Mini HTPC Build help with PicoPSU

brian_ire · 26-08-2012 10:57AM #1

Hi all,

I've spent the guts of today trying to figure this out but I'm still at a loss.

I want to build a mini HTPC with the following specs (I'm over in Oz at the amount so obviously buying everything over here):

CPU: AMD A6 3500 Triple Core Fusion
HD: Western Digital WD Green 2TB WD20EARX
MB: ASRock A75M-ITX Motherboard
RAM: Kingston HyperX KHX1600C9D3K2/8GX (2x4GB) DDR3
CASE: CoolerMaster Elite 120 Advanced Mini ITX Case

Really the sticking point for me is the PSU. I'm relatively noobish and this is my first attempt into the land of mini-ITX. This case can hold a full sized PSU but I'm quite sure it will over heat if I do.

So then comes the PicoPSU option which I hadn't even heard of until today. The problem is I haven't a clue in terms of which of the variants might be sufficient (if any) to power this machine.

Some advice on the best combination of PicoPSU and powerbrick would really be great - or even advice that I shouldn't be going near PicoPSU would be great.

Thanks in advance,

Brian

Monotype · 26-08-2012 12:58PM

I haven't any experience with pico-PSUs but another alternative is an SFX PSU.
http://www2.hardwareversand.de/300+-+400+Watts/32199/be+quiet!+SFX+Power+BQT+SFX+350W.article

Some cases will directly support them but others may need additional brackets.

brian_ire · 26-08-2012 10:51PM

Thanks for that Mono. Yeh I think this case might support that - still interested to hear if anybody has any thoughts on the PicoPSU. My continued hunt to find out what type I need is failing

26-08-2012 11:09PM

Go for a PicoPSU if you want.

Just make sure to get a proper one and not a cheap knock-off. Also make sure to get a power brick that is suitably rated. Note that some of the higher rated power bricks will have a fan that due to the higher RPM might even be louder than a good ATX PSU.

brian_ire · 27-08-2012 09:34AM

Thanks for that. I guess that's the issue - I'll get a proper one but there seems to be so many variations and combinations of PicoPSU and power brick that I'm at a loss.

Any guidance would be very appreciated

brian_ire · 30-08-2012 12:10PM

Just in case anybody searches this in the future, Mini-box (the makers of PicoPSU) answered an email I sent answering my question.

They recommended the PicoPSU-160-XT combined with the 192W AC/DC adapter.

Now off to make my ultra silent mini-htpc!

Mini HTPC Build help with PicoPSU

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