No matter what type of business or organization you are in, power supplies are one of the beating hearts that keep your operations running. A faulty or dying power supply could be the culprit of your office computers struggling to turn on or your industrial machines consistently failing.
Whether you are replacing a power supply gone bad or installing a new setup for your facility, knowing how to install a power supply is a valuable toolset to have. Installing a power supply is simple with a little bit of practice, but it can seem daunting at first.
That’s why we decided to use our decades of experience and electrical engineering knowledge to craft this guide on how to install a power supply. We’ll be exploring all things power supply installation related in this article, so read on for the knowledge you need!
Let’s jump right into it with some warning signs that indicate when it is time to replace your old power supplies.
Do I Need to Install a New Power Supply? Determining When Your Unit is Due for Replacement
Power supply lifespans are unfortunately not endless, even with the best models on the market. Thankfully, learning how to install a new power supply is easy. Before we get into power supply installation, we need to go over some of the signs of failure, along with briefly discussing the alternative option of repairing your PSU.
Signs of Failure
Bad power supply symptoms can often masquerade as symptoms of faulty machinery, so it is important to look into the details. After all, installing a power supply is a much cheaper alternative than investing in new machinery. Here are a few of the most prominent warning signs:
- If your machine refuses to turn on or it shuts down unexpectedly during use, that could be an indicator your power supply is on its last legs.
- Overheating machines can also be the result of a failing power supply. While some heat is expected no matter what your power supply efficiency rating is, excessive heat means your power supply has lost most of its out-of-the-box efficiency.
- Unusual odors, including the smell of burning, are similar signs of a failing power supply. If these odors are paired with an overheating device, it is critical to stop use immediately.
- Power supply voltage fluctuations and similar electrical issues can also signify failure. Power supply regulation aims to guarantee a consistent flow of energy unless you are using an unregulated device.
- You may also hear strange noises, including whirring, buzzing, or clicking, while your devices are in use.
Can You Repair Power Supplies?
Why go through the trouble of learning how to install a new power supply if you can just repair power supplies instead? The answer is simple - most power supplies cannot be repaired without electrical engineering knowledge.
High voltage power supplies contain several components that can be hazardous to try to fix yourself. You could try taking your faulty power supply to a repair shop, but you may end up paying more for a temporary fix than the cost of a new unit entirely.
So unless you know the difference between AC and DC power and you have an in-house electrical engineer with a full workshop, ditch the idea of trying to repair your own power supplies.
Thankfully, learning how to install a power supply is easy with the right guidance.
Is it Hard to Install a Power Supply?
Power supply installation is not particularly difficult, but you will still need some basic knowledge to make things work. Our guide will help your bridge the gap, even if you are a complete newbie that’s still trying to learn power supply sizes.
Common Challenges With New Power Supply Installation
There are a few challenges that arise during power supply installation, including compatibility issues, electrical safety concerns, and cable management.
Not all power supplies are compatible with all motherboards and other components, and it's vital to make sure that the power supply you choose is compatible with your system. We recommend doing some research or consulting with a professional while shopping.
Installing a power supply involves working with high-voltage components, and it's important to take proper precautions to avoid electrical shocks or other hazards. The dangers apply to both you as the installer as well as the critical components of your machines. Tools like anti-static mats or grounding devices can help disperse static hazards during power supply installation.
Power supplies come with various cables to power your machines, and it can be difficult to route them neatly and avoid cluttering your shop floor or the inside of your computer case. Taking the time to carefully route and organize your cables can help improve airflow and reduce the risk of damage to other components.
We also recommend modular power supplies as a way to cut down on cable management requirements. We cover their use in details in our related article: what is a modular power supply.
Don’t Sweat it, Though - Bravo Electro is Your Trusted Guide For Installing a New Power Supply!
We get it, installing a power supply may still seem daunting. You can rest easy with our guidance here at Bravo Electro. We’ve been selling electrical components, including power supplies, for nearly three decades, and we even create custom power supply designs.
Our team of in-house electrical engineers works closely with our award-winning customer support team to provide you with all of the tips and advice you need to know when installing a power supply.
We are always available to hop on a call or email you with personalized guidance, so do not hesitate to reach out. Now, let’s discuss where to find the best brands for power supplies while shopping.
Before You Can Get Started With Power Supply Installation, Find the Right Replacement Unit
Whether you need enclosed power supplies or open frame power supplies, Bravo Electro is the internet’s #1 home for electrical components. We’ve been selling power supplies and fans for nearly 30 years out of our home base in Santa Clara, California, giving us an intimate knowledge of every power supply specification possible.
Why Shop at Bravo Electro?
Installing a power supply can be tricky enough in it’s own right, but shopping for one can surpass the complexity.
That’s why we have cultivated an inventory of UL listed power supplies that is simple to browse. Here at Bravo Electro, we train our customer support teams with all the intricate details of power supplies, allowing us to offer you customized recommendations for your facility or devices.
Plus, you can easily hop on the phone with one of our many in-house electrical engineers for additional assistance. Our team has worked with nearly every type of industrial or medical machine in the book, so we can guarantee an accurate recommendation for your device.
Tips for Finding the Right Unit
We encourage you to reach out to our team here at Bravo Electro for a detailed recommendation, but for now, here are a few of our most popular offerings.
- Our 12 volt DC power supply selection is excellent for low-power devices like LED lighting, automotive and marine components, and small motors.
- 24 volt DC power supplies are a common sight in factory automation systems, industrial machinery, and solar power systems.
- 48 volt DC power supplies pack a big punch, and they are a common necessity for data centers, servers, and telecommunications. They are built to handle the constant stress of big data and commercial industries and are well worth the investment.
- DIN rail power supplies are a match made in heaven for industrial automation machinery. They are paired with a DIN rail, which is common to the field, and come in a variety of voltages.
Overall, you’ll need to consider the requirements of your device or machinery, including voltage requirements and safety considerations. Make sure to do your research, or skip a few steps and ask our knowledgeable team for advice!
Other Tools You’ll Need For Installing a New Power Supply
There are a few additional tools you will want to invest in when installing a power supply.
Zip ties can help secure cables and wires depending on the type of devices you are working with. You may also need wire cutters or strippers to trim the ends of cables.
Anti-static devices are paramount to power supply installation. This includes grounding mats, anti-static wrist straps, and more. Failure to use these items can lead to static damage to your machinery and possibly safety hazards for you as an installer.
Once you have your ideal power supply from Bravo Electro and your tools, the only step left is learning how to install a power supply.
How to Install a Power Supply: Step-by-Step Guide to New Power Supply Installation
Installing a power supply is simple with the help of these steps. If you run into any trouble during the process, reach out to our team at Bravo Electro, and we will help you figure out the best way to proceed!
Preparing Your Device For PSU Replacement
Before starting the installation process, make sure your device is turned off and unplugged from the power source. You’ll want to gather up your tools, including screwdrivers, zip ties, and wire cutters.
Be sure to wear your anti-static equipment, like wriststraps, before commencing installation to prevent any static damage.
Removing the Old PSU
You will likely find several cables stemming from your old PSU, so it may help to take a picture. This can help you reference the proper setup later on when installing your new PSU. Disconnect these cables and remove any screws or fasteners.
From there, remove your power supply carefully to avoid any damage to the surrounding machine components.
Installing the New PSU
Take your new PSU and place it in the same area as your old one. Generally, this should require the same type of screws and fasteners, but consult with a professional if you find yourself unable to properly secure it.
You will then use the picture of your old setup to reattach the cables, organizing them with zip ties to help keep the area neat and clear.
Powering Up Your Device and Testing the Unit
Before you close up your entire machine, it is essential to test your new power supply. Plug your device in and turn it on, verifying that everything works as intended.
You can use our list of bad power supply symptoms above to check for any faulty parts or incorrect installations. If your device is now working as intended, close it up, and all that is left is for you to celebrate a job well done!
Troubleshooting Common Issues After Installation
Issues can sometimes arise during the process, and there are a few ways to diagnose these problems.
If your device is not turning on or is experiencing other issues, check that all cables are securely connected and that there are no loose connections. Remember to consult with your photo of the old setup to ensure everything is in its place.
You may also run into overheating issues, so you will want to check that the new PSU is spaced evenly and that all fans are functioning correctly.
If these issues continue to persist, consult with one of our professionals here at Bravo Electro. We can help figure out if your problem is related to your machinery itself or due to a faulty PSU.
Bringing Our Conversation on Installing a Power Supply to a Close
Power supplies are built to last up to seven years in most cases, but even the best brands fade out over time. Learning how to install a power supply can save you and your organization costs on repair services and also brings a sense of accomplishment.
Be sure to follow the tips we have laid out in this article, including wearing grounded equipment to prevent static and using zip ties to keep your cables organized.
If you need assistance diagnosing a bad power supply or simply want a personalized recommendation, our team at Bravo Electro is here to help. With nearly 30 years of experience, our Santa Clara, California-based team has the skillset and know-how to help you find the perfect AC DC power supplies for your machinery.
In addition to calling us up for power supply installation tips, you can also check out our blog for more insight to guide you while shopping. This includes our articles on power supply linear vs switching and installing power supplies in series vs parallel.
Otherwise, if you are ready to refresh your machinery and put an end to random shutdowns and overheating, our inventory here at Bravo Electro has everything you need. Hop on a phone call or email us to get started on a personalized recommendation today!
