Need HELP on powering computers!

**HiJackZX1** · 06-22-2009, 02:03 PM

I dont know if anyone is following my Worklog, but the latest addition to the setup is 6 personal computers. One for each passenger. Originally I was going to power them on two M4 PSUs, but after reading so many bad reviews, I am terrified to use that PSU at all. I was planning to use them in dumby mode and use the 12V rail only. The computer each require 12V at 4amps each. So thats 24amps all together.

Is there any other solution I can use to supply regulated 12V at 24amps?

Maybe even consolidate to one PSU. I was going for the M4 because they are small and fairly cheap compared to other brands. In saying that, size is a big concern also.

**strikeback03** · 06-22-2009, 02:20 PM

an inverter and a real ATX PSU is the first thing that comes to mind. I'm not sure if anyone makes anything DC-DC designed to put out that much power.

**Punky** · 06-22-2009, 02:28 PM

your only bet is the opus 320, or a couple of DSATX ( i think you can cascade them, because i recalled reading something about it in the manual).
what kind of computer are you putting in? if i were to do 6 separate computers, i'd put 6 atom laptops, powered by inverters or any decent regulated DC-DC psu.

**HiJackZX1** · 06-22-2009, 02:38 PM

Originally Posted by Punky

your only bet is the opus 320, or a couple of DSATX ( i think you can cascade them, because i recalled reading something about it in the manual).
what kind of computer are you putting in? if i were to do 6 separate computers, i'd put 6 atom laptops, powered by inverters or any decent regulated DC-DC psu.

The OPUS cant handle that either..... The 360 only puts out 15 amps on the 12V rail. Isnt there a way I can make a regulator that can handle 24amps? I tried the inverter thing in the past and it was a nightmare. They are so inefficeint and over heat also.

F$%k, I may be stuck with the M4s and just pray I dont have all the issues. There has to be something I can build.

**2k1Toaster** · 06-22-2009, 02:39 PM

Actually for that, I would agree with #2. Get a true sine wave inverter ($$$) and use some regular desktop PSUs. Easiest way.

**HiJackZX1** · 06-22-2009, 02:40 PM

I just remembered something..... I also have alot of devices on the 5V rail to power too... So I have to use a PSU..... The battle is between the M4 and the DSATX.... i cant find any stats on the DSATX though, how much does it put out on the 12V rail?

PS: I found it..... its 12V at 12amps with peak 15amps.... this will work.... Only thing is do I want to spend the extra money?

**HiJackZX1** · 06-22-2009, 02:49 PM

Originally Posted by 2k1Toaster

Actually for that, I would agree with #2. Get a true sine wave inverter ($$$) and use some regular desktop PSUs. Easiest way.

I just dont have the room for a inverter or a big desktop PSU........... why did I have to add all this stuff to my install?!?!?!?!?!

**soundman98** · 06-22-2009, 02:56 PM

Individual Supply Outputs Max Output Current

5.0 Volts +/- 2% 12 Amps Nominal, 13 Amps Peak

3.3 Volts +/- 2% 10 Amps Nominal, 11 Amps Peak

12.0 Volts +/- 2% 12 Amps Nominal, 15 Amps Peak

5.0 Volts Standby +/- 2% 1.5 Amps

-12.0 Volts +/- 10% 100 mA

Its still not going to hit the 25 amp mark..

to bad cost is the issue-- for that amount of power, I really agree with 2k1toaster, and strikeback..

**2k1Toaster** · 06-22-2009, 02:58 PM

Also bear in mind usually when you draw 90% load from a single rail and barely anything from the others, bad mojo happens. Not sure if it does with the M4 or the DSATX but historically you load things evenly.

**strikeback03** · 06-22-2009, 03:50 PM

Weren't you planning on using some type of Pico-PSU on each motherboard to provide the lower-level voltages? How about giving up on the one central power supply idea and powering motherboards in pairs or triples with an Opus or DSATX, use something like this to split the ATX cable to multiple motherboards.