How to check the power supply you have

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So you want to know how to see which power supply you have.

Sadly a power supply only sends power to the computer.

It does not send information such as their brand, wattage strength, efficiency rating, and so on. So there’s no program you can run to simply report that info to you.

How to check which power supply you have

Pre-assembled computers have their own model or serial number. This the only way to know which power supply you have without opening it.

You can use this to try and see the specific parts used inside. Googling this number might reveal which power supply you have otherwise try the manufacturer’s website.

If it’s a custom computer you can check the retail package that it came in. If you don’t have it and you ordered it online then check the site you ordered it from.

If you don’t know your computer’s model number or your detective work came up with nothing then you will have to open it.

To check what power supply you have to:

  1. Turn off your PC. Don’t put it in sleep or hibernate mode. Shut it off completely.
  2. Unplug it from your wall socket, surge protector, or extension cable. Make sure there’s no power going to it.
  3. Remove the side panel to reveal the chassis. You may have to unscrew it using a screwdriver or if you’re in luck and it has thumbscrews just use your fingers.
  4. Have a look inside…

Pre-assembled computers usually have their power supplies at the back upper end of computers. Some custom cases, usually meant for gamers, place the power supplies in the back lower end.

See also

If you don’t see a sticker on the power supply you may have to remove it. Sometimes manufacturers put the sticker on the side that’s not visible when you open up your computer’s chassis.

What a power supply label will tell you

Every power supply has a sticker indicating:

  • Manufacturer
  • Brand
  • Model
  • AC input
    • Input voltage
    • Input current
    • Frequency
  • DC output
  • Total power
  • Max output current
  • Max output power
  • Safety/regulatory certification
  • Where it’s made