Vista - power supply

How do I find out what power supply I have and what wattage it is with out having to open the box?

Well if you have a branded machine.. emachine, HP, etc.... you can check the model number, and look it up on there website and get the specs for that model.. if it's a custom built one.. then you have to open it.. I'm assuming you don't want to open it, because it's a branded machine and you don't wanna ruin your warranty.. so check with the manufactures website for specs of ur model.. good luck.

I would still open the chassis and get the model and specs from it. I would call them and ask for the power supply specs.

ya I'd open it also.. unless you don't wanna viod warranty.. then leave it shut.

Actually just opening the computer case will not void the warranty from any OEM machine that I know of, but opening the PSU case itself certainly will.

The only reliable way to do it without opening the case is to look at the back of the box and see if it has a sticker on the PSU that states it's ratings. Or as mentioned above, if you have an OEM machine and haven't modified it, you can go their website and find your model and it will show the PSU ratings.

Other than that, it's quick and easy to remove the side of the case and look at the PSU sticker. You don't have to touch anything (usually) as most PSU's have the sticker oriented so that it's easily visible when the case is open.