What to know about PSU

PSU

One of the most important components in a computer, the PSU is often overlooked for a cheaper option. There are a range of choices when it comes to a power supply- from how the cable system is to the efficiency rating and more. Here is the basic need to know when it comes to a PSU.

• Modular vs. semi modular vs. non-modular. These are the 3 types of cable assemblies for a PSU.
  • Modular PSU’s mean that only the cables that you require have to be connected. These are generally more expensive however make custom sleeving easier.
  • Semi modular PSU’s offer the standard cables pre-attached to the unit such as the 24pin and 8pin; but still allow you to connect other cables such as your SATA and Molex.
  • ​Non-modular mean that all the cables come pre-attached and anything that you do not connect to a component is still there meaning cable management becomes more difficult.
• Efficiency – this rating is the guaranteed efficiency at 3 different load points. It is rated on a scale known as “80Plus”, stretching from Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, whereby Platinum offers the greatest efficiency at a specified load. However there is speculation and a common view that the more expensive Gold and Platinum PSU’s are not worth their price tag for the rating because the extra money spent is not recuperated from the energy bill savings.
• Bigger isn’t always better. A single GPU gaming system with the exception of both the NVidia Titan and GTX690 will draw no more than about 420w at max load. Therefore going and getting a 1000w PSU would be absolute overkill, as would anything really over about 600w. Two way SLI and crossfire will draw about 500w, 3 way – 600ish and so on.

Another thing to keep in mind is that though there are dozens on PSU brands on the market, there are few manufacturers. For example, Seasonic make a huge proportion of Corsair’s PSU’s.