Another PSU died, this time from the minnow server shown here. minnow is fitted with a morex pdb150R psu. looks like this psu doesnt like to be left on for ages whilst the load is off, either that or it randomly died - which is quite possible.

I dont have a direct replcement, so im going to refit a mini-box psu, the pw-200-m.

first, unplug the psu (seen on left ready for removal)

Here is the old PSU out and the new one to go in.

The replacement is a lot smaller and claims to be 200W. how is that i wonder. anyway, turns out that the new psu requires 12v in within range (11-14) whilst the old one takes input from a supplementary 18v supply. this is no good for the new part. instead i rig up a socked 12v input from another psu.

with the PSU removed and the new one, which plugs directly into the board, we have below. this new config is a bit better because we no longer need diagonal power connection, which before only just reached (why is it that wires either don't reach or at best only just reach. if i knew this i would be very wise).

the config below leaves more empty space on the left for the HD.

put the HD in this gap and we get,

mysteriously, i discover a new power and data connector for the HD, but lukily before i plug in in, i notice the power is connected to 12v (yellow) and not 5v (red). these small drives take 5v and not 12. good that i spot this and change the plug wiring first. also i get sumped on which way to plug in the data connector (it can go upside down too), also the power is on the end. is this pin 1 or pin 42?. turns out the power is pin 42.

so here we have it. i put back in the one PCI board i have for minnow. the end result looks a dreaful mess doesn't it. probably blow up again any time!

Amazingly it's working again!