[Novalug] Powering multiple ATX PCs using only one power supply

[Nino Pereira]

Jay,

I don't see why this would not be possible, provided that the total
power you draw is within the power source's specs. You must also make
sure that the cables with which you connect the power source to the
boards (and the other stuff, like disk drives) can carry the current
without too much voltage drop.

I don't see why you could not go further, and run the whole thing from
a 12 V battery and a separate 5 V battery. Since the latter don't exist,
it's better if this could be a 6 V battery, and I don't see why you
could not do this either: IIUC the chips actually run at lower voltages,
and the voltage is reduced on the board itself.

Grant you, I've never tried this, but if you want to run the risk of
sacrificing some hardware, please let me know what you find.

Nino


Jay Hart wrote:
> I'm looking into the feasability of building a "cluster" in one of those cases
> I mentioned on the list last week.
> 
> Using mini-itx, I would have to install several small DC convertor boards to
> get power to the motherboards. Not a problem, they are small.
> 
> But I'm thinking a cheaper way would be to try and reuse older ATX based
> technology. The cases don't have room for several large ATX based power
> supplies.
> 
> So, is it possible to install one ATX power suplly, and split the power lead
> for motherboards into 2 or more terminals, to actually power several
> motherboards from one ATX supply?
> 
> TIA,
> 
> Jay
> 
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