your 250?
Well there's nothing wrong with having a good quality PSU, that's for sure. Most name-brand PSUs are reasonably well regulated, meaning the voltage will stay reasonably constant (within a few tenths of a Volt) over varying load conditions. Lower quality PSUs will deviate from their voltage ratings at high operating currents. So I'd suggest using a digital meter to check your +5V and +12V rails (a drive power connector will have both of these), before and after you add the CCFL to see if you get much change. (BTW, good PSUs are very constant voltage over varying load conditions). In a pinch you can use the onboard monitors, but I'm pretty suspicious about what they report. Since you're really looking for a change, it shouldn't be too bad. Also, adding the CCFL shouldn't cause anything catastrophic (if you connect it correctly). It may decrease your stability a little, and that's what you're trying to get out in front of with the voltmeter.
Definitely...a good PS is a sound investment, even though a good one can be a bit pricey. As linear was saying, they are pretty well regulated, so theres a good chance you'll see better stability from your rig. The most popular brands IMHO are Enermax, Antec, PC Power and Cooling. Consider picking one up, because it sounds like your reaching the limit on yours. Good Luck!
Found a deal locally for an Enermax 430 watt. Was still a little pricey, but no regrets whatsoever. Lots of room to expand and great quality. Like scopEDog mentioned, I consider it a good investment; especially if you have electronic mods planned for the future. Get quality. That system could be modded up the ying-yang, but if the psu blows, so what?
