How hard is it to replace a PC power module with an alternative?

[Rushy]

I'm not 100% sure but I think the power supply has blown on my old media center - there is power to the lead but PC is absolutely dead.
It is fitted with an Antec Neo HE430.
I'm not sure what power supplies generally cost but a like for like is about £120 - I don't think it is worth spending that and I can't find second hand anywhere (in the UK, anyway).
Is it fairly straightforward to find an appropriate current replacement which will simply plug in to the existing loom and bolt into the case? Or are they all really different?

 

[Riklet]

It's easy. Be careful you dont blow it up though.. it is possible. Make sure it's unplugged from power and touch something earthed before you do anything with the motherboard.

Dont buy an expensive one get one from a computer shop which they have spare. Or ideally an old/spare one someone has for free to test if that is the issue. If it's def the CPU you can then carry on with the replacement if it works or then buy a new one at a budget price. Unless youre running like 2 graphics cards and stuff you shouldnt need anything too special.

 

[Rushy]

Cheers - how do I cho

It's easy. Be careful you dont blow it up though.. it is possible. Make sure it's unplugged from power and touch something earthed before you do anything with the motherboard.

Dont buy an expensive one get one from a computer shop which they have spare. Or ideally an old/spare one someone has for free to test if that is the issue. If it's def the CPU you can then carry on with the replacement if it works or then buy a new one at a budget price. Unless youre running like 2 graphics cards and stuff you shouldnt need anything too special.

Cheers. I managed to pull it out no problem so as to read the info on the side but how do I choose an appropriate / compatible replacement? And are they all much the same size for fitting back in?

 

[Detroit City]

I would recommend a local computer repair shoppe. Only because you are dealing with a power supply and they can be tricky

 

[fishfinger]

You want an ATX power supply that provides at least 430W to match what you already have.

 

[Rushy]

You want an ATX power supply that provides at least 430W to match what you already have.

So any ATX CPU (430 and over) would be a straight swap?

 

[fishfinger]

Yes. Something like this would be suitable:

https://www.ebuyer.com/859747-be-quiet-500w-system-power-9-psu-bn246

 

[Rushy]

Yes. Something like this would be suitable:

Be Quiet! 500W System Power 9 PSU at Ebuyer

Awesome. Ordered. I'll let you know how I get on!

Thanks all.

 

[Riklet]

That should be more than good enough. 40 quid much more reasonable.

 

[Epona]

Putting computer components together is a bit like doing a mechanno kit - it isn't at all difficult, but opening up a computer for the first time can feel a bit like you're doing an alien autopsy... I suggest having a look at some youtube videos if you're not sure what goes where

 

[Rushy]

Putting computer components together is a bit like doing a mechanno kit - it isn't at all difficult, but opening up a computer for the first time can feel a bit like you're doing an alien autopsy... I suggest having a look at some youtube videos if you're not sure what goes where

This media center is brilliant for learning on as it is a huge case with lots of room to see what is going on. I increased the RAM and upgraded one of the 3 the HDs (the one on which the OS is loaded) to an SSID. Basic stuff but very satisfying for a complete novice. My main problem is knowing what parts are compatible or appropriate. That leaves me totally .

 

[salem]

Putting computer components together is a bit like doing a mechanno kit - it isn't at all difficult, but opening up a computer for the first time can feel a bit like you're doing an alien autopsy... I suggest having a look at some youtube videos if you're not sure what goes where

+ get pics as you dismantle (although might be a bit late in this case)

 

[Ax^]

It's easy. Be careful you dont blow it up though.. it is possible. Make sure it's unplugged from power and touch something earthed before you do anything with the motherboard.

Dont buy an expensive one get one from a computer shop which they have spare. Or ideally an old/spare one someone has for free to test if that is the issue. If it's def the CPU you can then carry on with the replacement if it works or then buy a new one at a budget price. Unless youre running like 2 graphics cards and stuff you shouldnt need anything too special.

yes much this

 

[Rushy]

+ get pics as you dismantle (although might be a bit late in this case)

Yep - I took photos. Always photos!

 

[Rushy]

All sorted. Thanks folks!