Advantages: Modular power connectors, good design, solid build, designed in the UK. Disadvantages: Large
for the powersupply[1]. ATX 2.2 includes changes to the main power connector (20pin to 24pin), removed auxiliary power connector and includes a need for a 3.3v tolerance. Effectively ATX2.2 is a a new standard variant based on older designs looking to power newer technologies but also to provide increased power modulation and better tolerances to power deviation.
Intel BTX, another form factor standard that talks about heat sinks, finalised about a year ago. From the point of view of the consumer it makes it harder to have a very small case that complies to all specifications however it should also improve tolerance to heat substantially. From the point of view of the manufacturer it is difficult as it means doing some simple redesigns.
SLi (Scalable Link interface), this is the interesting specification that's going to take some time to ...
Advantages: Very cheap, 2 fans Disadvantages: None
Arguably the most important component inside your PC is its powersupply, the powersupply unit (PSU) provides the power to every other component inside your computer ie: Motherboard, hard drive, processor, graphics card etc etc... and all these components require a powerful and extremely stable PSU in order to operate as intended.
14 months ago i built my current PC and opted to use the Q-tec 550 watt dual fan gold as its powersupply unit, most modern day PC powersupplies average around 350 watt and they are predominantly fine for most PC's but as you add extra components to your PC like extra hard drives, or a faster processor or faster graphics card then you may get close to reaching the limit of your particular powersupply which can result in either the PSU not functioning properly (causing serious system instability) or in ...
Advantages: Modular cables! Disadvantages: None for me.
I had to purchase this more out of necessity than want. My old Enermax PSU decided one day that it wasn't going to turn on my PC.
I then subsequently went all out and got a complete upgrade.
I wanted something that would handle easily what i was going to throw at it.
I also wanted a powersupply that was 80 Plus compliant (80% efficient) details can be found if you look for the Coolermaster RS-620-ASAA-A1 on 80plus.org.
It has one large fan which is quiet and unobtrusive, to be expected it fitted perfectly in my Coolermaster CM690 case.
Being a modular PSU is an absolute godsend, why manufacturers never though of it sooner is beyond me.
Modularity makes cable management and much easier and airflow much better.
You get 2 sockets for graphics card power which can handle 2 x 6 pin and 1 x 8 pin plug very handy if you run an SLi rig ...
Product Information for "OCZ GameXStream power supply - 600 Watt" »
Manufacturer's product description
The SLI-Ready GameXStream power supplies are designed specifically for the demanding computing environments of PC enthusiasts, power users and gamers. As more and more gamers take advantage of the gaming benefits offered by multi-GPU technology the need for improved power supply solutions increases greatly. The GameXStream features high-quality components to ensure your PC's vital hardware is supplied with clean, stable and reliable power without compromising effectiveness. Kept ultra-cool with a large 120mm fan, the GameXStream remains virtually silent and supremely cool even at peak loads. The highly efficient GameXStream core is sheltered in a standard dimension chassis, resulting in a smaller footprint and more legroom for system-cooling modifications. GameXStream PSUs provide Active PFC to effectively regulate input voltage to deliver superior operation in a wider range of environments and countries with varying voltages. The ultimate solution for serious gamers.
Related tags for OCZ GameXStream power supply - 600 Watt »
