PSU for 3850 help

Ok, I used the Extreme Watt Calculator to find out how much power my system is currently using. It came up with 205w (I have a 300w power supply). My system is an Acer, C2Q Q6600, 2gb RAM, HD2400pro, 300w psu and a random Acer mobo. I then put it a 3850 and it came up to 240w. So is it safe to install the 3850 into this pc? I can't really upgrade my psu at this time (probably not until 3/4 of a year's time). I it isn't safe should I opt for the 8600 gts (only $109), the 2600 XT (below $100 and gddr4).

Thanks

Ok, I used the Extreme Watt Calculator to find out how much power my system is currently using. It came up with 205w (I have a 300w power supply). My system is an Acer, C2Q Q6600, 2gb RAM, HD2400pro, 300w psu and a random Acer mobo. I then put it a 3850 and it came up to 240w. So is it safe to install the 3850 into this pc? I can't really upgrade my psu at this time (probably not until 3/4 of a year's time). I it isn't safe should I opt for the 8600 gts (only $109), the 2600 XT (below $100 and gddr4).

Thanks

PATH0G3N

well its not really the watts that us important in your case its how the amps

open up your case and look at a sticker on the psu and tell us how many amps is on the 12v rail/

but if the psu cam with the computer its probably some cheap one and you would be better off buying the 2600xt

[QUOTE="PATH0G3N"]

Ok, I used the Extreme Watt Calculator to find out how much power my system is currently using. It came up with 205w (I have a 300w power supply). My system is an Acer, C2Q Q6600, 2gb RAM, HD2400pro, 300w psu and a random Acer mobo. I then put it a 3850 and it came up to 240w. So is it safe to install the 3850 into this pc? I can't really upgrade my psu at this time (probably not until 3/4 of a year's time). I it isn't safe should I opt for the 8600 gts (only $109), the 2600 XT (below $100 and gddr4).

Thanks

sabbath2gamer

well its not really the watts that us important in your case its how the amps

open up your case and look at a sticker on the psu and tell us how many amps is on the 12v rail/

but if the psu cam with the computer its probably some cheap one and you would be better off buying the 2600xt

I'm with you all the way to the 2600xt, isn't HD3850 less watt/amp demanding than 2600XT?

PATH0G3N: A solid/strong PSU will deliver a nice stable power to your comp. And in the end your comp will be stable even when you max it.

I have a Pro account for the PSU calculator, and it recommends 15.4A on the 12v rail for your system. I've found that the calculator overestimates real-world wattage by a fair margin, and I'd reckon that a quality 300W PSU would provide ample power for a card as power efficient as a 3850. Granted, I don't know that your PSU is any good, and it might be worth it to get something like an Antec Earthwatts 430W to ensure your system gets clean power.ajkalan

Ok, thanks.