TTGI PLUG-N 550W 14cm Fan Power Supply

Performance Summary & Final Conclusions:

Voltages were pretty solid on this power supply, even with the system overclocked and all BIOS voltages set to their maximum. The +12V rail dropped a little under load (not uncommon), however the difference was less than < 1% between Idle & Load. Specifications list each of these voltages to be within ± ~5%, which all of them meet the criteria. It is nice to see all the voltages a little on the high side straight out of the box, something that all PC enthusiasts can grin about.

PSU efficiency is starting to play a noticeable role these days, with the latest ATX12V V2.0 specifications minimum measured efficiency is required to be 70% at full and typical (~50%) load and 60% at light (~20%) load. TTGI rates their power supply at > 72% efficiency. A more efficient power supply consumes less power and generates less heat, in layman's terms it can save you money.

There are lots of optional features with the PLUG-N line of power supplies, the most popular being: Active PFC or Passive PFC, Electronic Fan Speed Switch, and the Fan Delay System. Active PFC is a regulatory requirement in many European countries so technically it wouldn't be an "option", in the US many people like to have the feature but it is definitely not a requirement. The electronic fan speed switch allows for adjustable fan speed settings (Auto, Silent, Turbo), and the fan delay system keeps the fan running for 5 minutes after the system is shutdown, both of these options are highly recommended.

One feature not present with the PLUG-N line of power supplies is dual +12V rails. Part of the ATX12V V2.0 specifications calls for dual +12V rails (when the current is greater than 18A), which is why this power supply is only listed as meeting ATX12V V1.3 specifications. However, with a specification of 30A on the +12V rail, that equates to the about same amount found on other power supplies with similar specifications if you combine both their +12V rails. Other features, like the SATA connectors, 24pin BTX connector, and power efficiency, all meet ATX12V V2.0 specs. If you would like to learn more about the ATX12V V2.0 specs you can read about it here.

We can't forget the main feature of the PLUG-N power supply that makes it so unique, the detachable power cables! By only having to connect cables that are needed makes the inside of a PC case look nicer, and reduces clutter / airflow restrictions. All of the cables (including the 24pin BTX & +12V) have sleeving on them to keep things looking sharp and protect the wires.