Final answer:
The use of soft power in ATX power supplies allows for remote power management, enabling features like scheduled shut downs and system hibernation with the added benefit of reducing mechanical wear and tear.
Step-by-step explanation:
The benefit of using soft power in Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) power supplies is that it allows for more sophisticated power management. Soft power enables the system to be turned on and off by software commands from the motherboard rather than by physically switching off the power supply. This provides several advantages:
- Increased convenience for users who can power on the system from a remote location.
- Enables features such as scheduled power on or off, system hibernation, and wake-on-LAN functionality.
- Reduces wear and tear on mechanical components, potentially extending the life of the power supply.
Overall, soft power increases the versatility, efficiency, and convenience of managing the power state of a computer.