What do power supply ratings mean?
A power supply unit (PSU) is an essential component of a computer system. It converts the alternating current (AC) from the wall outlet into the direct current (DC) that the computer components require. In this article, we will explain in-depth what power supply ratings mean for PCs and how to choose the right one for your system.
A power supply unit is responsible for converting AC power from the wall outlet into the DC power that the computer components require. The PSU converts the AC power into DC power through a process called rectification, which involves the use of diodes to convert the AC power into pulsating DC power. The PSU then uses a device called a voltage regulator to convert the pulsating DC power into steady DC power. The steady DC power is then distributed to the various components, such as:
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CPU
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GPU
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Memory
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Storage
The PSU also regulates the voltage to ensure that the components receive the correct amount of power. The voltage is regulated by a device called a voltage regulator module (VRM) which regulates the voltage to the right level. The VRM is located on the motherboard and provides the correct voltage to the CPU, GPU, and memory.
Power supply ratings refer to the specifications of a PSU, such as its maximum power output, power efficiency, and safety. The maximum power output is measured in wattage/watts (W) and indicates the amount of power that the PSU can provide to the computer components. The power output is measured in watts and is the total amount of power that the PSU can provide to the computer. The power output is important because it ensures that the PSU can provide enough power to the computer components.
Efficiency is measured as a percentage and refers to how much AC power is converted into DC power. Efficiency is an important factor because it determines how much power is wasted in the form of heat. The more efficient a PSU is, the less heat it generates and the less power it wastes.
Safety ratings indicate that the PSU has been tested and certified to meet certain standards. The safety ratings ensure that the PSU is safe to use and won’t damage the computer components. Safety ratings are important because they ensure that the PSU meets certain standards and won’t damage your system.
80 Plus is a certification program that tests and certifies PSUs for their efficiency. The program measures the efficiency of a PSU at different loads and certifies it based on the results. 80 Plus certifications include:
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Bronze
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Silver
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Gold
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Platinum
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Titanium
These certifications indicate the minimum efficiency rating that the PSU has been certified for.
The 80 Plus certification tests the efficiency of a PSU at different loads. The loads are 20%, 50%, and 100% of the maximum power output. A PSU that is 80 Plus certified must have an efficiency of at least 80% at 20% load, 80% at 50% load, and 80% at 100% load.
One of the main benefits of 80 Plus certification is that it ensures that the PSU is more efficient than those without. This means that it converts more of the AC power into DC power, which results in less heat and lower electricity bills. This can be especially beneficial for high-performance systems or systems that run for long periods of time, as it can help to reduce the overall running costs of the system.
Additionally, PSUs with 80 Plus certification are typically of higher quality and more reliable than non-certified PSUs. This is because the 80 Plus certification program tests and certifies PSUs for their efficiency, power output, and safety, which means that they have been thoroughly tested and meet certain standards. This can give users peace of mind that they are getting a high-quality PSU that will last a long time.
Furthermore, 80 Plus certified PSUs are typically more energy-efficient which is beneficial for the environment. This is important as the reduction in energy consumption will result in a reduction of carbon footprint and a decrease in energy use.
80 Plus Bronze certification indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 82% at 20% load, 85% at 50% load, and 82% at 100% load.
80 Plus Bronze is the entry-level certification for PSUs under the 80 Plus program. A PSU that has achieved 80 Plus Bronze certification has been tested and certified to have an efficiency of at least 82% at 20% load, 85% at 50% load, and 82% at 100% load. This means that at least 82% of the AC power that is input into the PSU is converted into DC power and used by the computer components, while the remaining 18% is lost as heat.
80 Plus Bronze certification is suitable for basic computer systems or budget builds, where efficiency may not be the top priority. However, it’s important to note that even with a Bronze certification, the efficiency is still higher than non-certified PSUs and can still help to reduce electricity bills and heat.
Additionally, it’s important to note that even though a PSU has a Bronze certification, it may still have other features that make it a better option for your system, such as higher power output or better safety ratings.
Therefore, it’s important to consider all the specifications and features of a PSU before making a purchase, rather than just relying on the 80 Plus certification alone.
80 Plus Silver certification indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 85% at 20% load, 88% at 50% load, and 85% at 100% load.
80 Plus Silver certification is a step up from the Bronze certification and indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 85% at 20% load, 88% at 50% load, and 85% at 100% load. This means that at least 85% of the AC power that is input into the PSU is converted into DC power and used by the computer components, while the remaining 15% is lost as heat.
This level of efficiency is suitable for basic computer systems or budget builds, but it’s also suitable for systems that require a bit more power. Its higher efficiency than the Bronze certification will help to reduce electricity bills and heat, making it a more energy-efficient option.
It’s also important to note that PSUs with 80 Plus Silver certification often come with other features such as higher power output, better safety ratings, or better cooling solutions which can make them a better option for your system.
80 Plus Gold certification indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 87% at 20% load, 90% at 50% load, and 87% at 100% load.
80 Plus Gold certification is a higher level of efficiency than Silver and Bronze, indicating that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 87% at 20% load, 90% at 50% load, and 87% at 100% load. This means that at least 87% of the AC power that is input into the PSU is converted into DC power and used by the computer components, while the remaining 13% is lost as heat.
This level of efficiency is suitable for high-performance systems or systems that require a lot of power, as it ensures that the system is running at optimal performance levels while minimizing the electricity consumption and heat generated.
It’s also worth noting that a Gold-certified PSU is also suitable for systems that are running 24/7, as it will help to reduce the electricity bills and generate less heat. Additionally, PSUs with 80 Plus Gold certification often come with other features such as better safety ratings, improved cooling solutions, and longer lifespan, which can make them a better option for your system.
80 Plus Platinum certification indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 90% at 20% load, 92% at 50% load, and 89% at 100% load.
80 Plus Platinum certification is the highest level of efficiency offered by the 80 Plus program, indicating that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 90% at 20% load, 92% at 50% load, and 89% at 100% load. This means that at least 90% of the AC power that is input into the PSU is converted into DC power and used by the computer components, while the remaining 10% is lost as heat.
This level of efficiency is suitable for high-performance systems or systems that require a lot of power and is especially suitable for high-performance systems, where efficiency is a priority. Such systems are typically used for gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks that require a lot of power.
Additionally, PSUs with 80 Plus Platinum certification often come with other features such as better safety ratings, improved cooling solutions, longer lifespan, and higher power output, which can make them a better option for your system.
It’s also worth noting that a Platinum-certified PSU is also suitable for systems that are running 24/7, as it will help to reduce the electricity bills and generate less heat.
80 Plus Titanium certification indicates that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 90% at 20% load, 94% at 50% load, and 90% at 100% load.
80 Plus Titanium certification is the highest level of certification offered by the 80 Plus program, indicating that the PSU has an efficiency of at least 90% at 20% load, 94% at 50% load, and 90% at 100% load. This means that at least 90% of the AC power that is input into the PSU is converted into DC power and used by the computer components, while the remaining 10% is lost as heat.
This is the highest level of efficiency offered by the 80 Plus program and is suitable for high-performance systems, where efficiency is a priority. Such systems are typically used for gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks that require a lot of power.
Additionally, PSUs with 80 Plus Titanium certification often come with other features such as better safety ratings, improved cooling solutions, longer lifespan, and higher power output, which can make them a better option for your system.
It’s also worth noting that a Titanium certified PSU is also suitable for systems that are running 24/7, as it will help to reduce the electricity bills and generate less heat.
It’s also important to note that the 80 Plus Titanium certification is not the only factor to consider when choosing a PSU. Other important factors include the power output, safety ratings, and the components’ build quality. It’s also important to choose a PSU from a reputable brand, as this can affect the reliability and longevity of the PSU.
When choosing a PSU, it’s important to consider the power output, efficiency, and safety ratings. The power output should be at least as high as the total power consumption of your system. The power consumption of a computer can be calculated by adding the power consumption of all the components.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a PSU that has a power output that is at least 25% higher than the total power consumption of the computer.
Efficiency is important for reducing electricity bills and heat, so look for a PSU with an 80 Plus certification. Safety ratings are also important to ensure that the PSU meets certain standards and won’t damage your system.
When comparing PSUs with Bronze and Gold certifications, the main difference is efficiency. A Gold-certified PSU is generally more efficient than a Bronze-certified PSU. However, a Bronze-certified PSU may be more cost-effective for a budget build, while a Gold-certified PSU may be more suitable for a high-performance system where efficiency is a priority.
In conclusion, understanding power supply ratings is important when building or upgrading a computer. Power supply units play a vital role in converting and distributing power to the various computer components. The 80 Plus certification program is a good indicator of efficiency, but it’s not the only factor to consider when choosing a PSU.
It’s important to also consider the power output, safety ratings, and quality of components. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the right PSU for your system and that your computer runs at its optimal performance level.
What’s Quieter? – All The Differences
Power supply units or PSU’s are the backbones of PC builds.
This unsung and often forgotten hero of a PC build is internal IT hardware components that convert the alternating high voltage AC into direct voltage DC. It makes sure your computer functions correctly.
The type or form factor of a power supply will tell you critical features about the unit, including its size and the parts it supports.
Today’s most power supplies available on the market are at least 80 Plus rating.
80 plus certification ensures that PSU performs at least 80 percent efficiency on maximum loads. it is further classified in sub-branding such as bronze, gold, titanium, silver, and platinum.
The difference between these ratings is efficiency: some possess higher efficiency at 20%, 50%, and 100% load. Gold and bronze are the most common ones.
Don’t know which one is best and quieter between gold or bronze? No worries!
In this article, I’ll help you understand the difference between the Gold and Bronze marks we often see on a PSU. And we will try to figure out the PSU that suits you the best.
Let’s dig in!
Page Contents
What is Power Supply Efficiency?
The efficiency of the power supply rate is based on the components divided by the wattage drawn from the wall socket.
Sockets also affect the efficacy rate of your power supply.
For example, a 500-watt power supply with a 50% efficiency rating can draw 1000-watt output. The other 500-watt gets wasted as heat in the conversion process.
Another factor determining the power supply efficiency is the percentage of the rated load being outputted when PSUs are running around 50% load or 250W in this example.
Generally, the efficiency percentage starts at the lower mark. A PSU is more efficient when it is around 50 % load capacity. When the load reaches the 100% curve, it flattens and returns to the starting level again.
The 80 plus rating indicates that the power supply is at least 80% efficient to 20%, 50%, and 100% load.
The efficiency factor of electricity equipment determines the performance of the appliances at different loads. A 500-watt PSU can surely give you good power at a 20 percent load. But what will happen at 60-70 or 80 percent load? The same PSU at that time may not be able to provide the same 500 watts.
So that means low rating PSU doesn’t work well at high loads compared to low loads. Low power and wattages can impact the devices and damage them.
That’s where 80 plus mark comes into the picture. It started as a voluntary program in 2004 to promote efficient energy for computers.
80 plus certification ensures that PSU performs at least 80 percent efficiency on maximum loads.
Let me simplify it for you.
A 500-watt 80 plus rated power supply unit can draw a maximum of 625-watt at 100% load.
It does more than just power your PC. Let’s look at the benefits of getting a high-quality PSU for your PC.
- It provides a stable flow of electricity
- It is cost-effective
- It gives reliability that PSUis working on 80 percent wattages
- It doesn’t waste energy
80 plus certified PSU are now widely available, and you should get one for your PC as well.
Watch this video below to learn more about 80 pus certification of PSU:
Here’s How the 80+ PSU Rating System Works
What do Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium ratings mean?
PSU 80 plus now comes with an efficiency rating.
They come in least to most efficient ones like bronze, silver, gold, platinum, and titanium ratings.
The most common ones used in PC builds are bronze, silver, and gold.
And the titanium and platinum ratings are reserved for server PSUs and workstation PCs with high capacity PSUs.
Refer to the chart below for an overview of the efficiency rating of all PSUs.
| Loading | 80 plus | Gold | Bronze | Silver | Platinium | Titanium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20% | 80% | 87% | 82% | 85% | 90% | 90% |
| 50% | 80% | 90% | 85% | 88% | 92% | 92% |
| 100% | 80% | 87% | 82% | 85% | 89% | 94% |
Efficiency of PSU
They go as bronze, silver, gold, platinum, and titanium from bottom to top.
Today we talk about Gold and Bronze.
Gold Rated PSU
Gold rating in simple meaning means that the PSU is rated for at least 87% efficiency at 20% load, 90% at 50% load, and 87% at 100% load.
Gold ones are marketed at the premium end of the market. They are:
- More reliable
- Perform better than Bronze
- Give best price/performance ratio
It’s a little more costly than Bronze, but you won’t want to settle anything less than Gold because of its efficiency and reliability.
So fork out a bit more cash for your PC, and it will be a good investment.
Bronze–Rated PSU
For the average PC user, bronze-rated PSU’s are more than enough.
They provide at least 80 percent efficiency at 20%, 50%, and 100% load.
Bronze stay consistent at 80% during underload, and it is:
- Affordable
- Long lifetime
- Reliable for mainstream PCs
So if you are an average PC user and don’t want to spend extra on PSU, then a bronze one is good for you.
The main difference between both will be the quality of the materials, the internal electronic design, heat generated, and its cost.
How efficient are Gold PSUs compared to Bronze?
An 80 plus Bronze ranked PSU has 82-85 percent efficiency. However, Gold-ranked PSU takes this few notches higher.
It has a 90% mark peak efficiency which is an incredible number. This also means that PSU only wastes 10 percent heat and uses 90 percent of power drawn.
Are Bronze PSUs quieter than Golds?
The answer will depend on various factors: and that includes the irregular or current supply workload you put into it.
Gold and silvers are much more stable than bronze ones, especially in inadequate electric distribution.
You don’t need to put extra cents on 80 plus gold just for noise. Watch out for other factors that might cause power disturbance.
All in all, for minimum efficacy, 80 plus bronze is good.
How to choose an efficiency rating for a power supply?
While choosing efficiency rate three main things, you should look out for:
- Local electricity rates
- Ambient temperatures
- Budget
The room’s ventilation will also help you to determine what kind of PSU you should use.
If you live in a temperature climate area with low electricity prices, you can opt for an 80 Plus or 80 Plus Bronze power supply.
The efficiency doesn’t jump when you move to a higher rating. The quality of the model you are using matters the most.
Look for the manufacturer’s name and the authenticity you are buying from. It is always wise to check the power supply’s efficiency on the group websites that issue 80 plus certifications.
However, if you live in an area where the power supply is expensive, still go with an efficient power supply.
Because overall cost you save on the most efficient power supply will be worth putting a high upfront price.
High rate PSU will work for you because the ultra-hot temperature outside will reduce the power supply’s efficiency. Less heart from the power supply also means less noise of its fan and less effort from your side to keep the PC warm.
While calculating the expected power supply bill, keep in mind that the wattage listed on the power supply is the DC power maximum potential amount.
So here there’s an example of how you can do it:
An 80 Plus 500W power supply would work out to 250W DC or 312.5W AC power at 50-percent load. Using that last number means 312.5 in this example when tabulating your electricity consumption.
You don’t need to spend more than your budget. Opt for a power supply with an efficiency that fits your need and situations, not for the race to maximize on high-end specs.
Does efficient PSU save money on power bills?
Yes! A more efficient PSU can save your money on the power bills.
However, how much depends on the average power draw of your PC and the current local cost per kilowatt/hour.
Your PSU’s efficacy will help you save a lot more.
If the power draw is higher, small changes in efficiency percentage will affect the overall cost. And if the kilowatt/hour cost is higher, the more differences efficiency it will take on your bill.
Conclusion
Efficient PSU means better reliability and longevity and better performance of your computer.
To put it briefly, if you’re on a tight budget, 80+ Bronze is still pretty good. However, 80+ Gold is more reliable and a better investment overall for futureproofing, and it will create less noise.
The most costly equipment of our PC depends on the PSU. I do not recommend anything less than 80 Plus, so make sure to look for this logo when shopping for your next PSU.
Basically, the efficiency of your power supply comes down to the amount of heat and power it generates.
Lesser usually means better as it means lower electricity bills and a quitter PSU.
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80+ types of computer power supplies and what do they mean?
articles
The 80 Plus system is used to evaluate computer power supplies (PSUs) for their reliability and efficiency.
If you’re not system savvy, you’ll be lucky if you don’t spend a lot of money or get a very weak power supply. The 80 Plus system for evaluating computer power supplies is simple and only requires a quick review of its autonomy.
80 Plus Certification Levels
- 80 Plus Standard : Efficiency of at least 80% at all power levels and a power factor of 0.9 at 50% output.
- 80 plus bronze : 82% efficiency at 20% load; 85% efficiency and 0.90 power factor at 50% load. Efficiency 82% at 100%.
- 80 Plus Silver : 85% efficiency at 20% load. 88% efficiency and 0.90 power factor at 50% load. Efficiency 87% at 100%.
- 80 plus gold : Efficiency 87% at 20% load. 90% efficiency and 0.90% power factor at 50% load; Efficiency 87% at 100%.
- 80 Plus Platinum : Efficiency 90% @ 20%; 92% efficiency and 0.95 power factor at 50% load. Efficiency 89% at 100%.
- 80 Plus Titanium : Efficiency 90% @ 10%; Efficient and efficient 92% at 0.
95% load 20%; Efficiency 94% @ 50%; Efficiency 90% at 100%.
You will notice that the differences between the different levels of 80 Plus seem small. And although it’s small, it requires significant improvements in design and component quality to climb up a notch in the 80 Plus rankings. This means that the categories refer to «groups of parts», which helps consumers understand the quality of the electronic components in them based on their functionality. It’s like the signal to noise ratio in audio devices, indicating the quality of the components rather than describing a noticeable feature of the product to the consumer.
Note that the standard for other voltage levels is different, but is usually calculated based on 115V tests. Redundant power supplies also have slightly different standards, but non-repetitive power supplies are the most common in computer circuit design.
What does 80 Plus mean?
The 80 Plus System is designed to evaluate the efficiency of power supplies.
Every certified 80 Plus power supply has at least 80% load at 20%, 50%, and 100% load, hence the name. In addition to the calculated minimum efficiency of 80 percent, it must have a force factor of at least 0.9at 50% load.
Power factor is another measure of efficiency that reflects the ratio of energy entering the power supply compared to the power leaving the source. Additional test categories, such as the 10% load test for titanium power supplies, have been added since the standard was created.
Initially, the system was created in 2004 and consisted of only three denominations: gold, silver and bronze. Today, thanks to improvements on the part of manufacturers and a desire to differentiate high-end products, we also have platinum and titanium at the top level, as well as a standard baseline (sometimes referred to as «white» or «transparent» hardware manufacturers) to indicate a minimum level of certification.
You can see most, if not all, of the 80 Plus OEMs on the website, as well as some reference material on testing methodology.
Which one should I buy?
For avid PC builders, an 80 Plus Silver or 80 Plus Gold PSU will suffice in most cases. Do not agree? Let’s hear why in the comments!
The real answer to this question depends on two things: how much do you care about noise and how much do you care about spending a lot of money? High-efficiency power supplies generate less heat, which helps them stay quiet and remove fans when needed. However, you pay for this feature and quickly jump up in price as you climb the efficiency ladder.
There are also major efficiency and carbon risks: power consumption differences can be noticeable on your energy bill, depending on how your computer is running. But for most machines, the practical difference is less important than you might like.
When the price goes up, you’ll also get access to other features like modular jacks, better cable reels and better warranties. These are all good reasons to spend more money on a product, and they can help justify the $200 cost and energy sources.