do i have to get it right away? and what are some signs that things arent good?

If you find that Windows crashes a lot, or things suddenly slow down, then you should get a new one. But if you don't notice anything, you don't have to worry. One of my newer computers has a 200W in it, and runs fine.

Although, having more power is always reassuring.

ok thanx

You can't go wrong with a higher watt power supply.
I've got a 450 Enermax in mine.. with the whisper fans... don't even know it'* on... but it screams quality. German engineered power supply.

If you are still looking for a power supply or case, you can find some bargains here !!

http://www.tigerdirect.com/email/kb/promo.asp?ID=3748

Cheers,

Croc.

A good power supply is very key. I used to run like a 250 with a HOARD of equipment in my box. And windows would corrupt integral files often, and it crashed too frequently.

Went got a brand new case, with 7 fans, and put an Enermax 450 in it, huge difference, defanitely worth it.

I have a Raidmax 500. It'* not as stable as Enermax, but it'* much cheaper. It also comes in a 400 version. It will be more power than you will ever need.

Move over let me through. First off 200 watt PSU thats Compaq for ya. AMD CPUs will let you know real fast if there isn't enough power. But most video cards use little power to run unless they're like the new ATI 9800'* that have a power connector on them. But signs that you need a new PSU would be weird graphics like blocks or lines on the screen but that could also be bad vid ram, but most common are files corrupting, system won't post, system locks or blue screens. In my experience 200watts and AMD don't go together but if the system seams to run ok than no need to fix it.

And yes thats an ATX system if you get a new PSU get one that is tested for P4'* and AMD'*. The AMD are very picky about clean power please don't buy a bargain bin PSU you'll just end up buying a better one in a few days.

As for how much power 300 or 350 is good more is just likely over kill but you can put as big as you like the system will only use what it needs.

Thats A+ Server+ Compaq APS MCP and 8+ years as a computer hardware tech speaking.

Geez....everyone is a computer hardware tech...

If so...I'm starting a new thread with my computer problems...maybe I can get some answers

Be glad to help ya. For a lot of us, we do this everyday.