Human body engineering and high efficiency power supply device for computer

Abstract

To provide not only a power supply device for a desktop computer, but also a related system and a method.SOLUTION: A human body engineering power supply device for a computer system contains a print circuit board assembly constructed so that a main electric input is converted into a DC current output of which a voltage is adjusted. The print circuit board assembly defines a main input, and contains one or more DC output connectors. An enclosure houses a fan and the print circuit board assembly. The enclosure includes: a back surface panel; and a front surface panel that is positioned to the side opposite to the back surface panel against the print circuit board assembly. A side surface panel is positioned to between the front surface panel and the back surface panel. The main connector is extended via a hole defined to the back surface panel of the enclosure. The one or more DC output connectors are extended via the side surface panel. Such an arrangement can provide an easier access to an output of the power supply device as compared with the conventional power supply device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD This application and the subject matter disclosed herein (collectively, the "disclosure") generally relate to power supplies for desktop computers, as well as related systems and methods. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, the subject matter of the disclosure relates to power supplies compatible with the Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) specification. [Background technology]

[0002] A traditional desktop computer system has, at its most basic components, a processing unit and memory. However, most desktop computer systems also include several additional functional subsystems. A power supply is a basic component used in desktop computers to convert alternating current (AC) from the mains power source into direct current (DC) at the various voltage levels required by the computer's internal components. The ATX standard, developed and published by Intel Corporation in the 1990s, has become the de facto standard for computer chassis (e.g., housings and enclosures) and power supplies in modern desktop computers due to its industry-wide adoption and compatibility with a variety of computer hardware and form factors. Considered in the context of a chassis or power supply, the ATX standard provides an organized framework for integrating and assembling various components and subsystems into a functional desktop computer system.

[0003] For example, the ATX chassis specification and design guidelines define the dimensions and locations of components and interfaces. In particular, the ATX chassis standard defines the location and size of holes and stand-off heights for mounting the motherboard and associated components within the chassis, as well as the location and size of other features for mounting drive bays, expansion cards, cooling systems, and power supplies.

[0004] ATX compatible power supplies provide power to the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), graphics card, storage devices, and other peripherals, which play a key role in ensuring stable and reliable operation of the computer system. The ATX power supply standard also specifies the layout of the components of a power supply conforming to the ATX specification, as well as the requirements for providing regulated and efficient power to the various subsystems of a computer. For example, the ATX power supply specification specifies the dimensions and feature locations of the power supply housing to ensure that an ATX compatible power supply can be assembled with other ATX compatible components. The ATX specification also specifies the requirements for the electrical mains input, mains transformer and other features such as filtering, DC-DC conversion, output rectification, cooling, protection circuitry, and externally accessible DC connectors.

[0005] A computer power supply typically includes an input stage, a mains transformer and filtering, as well as cooling components and selected protection circuitry. The input stage may include an input connector (e.g., an IEC C14 connector) for connecting to a mains power source. The input stage may also include other components, such as an EMC / EMI (electromagnetic compatibility / electromagnetic interference) filter, a bridge rectifier, and a bulk capacitor, which serve to convert the incoming mains power to an unregulated DC voltage.

[0006] The main transformer converts the unregulated DC voltage to another voltage level suitable for the computer's internal components, and the filtering stage includes capacitors and inductors to reduce ripple and ensure a stable DC output voltage. The DC-DC converter regulates the converted DC voltage to provide the various output voltages required, such as +12V, +5V, and +3.3V. The regulated DC voltage by the DC-DC converter is further rectified and smoothed to provide a clean and stable DC output voltage to the computer's components.

[0007] The power supply may also include one or more cooling components, such as a fan and a heat sink. The fan facilitates the flow of air through the power supply to dissipate heat generated by the power supply's components. Power transistors, diodes, and other components generate significant heat, and heat sinks are often attached to improve heat dissipation beyond that achieved by air flow alone.

[0008] Additionally, the disclosed power supplies may include selected protection mechanisms, such as overcurrent protection, over- and under-voltage protection, short circuit protection, and over-temperature protection. Each of these forms of protection may include a monitoring aspect and a control aspect. For example, when a monitored quantity (e.g., temperature) exceeds a selected threshold, protection circuitry in the control aspect may be activated to limit or cut off output to prevent damage to the power supply and / or components powered by the power supply.

[0009] For decades, ATX specifications, design guidelines, and conventional implementations of such specifications and guidelines have ensured that ATX-compatible chassis, motherboards, power supplies, and peripherals can be assembled into functional computers. For example, aesthetic considerations as well as practical considerations regarding standardized location and cooling (e.g., airflow) of the subsystems and interconnecting the subsystems with cables have driven conventional approaches to routing cables within an ATX-compatible computer system. Conventional ATX-compatible power supplies typically locate DC output connectors (e.g., for supplying power to a CPU, graphics card, storage devices, and other peripherals) on the front panel of the power supply housing. In such conventional ATX-compatible power supplies, the DC output connector faces the outside of the power supply housing toward the front panel of the computer chassis. Forward-facing DC connectors on conventional ATX compatible power supplies include: (1) motherboard power connector, a 24-pin connector for supplying power to the motherboard and its associated components; (2) CPU power connector, a 4 / 8-pin CPU power connector for supplying power to the central processing unit (CPU); (3) PCIe connector, a PCIe connector for supplying power to graphics cards and expansion cards; (4) Serial ATA (SATA) connector, a SATA connector for providing power to storage devices, such as hard drives and solid-state drives; and (5) Molex connector for supplying power to legacy peripherals and cooling devices (e.g., fans).

[0010] Through this long-term, industry-wide adoption of the ATX standard and the existing implementation of various ATX components, consumers can purchase ATX-compatible components from a variety of suppliers with confidence, knowing that the various components will be assembled into a functional computer system. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] Despite the longstanding industry-wide practice of locating DC connectors for ATX-compatible power supplies on a front-facing panel of the power supply housing, the disclosed power supply locates the DC connector along a side panel of the power supply housing. By providing a DC connector on a side panel, a user may have more convenient access to the connector than with a conventional ATX-compatible power supply. For example, with the disclosed power supply, a user does not have to reach deep into the interior of a chassis or into a tight open space than with a conventional ATX-compatible power supply that places the DC connector on a front-facing panel essentially closer to a designated location for a drive bay. Additionally, an ATX-compatible power supply that has its DC connector located on a side panel of the power supply may provide improved cable management through straight-forward cable routing compared to a conventional power supply that has its DC connector located on a front-facing panel. Additionally, the straight-forward cable routing provided by the disclosed power supply promotes better system cooling compared to conventional cable routing driven by a DC connector located on a front-facing panel of the power supply housing. Despite relocating the DC connections in their existing locations, the disclosed power supply layout is fully compliant with current and legacy versions of the ATX standard, complying with specified electrical parameters, safety features and form factor dimensions.

[0012] In some respects, the concepts disclosed herein relate generally to ergonomic and high performance power supplies for desktop computers. The concepts are described in connection with ATX compatible embodiments for convenience and brevity. Some of the disclosed concepts relate to ATX compatible components (e.g., power supplies, motherboards, and chassis). Nonetheless, the disclosed concepts are generally not so limited and may be applied to embodiments that do not comply with some, all, or any of the ATX specifications. The disclosed concepts may also be applied to embodiments that do not comply with any other specifications. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] According to a first aspect, a power supply for a computer system includes an enclosure housing a corresponding printed circuit board. The enclosure has a rear panel, a front panel opposite the rear panel, and a pair of opposing side panels between the front and rear panels. The printed circuit board defines a rear edge, a front edge opposite the rear edge, and a pair of opposing side edges, each of the side edges extending from the rear edge to the front edge. The printed circuit board is oriented within the enclosure such that the rear edge, the front edge, and each of the side edges of the printed circuit board correspond to one of the rear panel, the front panel, and the opposing side panels of the enclosure.

[0014] According to a first aspect, a mains electricity input to the printed circuit board is located adjacent a rear panel of the enclosure. A diode bridge configured to convert the mains electricity input to the printed circuit board from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) is coupled to the printed circuit board. More specifically, the diode bridge is located adjacent one of a pair of side edges of the printed circuit board. An electrical connector is coupled to the printed circuit board at a location opposite the diode bridge relative to the printed circuit board. For example, the electrical connector may be located adjacent the other one of the pair of side edges of the printed circuit board. During operation of the power supply, the electrical connector outputs a voltage regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input.

[0015] A back plate can support an electrical connector, which may extend through a side panel of the enclosure opposite a side edge of the printed circuit board adjacent the diode bridge.

[0016] Additionally, some power supply embodiments include a power-factor correction coil coupled to the printed circuit board between the diode bridge and the backplate.

[0017] Additionally, some power supply embodiments include a DC-DC daughter board configured to convert 12VDC to one or both of 3.3VDC and 5VDC. Such daughter board may define a longitudinal axis. Similarly, the backplate may define a longitudinal axis. In some power supply embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the DC-DC daughter board is oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the backplate. In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the daughter board may be oriented substantially parallel to a front edge of the printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the DC-DC daughter board is located adjacent to a front edge of the printed circuit board. Thus, for some power supply embodiments, the voltage regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input may include one or more of a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output. For example, the voltage regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input may include at least one +3.3VDC output, at least one +5VDC output, and at least one +12VDC output.

[0018] Some power supply embodiments provide one or more DC electrical connectors. For example, the electrical connector according to the first aspect may be a first DC electrical connector and the voltage regulated form of DC may be a first voltage regulated form of DC corresponding to the first DC electrical connector. Such a power supply may also include a second DC electrical connector coupled to the printed circuit board at an opposite side of the printed circuit board to the diode bridge. The second DC electrical connector may output a second voltage regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input. Each of the first voltage regulated form and the second voltage regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input may include one or more of a 3.3VDC output, a 5VDC output, and a 12VDC output.

[0019] Some power supply embodiments also include a plurality of bulk capacitors coupled to the printed circuit board laterally inboard from a pair of opposing side edges. Such power supplies may also include a main transformer coupled to the printed circuit board laterally inboard from a pair of opposing side edges and adjacent to the plurality of bulk capacitors. As discussed above, the backplate may support an electrical connector. The main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors may be located between the diode bridge and the backplate.

[0020] Additionally, some embodiments of the power supply include an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs. The inductor and array of half-bridge MOSFETs can be located adjacent to, but not between, the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors. For example, the inductor and array of half-bridge MOSFETs can be located between the rear panel of the enclosure and one or both of the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

[0021] According to another aspect, a computer system incorporates embodiments derived from the disclosed principles. For example, the computer system may include a motherboard having a power connector for receiving a direct current (DC) power input. The motherboard may also have signal buses connecting the processing unit and memory to each other, as well as circuitry for communicating the DC power input to the processing unit and memory. Such a computer system may also include an enclosure having a back panel, a front panel opposite the back panel, and a pair of opposing side panels located between the front panel and the back panel. A printed circuit board assembly is located in the enclosure and configured to rectify an AC mains power input into one or more voltage regulated DC outputs suitable for powering the processing unit and memory. The printed circuit board assembly has a mains input located adjacent the back panel of the enclosure and a DC output connector located in the pair of side panels adjacent a selected one of the side panels. The printed circuit board assembly additionally includes a diode bridge configured to convert the mains power input from alternating current to direct current. The diode bridge is located in the pair of side panels adjacent the other one of the side panels. Additionally, the electrical cable electrically couples with the DC output connector and the motherboard circuitry to provide one or more voltage regulated DC outputs to power the processing unit and memory.

[0022] According to some computer system embodiments, the printed circuit board assembly includes a backplate supporting a power factor compensation coil and a DC output connector. The power factor compensation coil may be coupled to the printed circuit board between the diode bridge and the backplate.

[0023] Additionally, embodiments of the computer system may include a plurality of bulk capacitors and a main transformer. The plurality of bulk capacitors may be coupled to the printed circuit board assembly adjacent to one another. The main transformer may be coupled to the printed circuit board assembly at a location adjacent to the plurality of bulk capacitors. The main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors may be located inwardly of the diode bridge and backplate relative to opposing side panels of the enclosure.

[0024] An embodiment of the computer system may include an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs. The inductor and array of half-bridge MOSFETs may be located adjacent to, but not between, the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors. In some embodiments, the inductor and array of half-bridge MOSFETs is located between a rear panel of the enclosure and one or both of the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

[0025] According to yet another aspect, a power supply for a computer system includes a printed circuit board assembly configured to convert a main electrical input (e.g., 120 VAC or 240 VAC) to one or more voltage regulated direct current (DC) outputs. The printed circuit board assembly defines a main input and includes one or more output connectors. Each of the one or more output connectors corresponds to a selection of one or more voltage regulated DC outputs. The power supply also includes a main connector for receiving the main electrical input. A fan is arranged to facilitate airflow through the printed circuit board assembly. The power supply also includes an enclosure that houses the fan and the printed circuit board assembly. The enclosure has a back panel, a front panel opposite the back panel, and a side panel between the front panel and the back panel. The back panel of the enclosure defines an aperture, and the main connector extends through the aperture defined by the back panel of the enclosure. The side panel defines at least one aperture corresponding to at least one of the one or more output connectors.

[0026] In some embodiments, the main input defined by the printed circuit board assembly may include a main connector.

[0027] The one or more voltage regulated DC outputs may include one or more of a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output. In some embodiments, the DC outputs include at least one +3.3VDC output, at least one +5VDC output, and at least one +12VDC output.

[0028] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more output connectors includes a plurality of electrical conductors, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +3.3 VDC output, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +5 VDC output, and at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +12 VDC output.

[0029] The one or more output connectors may be configured to provide sufficient power across a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output to power an ATX compatible 24-pin motherboard connector.

[0030] The printed circuit board assembly can define a pair of opposing sides located between the front panel of the enclosure and the rear panel of the enclosure. The printed circuit board assembly can also include a backplate supporting the one or more output connectors and a diode bridge for converting the main electrical input from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). The backplate can be located adjacent one of the pair of opposing sides of the printed circuit board assembly and a side panel defining a hole corresponding to at least one of the one or more output connectors. The diode bridge can be located adjacent another one of the pair of sides of the printed circuit board assembly opposite the backplate.

[0031] In some embodiments, the printed circuit board assembly further includes a power factor compensation coil located between the diode bridge and the backplate.

[0032] The printed circuit board assembly may define a pair of opposing sides located between a front panel of the enclosure and a rear panel of the enclosure. The printed circuit board assembly may also include a plurality of bulk capacitors and a main transformer located adjacent to one another. Each of the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors may be located laterally inward of the opposing sides of the printed circuit board assembly. The printed circuit board assembly may also include an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs. In some embodiments, neither the inductor nor the array of half-bridge MOSFETs is located between the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

[0033] According to yet another aspect, a computer system includes a motherboard having a power connector for receiving a direct current (DC) power input, the motherboard also having signal buses interconnecting the processing unit and the memory, as well as circuitry for conveying the DC power input to the processing unit and the memory.

[0034] The computer system also has an enclosure that includes a chassis, the motherboard and the chassis having complementary mounting features adapted for mounting the motherboard within the enclosure.

[0035] The computer system also includes a power supply. The power supply and the chassis have complementary mounting features adapted for mounting the power supply within the enclosure. The chassis has a rear panel, and the power supply has a rear panel corresponding to the rear panel of the chassis. The power supply includes a printed circuit board assembly configured to convert a main electrical input into one or more voltage regulated direct current (DC) outputs. The power supply has a front panel located opposite the rear panel of the power supply relative to the printed circuit board assembly. The power supply also defines a side panel located between the front panel of the power supply and the rear panel of the power supply. The power supply also includes a main input connector extending through the rear panel of the power supply and a plurality of DC output connectors extending through the side panel of the power supply.

[0036] The computer system also includes at least one cable having a plurality of electrical conductors extending from a first connector to a second connector, the first connector having a complementary configuration to a power connector on the motherboard such that the first connector and the power connector on the motherboard mate with each other, and the second connector having a complementary configuration to one or more of the plurality of DC output connectors of the power supply such that the second connector mates with one or more of the plurality of DC output connectors.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cable is a first cable and the plurality of conductors is a first plurality of conductors. The motherboard power connector may be a first motherboard power connector, and the motherboard may have a second motherboard power connector configured to provide power to the processing unit. In such embodiments, the computer system may also include a second cable having a second plurality of conductors extending from a connector configured to mate with a corresponding one of the DC output connectors of the power supply to a connector configured to mate with a second power connector of the motherboard.

[0038] The power supply may also include a fan configured to draw air from inside the enclosure, pass the air through the printed circuit board assembly, and exhaust the air through the rear panel of the chassis.

[0039] Some embodiments of the computer system also include a graphics card that includes a power connector and is operably coupleable to the motherboard. The computer system may also include an additional cable having a corresponding number of conductors extending from a connector configured to mate with a corresponding one of the DC output connectors of the power supply to a connector configured to mate with the power connector of the graphics card.

[0040] In some computer system embodiments, the one or more voltage regulated DC outputs include one or more of a +3.3 VDC output, a +5 VDC output, and a +12 VDC output. One or more of the +3.3 VDC output, +5 VDC output, and +12 VDC output may include at least one +3.3 VDC output, at least one +5 VDC output, and at least one +12 VDC output. Additionally, at least one of the one or more output connectors may include a plurality of electrical conductors, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors corresponding to a +3.3 VDC output, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors corresponding to a +5 VDC output, and at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors corresponding to a +12 VDC output.

[0041] In some embodiments, the motherboard power connector is an ATX compatible 24-pin motherboard connector.

[0042] In some computer system embodiments, the power supply printed circuit board assembly can define a pair of opposing sides located between a front panel of the power supply and a rear panel of the power supply. The printed circuit board assembly can also include a backplate supporting one or more output connectors, where the backplate is located adjacent one of the pair of opposing sides of the printed circuit board assembly and the side panel from which the plurality of DC output connectors extend. The printed circuit board assembly can also include a diode bridge for converting a main electrical input from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). The diode bridge can be located adjacent the other one of the pair of sides of the printed circuit board assembly opposite the backplate.

[0043] The power supply printed circuit board assembly may also include a power factor compensation coil located between the diode bridge and the backplate.

[0044] The printed circuit board assembly of the power supply may define a pair of opposing sides located between a front panel of the power supply and a rear panel of the power supply. The printed circuit board assembly of the power supply may further include a plurality of bulk capacitors and a main transformer located adjacent to one another, the main transformer and each of the plurality of bulk capacitors being located laterally inward of the opposing sides of the printed circuit board assembly.

[0045] The above and other features and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0046] Referring to the drawings, in which like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views and specification, aspects of the presently disclosed principles are illustrated by way of example, but not by way of limitation. [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic isometric view of a desktop computer chassis with a power supply, drive bays and a motherboard mounted therein. [Diagram 2] 1 shows an exploded view of a prior art power supply in which the mains enter through a rear panel and multiple DC power outputs exit through a front panel located opposite the rear panel. [Diagram 3] 3 shows a schematic layout of a printed circuit board assembly of the prior art power supply device shown in FIG. 2; [Figure 4] 6 illustrates a schematic of a printed circuit board layout for the ergonomic power supply device shown in FIG. 5. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an ergonomic power supply where the main electrical input is through a rear panel and multiple DC power outputs exit through a side panel located adjacent to the rear panel. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a computing environment that may be powered by the ergonomic power supply disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] Below, various principles are described relating to ergonomic and highly efficient power supplies for computer systems. For example, certain aspects of the disclosed principles relate to convenient modular connections for the DC output of an ATX compatible power supply. That is, the description herein of specific device configurations and method act combinations are merely specific examples of contemplated embodiments selected as convenient illustrations of the disclosed principles. One or more of the disclosed principles may be integrated into a variety of other embodiments to achieve any of a variety of corresponding system characteristics.

[0048] Accordingly, embodiments having different attributes than the specific examples discussed herein may embody one or more of the presently disclosed principles and may be used in applications not specifically described herein, and as such, such alternative embodiments are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0049] I. Overview

[0050] A conventional ATX compatible power supply receives main power through a rear panel and provides DC output through a front panel, i.e., the opposite side of the rear panel located deep inside the computer's enclosure. Although the layout of a conventional ATX power supply with front panel DC output is still effective and widely used, it has long-standing problems. For example, the location of the DC connector on the front panel can not only make it difficult to access the DC connector deep inside the computer enclosure, but also make it difficult to route cables to various subsystems without impeding airflow and reducing overall system cooling. Additionally, such conventional arrangements may not be optimal for computer systems having a particular form factor or configuration.

[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of a representative desktop computer system 50. The computer system 50 includes an enclosure having a chassis 52 and a body panel (not shown). The body panel may provide an opportunity for a system designer to provide external customization or other aesthetic qualities (e.g., branding). The chassis 52 defines a front panel 51 and a back panel 53, which provide a framework for supporting subsystem components, such as a power supply 54 near the back panel, a motherboard 56 near a side panel, drive bays 58 near the front panel 51, and expansion cards (not shown) coupled to the motherboard. FIG. 1 illustrates a cable 57 extending from a side panel 60 of the power supply 54 and connecting to the motherboard 56 to provide power to the motherboard components. The arrangement (e.g., location and orientation) of the various subsystem components generally corresponds to the ATX 3.0 standard. Of course, other subsystem arrangements are possible without departing from the principles disclosed herein. In contrast to the illustrated embodiment, if power supply 54 were implemented in a conventional manner, the cables for supplying power to the various subsystem components (including the motherboard) would exit from a front panel 55 of power supply 54 rather than a side panel 60 as shown.

[0052] II. Representative Loads

[0053] A typical computer system has a variety of loads that must be powered by a power supply. For example, a motherboard and its components are typically powered according to ATX specifications via an ATX compatible 24-pin connector. This connector is the basic power connector for the motherboard and includes various voltage rails including +3.3V, +5V, +12V, -12V, and +5V standby. Some motherboards include one or more auxiliary power connectors for providing power to a particular subsystem, e.g., a processing unit. In some embodiments, the motherboard includes a 4-pin or 8-pin connector for providing a dedicated power source to a processing unit, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU). Some disclosed power supplies include the ATX compatible 24-pin motherboard connector and one or more DC output connections suitable for providing power to the 4-pin and 8-pin connectors.

[0054] Some computer systems also include expansion cards to provide specific functions, such as enhanced graphics processing, input and output communications, and power connections for control systems. The expansion cards may include dedicated power connectors, such as PCIe connectors. Some disclosed power supplies include one or more DC output connections suitable for supplying power to one or more PCIe connectors. Some computer systems also include storage devices, such as solid-state drives, that require a power source separate from the motherboard and expansion cards. The storage devices may include so-called SATA connectors for receiving power. Some disclosed power supplies include one or more DC output connections suitable for supplying power to one or more SATA connectors. Some computer systems also include legacy peripherals and cooling systems, each of which requires a separate power connection. Often, so-called Molex connectors are used to supply power to the legacy peripherals and cooling systems, and some disclosed power supplies include one or more DC output connections suitable for supplying power to one or more Molex connectors.

[0055] The traditional placement of the DC connections on the front panel allows users to easily and efficiently route cables to the appropriate components within the computer case, facilitating access and cable management, and provides a standardized approach to ensure compatibility with most computer cases designed to accommodate ATX power supplies. This approach has worked well for decades.

[0056] III. Power Supply Design Considerations and Traditional Layout

[0057] To design a typical ATX power supply for a desktop computer, careful consideration must be given to the location and orientation of the various components on the power supply's printed circuit board assembly, as well as the location and orientation of the externally accessible DC connections while still conforming to the ATX specification form, fit and function. ATX compatible power supplies are dimensioned to standardize the dimensions so that the ATX compatible power supply fits neatly into a standard ATX compatible computer chassis. Typical dimensions for an ATX compatible power supply enclosure range from about 150 mm to about 200 mm in length (from front panel to rear panel), about 150 mm in width (e.g., between the side panels between the front and rear panels), and about 85 mm in height (e.g., between the top and bottom panels between the front and rear panels). The ATX specification also identifies specific locations and sizes for mounting holes capable of receiving standardized screws for assembling the power supply into a compatible computer chassis.

[0058] Proper layout of the power supply's printed circuit board assembly must ensure clear separation and isolation between high voltage components, e.g., AC input, rectification, and filtering, and low voltage components, e.g., DC-DC converter and output connectors. For example, high voltage components must be located far from low voltage sections to prevent electrical hazards. Also, the AC input connector, e.g., IEC C14, is typically located facing outward on the power supply's rear panel for easy access and connection to the mains power source. To facilitate such well-known design considerations, conventional power supplies route the AC input through the power supply's rear panel and the DC output through the power supply's front panel, with the various power supply components (e.g., rectifiers, transformers, and filters) routed substantially linearly between them.

[0059] The following briefly describes a conventional power supply layout that takes into account such design considerations in a conventional manner, with reference to Figures 2 and 3. In Figure 2, the power supply 100 has a two-piece enclosure with a tray 102 and a cover 104 secured together with fasteners 102'. The power supply also includes a printed circuit board assembly 110 and a cooling fan 120. The tray 102 has a front panel 101 and a rear panel 103. The front panel defines a number of holes 106 for receiving DC output connectors 112 of the printed circuit board assembly that fits within the tray 102. The rear panel 103 of the power supply 100 has an AC input connector 105 for connecting the power supply to a main power source. The cooling fan 120 is located above the top of the printed circuit board assembly 110 such that the fan exhaust is directed over the various components of the printed circuit board assembly. The rear panel 103 defines a vent that is open enough to allow airflow from the fan to escape while blocking EMI radiation. The cover 104 includes a ventilated top side 108 and downwardly extending side walls 107, 109. The side walls 107 and 109 are solid panels that partially restrict air flow and EMI radiation within the power supply.

[0060] Referring now to Figure 3, a conventional layout of a printed circuit board assembly 110 is illustrated. In Figure 3, the main input 105 and rear panel 103 are shown on the left hand side of the drawing, and the front panel 101 and DC output connector 112 are shown on the right hand side of the drawing. The relative physical locations of the various power delivery stages of the printed circuit board assembly 110 are shown using numbered blocks as per Table 1 below.

[0061] [Table 1]

[0062] As shown in FIG. 3, the various functional stages of a conventional power supply 100 are arranged linearly from an AC input on the rear panel 103 to a DC output on the front panel 101 .

[0063] IV. Ergonomic Power Supply Layout

[0064] The disclosed power supplies may have similar or identical power supply stages as described above in connection with conventional power supplies, but the disclosed power supplies may have different layouts to facilitate side-panel exits for DC connections, and the disclosed power supplies may have similarly sized enclosures as conventional power supplies, although the enclosure arrangement and features may be substantially different.

[0065] In contrast to conventional power supplies, such as those of FIGS. 2 and 3, for example, the disclosed ergonomic power supply retains the efficiency and high performance of conventional power supplies while providing more convenient access to the DC output through an innovative layout of the printed circuit board assembly. The disclosed power supply can have the commonly required DC output located on the side panel of the power supply, which is much easier to access than the rear panel deep inside the computer enclosure. For example, referring back to FIG. 1, the DC output from the disclosed power supply can exit from side panel 60 or side panel 61 rather than front panel 55, unlike conventional power supplies. This new arrangement provides improved cable management over conventional power supply arrangements, such as more convenient cable routing, cooling efficiency, and compatibility with various computer case form factors. By providing cleaner cable routing, the overall system aesthetics are also improved over conventional power supplies. Additionally, the disclosed power supply provides a degree of modularity by providing matable and separable electrical connectors for a variety of DC output voltages commonly used in computer systems, allowing users to include only the cables needed for the loads in their system, eliminating excess unused cables that can be unsightly and interfere with cooling and other system components.

[0066] 4 and 5, the power supply 200 includes a printed circuit board assembly 210 configured to convert a mains electrical input (e.g., 120 VAC or 240 VAC) into one or more voltage regulated direct current (DC) outputs. The printed circuit board assembly 210 defines a mains input and includes one or more output connectors 212. Each of the one or more output connectors 212 corresponds to a selection of one or more voltage regulated DC outputs. The power supply 200 also includes a main connector 205 for receiving the mains electrical input. A fan 220 (FIG. 5) is arranged to facilitate airflow through the printed circuit board assembly 210. The power supply 200 also includes an enclosure that houses the fan 220 and the printed circuit board assembly 210. As shown in FIG. 5, the enclosure includes a rear panel 203, a front panel 201 opposite the rear panel, and side panels 207, 209 between the front panel and the rear panel. The rear panel 203 of the enclosure defines a hole through which the main connector 205 extends. The side panel 207 defines at least one hole 206 that corresponds to at least one of the one or more output connectors 212. In some embodiments, a main input defined by the printed circuit board assembly may include the main connector 205.

[0067] The illustrated power supply 200 enclosure includes a tray 202, a modular side panel 207, and a modular cover having a top side 208 and a side panel 209. When the tray 202, modular side panel 207, and modular cover are assembled, a flange 231 of the modular cover may fit into a correspondingly and complementary shaped recess defined by the rear panel 203. Fasteners 202' may extend through holes in the rear panel 203 and holes in the flange 231 to secure the flange 231 to the rear panel 203. Similarly, the modular side panel 207 may rest on one or more (e.g., a plurality) of flanges 231 defined by the tray 202, and the fasteners 202' may secure the modular side panel 207 to the tray 202. The top panel 208 may also define flanges or tabs 208 that fit into corresponding U-shaped channels 207' defined by the modular side panel 207, securing a seam between the top panel 208 and the modular side panel 207 longitudinally from the front panel 201 to the rear panel 203. The modular side panel 207 may define a number of holes 206 that each correspond to one or more DC output connectors 212 of the printed circuit board assembly.

[0068] The one or more voltage regulated DC outputs 212 may include one or more of a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output. In some embodiments, the DC outputs include at least one +3.3VDC output, at least one +5VDC output, and at least one +12VDC output. Generally speaking, the disclosed ergonomic power supply embodiments include a plurality of output connectors, each having a pinout suitable for delivering sufficient power to conventional power connectors in a desktop computer system, such as a motherboard power connector, a CPU power connector, power connectors for graphics and other expansion cards, power connectors for storage drives, such as Solid State Storage Drives, legacy peripherals, and fans, as well as other peripherals, such as LED lighting and other peripherals desired by an end user.

[0069] In some embodiments, the output connector includes a plurality of electrical conductors, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +3.3 VDC output, at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +5 VDC output, and at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors can accommodate a +12 VDC output.

[0070] The one or more output connectors may be configured to provide sufficient power across a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output to power an ATX compatible 24-pin motherboard connector.

[0071] 4 and 5, the printed circuit board assembly 210 may be positioned between the enclosure front panel 201 and the enclosure rear panel 203 and may define a pair of opposing sides 211, 213 corresponding to the side panels 209 and 207, respectively. For purposes of illustration, the top view of the printed circuit board assembly 210 shown in FIG. 4 is taken generally along the arrow 250 shown in FIG. 5. The printed circuit board assembly 210 may include a backplate 18 supporting one or more output connectors 212 and a diode bridge 2 for converting the main electrical input from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). The backplate 18 may be positioned adjacent the side 213 of the printed circuit board assembly 210 and the side panel 207 defining the hole 206 through which the output connector 212 extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the diode bridge 2 is positioned adjacent the backplate 18 and another side 211 of the printed circuit board assembly opposite the side 213.

[0072] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the printed circuit board assembly 210 further includes a power factor compensation coil 4 located between the diode bridge 2 and the backplate 18.

[0073] Also, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the disclosed printed circuit board assembly 210 may include a plurality of bulk capacitors 6 and a main transformer 7 located adjacent to each other. One or both of the main transformer 7 and the plurality of bulk capacitors 6 may be located laterally inwardly on opposing sides 211, 213 of the printed circuit board assembly 210 as shown in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, the main transformer 7 and the plurality of bulk capacitors 6 are located between the diode bridge 2 and the backplate. More specifically, the main transformer 7 and the plurality of bulk capacitors 6 are located between the power factor compensation coil 4 and the backplate 18. The printed circuit board assembly 210 may also include an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor 11 and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs 12. In some embodiments, including the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, neither the inductor 11 nor the array of half-bridge MOSFETs 12 are located between the main transformer 7 and the plurality of bulk capacitors 6. Rather, the inductor 11 and the half-bridge MOSFETs 12 are located adjacent to the main transformer 7 and the bulk capacitors 6. More specifically, in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the inductor 11 and half-bridge MOSFETs 12 are located between the rear panel 203 and one or both of the main transformer 7 and bulk capacitor 6. Also in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, a DC-DC daughterboard 16 for converting 12VDC to 3.3VDC and 5VDC is located adjacent to the front panel 201 and oriented transversely relative to the backplate 18. For example, the daughterboard 16 shown in Figure 4 defines a long major axis that is parallel to the front panel 201 of the enclosure and oriented transversely to a similar longitudinal axis defined by the backplate 18, which is parallel to the side panel 213.

[0074] With this modified layout, the inventors have found a way to provide ATX compatible rectification of the mains power at stable DC output voltages, e.g., 12VDC, 5VDC, and 3.3VDC, while still providing DC output connector 212 exiting through side panel 207. A layout such as that generally shown in Figures 4 and 5 and described herein provides an ergonomic power supply that allows more convenient access to DC output 212 while retaining the efficiency and high performance of conventional power supplies. Such a power supply provides a substantial improvement in user convenience over conventional ATX compatible power supplies that provide DC output only through the front panel, and provides other advantages described herein.

[0075] VI. Computing Environment

[0076] 6 illustrates a generalized example of a computing environment 90 (e.g., a computer system) that may incorporate and benefit from the disclosed ergonomic power supply device. The computing environment 90 is not intended to suggest any limitations on the scope of use or functionality of the technologies disclosed herein, as each technology may be embodied in a variety of general purpose or special purpose embodiments. For example, each technology disclosed may be embodied in other computer system configurations, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, embedded platforms, network computers, microcomputers, mainframe computers, data centers, audio equipment, and the like.

[0077] The computing environment 90 includes at least one central processing unit 91 and memory 92. In FIG. 6, such a most basic configuration 93 is included within the dotted line. The central processing unit 91 executes computer-executable instructions and may be a real or virtual processor. In a multiprocessing system or multicore central processing unit, multiple processing units execute computer-executable instructions (e.g., threads) to increase processing speed, thereby allowing multiple processors to run simultaneously, even though the processing unit 91 is represented as a single functional block. The processing unit may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a general purpose microprocessor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal controller, or a set of hardware logic structures arranged to process instructions. The processing unit 91 may be powered from a general purpose motherboard connector or a dedicated power connector.

[0078] The memory 92 may be volatile memory (e.g., registers, cache, RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, etc.), or a combination thereof. The memory 92 stores software 98a that, when executed by a processor, e.g., processing unit 91, can, for example, embody one or more of the techniques described herein.

[0079] The computing environment may have additional features. For example, the computing environment 90 includes storage 94, one or more input devices 95, one or more output devices 96, and one or more communication connections 97. An interconnection mechanism (not shown), such as a bus, controller, or network, interconnects the components of the computing environment 90. Typically, operating system software (not shown) provides an operating environment for other software executing in the computing environment 90 and coordinates the activities of the components of the computing environment 90. Such additional features may derive power directly from the disclosed ergonomic power supply or indirectly from an intermediate component, such as, for example, a motherboard.

[0080] Storage 94 may be removable or non-removable and may include any selected form of machine-readable media. Typically, machine-readable media includes magnetic disks, magnetic tapes or cassettes, non-volatile solid-state memory, CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, DVDs, magnetic tapes, optical data storage devices, and carrier waves, or any other machine-readable medium that can be used to store information and that can be accessed within computing environment 90. Storage 94 may store instructions for software 98b that can embody the techniques described herein.

[0081] Additionally, storage 94 may be distributed across a network such that software instructions are stored and executed in a distributed fashion. In other embodiments, some of these operations may be performed by specific hardware components including hardwired logic. The operations may alternatively be performed by any combination of programmed data processing components and fixed hardwired circuitry components. Storage 94 may draw power directly from the disclosed ergonomic power supply or indirectly from an intermediate component such as a motherboard.

[0082] The input device 95 may be one or more of a keyboard, keypad, mouse, pen, touch input device such as a touch screen, touch pad or trackball, a microphone transducer, a voice input device such as voice recognition software and processor, a scanning device, or other device that provides input to the computing environment 90. In the case of audio, the input device 95 may include a microphone or other transducer (e.g., a sound card or similar device that accepts audio input in analog or digital form), or a computer-readable media reader that provides audio samples to the computing environment 90. Such input devices may derive power directly from the disclosed ergonomic power supply, or indirectly from an intermediate component such as, for example, a motherboard.

[0083] Output device 96 may be any one or more of a display, printer, speaker transducer, DVD writer, or other device that provides output from computing environment 90. Such output devices may derive power directly from the disclosed ergonomic power supply or may derive power indirectly from an intermediate component such as, for example, a motherboard.

[0084] The communication connection 97 enables communication with other computing entities over or through a communication medium (e.g., a connection network). The communication connection may include transmitters and receivers suitable for communicating over a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) connection, or both. The LAN and WAN connections can be facilitated by wired or wireless connections. If the LAN or WAN connection is wireless, the communication connection may include one or more antennas or antenna arrays. The communication medium conveys information such as computer-executable instructions, compressed graphic information, processed signal information (including processed audio signals), or other data in a modulated data signal. Examples of communication media for so-called wired connections include fiber optic cable and copper wire. The communication medium for wireless communication may include electromagnetic radiation within one or more selected frequency bands. Such communication connections may derive power directly from the disclosed ergonomic power supply or indirectly from an intermediate component such as, for example, a motherboard.

[0085] VII. Other Examples

[0086] The above-described embodiments generally relate to an ergonomic power supply device for powering a computer system. Nevertheless, the above description is provided to enable one skilled in the art to make or use the principles disclosed. Embodiments other than those specifically described above are contemplated, together with any accompanying changes in the configuration of each device based on the principles disclosed herein or reordering of the method operations described herein, without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the examples described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0087] Directions and other relative references (e.g., above, below, top, bottom, left, right, back, front, etc.) may be used to facilitate discussion of the figures and principles herein, but are not intended to be limiting. For example, specific terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "horizontal," "vertical," "left," "right," etc. may be used. These terms are used to provide clarity of explanation when dealing with relative relationships, particularly in connection with the illustrated embodiments, where applicable. However, these terms do not imply absolute relationships, positions, and / or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, a "top" surface can become a "bottom" surface by simply flipping the object, but it is still the same surface and the object remains identical. As used herein, "and / or" means "and" and "or," not just "and" or "or." Additionally, all patent and non-patent literature cited herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0088] And, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be adapted to various configurations and / or applications without departing from the principles disclosed herein. Applying the principles disclosed herein may provide a variety of ergonomic and highly efficient power supplies for computer systems and related methods and systems. For example, the principles described above in connection with any particular embodiment may be combined with the principles described in connection with other embodiments described herein. Accordingly, all structural and functional equivalents to the features and method acts of the various embodiments described throughout the content of this disclosure that are known or that later become known to those skilled in the art are intended to be encompassed by the principles described herein and the features and acts claimed. Thus, the claims or this detailed description are not to be construed in a limiting sense, and after reviewing the content of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate the vast variety of embodiments that can be devised using the various concepts described herein.

[0089] Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in a claim. No claimed feature is to be construed as being limited solely to its application unless that feature is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or "step for."

[0090] The scope of the appended claims is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein, but by the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, where references to singular features, such as the use of "a" or "one," mean "one or more," and not "only one," unless otherwise noted. Also, in view of the numerous possible embodiments to which the disclosed principles may be applied, the applicant reserves the right to claim all combinations of features and techniques, including, for example, all within the scope and spirit of the above description, specifically but not exclusively, in the appended claims, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, not just the combinations literally and equivalently recited in any claim claiming the application of this application or the benefit or priority of this application. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 50 Desktop Computer Systems 51 Front Panel 52 Chassis 53 Rear Panel 54 Power supply device 55 Power Supply Front Panel 56 Motherboard 57 Cable 58 Drive Bay 60,61 Power Supply Side Panel 90 Computing Environment 91 Processing Unit 92 Memory 93 Most basic configuration 94 Storage 95 Input Devices 96 Output Devices 97 Communication connection part (connector) 98a, 98b Software 100 Power supply equipment 101 Front Panel 102 Tray 102' Fastener 103 Rear Panel 104 Cover 105 AC input connector 106 holes 107 Side wall 108 Top side 109 Side wall 110 Printed Circuit Board Assembly 112 DC output connector 120 Cooling Fan 200 Power supply equipment 201 Front Panel 202 Tray 202' Fastener 203 Rear Panel 205 Main Connector 206 holes 207 Modular Side Panel 208 Top side 209 Side Panel 210 Printed Circuit Board Assembly 211 Opposite side 212 Output Connector 213 Opposite side 220 Fan 231 Flange 250 Arrows

Claims

1. A power supply device for a computer system, comprising: The power supply device includes: an enclosure having a rear panel, a front panel opposite the rear panel, and a pair of opposing side panels positioned between the front panel and the rear panel; a printed circuit board defining a rear edge, a front edge opposite the rear edge, and a pair of opposing side edges, each side edge extending from the rear edge to the front edge, the printed circuit board being oriented within the enclosure such that the rear edge, the front edge, and each side edge respectively correspond to one of the rear panel, the front panel, and the opposing side panel; a mains electrical input to the printed circuit board located adjacent the rear panel of the enclosure; and a diode bridge coupled to the printed circuit board and configured to convert the main electrical input to the printed circuit board from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), the diode bridge being located adjacent one of a pair of side edges of the printed circuit board; an electrical connector coupled to said printed circuit board at a location opposite said diode bridge to said printed circuit board for outputting a voltage regulated form of DC converted from an AC mains input.

2. 2. The power supply apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrical connector is located adjacent to another of a pair of side edges of the printed circuit board.

3. 2. The power supply of claim 1, further comprising a backplate supporting said electrical connector, said electrical connector extending through said side panel of said enclosure opposite said side edge of said printed circuit board adjacent said diode bridge.

4. 4. The power supply of claim 3, further comprising a power-factor correction coil coupled to the printed circuit board between the diode bridge and the back plate.

5. 4. The power supply of claim 3, further comprising a DC-to-DC daughter board configured to convert 12 VDC to one or both of 3.3 VDC and 5 VDC, the daughter board defining a longitudinal axis, the backplate defining a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis of the DC-DC daughter board oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the backplate.

6. 13. The power supply of claim 1, further comprising a DC-DC daughter board configured to convert 12 VDC to one or both of 3.3 VDC and 5 VDC, said daughter board defining a longitudinal axis oriented substantially parallel to said front edge of said printed circuit board.

7. 7. The power supply of claim 6, wherein the DC-DC daughter board is located adjacent to the front edge of the printed circuit board.

8. 2. The power supply of claim 1, wherein the regulated form of DC converted from the AC mains input includes one or more of a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output.

9. 9. The power supply of claim 8, wherein one or more of the +3.3 VDC output, the +5 VDC output, and the +12 VDC output include at least one +3.3 VDC output, at least one +5 VDC output, and at least one +12 VDC output.

10. 2. The power supply of claim 1, wherein the electrical connector is a first DC electrical connector and the voltage regulated form of DC is a first voltage regulated form of DC corresponding to the first DC electrical connector, and the power supply further comprises a second DC electrical connector coupled to the printed circuit board at a location opposite the diode bridge to the printed circuit board for outputting a second voltage regulated form of the DC converted from the AC mains input.

11. 11. The power supply of claim 10, wherein each of the first and second voltage regulated forms of the DC converted from the AC mains input comprises one or more of a +3.3VDC output, a +5VDC output, and a +12VDC output.

12. 2. The power supply device of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of bulk capacitors adjacent to each other from the pair of opposing side edges and laterally inwardly coupled to the printed circuit board.

13. 13. The power supply apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a main transformer coupled to the printed circuit board laterally inward from the pair of opposing side edges and adjacent to the plurality of bulk capacitors.

14. 14. The power supply of claim 13, further comprising a backplate supporting the electrical connector, the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors being located between the diode bridge and the backplate.

15. 14. The power supply of claim 13, further comprising an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs, the array of inductors and half-bridge MOSFETs being located adjacent to but not between the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

16. 16. The power supply of claim 15, wherein the array of inductors and half-bridge MOSFETs is located between a rear panel of the enclosure and one or both of the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

17. 1. A computer system comprising: a motherboard having a power connector for receiving a direct current (DC) power input, the motherboard further having circuitry for transmitting the DC power input to a processing unit and a memory, the motherboard further having a signal bus interconnecting the processing unit and the memory; an enclosure having a rear panel, a front panel opposite the rear panel, and a pair of opposing side panels positioned between the front panel and the rear panel; a printed circuit board assembly within the enclosure configured to rectify an AC mains power input into one or more voltage regulated DC outputs suitable for powering the processing unit and the memory, the printed circuit board assembly having a mains input located adjacent the rear panel of the enclosure and a DC output connector located in the pair of side panels adjacent a selected one of the side panels, the printed circuit board assembly further having a diode bridge configured to convert the mains power input from alternating current to direct current, the diode bridge located in the pair of side panels adjacent the other one of the side panels; and an electrical cable electrically coupled to the DC output connector and to circuitry on the motherboard so as to be configured to power the processing unit and the memory with one or more voltage regulated DC outputs.

18. 20. The computer system of claim 17, wherein the printed circuit board assembly further includes a power factor compensation coil and a backplate supporting the DC output connector, the power factor compensation coil being coupled to the printed circuit board assembly between the diode bridge and the backplate.

19. a plurality of bulk capacitors coupled to the printed circuit board assembly adjacent to one another; 20. The computer system of claim 17, further comprising: a main transformer coupled to said printed circuit board assembly at a location adjacent said plurality of bulk capacitors.

20. 20. The computer system of claim 19, wherein the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors are located inboard of a side of the diode bridge and backplate relative to the opposing side panel of the enclosure.

21. 20. The computer system of claim 19, further comprising an LLC resonant circuit having an inductor and an array of half-bridge MOSFETs, the array of inductors and half-bridge MOSFETs being located adjacent but not between the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

22. 22. The computer system of claim 21, wherein the array of inductors and half-bridge MOSFETs is located between a rear panel of the enclosure and one or both of the main transformer and the plurality of bulk capacitors.

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