Power Consumption Formula:
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PC power consumption is the total amount of electrical power required by all components in a computer system. This calculator sums the wattage of individual components to estimate total system power draw without safety margin.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Details: Knowing your system's power requirements helps select an appropriate power supply unit (PSU) and ensures stable operation. This calculation provides the bare minimum without safety margins.
Tips: Enter each component's typical power draw in watts. Check manufacturer specifications for accurate values. For safety, add 20-30% to the calculated total when selecting a PSU.
Q1: Why doesn't this include a safety margin?
A: This shows the raw power requirement. Real-world usage should include 20-30% headroom for efficiency and peak loads.
Q2: Where can I find component power ratings?
A: Check manufacturer specifications (TDP for CPUs/GPUs), product documentation, or reputable review sites with power measurements.
Q3: Does this account for overclocking?
A: No. Overclocking significantly increases power draw. Add 20-50% more wattage for overclocked components.
Q4: What about power supply efficiency?
A: This calculation is for system draw. PSU efficiency (80 Plus ratings) affects wall power draw, not component requirements.
Q5: Should I use peak or typical power values?
A: For basic calculation, use TDP or typical power. For precise measurement, consider peak power draws during stress tests.