Efficiency

Using the results we gathered so far, we plotted a chart showing the PSU's efficiency at low loads and loads ranging from 10 to 110 percent of the maximum-rated capacity.




This is an efficient platform, and with a little more tuning, it could easily achieve over 70% efficiency with a 2% load to meet the requirements of the newest ATX v2.52 specification.

10%–110% Load Testing

These tests reveal the PSU's load regulation and efficiency levels under high ambient temperatures. They also show how the fan speed profile behaves under tough operating conditions.


Passive mode lasts for a while under even high operating temperatures. Naturally, the fan operates at high RPM once it does kick in to quickly remove any internal heat. Operating under high ambient temperatures does not make this PSU struggle. Moreover, load regulation is tight at +12 V and 5 V. At the same time, it is satisfactory at 3.3 V. My only complaint here is the mediocre performance of the APFC converter with 230 V input. I would like to see higher power factor readings, especially at higher loads.

Light Load Testing

In the following tests, we measure the PSU's efficiency at loads significantly lower than 10 percent of the maximum capacity (the lowest load the 80 PLUS standard measures). This is important for representing when a PC is idle with its power-saving features turned on.


Efficiency is high in all tests, with the PSU operating in passive mode despite ambient temperature above 35 °C.

Ultra-light Load Testing

The applied load in this test is only 10 W for PSUs with 500 W and less capacity. We dial in 2% of the maximum-rated capacity for all other PSUs. We only run this test with 115 V input.


Efficiency is very close to 70%. With a little tuning, this platform can meet the strict efficiency requirements of the new ATX specification.

5VSB Efficiency

It is always nice to see an efficient 5VSB rail. Many manufacturers don't pay great attention to this rail even though several directives (e.g., ErP Lot 3 and 6) set minimum efficiency levels for the rail.

Power Consumption in Idle and Standby

Energy consumption at idle is low, allowing for higher 5VSB efficiency with very light loads.