Solved: Power Supply Voltages?

I have a question concerning power supply voltages. I get these readings on my digital voltmeter and I was wondering if these readings are OK? The +5v reading=+5.10v , +12v reading=11.82v(?) -12v reading=-11.79v(?) ,+3.3v reading=+3.4v, the rest of the voltages I read are what they should be but I am in question about the +12v and -12v readings. I read a lower voltage than what is listed on the power supply for the +12v and -12v. The system I have has been acting strange with all kinds of error(pop-ups). It might even be caused by a funky hard drive. I had to remove the computer from going on line because it was acting strange. Is there anybody that can tell me if these voltages are right? My readings are lower than the +12v and -12v readings that are typed on the power supply. Thanks

This question was answered on November 29, 2004. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

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The first question probably any tech would ask.....Do you have a quality power supply?

Moving onward....The power supply should remain within a 10% variance on all rails If the power should go over or below these tolerances it would be best to replace the power supply and purchase a quality power supply To little or to much power can cause hardware damage

Power rails.....

12v should be between 11.5 to 12.5v

5v should be between 4.5 and 5.5v

3.3v should be between 2.8 and 3.8v

Everything seems to be within tolerance Although, if you took these readings while the system was idling They could fluctuate above/below these tolerances when the system is under a full load

If you would like any assistance in choosing a quality power supply Makers of antec, enermax, fortran, sparkle, and thermaltake shall do you well

I hope this helps.

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Posted by Michael of Katharine Gibbs School - New York on November 29, 2004

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