Mini-ITX choices

[Ernst112]

Hi! I'm planning to assemble a low power mini-itx HTPC platform for home use with either Asrock H61M-ITX or Intel DH67CF mini-itx mainboard. The processor of my choice is either a 35W Core i3 2100T or Core i3 2120T depending on the availability. The problem is that most power supplies installed in mini-itx cases were generic. I need an 80+ 400W PSU in this set-up because I will install a Sapphire Radeon HD 5450 graphic card in it. Is there an available small 400W branded PSU that could fit in a small itx casing? I've searched the net but only a 160W picoPSU was available. Any information shall be appreciated. Thank you very much.

[mavroxur]

I dont's see why you'd need a 400W PSU with that processor and video card. The 5450 only uses like 16w according to real-world measurements.

[debs3759]

Even the maximum rated TDP for the HD5450 is only 19.1W. I'd say a 160W picoPSU will be more than enough.

[mavroxur]

Especially with either of those i3's, both are 35watt processors. You should be perfectly fine. Even figuring in a hard drive or two and an optical drive, you'd be okay.

[Guest]

Thanks for your reply. The reason why I opted for a 400W psu is that the manual of Sapphire Radeon 5450 graphic card recommends a 400W psu. Anyway, if the card only uses 19W, I guess a 160W psu is more adequate to do its job.

[mavroxur]

No problem. I personally run a 65w AM2 Athlon, a 320gb WD Scorpio hard drive, and a Radeon X1300 on a 160w PicoPSU in my media center and it's been running fine for a couple years now. The X1300 is NOT a very efficent card, and uses 31W at full load. So if my setup works, yours definitely should.