12 Volt Rail question

Patch · #1 04-29-2010

I got an Antec TPQ 1200 OC which allows you to adjust the 12V in a range of 11.8 to 12.6v. I got it mainly for the extra PCIE 8 pin cables, but ain't complaining about knobs to turn.

What advantage is there to bumping the 12v up (or down)?

Most everything of import ultimately runs at far less voltage so I'm at a loss to see any benefit aside from a tiny bump in fan speeds......and since I run fans and pumps on a separate PSU I can't even justify that.

Patch · #2 04-29-2010

Heck, would it help voltage regulation to undervolt to 11.8?

Hondacity · #3 04-29-2010

power = current x voltage

same power...higher voltage = slight less current = slightly less ripple(negligible)

set it to 12.25 - 12.35 volts.

** some harddrives don't like 12.4v

Hondacity · #4 04-29-2010

voltage regulation of the antec tpq is above average...

@ 75% load its still above 12v.

check the review of that psu @

http://www.itocp.com/htmls/95/n-495-10.html

Patch · #5 04-29-2010

Thanks Honda.

Just wanted a valid excuse to turn the dial.

Like this PSU a lot so far, but I wish it had an on/off switch. With hardware switches and CMOS clears, I'll have to unplug the darn thing a dozen times a day.

ReverendMaynard · #6 04-29-2010

I think after allot of use and the 12v starts to droop a bit would be great to be able to dial it back up to 12v. I wouldn't go over or under 12v personally.

Splave · #7 04-29-2010

I would say if you notice sag in the 12v under load from the 980x I would tune it up a bit maybe?

ReverendMaynard · #8 04-29-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by Splave

I would say if you notice sag in the 12v under load from the 980x I would tune it up a bit maybe?

exactly brotha.

Hondacity · #9 04-29-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by ReverendMaynard

I think after allot of use and the 12v starts to droop a bit would be great to be able to dial it back up to 12v. I wouldn't go over or under 12v personally.

working with powersupplies and amplifiers

a higher input voltage than what is specified always makes psus/amps output better. the (output) load being the mobo/vc have voltage regulators that just feeds the cpu/gpu. if you feed (vregs) right. it will perform alittle better.

Hondacity · #10 04-29-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by Splave

I would say if you notice sag in the 12v under load from the 980x I would tune it up a bit maybe?

adjust at idle not at load....

when you adjust at load....say 12.2 volts...and when it becomes idle the 12v rail shoots to 12.6v...you prolly fried something...but really 12.6v is max atx number so its ummm safe? i know some components max at @ 12.4v.