The PSU

 The power supply is not only the supplier of power to the computer, it is the part of the computer that many times is recycled from computer to computer. In this way it serves as the backbone of your computer, and certainly we wouldn't be getting very far without one! Rails are what make up a power supply, and not the kind that trains travel on. The rails carry different voltages of power. These different voltages are required, because many components require different voltages to run. Fans take 12 volts, same with graphics cards, and hard drives take a SATA connector, which supplies 3.3, 5, and 12 volts of power. The Molex connector carries 5 and 12 volts, and so on.

When looking for a PSU, you should always first look at the brand. Don't ever buy some unknown companies PSU just because it happens to be $10 cheaper than the one offered by a well known company. That $10 you save, could cost you more than $400 later on if it decides to fry all of your components. The next thing to look at is its efficiency. The more efficient a power supply is, the more you will save in the long run from energy costs. This may seem like a small amount now, but over time it really adds up.

This is why I have decided to go with the Cooler Master eXtreme Power Plus 500 watt PSU. This PSU has over 70% efficiency, but unfortunately lacks the extra few percent to get the 80 Plus bronze rating. Non the less, it is a great quality PSU for just $40.

Link to PSU