A power supply unit (PSU) is an essential electrical component that converts source power (typically high-voltage alternating current from a wall outlet) into the precisely regulated low-voltage direct current required by electronic devices, such as desktop computers or LED lights. There are two primary types of conversion technologies: linear power supplies, known for low noise but low efficiency, and switched-mode power supplies (SMPS), which are ubiquitous in modern electronics due to their compact size and high efficiency (often certified by standards like the 80 Plus program for energy efficiency). Key selection criteria include the required wattage headroom, physical form factor, modularity of cables for tidy installation, and critical safety features such as Over Voltage Protection (OVP) and Short Circuit Protection (SCP), which safeguard connected components from damage.