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by Answerbag Staff on February 1st, 2010

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What is a computer power source?

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  • by Jason Chavis on February 1st, 2010

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    Great Answer

    Professionally Researched. (What's this?)

    A computer power source is the part of a computer responsible for supplying electrical power to the machine. Along with distribution, it also provides protection to the system and, in the case of desktop computers, additional cooling features.

    Types

    Two different forms of power sources are used for computers depending on whether it is a desktop or laptop. Desktops use a power source that permanently needs to be plugged into an external source, while laptops use a battery.

    Features

    A computer power source uses a system that converts 110 to 240 volts of alternating current (AC) power to direct current voltage (DC). The DC voltage ranges either positive or negative 12, 5 or 3.3 V.

    Desktops

    The standard power source for a desktop computer uses the principle of splitting the voltage into different parts using a switch. This occurs at high speeds and allows the power to be distributed throughout the machine.

    Laptops

    A laptop power source is considered a linear operation, meaning the electricity is accepted from an external source, such as a wall plug-in, which charges a reusable battery. This battery then distributes the power as needed to the internal mechanisms.

    Considerations

    The computer power source also doubles as surge protection. If there is some sort of electrical overload that can lead to a fire, the power source uses a system of fuses or circuit breakers to prevent this occurrence.

    Source:

    XP Power: Tech Guide

    SMPS: Power Source Terminology

    National Semiconductor: Introduction to Power Supplies

    More Information:

    Computer Hope: Information About Computer Power

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