Brick too hot -> higher amps?

littlebigman · Post by **littlebigman** » Wed Jul 28, 2010 1:01 am

Hello

To power a mini-PC with the bare minimum (Atom-based mobo, single 2.5" disk), I'm using a PicoPSU90 connected to a no-name, 12V/5A ADP-60WB power brick.

The brick gets pretty hot after just a few minutes. Since the PicoPSU expects 12V, I read that it's not a good idea to use a 19V brick, so I'd have to settle for the few 12V models that offer higher intensities, eg. 7A.

Would getting more amps make a difference, or is the heat due to the PicoPSU?

Thank you.

b_rubenstein · Post by **b_rubenstein** » Wed Jul 28, 2010 1:10 pm

The heat is the energy loss due to inefficiencies in the brick. The more current drawn, the higher the more heat that will be dissipated. If the higher current brick is more efficient the the heat will go down.

littlebigman · Post by **littlebigman** » Thu Jul 29, 2010 1:30 am

Thanks for the tip. Should I just get a good quality 60W (12V 5A) brick, or get one with higher amps (6-7.5A)?

Post by **MikeC** » Thu Jul 29, 2010 9:55 am

Personally I'd choose one with a higher rating and higher efficiency. Energy Star maintains a high efficiency power brick list --
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fus ... w_code=ACD

littlebigman · Post by **littlebigman** » Mon Aug 02, 2010 3:59 am

Thanks Mike.