Power Supply Surprise

I replaced the power supply in my computer last week and found a big surprise waiting for me. A totally unexpected, awesome surprise that was both awesome and unexpected.

Ever since I got a sweet video card for my computer, I've been having problems. If I opened more than two windows or programs, my computer would freeze and the Task Manager would even crash.

I soon discovered that my power supply was a mere 250 watts, or about 1/7th the power of my hair dryer. Since my new video card required a minimum of 350 watts to run, I figured it was a safe bet my power supply was stretched to its limits and would soon explode, sending shrapnel into my poor, defenseless knees.

An I.T.-employed friend hooked me up with a new 420 watt power supply for $40. The Codegen Technology power supply boasts a super mega giant fan beneath it, instead of the typical small rear-mounted fans. It sucks air from inside the case, and redirects it out the back, keeping everything cooler overall. This massive "low noise" fan, about the size of Don Cherry's ego, is supposed to run much quieter as well, but I discovered that part wasn't true.

I also discovered a very cool surprise which sent my brain reeling back to the mid 1980s - the power supply smelled like candy. Delicious, intoxicating candy. I'm sure the plastic encased wires were not made in the Willy Wonka factory, but they smelled like they could've been.

I deeply inhaled the candylicious aroma before sealing the computer case forever. But I am weak. Weak to the power of candy. Once in a while I crack open the power supply's box, and take a sniff, then quickly shut the lid so the candy scent doesn't escape, and so that nobody catches me doing it. I like to sniff my candy in private.

It's embarrassing. I'm addicted to power supplies.