The number of outputs in a power supply refers to the number of connectors that can provide power to various components of your device. Each output on a power supply can supply a specific voltage and current to a specific component. For example, a power supply with four outputs may have connectors for the motherboard, CPU, graphics card, and hard drives.
Having multiple outputs can be beneficial for a number of reasons. First, it allows you to power multiple components without needing multiple power supplies. This can save you money and reduce the clutter in your workspace. Second, it can help ensure that each component is receiving the right amount of power, which can help prevent damage or malfunction.
How many outputs do you need?
The number of outputs you need in a power supply will depend on the specific components in your device and their power requirements. For example, a gaming computer with a high-end CPU and graphics card may require a power supply with multiple outputs to ensure each component is receiving enough power. On the other hand, a simple office computer may only need a power supply with a single output for the motherboard.
When choosing a power supply, it's important to consider not only the number of outputs but also the power rating of each output. A power supply with multiple outputs may not be sufficient if each output is not powerful enough to meet the requirements of the components it is supplying power to.