Which voltages are provided by an ATX power supply?

An ATX power supply is designed to provide several standard voltages required for various components in a computer system. The correct voltages provided by an ATX power supply include 3.3V, 5V, and 12V.

The 3.3V rail primarily powers the motherboard, particularly the processor and RAM, as modern components require lower voltages for efficient operation. The 5V rail supplies power to peripherals and various internal devices like hard drives and SATA drives. The 12V rail is crucial for powering components that require more power, such as the CPU and graphics cards.

By providing these specific voltages, an ATX power supply ensures that the internal components of a computer receive the appropriate power needed for optimal performance and stability. This standardization is essential for compatibility across different hardware components and manufacturers, making it easier for builders and technicians to assemble and maintain computer systems effectively.