Power utilization

**nwo75200** · October 16th, 2004, 07:34 PM

I have always wanted this question answered:

Let's say you have a 600W PSU... does it always use those 600Ws or just how much is enough to power your components? I'm getting worried about my electric bill

**vikeor** · October 16th, 2004, 07:36 PM

just enuff to run ur PC...

**nwo75200** · October 16th, 2004, 07:36 PM

Originally Posted by vikeor

just enuff to run ur PC...

any programs out there to find out how many watts your PC uses?

**RobRich** · October 16th, 2004, 07:47 PM

any programs out there to find out how many watts your PC uses?

You would need to measure the amperage, thus requiring external measuring equipment.

voltage x amperage = wattage

**nwo75200** · October 16th, 2004, 07:49 PM

Originally Posted by RobRich

You would need to measure the amperage, thus requiring external measuring equipment.

voltage x amperage = wattage

too bad

I thought there might be a program, which would make it a breeze, forget about buying measuring equipment

Well... at least I'm glad that I'm not constantly using 430Ws

**elroy** · October 16th, 2004, 07:50 PM

You could make a guesstimation by adding up the watts used by each component. Or the more accurate way would be to use an ammeter. This would tell you how many watts it is pulling at any one time.
One of these would do the job
http://www.donrowe.com/kill_a_watt/kill_a_watt.html
or here is a simple clamp on ammeter
http://www.electrical-contractor.net...e/EX/38385.htm