See the essence through the surface - the secrets of power supply design

Let's first briefly describe how these "hidden rules" are usually presented. First of all, the characteristics of the power supply appear on the product packaging. This is beyond doubt. From the product packaging, we can understand the entire design concept and parameters of this product. Of course, if you think that the packaging may be exaggerated, then refer to the second point. The power supply nameplate is absolutely the most accurate information. Except for some fake power supplies with false labels, most power supply nameplates still have very important reference value. If you are still at the novice player level, then take a look at the power supply wire and module interface, maybe you can also have a general understanding of the performance of this power supply.

Product packaging intuitive understanding

Generally speaking, the packaging of power supplies is the best way to package products, so the design of the packaging also needs to be worked on. Most product packaging on the market will have a reliable introduction to the product features, except for some alternative products that use a simple style. These selling points on the packaging are often the most concerned by consumers. They can give consumers the best tips for purchasing and choose the type they need most.

The packaging of a product can directly reveal the characteristics of the product

From the product packaging, in addition to being able to interpret the brand and power, most products will clearly indicate the selling points and certification information on the outer packaging, so that users who wish to purchase can have an intuitive understanding of the characteristics of this product. Of course, this is also the most important part of the competition between products.

Power Product Features

Generally, the outer packaging of the power supply will also indicate whether it supports dual graphics cards, what specifications it complies with, what certifications it has passed, what structural design it uses, what type of fan it uses, etc.

Power Product Features

Some power supplies are described in words, while some power supplies use icons + words to describe their product features. Regardless of the method, there will be a mark on the outer packaging of the power supply.

In summary, when interpreting a product from its packaging, we must pay attention to whether it has passed the 80Plus certification, its efficiency, its rated power, whether it uses a silent fan, whether it meets the latest power supply specifications, whether it meets the environment in which it is used, etc. For gamers, it is also very necessary to check whether it supports back-line and whether the cable is modular.

The nameplate must be the most accurate

If the packaging is exaggerated, then the nameplate of the power supply must provide the most accurate information and have the highest reference value. Generally speaking, from the nameplate of the power supply, we can get a variety of information sources, such as rated power, power supply circuit design, which certification standards have been passed, and even some power supplies can directly find out the OEM factory. As long as consumers have a little identification, they can get a good understanding of the nameplate of the power supply.

The power supply nameplates of major brand manufacturers are clearly marked

An excellent power supply nameplate can make it clear to consumers at a glance. Taking the nameplate in the picture above as an example, we can quickly learn the information such as brand, model, rated power, 80PLUS Gold certification, wide design, single 12V output, etc. These provide a lot of help for consumers to quickly grasp the power supply data.

High-end power supply nameplates are more meaningful

If the nameplate of an ordinary power supply is more about information, then comparing it with the nameplate of a high-end power supply will reveal more clues from the design and concept of the power supply. This 1500W rated power supply does not adopt a wide voltage design, but this is not a problem for domestic use. In addition, the specifications of the fuse are also clearly marked. The most important thing is that it uses 6-way 12V output, so the support for multiple graphics cards must be very good. If it is a conventional single-way or dual-way output, the number of graphics card and hard disk expansion interfaces may be slightly less.

Multiple 12V outputs provide power for more graphics cards and hard drives

To verify this statement, we can take a look at the module interface of the nameplate power supply in the picture above. Up to 6 graphics card power supply lines and numerous hard disk power supply lines allow this power supply to support more devices.

In summary, if you are an ordinary consumer, just look at the brand, rated power and other information on the nameplate to avoid buying counterfeit products. If you are a high-end audiophile, you have more choices and can consider choosing products with multiple outputs and a higher 80PLUS certification level, which have greater guarantees in terms of conversion efficiency and quality.

Understand the design concept by looking at the wire

If you are not a professional player, but just an ordinary consumer, then besides referring to the nameplate and packaging, is there any better way to directly understand the power supply ? Here the author has a special method, which is to look at the power supply wire design. Generally speaking, the power supply wire has a great relationship from the cost, circuit design, power supply power, etc., and it can also involve the back line design, etc. As long as consumers understand the wire, they can quickly grasp the power supply concept.

Semi-module, flat wire

If you see a power supply from a big brand that uses a semi-modular design and only has two interfaces for graphics card power supply, then this power supply is mostly a mid-range power supply and belongs to the mid-range practical school. This type of product often has a high cost performance and better support for wiring. However, support for multiple graphics cards depends on the power of the power supply itself.

High power but the wire is not wrapped with snakeskin mesh

If you see a brand power supply with a high power but non-modular cables, and it is not included in the Snake Skin Network, then this power supply is also pragmatic and is based on cost-effectiveness. It is not the first choice for high-end players, but it is not a problem for daily applications. This type of product often has a great price advantage, and the hardware support can be directly observed through the number of interfaces.

Fully modular, no need to say more about the wire

If you see a fully modular power supply with numerous modular cables and rich interfaces, then needless to say, you just need to pay attention to whether it is enough for you who pursue high-end configuration. Special attention should be paid here to the number of graphics card power supplies, the number of hard disk power supplies, etc. The power supply lines of multiple graphics cards are generally single-channel output, and those with only 2 power supply interfaces are generally single-channel or dual-channel output.

Recognizing the power source through the surface

In fact, it is not difficult to identify a product by its surface. If you want to ensure the quality of a power supply, you only need to identify products from big brands with good reputations. As for performance requirements, you can quickly understand the product through the power supply nameplate and wire materials we just mentioned, allowing consumers to grasp the essentials of purchasing power supplies from another level.

You can recognize the product through the surface

The power supply does not have to be disassembled to understand it. In fact, as a consumer, there are many ways to understand the product, such as media inquiries, player recommendations, etc. If you buy it directly, the three features introduced to you today can allow consumers to quickly understand the product and grasp the power supply information, laying a foundation for your choice. Of course, you must keep your eyes open when purchasing, and don't be blinded by counterfeit products.