> What does a high power zener cost these days?
> Why can't the manufactures charge an extra $5.00 to have a bit
> of 'robustness' in a design?

You *are* talking about PC power supplies, correct?  This would be a 50%
price increase in the cost of the supply.  Take a look at these things some
time, most (all?) are not even UL listed, as that would add to the cost too
much.  I can get a new 300watt supply for as low as US$12.00.  I wouldn't
use it in my computer, I'm just saying.

I have seen a good many supplies go bad, but I have never seen one damage
the computer......yet.  Most failures seem to be due to the fan stopping.
It's only a matter of time after that.  ;-)  I've sure seen some melted
parts as they will get a tad warm inside with no fan running.

michael brown

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