Hey guys. I need a new PSU for when I start building my new PC, and I need some guidance. I'm looking to build a fairly high-spec PC with things like an Intel Core 2 Duo, 250GB HDD, 2GB RAM, and an Nvidia 8800 GT.
I don't really understand all the different PSU lingo, so could somebody tell me what I'd need to run this? What wattage and what rails etc.
Thanks
I'd say minimum 500W, other then that, I have no clue.
Yeah I'd go for at least 500W, preferably a 600W if you plan to do any OCing
Make sure you get one with at least one 6-pin PCI-E power lead.
You'll want some SATA power too, so make sure it has that.
If you've got the cash try to get an 8-pin PCI-E connector and Active PFC.
Also if you're going to have a window in your case you might want to go for one with sleeved cables, because it looks nicer, it also gives better airflow, but the cost/gain ratio for just airflow usually isn't worth it.
I thought they all come with SATA now?
I thought they all come with SATA now?
So did I, big mistake 
Some budget ones don't.
Yeah I'd go for at least 500W, preferably a 600W if you plan to do any OCing
Make sure you get one with at least one 6-pin PCI-E power lead.
You'll want some SATA power too, so make sure it has that.
If you've got the cash try to get an 8-pin PCI-E connector and Active PFC.
Also if you're going to have a window in your case you might want to go for one with sleeved cables, because it looks nicer, it also gives better airflow, but the cost/gain ratio for just airflow usually isn't worth it.
You pretty much hit the nail on the head. If you're serious about overclocking, check comments from people whom previously bought it, and make sure they say the are "stable", meaning the power flow isn't shaky. Other than that, d4rk's about right on the wattage. 500 minimum, 600 for OC, any more than 650 is really overkill, and anything less than 450 is too little.
ah yes, just in case you didn't know, the PSU that come with towers (if you plan on getting it that way) or no good.
Yeah I know. They're always "Extremely Powerful 400w PSU"
Yeah I know. They're always "Extremely Powerful 400w PSU"
If you are building a CPU powerful machine, but a low end graphics (ATI x1300 or even integrated (gasp), some of the included 450W in the Antec cases are actually nice. Beyond that, save the money and get a case without a PSU, especially if its a no name brand. Dont trust the piece that can bring it all down to them...