Is it ok to replace a 300w psu for a new 500w psu.

[momanium]

I haven't made any changes to the hardware but would it be ok to do this. The voltage is the same. The PSU i want to get is here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/500-WATT-ATX-POWER-SUPPLY/dp/7135799313/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

One of the reviews states how they have replaced it on a dell dimension 5100 (same computer as the one I want to use) because of the flashing amber problem (same problem I had)

I have read so much about getting enough but is it possible to get to much...

 

[ignatzatsonic]

Your PC will only draw as much power as it needs, so don't worry about replacing a 300 watt PSU with a 500 watt PSU.

That thing sells for 13 UK pounds, about $20 US. That tells me it is a mediocre power supply, at best. I'd try to steer you to something else, but that's not what you asked.

 

[momanium]

Hi thanks for the reply. Is this one any better? It's by Alpine which I heard was quite good...

http://www.amazon.co.uk/650-WATT-supply-Alpine-Silent/dp/7135799410/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

 

[ignatzatsonic]

Hi thanks for the reply. Is this one any better? It's by Alpine which I heard was quite good...

650 WATT Power supply Alpine Black 650 WATT Silent Quiet PC ATX PSU: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories

No. The brand names mean next to nothing. Alpine didn't build it. It was built by one of a relatively few companies and Alpine just stuck their brand name on it.

The chances of you needing even half of 650 watts is small.

What particular Dell PC do you have? If it came with a 300 watt PSU and you have not made any modifications, then stick with a good 300 watt PSU rather than a trashy 500 or 600 watt unit.

Look for a 300 to 400 watt PSU from any of these brands. You may have to spend 30 pounds or more.

Antec
Corsair
Seasonic
XFX

 

[Layback Bear]

Your 300W power supply was the cheapest that Dell could get away with. Now to answer your question. Yes you can upgrade to 500W. It must be able to fit in your case and align properly and have the proper connection your system need. Which all will meet those specs as far as I know. The brands you mention are of unknown quality and that could be a problem. Corsair, Seasonic are brands of quality. Seasonic makes many of Corsairs power supplies.
A Corsair GS-500 around $80.00 (us)
A Corsair CX-500 around $50.00 (us)
I know this is out of the $20.00 range but I know of no quality power supply in that price range.