tech support/parts departments for major computer manufacturers
1-800-752-0900 or 1-800-227-8164 hp/compaq parts phone numbers and hp/compaq parts ordering 7a-7p
gateway
emachines
1-800-624-9896 dell support
1-800-457-7777 Toshiba Tech Support
1-408-533-7700 acer support, laptop power cords, acer laptop batteries
hp desktops
There are HP desktops that have ATX power supplies that can be replaced with regular ATX power supplies if you have a metal nibbler tool.
HP desktop computer was acting crazy. the one HP desktop power supply that I worked on's fan spun so slowly that it wasn't pushing enough air to make a difference to cool the power supply. after replacing the power supply, computer worked fine. got an ATX power supply (same form factor, different placement of switch & plug), used metal nibbler tool on case, job done. made sure none of the metal bits got in the case or anywhere else.
parts that I don't have
If you are looking for parts from me that aren't on this 4sale.html list, I generally google for them just like anybody else. I found my laptop parts at getpartsonline.com.
also, all my parts are in boxes right now, but I could help you find the parts you need (I am generally good at finding things).
just very plainly ask me to help you find a part, and I will try to get on the computer when I can and help you find it at a reasonable price.
I typically start by going to the manufacturer and ask for the part price and model number there. or I google. I will need a part number.
I usually won't buy your parts for you because I don't make that much money. if you contact me by email, I will forward my findings to you. (or if you give me your email address over the phone and it works)
Startech.com typically has all the little connector type stuff like PS/2 y cables for kb & mouse for computers that have only 1 ps/2 port. all kinds of adapters.
Power Supplies
a single-rail 12V power supply is better than dual or triple rails for use with video cards, especially with high-wattage video cards, because the video cards tend to use all their power on one rail, and most power supplies just aren't designed for it. If you are using a high-wattage large video card, get a power supply from PC Power and Cooling, and check your video card's power supply requirements in the manual before buying. some have said that a 9800GT requires a 600W PSU, and that high of a wattage is generally an EPS12V. ATX12V and ATX generally don't go above 510W or max 550W.
ATX
If you need a good replacement ATX power supply, I generally recommend two.
they cost more, but they are heavier and use better parts and will probably last longer.
the PC Power and Cooling is only slightly more expensive, ultra quiet and is rated for 7 years.
PC Power and Cooling Silencer 420, also available from eastluna $67
Antec earthwatts EA430 430W Continuous Power ATX12V v2.0 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Power Supply - Retail $62
EPS12V
EPS12V power supplies are not a direct replacement for ATX. they have a larger form factor (generally longer), and there is generally a fan on top which would be blocked in a standard ATX case. so if you do go EPS12V, get a new case that can take an EPS12V.
the connectors for EPS12V are larger than ATX. compare 1 or 2 8-pin 12V to 4-pin 12V, and 24-pin motherboard connector to 20-pin motherboard connector. Some ATX power supplies now come with a modular 24/20-pin motherboard connector. you can plug an 8-pin into a 4-pin as long as there is clearance.