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Unread 08-13-2003, 11:32 AM   #12
iggiebee
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Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Miami, Florida US
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If you would like to use Peltiers in the future, what's needed to power pelts is not (only) Watts, but rather the Amperage the PSU can push at 12V DC.

For a nice ATX PSU that pushes 12V @ 32 Amps, try the Sparkle Power 550W . It is primarily meant for a dual CPU mobo, but comes with an adapter for regular ATX connector.

I have been using one for the last 6 mo, powering a 226W pelt plus all hardware in the computer with no problems. IMHO it's the best there is, it costs around US$ 100, and sure beats having to use a larger case and an extra PSU.

One piece of advice tho; the molex connectors where an high powered pelt will be connected, need to be filled with dielectric grease to prevent burn out caused by constant microscopic electrical arcing that occurs at such high currents. It surely will melt down the connector over time if not taken care.

Best to solder a nice set of heavier gauge wires in the 12 V output of PSU itself to prevent any problems.
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Last edited by iggiebee; 08-13-2003 at 11:39 AM.
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