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What is a PSU: Power Supply Units explained

The PSU is the primary source of power for all the components in your PC. It converts the electricity from your wall outlet into a suitable form for various parts of your PC, providing different voltages and currents as required. Its responsibilities go beyond mere operation; it ensures that your system receives clean, steady power to maintain the integrity of your hardware.

What does a PSU do?

A PSU is a critical component of your computer system. The electricity from your home or office outlet typically uses an alternating current (AC) and comes in at a high voltage. Your PSU converts this to the lower-voltage direct current (DC) that your computer's components require.

A PSU distributes the converted power to various parts of your computer, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, storage drives, and basically everything else. It ensures that each component gets the specific amount of power it needs to function correctly. PSUs come with built-in protection features such as overvoltage, undervoltage, short-circuit, and overcurrent protection. These features help safeguard your system against power surges or electrical faults, which can damage sensitive hardware components.

CORSAIR PSU Calculator

CORSAIR now has a PSU calculator that helps you determine the right PSU for your build.

PSU Certifications

When it comes to ensuring the quality and reliability of Power Supplies, two main certification companies stand out in the industry: 80 PLUS and Cybenetics. Let's review what both offer.

Cybenetics Certification for PSUs

Cybenetics PSU Certification focuses on evaluating and certifying power supply units based on their efficiency and noise levels. Cybenetics provides a comprehensive analysis of PSU performance, offering insights that go beyond mere efficiency.

Energy Efficiency

The testing process for Cybenetics Certification is rigorous and thorough. PSUs are subjected to various load conditions to assess their efficiency. These tests are conducted in controlled environments to ensure accuracy and reliability, and the results are published, providing consumers with transparent and detailed information about each certified PSU.

Noise Output

One of the standout features of Cybenetics Certification is its focus on noise levels. A noisy PSU can be a significant annoyance, especially in quiet environments. Cybenetics measures the noise produced by PSUs under various loads, providing a clear picture of what to expect in real-world scenarios. This focus on acoustics sets Cybenetics apart from other certification programs.

Cybenetics has 6 efficiency level certifications and 7 noise level certifications.

80 PLUS Certification for PSUs

What is 80 PLUS?

80 PLUS is a certification program designed to promote energy efficiency in power supply units (PSUs) used in computers and other electronic devices. Established in 2004, the 80 PLUS standard ensures that certified PSUs are at least 80% efficient at 20%, 50%, and 100% of their rated load. This means that the PSU converts at least 80% of the AC power from the wall into usable DC power for your computer, with the remaining 20% or less lost as heat.

	STANDARD	BRONZE	SILVER	GOLD	PLATINUM	TITANIUM
10% load	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	90%
20% load	80%	82%	85%	87%	90%	92%
50% load	80%	85%	88%	90%	92%	94%
100% load	80%	82%	85%	87%	89%	90%

Comparing 80 PLUS to Cybenetics ETA Certification

When choosing a PSU, understanding the efficiency ratings can help you make an informed decision. Let's break down the differences between the 80 PLUS and Cybenetics ETA certifications to see how they impact the overall quality of a PSU.

80 PLUS Certification

The 80 PLUS certification focuses on energy efficiency at specific load levels. Here's how it works:

Test Points: Efficiency is measured at no load (to check for vampire power), 5%, 10%, 20%, 50%, and 100% loads.
Power Factor Measurement: This is also gauged during the tests.
Voltage Options: Testing is conducted either on 115V or 230V mains, but not both within the same certification.
Recent Updates: The no load and 5% load tests were only recently incorporated into the 80 PLUS certification criteria.

Cybenetics ETA Certification

Cybenetics ETA goes beyond just measuring efficiency. It employs a more extensive testing methodology:

Comprehensive Load Testing: Tests are conducted from no load up to 110% load in 10% increments. This includes both efficiency and power factor measurements at each level, resulting in twelve test points.
Cross Loads: Four different "cross load" conditions are tested, in which loads are unevenly distributed across +12V, +5V, +3.3V, or a combination of +5V and +3.3V.
Standby Rail Testing: Six different load levels are tested on the +5V standby rail.
Dual Voltage Inputs: Tests are conducted at both 115V and 230V inputs.

Beyond efficiency data, Cybenetics reports provide:

Voltage Regulation Data: Ensures stable voltage outputs.
Ripple Measurements: Checks the PSU for unwanted electrical noise.
Transient Load Deviation and Response: Evaluates how the PSU handles sudden changes in load.
ATX Compliance Verification: Confirms if the PSU meets ATX 3.0/3.1 standards, consolidating information that would otherwise need to be cross-referenced with Intel's website.

LAMBDA Noise Rating:

In addition to the "ETA" efficiency testing, power supplies tested by Cybenetics also get a "LAMBDA" noise rating. The noise measurement and rating system at Cybenetics is completely unique and not available through any other certification bodies.

Explaining the graphs above, 80 PLUS tests four data points, while the Cybenetics graph is more "3D". They provide an X-axis of loads and a Y-axis of loads. The points where they meet are the efficiency at those combined loads.

For a more detailed, breakdown, read our full 80 PLUS vs Cybenetics page.

CORSAIR Power Supplies

Why the PSU Matters More Than You Think

In the world of building and upgrading PCs, one component that often doesn't get the spotlight it deserves is the PSU. In fact, when people think of powerful PCs, they often focus on the GPU or CPU. However, without a reliable PSU, even the best PC components can fail. The PSU is like the heart of your computer, pumping power to every component. A bad PSU can lead to system instability, crashes, and even hardware damage. Choosing a CORSAIR PSU ensures that your system receives clean, stable power, which is crucial for performance and longevity.

What Sets CORSAIR PSUs Apart

CORSAIR is well-respected in the PC hardware industry, and for good reason. We offer a wide range of PSUs designed to meet various needs, from basic computing to high-end gaming and professional use. CORSAIR's PSUs are known for reliability, efficiency, and advanced features, making them a top choice among PC builders.

Here are a few reasons why anyone should choose a CORSAIR PSU:

Trusted brand and reliability
Built with quality components
Best warranty and support

CORSAIR PSU Technology

CORSAIR aims at delivering the best in technology. Many of our PSUs feature the following tech.

Zero RPM Fan Mode: With Zero RPM Fan Mode at low and medium loads, the cooling fan switches off entirely and will automatically turn back on when your PC reaches a specific temperature. Zero RPM Mode keeps your PC quiet and efficient.

Windows Modern Standby: Windows Modern Standby Allows Windows PCs to transition between on/off states faster, similar to smartphones. This feature provides better load efficiency, allowing users to get to games quicker and play longer.

Easy Cable Management: Fully modular power supplies are a great solution to the issue of having unused cables cluttering your PC build. They simplify installation and cable management by allowing you to use only the cables that you actually need.

Quality Capacitors: When it comes to PSUs, the quality of capacitors can make or break performance and longevity. High-quality capacitors ensure consistent power delivery, reduce electrical noise, and enhance overall reliability. These components are designed to withstand high temperatures and prolonged usage, which is critical for maintaining optimal PSU efficiency.

ATX 3.1 Standard: ATX 3.1 is the latest specification for PSUs, bringing significant enhancements to meet the increasing demands of today's PCs.

This new standard introduces improved efficiency, better power delivery, and enhanced stability, which are crucial for supporting the latest generation of CPUs and GPUs. One key feature of ATX 3.1 is the inclusion of the 12VHPWR connector, designed to deliver up to 600W of power to high-end graphics cards, ensuring they operate at peak performance without compromising reliability.

Additionally, ATX 3.1 mandates compliance with Intel's latest power protocols, offering more robust protections against overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits. For consumers and builders, adopting PSUs that adhere to the ATX 3.1 standard means future-proofing their systems and ensuring they are equipped to handle the power requirements of today's advanced technology.

CORSAIR has a proven track record of building reliable power supplies in a wide range of wattages.

Let's take a look at the CORSAIR Family of Power Supplies.

The CORSAIR CX Series PSU offers exceptional quality at an affordable price, making it ideal for any build or upgrade. Built with dependable onboard technology and premium Taiwanese capacitors, ensuring reliability. It also includes essential fixed cable connectors and boasts a sleek black housing.

CORSAIR's RMx Series Fully Modular Low-Noise Power Supplies provide reliable, quiet power with Cybenetics Gold efficiency. Designed to meet Intel®'s ATX 3.1 power standard, RMx PSUs are perfect for modern systems. They feature 100% Japanese 105°C-rated electrolytic capacitors, offer excellent electrical performance, and come with a ten-year warranty.

The RMx SHIFT takes all the modular cable connections a standard power supply provides and "shifts" them to the side of the PSU, allowing for simpler cable management and easier cable access. The CORSAIR RMx SHIFT is Intel ATX 3.1 certified and PCIe 5.0 compliant and holds both Cybenetics and 80 PLUS certifications.

With its 80 Plus Gold certification, the CORSAIR RM650 PSU achieves 90% efficiency even at lower power consumption levels. It provides clean and stable power, thanks to its industrial-grade capacitors. These features make the CORSAIR RM650 GOLD a top choice for those seeking quality and reliability in a power supply unit.

The CORSAIR RMe PSU focuses on quality at entry-level pricing for all build and upgrade levels. Built with good-quality Taiwanese capacitors and dependable onboard technology such as Modern Standby and Zero RPM Mode, which ensure silent operation. These PSUs adhere to the ATX 3.0 power standard from Intel® and support PCIe Gen 5, making them ideal for gamers who demand high speeds and excellent graphics from their devices. RMe PSUs hold an 80PLUS Gold rating and a Platinum Cybernetics rating, making them incredibly efficient and reliable.

With an extensive range of power options, ranging from 750W to 1200W, the HXi Series caters to a variety of system builds, from gaming rigs to high-performance workstations. The fully modular design minimizes clutter by allowing users to connect only the cables they need, which not only improves airflow but also enhances the overall aesthetic of the build. Furthermore, the HXi Series supports CORSAIR's iCUE software, providing advanced monitoring and customization features, including real-time efficiency tracking, load regulation, and temperature monitoring. This makes the HXi Series an ideal choice for those seeking reliability, performance, and versatility in their power supply unit.

The AXi PSU is the ultimate digital ATX power supply. With an 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency certification and gallium nitride transistors, it Is more than 94% efficient. The AXi PSU is fully digital, so it supports CORSAIR's iCUE software, providing advanced monitoring and customization features, including real-time efficiency tracking, load regulation, and temperature monitoring. This is CORSAIR's most advanced PSU.

The CORSAIR 2024 SFX PSU is designed for compact computer builds where space is at a premium. These units pack powerful performance into a smaller size, making them ideal for mini-ITX cases and other small form factor systems. Despite their reduced dimensions, CORSAIR 2024 SFX PSUs offer the same high-quality power delivery and efficiency as their larger counterparts, ensuring reliable performance for gaming, media editing, and everyday computing tasks. With features such as modular cabling, quiet operation, and the best capacitors, CORSAIR SF Series PSUs make it easier to build sleek, efficient, and robust systems without compromising on power or functionality.

Summary

A good PSU ensures that your computer receives a steady and reliable stream of power, which is crucial for the longevity and stability of your system's components. An efficient PSU can prevent unexpected shutdowns, protect against power surges, and reduce the risk of hardware failures.

What sets CORSAIR PSUs apart is their commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. CORSAIR power supplies often exceed industry standards, featuring advanced technologies like Zero RPM fan mode for silent operation and high-efficiency components that garner top-tier certifications. These features make CORSAIR a trusted brand for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Take a look at our range of PSUs over at our main website, along with anything else you'd need for a PC build.