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A PC power supply is responsible for getting power to all the parts within a computer. It works by converting alternating electrical current (AC) into a usable form of low-voltage DC power, which is functional with the refined structures within a computer. The majority of computer power supplies are developed to fit the (Advanced Technology Extended) ATX standard. This means that most types of PC power supplies can be used with various types of internal components. The ATX form factor was developed in 1995 by Intel. It represented one of the greatest alterations to the power supply unit, the casing and motherboard in a long time. It replaced AT as the leading form in computer power supply design. It was developed with the intention of correcting most of the issues system builders had with AT power supply units. A newer system has since then been developed to replace ATX known as the BTX standard which was introduced in 2003. Most pre-fabricated systems are now conforming to the BTX standard, however, the ATX is still sold and still largely used in systems that are built from scratch. The ATX model has been revised many times since it was initially put on the market in 1995 the latest version is 2.3 which was released in 2007. The dimensions of the ATX board are approximately 12 in x 9.6 in or 305 mm x 244mm which enables it to be compatible with microATX boards. A conventional PC power supply will be a square shaped metallic box with a set of bundle wires extending from one end. These wires are used to enable connection to various points within the computer's internal structures. Each component will be connected to the main power supply enabling each to work effectively. The bundle of wires will be parallel to the air vent and C14 IEC connector, which will be responsible for supplying the computer with AC power from the outside power source. On some of the more advanced models a power switch is implemented, which can alter the volts used in the process of powering up the PC. A label should also be seen which will highlight very important technical information that is linked to the power supply this inclusive of the maximum power output and safety certifications. There are various certification standards including: UL mark, GS mark, TUV, NEMKO, SEMKO, DEMKO, FIMKO, CCC, CSA, VDE, GOST R BSMI and CE mark. A number of countries will have divergent standards that a manufacturer will be required to conform to, for example in India and Europe all power supplies must have the CE mark to be eligible to be sold on authentic market channels. All computers require a power supply to work. You can improve the longevity of your ATX power supply by utilizing a surge protector to protect it from periodic fluctuations in electrical output that may occur. Additionally you may also want to think about shutting down the computer entirely during very severe lightening storms, which may impair the power supply especially if it is not currently on a surge protector.
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