1. What is a PC Power Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the recommended power supply unit (PSU) wattage for a computer based on component power requirements.

Purpose: It helps PC builders select an appropriately sized power supply to ensure stable operation with a 20% safety margin.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{supply} \) — Recommended power supply wattage
• \( P_{component} \) — Power consumption of each component
• 1.2 — 20% safety margin factor

Explanation: The calculator sums all component power requirements and adds a 20% buffer to ensure stable operation under load and for future upgrades.

3. Importance of Proper PSU Sizing

Details: An adequately sized PSU ensures system stability, prevents crashes under load, improves efficiency, and allows for future upgrades.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wattage for each component. Default values are provided for RAM (15W), storage (20W), and other components (30W). All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why the 20% safety margin?
A: The margin accounts for power spikes, aging components, and future upgrades while keeping the PSU in its most efficient operating range.

Q2: Where do I find component wattage?
A: Check manufacturer specifications or use common values: CPU (65-125W), GPU (75-350W), RAM (5-15W per stick), SSD (2-5W), HDD (6-10W).

Q3: Should I round up the PSU wattage?
A: Yes, choose the next available standard PSU size (e.g., if calculation is 520W, get a 550W or 600W PSU).

Q4: Does this include overclocking?
A: No, for overclocking add 10-25% more wattage depending on components and overclock levels.

Q5: What about PSU efficiency ratings?
A: This calculator gives total wattage needed. For efficiency, choose an 80+ Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum rated PSU.