3.4 Input and Output Voltages Flashcards
What is the standard input voltage in the US?
120V AC.
What is the standard input voltage in Europe and Asia?
230V AC.
What are the three main DC output voltages from a power supply?
3.3V DC, 5V DC, and 12V DC.
Why is the 12V DC rail important in modern computers?
It powers high-energy components like the CPU and GPU.
What happens if you connect a 120V power supply to a 230V outlet?
It may damage the power supply, potentially causing smoke or fire.
What happens if you connect a 230V power supply to a 120V outlet?
The device will not turn on due to insufficient power.
How do modern power supplies handle voltage differences?
They use voltage-sensing technology to automatically adjust for 120V or 230V.
What is a power supply rail?
A wire or circuit that provides current at a specific voltage.
What does a dual-voltage power supply do?
It automatically detects and adjusts to the input voltage, whether 120V AC or 230V AC.
Why do some older power supplies have a 115/230V switch?
To manually adjust for regional voltage differences.
What components typically use 3.3V DC?
Low-power components like logic circuits.
What components typically use 5V DC?
Devices like USB peripherals.
What components typically use 12V DC?
High-power components like CPUs, GPUs, and fans.
What does ‘rail’ refer to in a power supply?
A specific wire or circuit delivering a set voltage to components.
How does a power supply convert AC to DC?
Using transformers, regulators, and filters.
