Absolute Beginners Guide to A+ Certification. Covers the Hardware and Operating Systems Exam

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Chapter 5. Power Supplies and Circuit Testing

In this chapter

  • Power Supplies

  • Power Protection Types

  • Troubleshooting Power Problems

Power issues are largely ignored by most computer users, but a properly working power supply is the foundation to correct operation of the system. When the power supply stops working, the computer stops working, and when a power supply stops functioning properly ”even slightly ”all sorts of computer problems can take place. From unexpected system reboots to data corruption, from unrecognized bus- powered USB devices to system overheating , a bad power supply is bad news. The power supply is vital to the health of the computer. So, if your computer is acting "sick," you should test the power supply to see if it's the cause. To keep the power supply working properly, use surge suppression and battery backup (UPS) units.

The power supply is really misnamed: It is actually a power converter that changes high-voltage alternating current ( AC ) to low-voltage direct current ( DC ) . There are lots of wire coils and other components inside the power supply that do the work, and during the conversion process, a great deal of heat is produced. A fan in the power supply dissipates the heat created by the operation of the power supply. That same fan also helps to cool the rest of the computer. Figure 5.1 shows a typical desktop computer's power supply. You can use the label attached to the power supply to determine its wattage rating and see important safety reminders.

Figure 5.1. A typical power supply label. This power supply supports the ATX-12V connection required by motherboards for the Pentium 4 processor.

The CD included with this book contains important Study Lab material for this chapter, as well as Chapters 2 “22 in this book. The Study Lab for each chapter contains terms to study, exercises, and practice tests ”all in printable PDF format (Adobe Acrobat Reader is included on the CD, too). These Study Lab materials will help you gear up for the A+ Exam. Also, the CD includes an industry-leading test engine from PrepLogic, which simulates the actual A+ test so that you can be sure that you're ready when test day arrives. Don't let the A+ test intimidate you. If you've read the chapters, worked through the Study Lab, and passed the practice tests from PrepLogic, you should be well prepared to ace the test!

Also, you'll notice that some words throughout each chapter are in bold format. These are study terms that are defined in the Study Lab. Be sure to consult the Study Lab when you are finished with this chapter to test what you've learned.

How can you tell if a power supply meets minimum safety standards? Look for the backward UR logo, which indicates the power supply has the UL and UL Canada safety certifications as a component (the familiar circled UL logo is used for finished products only). The CE mark indicates the power supply has met the requirements of the European Union for power supplies.

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