The AT power supply form factor is considered the original standard for power supplies in desktop computers. Introduced in the 1980s, it was the first widely adopted form factor for power supplies and played a crucial role in shaping the development of modern computers. The AT form factor was designed to provide a standardized way of building and upgrading computer systems, making it easier for manufacturers to design and produce compatible components.
History of AT Power Supply Form Factor
The AT power supply form factor was first introduced by IBM in 1984, as part of their PC/AT (Advanced Technology) computer system. The PC/AT was designed to be a more powerful and flexible alternative to the original IBM PC, and the AT power supply form factor was a key component of this design. The AT form factor was designed to provide a standardized way of building and upgrading computer systems, making it easier for manufacturers to design and produce compatible components. Over time, the AT form factor became the de facto standard for power supplies in desktop computers, and it remained the dominant form factor for many years.
Key Characteristics of AT Power Supply Form Factor
The AT power supply form factor has several key characteristics that define its design and functionality. One of the most notable features of the AT form factor is its size, which is typically 6 inches (15.24 cm) wide, 3.5 inches (8.89 cm) tall, and 5.25 inches (13.34 cm) deep. This size allows the power supply to fit into a standard desktop computer case, while also providing enough room for the necessary components and wiring. The AT form factor also uses a specific connector layout, which includes a 6-pin P8 and P9 connector for the motherboard, as well as several Molex connectors for peripheral devices. The power supply also uses a 115/230V AC input, and provides several DC output voltages, including +5V, +12V, and -12V.
Technical Specifications of AT Power Supply Form Factor
The technical specifications of the AT power supply form factor are highly detailed and complex. The power supply is designed to provide a maximum power output of 250 watts, although some later models may have higher power ratings. The power supply also uses a linear regulation design, which provides a high level of efficiency and reliability. The AT form factor also includes several safety features, such as overvoltage protection, undervoltage protection, and short-circuit protection. These features help to prevent damage to the power supply and other system components in the event of a fault or malfunction.
Advantages and Disadvantages of AT Power Supply Form Factor
The AT power supply form factor has several advantages and disadvantages that are worth considering. One of the main advantages of the AT form factor is its widespread adoption and compatibility with a wide range of computer systems. The AT form factor is also relatively simple and inexpensive to manufacture, which made it a popular choice for computer manufacturers. However, the AT form factor also has several disadvantages, including its relatively low power output and limited efficiency. The AT form factor also uses a relatively large amount of space, which can make it difficult to fit into smaller computer cases.
Legacy of AT Power Supply Form Factor
The AT power supply form factor has had a lasting impact on the development of modern computers. The AT form factor was the first widely adopted standard for power supplies, and it played a crucial role in shaping the development of the computer industry. The AT form factor also paved the way for the development of later power supply form factors, such as the ATX and Micro-ATX form factors. Although the AT form factor is no longer widely used in modern computers, it remains an important part of computer history and a testament to the innovative spirit of the computer industry.
Comparison with Other Power Supply Form Factors
The AT power supply form factor can be compared with other power supply form factors, such as the ATX and Micro-ATX form factors. The ATX form factor, which was introduced in the 1990s, is a more modern and efficient alternative to the AT form factor. The ATX form factor provides a higher power output and better efficiency, while also using a more compact design. The Micro-ATX form factor, which was introduced in the 2000s, is an even smaller and more efficient alternative to the ATX form factor. The Micro-ATX form factor provides a high power output and excellent efficiency, while also using a very compact design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the AT power supply form factor is an important part of computer history and a testament to the innovative spirit of the computer industry. The AT form factor was the first widely adopted standard for power supplies, and it played a crucial role in shaping the development of modern computers. Although the AT form factor is no longer widely used in modern computers, it remains a significant milestone in the evolution of power supply technology. Its legacy can be seen in the many modern power supply form factors that have followed in its footsteps, and its influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
