Best Power Supply?

jake5253 · 10-20-2009, 07:51 PM

I'm new to the CarPC deal, but I am in the process of gathering the components together for my first build. I currently have a 12.1" MobileVu touchscreen, Hard drive, OS, and Mobo (Intel D945GCLF2).
My question is what is the best power supply for my setup? I have read the forum on different types, and I am leaning towards the M4-ATX. (I have the "Bigger is Better" syndrome.) The only problem i that I have read that people are having a lot of problems with this model. The system will have GPS (OnStar hack), Wireless, Bluetooth,...the works. Any info would be helpful. Thanks!

Sonicxtacy02 · 10-21-2009, 09:45 AM

purchasing an m4 is honestly a crapshoot. I recently replaced my m2 with a dsatx and i can honestly say its the best power supply i've used since starting the hobby.

DarquePervert · 10-21-2009, 01:16 PM

Start reading here: http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/advfaq.php
There are FAQs that are written specifically for those in your situation and will help you select the right PSU for your setup.

jake5253 · 10-21-2009, 03:30 PM

Thanks for the quick replies. In my first post, I made a typing error on the power supply type. I meant to type the DSATX power supply rather than the M4. This is the unit I want to see feedback on. I have read numerous posts on this unit, just wasn't sure if it is the biggest and the best for my purposes. Thanks again.

Bugbyte · 10-21-2009, 03:39 PM

I hear very few complaints about the DSATX.

Don't overkill your PC install. Get what you need and keep about 20% or more above what you think you actually require. Search on "Power calculators" or find it in the faqs.

SapporoGuy · 10-25-2009, 05:54 AM

hi,
got a similar question here.

4 choices:
1.) opus
2.) dsatx
3.) carnetix
4.) picoPSU

currently no plans for GPS but will do bluetooth and OBDII.
Similar board or possibly the Zotac with the built-in wifi.

I did read the faqs but I'm not really getting it.
It seems that the carnetix is the best but sourcing one in town is impossible. I live in Japan. I can get the picoPSUs but one of the facts mentioned that the older models will fry my system.

Any help would be appreciated!
Thanks!

DarquePervert · 10-25-2009, 08:25 AM

Without a definite decision on the motherboard/CPU combination you will use, you can't effectively choose a PSU.

Let me be more specific. Read THIS FAQ.

If you have read the FAQs about power supplies and still can't figure out what works for you and your build, I suggest purchasing a pre-built PC from a supplier like Mobile Computing Solutions or the store here at Mp3car.com or a complete system being sold by a member here in the Classifieds.
Let someone else make the decisions that you're unable to make.

eigenVector · 10-25-2009, 09:41 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by SapporoGuy

hi,
got a similar question here.

4 choices:
1.) opus
2.) dsatx
3.) carnetix
4.) picoPSU

currently no plans for GPS but will do bluetooth and OBDII.
Similar board or possibly the Zotac with the built-in wifi.

I did read the faqs but I'm not really getting it.
It seems that the carnetix is the best but sourcing one in town is impossible. I live in Japan. I can get the picoPSUs but one of the facts mentioned that the older models will fry my system.

Any help would be appreciated!
Thanks!

As a reference, I'm using a zotac board with built in wifi (GF8200-C-E) with an AMD X2 7850, and the Opus 360W works well for me. It might be way too much for your needs if you're using a less power hungry board and CPU, and it's a bit on the pricier side.

jake5253 · 10-25-2009, 05:44 PM

Went with the DG45FC because of CPU performance (Core 2 Duo), and more memory. Will be going with the DSATX power supply.

Punky · 10-25-2009, 05:54 PM

For anyone ever ask this question my recommendation is still DSATX.
REASON:
Good support
Amazing design
small size
big power
extremely flexible
so many features
little to no bugs, except for brainstem constantly plugged in.
If it meets your power and dimension requirement, it is the best psu you can possibly get

jake5253 · 10-25-2009, 06:05 PM

Just did the calculations with the cpu (E8400). The DSATX will work great. I'm a little concerned about the screen though. I'm going to use the MobileVu 12.1" touchscreen. It has the 12V hook-ups on the screen itself. There are additional hook-ups (RS232 for touchscreen, S-Video, Composite, etc.) Would I still need to calculate the power consumption of this screen even though the screen will be on a seperate 12V circuit? Not sure of the power need to control the touchscreen through the mobo, (RS232 and VGA). I have to go with the HDMI adapter for the motherboard to connect to the screen because the board doesnt have a VGA port. Got some more math to do!

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