Will unplugging unneeded items from my power supply help it run cooler?

Question

I'm currently running:

Intel DP35DP w/ Core 2 Duo @ 2.33 Ghz
ASUS Earthwatts 430 PSU
NVidia Geforce 8800gt (512 Mb)
2x 149Gb HDD
1x DVD-R drive
1x CD-Rom drive
1x Zip drive

I never use the cd-rom drive or the zip drive or my second hard drive.
After installing the 8800 gt, my psu began running a little hot (i.e., hot air coming out of the back of the case from the fan.) while playing graphically-demanding games.

I checked to see if my power supply was adequate for the card, and people on the internet with my PSU were able to run the 8800gt without problem.

I'm looking for a way to keep my PSU's exhaust air cooler-- would unplugging those unused items help, (i.e., put less of a strain on the PSU?)

Answer 1

the 8800GT, is more than likely the one thats running hot,(they tend to) and the power supply is pulling that hot air out of the case, just like your other fans.

It would definitely be less strain on your PSU without that HDD if you don't use it, but I really don't think thats the problem.



Without being there, I would guess its just getting hotter in general, (because the case air is hotter) sounds like that Vid Card runs a lot hotter, than what you had before.

IMHO.

Good luck

Answer 2

I've looked around a hell of a lot as i'm just updating my computer and although i didn't like this graphics card my brother who is also building a new computer did so i looked up psu powered needed, and ok yes you may well be hitting the minimum needed but it's no enough if i was you i would consider a 500W.



It's running hotter because it's working harder you have 2 choices in general either bigger PSU meaning it won't be using as much of it resources or a nice big fan to get that hot air moveing out of your case, but then you may still get a similar problem as you would then be useing more power again.

Answer 3

Adding more cooling fans might help. I'm assuming there is still space or slots for cooling fans in your computer casing. They're cheap, don't consume much power and help to cool down your PC a lot.



Disconnecting your other hardware is inconvenient because you might have to reconnect them later on. Anyway they are not drawing any power when not it use, except the 2nd HDD which spins all the time even when not in use.

Answer 4

No.



If the other items aren't running they won't draw much power.



Buy another cooling fan and put it in your case to help cool your system.

Answer 5

It should be since the system will use less power