What do i need to know before i replace my computers power supply?

Depends on the model of your computer. Some of the brands use power supplies that are unique to their machines (different size and shape then the standard supply). You have to get a supply from the original manufacturer to replace those. If it is a standard supply, replacing one is simple. It will have either one or two connectors that plug into the system board, and several that connect one each to each of the drives (floppy, hard, CD, etc.) Simply unplug all the connectors, unscrew the supply from the back of the PC, and lift it out. (Some models may require you to remove a drive or rail to have room to get the supply out. Take the supply with you to a good computer shop, and they will be able to match it (make sure the new one has all the same connectors). Also, you may want to have them"up" the supply to one that is more powerful (such as if it is a 300 or 350, consider a 500 or better instead). The higher the wattage, the less likely you are to overtax it and ear it out. When ...  more