On Wed, 06 Dec 2006 05:23:05 GMT, Daniel Prince
<neutrino1@ca.rr.com> wrote:

>I want to buy a new ATX power supply so that I will have a good
>spare. I need a power supply with at least 400 watts, and the extra
>12 volt connector. It must be capable of running the latest AMD
>systems with enough power to run four hard drives and three optical
>drives. I want to avoid no-name supplies with exaggerated ratings
>and dubious quality, reliability and longevity.
>
>I have not researched power supplies in years. I think I remember
>that Antec supplies are good but somewhat expensive and that Sparkle
>are good and inexpensive. Is that still true? Are there other
>brands that are good and inexpensive? Thank you in advance for all
>replies.

The wattage you're seeking is now common, practically
everyone makes/sells something in that capacity. It's not
as though there are only a half dozen suitable candidates,
the best value (good inexpensive) will tend to depend on
special sales, promos, rebates, etc being offered at any
given time, or even a simplier cost saving from buying at
the next place you're ordering other parts to offset
shipping.

Since there are several that may do acceptibly, instead rule
out any known brands or those known to have less
conservative ratings or particular problems. This would be
too large a list to make now, but some web forums will
attempt this and could be consulted when considering any
specific unit.

If you just want a random brand name thrown out there,
consider Sparkle or Seasonic. There are other issues we
can't easily resolve for you like whether you'd prefer
something with more airflow (a bit louder) but then running
cooler as a result so it may tend to have longer lifespan.