How Does Distributed Load Affect Spring Compression in a Supported Beam?

[pityocamptes]

If I have a beam supported by two springs at either end and each spring is rated for 500 lbs, does that mean the max load that can be applied to beam (assuming the beam can hold it) is 500 lbs before the springs compress all the way? Or does the distibuted load across the beam diminish the load on either spring mount? Would the same formula for beam load (point or spread) be used? Thanks.

 

[FredGarvin]

Draw a free body diagram. Forget that you have 2 springs for a second. Consider a rigid mounted beam with your 500 pound load. What are the reaction forces at the two ends?