TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Ace Your Certification!

An ATX power supply primarily serves the function of converting alternating current (AC) from the wall outlet into direct current (DC) which is essential for computer components to operate. Most computer components, such as the motherboard, hard drives, and cooling fans, require DC voltage to function properly.

When plugged into an electrical outlet, the ATX power supply takes the standard AC power (typically 120V or 240V) and transforms it into several different voltages of DC, like +12V, +5V, and +3.3V, which are used by different parts of the computer. This conversion process is essential for the functionality of the entire system, as electronic components have specific voltage requirements that must be met to ensure reliability and performance.

Although managing thermal output, controlling the boot sequence, and regulating voltage levels are important functions within a computer system, they do not pertain directly to the primary role of the ATX power supply.