Power supply reviews are a somewhat contentious issue, some people will review them quantitatively and let numbers do the speaking whilst others review them qualitatively and let the aesthetics and functionality do the talking. We are going to aim to combine both worlds and bring a review that encompasses what Cooler Master’s GX 550W has to offer both in terms of the quality of the power it provides, as well as how it looks and functions inside a case. When we review the “Quality” of the power will be looking at the stability of the 12v, 5v and 3.3v outputs, which provide your entire system’s power, by using quantitative data. On the more qualitative side we want to look at the overall aesthetics of the product, how audible the provided cooling is and finally whether the cables are good quality and are plentiful enough for the kind of system builder this unit is targeted at.
Cooler Master has this to say about their GX range of power supplies which includes the GX 550W power supply:
Cooler Master is electrifying gamers PCs with GX 400W all the way up to GX 750W power supplies, specifically targeted at systems in the upper-mid to high-end range, yet reasonably priced, providing users with unsurpassed cost per performance. The Cooler Master GX Series of power supplies feature a single highly robust 12 V rail, proficiently delivering power to the most demanding componentsincluding the processor, drives, cooling fans and even the most intense dual graphic cards. Including a double-layer EMI Filter, 120mm fan with intelligent speed control and an active PFC/PWM combo controller for increased efficiency, the GX Series will keep the power in your hands.
Cooler Master’s GX 550W power supply includes a large amount of technologies and features such as:
- Single 12 V Power Rail
Tackling challenges from the most power-intensive peripherals head on, this solitary 12 V power rail provides ample power and strong resistance to any overloading.
- Double-Layer EMI Filter
Dual protection from electromagnetic interference, thus restraining noise and interference for greater protection for you and your connections.
- Intel Compliant
ATX12V v 2.3 and EPS version 2.91 compliant.
- Intelligent Fan Speed Control
Speed control makes the 120 mm fan adept for any user’s circumstances and need.
- Active PFC+ PWM Combo Controller
Integrating this active controller will increase the efficiency of any computer, making PFC higher than 99%.
- Multiple Protection Design
Over Voltage Protection (OVP), Under Voltage Protection (UVP), Over Power Protection (OPP), Over Temperature Protection (OTP) and Short Circuit Protection (SCP).
- Massive Bulk Capacitor
Producing hold times >17ms upon full loading.
- Efficient Transformer
- Adeptly holding power for minimal loss in the 5V standby voltage so the system is promptly up and ready from power on or sleep modes
- Highly efficient design on par with 80Plus requirements (85% typical)
- And More
- Multiple updated connectors for all types of interfaces (PCIe, SATA etc.)
- High reliability with an MBTF of at least 100,000 hours of use.
- NVIDIA SLI-Ready Certified guarantees enough ample power and up-to date connectors for SLI graphics cards.
- Five Year Warranty.
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