I have a Dell Demension 4100 with a P3 1GHz processor. I got a new graphics card that needs atleast a 300W power supply. The PSU that came with the Dell is a 200W. I looked at some PSU's at BestBuy and saw an Antec TruePower 330-Watt ATX Model: TRUE330 and an Antec SmartPower 350-Watt ATX Model: SL350. The motherboard has a 20pin main power connection and a 6pin aux connection. These Antec PSU's both have the 4pin 12v connection used for the higher rated cpu's, my question is will these PSU's be compatible with a P3, could i just leave the 4pin unconnected.

Thanks

Some Dells use proprietary PSUs, meaning you can't buy a replacement off the shelf, you have to buy from Dell. If you use a standard PSU, you'll fry the board & possibly the PSU...possibly other components. Before doing anything, find out if your Dell uses one of these proprietary PSUs or not.

BTW, the power requirements for a P3 are totally different than for a P4. The P3 gets all it's power from the +5v rail...the P4 gets it from the +12v rail.

BTW, don't buy from BestBuy...if you can use a standard PSU in your system, get this one:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16817153006

Asus A7N8X-X
1800+ @ 8.5 x 200MHz
768MB PC3200
Asus A9550 128MB/128-bit
Gamer Edition
WinME/WinXP Pro

I replaced the PSU in an old Dell Optiplex. A generic PSU does not have the AC power connector in the correct position. You would have to cut a hole in the case in order to attach the AC power cord.

Call Dell Support/Parts and Accessories but do tell them that you need a higher rated one.
Mine came fairly quickly and did not cost more than anywhere else.

Bryan

I just recently had a Dell Dimension 4100, PIII 933 that needed a PSU. They do have a proprietary PSU that will not allow you to use a regular PSU.

BUT, you can use the adapter at this site and then hook up a regular PSU.

http://www.quietpc.ca/acb/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Product_ID=182&CATID=24

Good Luck
Smitty