How to Guide                                                    

When using the latest ATX 3.1 power supply, the most important thing to be aware of is the 12V 2x6 connector used for GPU power cables. Although this revised connector has significantly reduced the risk of connector burnouts, improper handling can still cause damage. Please pay special attention to the following points:

Connection Status Between Power Cable and GPU Connector

When connecting the GPU, ensure the direction of the cable and GPU connector matches. Also, confirm that the latch is fully engaged and locked in place.

Avoid Bending the Cable Within 35mm of the Connector

Whether installing the GPU horizontally or vertically, you'll likely need to bend the power cable. If the cable is bent too close to the connector, it can cause the plastic sheath near the connector to peel off, potentially leading to short circuits. It is recommended to bend the cable only after at least 35mm of straight length from the connector.

Do Not Force or Repeatedly Bend the Cable

While modern power cables are built to be durable, excessive force or repeated bending can still damage them, increasing the risk of electrical issues.





When using the latest ATX 3.1 power supply, the most important thing to be aware of is the 12V 2x6 connector used for GPU power cables. Although this revised connector has significantly reduced the risk of connector burnouts, improper handling can still cause damage. Please pay special attention to the following points:



Connection Status Between Power Cable and GPU Connector

When connecting the GPU, ensure the direction of the cable and GPU connector matches. Also, confirm that the latch is fully engaged and locked in place.







Avoid Bending the Cable Within 35mm of the Connector

Whether installing the GPU horizontally or vertically, you'll likely need to bend the power cable. If the cable is bent too close to the connector, it can cause the plastic sheath near the connector to peel off, potentially leading to short circuits. It is recommended to bend the cable only after at least 35mm of straight length from the connector.







Do Not Force or Repeatedly Bend the Cable

While modern power cables are built to be durable, excessive force or repeated bending can still damage them, increasing the risk of electrical issues.





When using the latest 12V-2x6 GPU power cable, please pay attention to the following points.

Precautions When Using the Latest ATX 3.1 Power Supply GPU Cables

Power supplies can be categorized based on cable management into 

 types. These classifications mainly affect cable management convenience, installation flexibility, and overall tidiness inside the PC case.

A full modular power supply allows all cables connecting to the motherboard and other components to be detached. Users can choose which cables to install, making it more flexible for DIY builders and resulting in a cleaner cable management setup.

A semi-modular power supply has some fixed cables that cannot be removed, while others are detachable. This design offers a balance between flexibility and ease of use.

A non-modular power supply has all cables permanently attached, making it the most affordable but least convenient option for cable management.

✔ You prioritize clean and organized cable management.

✔ You frequently upgrade hardware and need flexible installations.

✔ You are on a tight budget and just need a cost-effective option.





Power supplies can be categorized based on cable management into full modular, semi-modular, and non-modular types. These classifications mainly affect cable management convenience, installation flexibility, and overall tidiness inside the PC case.



Full Modular Power Supply

A full modular power supply allows all cables connecting to the motherboard and other components to be detached. Users can choose which cables to install, making it more flexible for DIY builders and resulting in a cleaner cable management setup.







✅ Advantages





Allows installation of only the necessary cables, reducing clutter.



Easy to upgrade or replace cables without changing the entire power supply.



⚠️ Disadvantages





More expensive than semi-modular and non-modular power supplies.



Requires manual cable installation, which may not be beginner-friendly.



Semi-Modular Power Supply

A semi-modular power supply has some fixed cables that cannot be removed, while others are detachable. This design offers a balance between flexibility and ease of use.







✅ Advantages





The 24-pin motherboard and 8-pin CPU power cables are fixed, preventing mistakes during installation.



Reduces unnecessary cables, maintaining a cleaner PC interior.



⚠️ Disadvantages





Fixed power cables may create unnecessary clutter inside the case.



Harder to manage than a full modular PSU but still better than a non-modular one.



Non-Modular (Fixed Cable) Power Supply

A non-modular power supply has all cables permanently attached, making it the most affordable but least convenient option for cable management.







✅ Advantages





No need to install cables separately, simplifying the setup process.



Lower cost, making it a high-value option.



⚠️ Disadvantages





Excess cables can cause clutter, affecting airflow and aesthetics.



Harder to replace; if a cable fails, the entire PSU needs to be replaced.



Typically has lower efficiency ratings and is not ideal for mid-to-high-end hardware.



Which Power Supply Should You Choose?

You should consider a full modular power supply if:

✔ You have a higher budget.

✔ You prioritize clean and organized cable management.

✔ You frequently upgrade hardware and need flexible installations.

✔ You are using high-end components.







A semi-modular or non-modular power supply is sufficient if:

✔ You are on a tight budget and just need a cost-effective option.

✔ You are building an office PC.

✔ You do not need a dedicated GPU.





Power supplies are categorized into three main types based on how their cables are connected. Let’s take a quick look!

Ｗhat are Full Modular, Semi-Modular, and Non-Modular Power Supplies?

As graphics card power consumption continues to increase, Intel has established new power supply standards: ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1. These standards are mainly designed to meet the high power demands of high-end graphics cards ATX 3.1 is an upgrade from ATX 3.0, focusing on improving power stability and safety.

ATX 3.0 is a new power supply standard introduced by Intel in 2022, primarily to accommodate high-wattage graphics cards. It also introduces the PCIe 5.0 12VHPWR power connector. The first graphics card to implement the 12VHPWR connector was the RTX 3090 Ti.

With the launch of the RTX 40 series, flagship graphics cards like the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080 adopted the latest 12VHPWR power connector. However, soon after release, many users reported that the power connector was overheating and even melting, leading consumers and review media to question the reliability of the 12VHPWR connector.

Although NVIDIA stated that the overheating issue was primarily due to users not fully inserting the connector, many gamers still believe it was caused by poor design of the 12VHPWR connector.

↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from 

ATX 3.1 is an improved version of ATX 3.0 introduced by Intel, mainly aimed at addressing the overheating and melting issues caused by the 12VHPWR power cable connector.

Improvement 1 | Power Connector Enhancement

ATX 3.1 improves upon the 12VHPWR power cable connector by adjusting the pin length to ensure a secure connection. This not only improves safety but also prevents damage due to poor contact when inserting or removing the graphics card. Additionally, the connector has been renamed to 12V-2x6.

Improvement 2 | Increased Power Supply Stability and Durability

ATX 3.1 adjusts the power hold-up time requirements. At full load, it only needs to maintain 12ms, but at 80% load, it must still maintain 17ms, improving overall stability.

The connectors for ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 look identical, meaning users cannot distinguish them by appearance alone. Currently, the only way to differentiate them is by checking the product specifications.

darkFlash has launched the PMT series power supply, which adopts the latest ATX 3.1 standard and includes the 12V-2x6 power connector. This ensures stable and safe power delivery of up to 600W while avoiding the melting issues of ATX 3.0 connectors.

For those using RTX 40 and RTX 50 series graphics cards, the PMT series power supply is one of the most reliable choices.

↑PMT power supply 12V-2x6 cable and connector





As graphics card power consumption continues to increase, Intel has established new power supply standards: ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1. These standards are mainly designed to meet the high power demands of high-end graphics cards ATX 3.1 is an upgrade from ATX 3.0, focusing on improving power stability and safety.

 

What is an ATX 3.0 Power Supply?

ATX 3.0 is a new power supply standard introduced by Intel in 2022, primarily to accommodate high-wattage graphics cards. It also introduces the PCIe 5.0 12VHPWR power connector. The first graphics card to implement the 12VHPWR connector was the RTX 3090 Ti.

 

Key Features of ATX 3.0





Supports 12VHPWR power connector (16-pin).



A single cable can deliver up to 600W, suitable for high-end graphics cards.



Replaces multiple 8-pin power cables, reducing cable clutter.



Can handle up to 200% transient power spikes, ensuring system stability.



Controversies Surrounding ATX 3.0

With the launch of the RTX 40 series, flagship graphics cards like the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080 adopted the latest 12VHPWR power connector. However, soon after release, many users reported that the power connector was overheating and even melting, leading consumers and review media to question the reliability of the 12VHPWR connector.

 

Although NVIDIA stated that the overheating issue was primarily due to users not fully inserting the connector, many gamers still believe it was caused by poor design of the 12VHPWR connector.

 



↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from reddit, r/nvidia)

 

The Birth of ATX 3.1

ATX 3.1 is an improved version of ATX 3.0 introduced by Intel, mainly aimed at addressing the overheating and melting issues caused by the 12VHPWR power cable connector.

 

Key Improvements in ATX 3.1

Improvement 1 | Power Connector Enhancement

ATX 3.1 improves upon the 12VHPWR power cable connector by adjusting the pin length to ensure a secure connection. This not only improves safety but also prevents damage due to poor contact when inserting or removing the graphics card. Additionally, the connector has been renamed to 12V-2x6.







Improvement 2 | Increased Power Supply Stability and Durability

ATX 3.1 adjusts the power hold-up time requirements. At full load, it only needs to maintain 12ms, but at 80% load, it must still maintain 17ms, improving overall stability.

 

ATX 3.0 vs. ATX 3.1 Comparison

The connectors for ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 look identical, meaning users cannot distinguish them by appearance alone. Currently, the only way to differentiate them is by checking the product specifications.







Recommended ATX 3.1 Power Supply - PMT Series

darkFlash has launched the PMT series power supply, which adopts the latest ATX 3.1 standard and includes the 12V-2x6 power connector. This ensures stable and safe power delivery of up to 600W while avoiding the melting issues of ATX 3.0 connectors.

 

For those using RTX 40 and RTX 50 series graphics cards, the PMT series power supply is one of the most reliable choices.





↑PMT power supply 12V-2x6 cable and connector

 (Image from forum.gamer.com.tw)

Power supplies have reached a new version—explore the differences after the upgrade!

ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 Power Supply Detailed Introduction

Building a PC can be a big challenge for DIY beginners, but it’s also an incredibly fun and rewarding process. Before starting your build, you need to understand the following key points:

Before planning your PC build, it's essential to define your specific needs. Are you building a PC for gaming, office work, content creation, or streaming?

If you don’t clarify your needs beforehand, you might end up buying incompatible components or wasting money on unnecessary parts.

Step 2: Essential Components for Building a PC

Before building your PC, you need to prepare the following components:

To help choose the right components and avoid compatibility issues, we’ll demonstrate how to use PCPartPicker for selecting and purchasing parts.

Use PCPartPicker’s system to select preferred components and brands. If a specific component is unavailable on the website, it can manually search for it on other platforms.

III. Purchase Components from Your Preferred Store

For example, if buying from Amazon, simply add the selected parts to the cart and proceed with the checkout process.

IV. Purchase From Other Platforms (If needed)

If the selected PC components are out of stock or unavailable on usual shopping websites, alternative suppliers can be found below, or local distributors can be contacted for assistance.

Magnetic Screwdriver or Electric Screwdriver

Using a magnetic screwdriver or an electric screwdriver makes component installation faster and more convenient.

After assembling the components, it's important to manage the cables. Cable ties help keep the wiring neat and organized.

Before installation, carefully read the user manuals of each component. This ensures a smooth installation process and helps prevent damage due to incorrect assembly.

With proper planning and the right tools, even beginners can successfully build a powerful and efficient PC! 





Building a PC can be a big challenge for DIY beginners, but it’s also an incredibly fun and rewarding process. Before starting your build, you need to understand the following key points:



Step 1: Determine Your Usage Needs

Before planning your PC build, it's essential to define your specific needs. Are you building a PC for gaming, office work, content creation, or streaming?



If you don’t clarify your needs beforehand, you might end up buying incompatible components or wasting money on unnecessary parts.







Step 2: Essential Components for Building a PC

Before building your PC, you need to prepare the following components:





CPU (Processor) – Responsible for executing calculations and instructions.



CPU Cooler – Helps dissipate heat from the processor to ensure optimal performance.



Motherboard – Serves as the bridge connecting all PC components.



RAM (Memory) – Temporarily stores data to speed up program execution.



Storage (SSD/HDD) – Stores system files and user data.



Graphics Card (GPU) – Handles graphics processing for gaming, video editing, and rendering tasks.



Power Supply Unit (PSU) – Provides power to all components.



PC Case – Houses all components, offering protection and extending the system’s lifespan.







Step 3: Planning Your PC Build 

(Using the PCPartPicker website as an example)



To help choose the right components and avoid compatibility issues, we’ll demonstrate how to use PCPartPicker for selecting and purchasing parts.



I. Visit the PCPartPicker Website





↑PCPartPicker



II. Select the PC Components

Use PCPartPicker’s system to select preferred components and brands. If a specific component is unavailable on the website, it can manually search for it on other platforms.







III. Purchase Components from Your Preferred Store

For example, if buying from Amazon, simply add the selected parts to the cart and proceed with the checkout process.







IV. Purchase From Other Platforms (If needed)

If the selected PC components are out of stock or unavailable on usual shopping websites, alternative suppliers can be found below, or local distributors can be contacted for assistance.





↑Purchase darkFlash DY470 on newegg



Step 4: Tools Needed for PC Build

Magnetic Screwdriver or Electric Screwdriver

Using a magnetic screwdriver or an electric screwdriver makes component installation faster and more convenient.







Cable Ties and Scissors

After assembling the components, it's important to manage the cables. Cable ties help keep the wiring neat and organized.







Component Manuals

Before installation, carefully read the user manuals of each component. This ensures a smooth installation process and helps prevent damage due to incorrect assembly.







With proper planning and the right tools, even beginners can successfully build a powerful and efficient PC! 

Here're a few things you need to know first.

Build Your Own PC! A Must-Know Guide for DIY Beginners

Reviews                                                         

Aside from the Cybenetics power supply certification, another commonly recognized certification for power supplies is 80 PLUS. Introduced early on, 80 PLUS measures the efficiency of power supplies at 20%, 50%, and 100% load levels to ensure effective power conversion.

| 80 PLUS Certification Levels and Efficiency Ratings |

The 80 PLUS certification consists of six levels, each representing different efficiency standards:

The higher the certification level, the better the power conversion efficiency and lower energy loss.

| How to Calculate Power Conversion Efficiency |

If your computer consumes 600W in total and you want to use a Gold-certified power supply, the calculation would be:

This means you need at least a 750W 80 PLUS Gold-certified power supply.

| Why Choose an 80 PLUS Certified Power Supply? |

⚡ Energy Efficiency: Higher conversion rates mean less energy waste and lower electricity bills.

🔥 Reduced Heat Generation: Better efficiency reduces excess heat, extending component lifespan.

✅ Stable Performance: Higher certification levels ensure consistent power output, benefiting system stability.

| Which 80 PLUS Certification Should You Choose? |

👨‍💻 For Office & Light Gaming Users:

Standard, Bronze, or Silver is sufficient since power demands are relatively low.

Gold or higher is recommended to ensure minimal power loss and stable performance for extended usage.





Aside from the Cybenetics power supply certification, another commonly recognized certification for power supplies is 80 PLUS. Introduced early on, 80 PLUS measures the efficiency of power supplies at 20%, 50%, and 100% load levels to ensure effective power conversion.



| 80 PLUS Certification Levels and Efficiency Ratings |

The 80 PLUS certification consists of six levels, each representing different efficiency standards:



The higher the certification level, the better the power conversion efficiency and lower energy loss.





| How to Calculate Power Conversion Efficiency |

If your computer consumes 600W in total and you want to use a Gold-certified power supply, the calculation would be:



This means you need at least a 750W 80 PLUS Gold-certified power supply.



| Why Choose an 80 PLUS Certified Power Supply? |

⚡ Energy Efficiency: Higher conversion rates mean less energy waste and lower electricity bills.

🔥 Reduced Heat Generation: Better efficiency reduces excess heat, extending component lifespan.

✅ Stable Performance: Higher certification levels ensure consistent power output, benefiting system stability.





| Which 80 PLUS Certification Should You Choose? |

👨‍💻 For Office & Light Gaming Users:

Standard, Bronze, or Silver is sufficient since power demands are relatively low.

🎮 For Gamers & Content Creators:

Gold or higher is recommended to ensure minimal power loss and stable performance for extended usage.





80 PLUS is a certification that evaluates power supply efficiency, categorized into six levels. The higher the certification level, the better the power conversion efficiency, resulting in greater energy savings and environmental benefits.

What Is 80 PLUS Power Supply Certification?

Have you ever been confused about how much wattage your power supply should have when building a DIY PC? This is where a PSU wattage calculator comes in handy. It accurately estimates your components' power consumption and recommends an appropriate power supply to prevent underpowering or wasting electricity.

 OuterVision calculator, brands like Be Quiet, FSP, and Seasonic also offer PSU wattage calculators in both Chinese and English.

 as an example, let's calculate power consumption based on the following configuration:

Step 3: Choose RAM, Storage, and Cooling System

After inputting all the details, click the Calculate button. Based on this setup, the FSP Wattage Calculator estimates the system's power consumption at 650W and recommends a 750W power supply.

| Why Do Different Wattage Calculators Provide Different Results? |

When testing the same configuration on different PSU wattage calculators, the recommended wattage may vary:

Based on these results, it’s recommended to choose a PSU between 850W and 1000W:





Have you ever been confused about how much wattage your power supply should have when building a DIY PC? This is where a PSU wattage calculator comes in handy. It accurately estimates your components' power consumption and recommends an appropriate power supply to prevent underpowering or wasting electricity.



In addition to the previously recommended OuterVision calculator, brands like Be Quiet, FSP, and Seasonic also offer PSU wattage calculators in both Chinese and English.



| How to Use a PSU Wattage Calculator |

Using the FSP Wattage Calculator as an example, let's calculate power consumption based on the following configuration:





CPU: Intel Core i7-13700K



CPU Cooler: 1 water block, 3 fans



RAM: 16GB DDR4 x 2



GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti



Storage: M.2 SSD x 2



Fans: 4 additional case fans



| Step-by-Step Guide |

Step 1: Select Your CPU Model





Choose the brand (e.g., Intel or AMD).



Select the socket type of your processor.



Pick the exact CPU model and indicate if overclocking is enabled.





Step 2: Select Your GPU Model





Choose the GPU brand and model.



Specify the number of GPUs installed.



Indicate whether overclocking is enabled.





Step 3: Choose RAM, Storage, and Cooling System





RAM: Enter the number of memory sticks and type.



Storage: Specify the number of installed storage drives. (M.2 SSDs are often excluded from this calculation.)



Cooling: Enter the number of fans and the size of any liquid cooling system.





Step 4: Calculate and Review the Results

After inputting all the details, click the Calculate button. Based on this setup, the FSP Wattage Calculator estimates the system's power consumption at 650W and recommends a 750W power supply.





| Why Do Different Wattage Calculators Provide Different Results? |

When testing the same configuration on different PSU wattage calculators, the recommended wattage may vary:





FSP Wattage Calculator: Recommends 750W+ PSU



Be Quiet Wattage Calculator: Recommends 1000W PSU



MSI Wattage Calculator: Recommends 850W+ PSU



OuterVision Wattage Calculator: Recommends 750W+ PSU



This discrepancy is normal because different calculators use slightly different formulas for estimation.



How to Choose the Right Wattage?

Based on these results, it’s recommended to choose a PSU between 850W and 1000W:





If you're on a budget, a minimum of 850W should suffice.



If you plan to upgrade your system in the future, opting for a 1000W PSU might be a better investment.





A PC wattage calculator helps determine the required power supply wattage based on your hardware configuration, ensuring you select the right PSU.

Choosing the Right Power Supply: Learn to Use a Wattage Calculator in Just 5 Minutes

As one of the most essential components in a PC, the power supply unit (PSU) is responsible for delivering stable power to all other hardware. Choosing the wrong PSU can negatively impact your overall computing experience and even damage other components. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the right power supply for your needs.

Power supplies are commonly available in three main form factors: ATX, SFX, and SFX-L.

The two most common power efficiency certifications are 80 PLUS and Cybenetics.

The 80 PLUS certification is the most widely recognized efficiency standard for PSUs. It ensures that a PSU operates at at least 80% efficiency under 20%, 50%, and 100% loads. The certification has multiple levels:

The Cybenetics certification is a newer and more precise PSU testing standard. It provides more detailed efficiency data than 80 PLUS and also includes a noise certification level, offering a more comprehensive PSU evaluation.

Complete Guide to Cybenetics PSU Certification.

Some PSUs are now Cybenetics-certified (Image: 

Choosing the right PSU wattage is essential. If the wattage is too low, your system may become unstable or shut down unexpectedly. You can estimate your needs using the 

OuterVision recommends a 660W PSU.To be safe, we suggest adding an extra 100–200W, making an 850W PSU a better choice.

By following these guidelines, you can find the ideal PSU for your system, ensuring both stability and efficiency.





As one of the most essential components in a PC, the power supply unit (PSU) is responsible for delivering stable power to all other hardware. Choosing the wrong PSU can negatively impact your overall computing experience and even damage other components. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the right power supply for your needs.



| Power Supply Form Factors |

Power supplies are commonly available in three main form factors: ATX, SFX, and SFX-L.



ATX Standard Power Supply





Dimensions: 150mm (W) × 86mm (H) × 140–200mm (D)



Compatible Cases: E-ATX / ATX / M-ATX



Features: The most widely used PSU standard, compatible with most mainstream PC cases.





SFX Small Form Factor Power Supply





Dimensions: 125mm (W) × 63.5mm (H) × 100mm (D)



Compatible Cases: Small M-ATX / ITX



Features: Designed mainly for ITX cases, smaller in size but can be installed in ATX cases using an SFX to ATX adapter.



SFX-L Small Form Factor Power Supply





Dimensions: 125mm (W) × 63.5mm (H) × 130mm (D)



Compatible Cases: Small M-ATX / ITX



Features: Compared to SFX, the depth is increased by 30mm, allowing for better cooling inside the PSU.



| Power Efficiency Certifications |

The two most common power efficiency certifications are 80 PLUS and Cybenetics.



80 PLUS Certification

The 80 PLUS certification is the most widely recognized efficiency standard for PSUs. It ensures that a PSU operates at at least 80% efficiency under 20%, 50%, and 100% loads. The certification has multiple levels:





Standard (White), Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium



Higher certification levels indicate better power efficiency, reducing energy waste and heat generation.



Cybenetics Certification

The Cybenetics certification is a newer and more precise PSU testing standard. It provides more detailed efficiency data than 80 PLUS and also includes a noise certification level, offering a more comprehensive PSU evaluation.



For a detailed breakdown, refer to: Complete Guide to Cybenetics PSU Certification.





↑Some PSUs are now Cybenetics-certified (Image: PC Gamer)



| Power Wattage Selection |

Choosing the right PSU wattage is essential. If the wattage is too low, your system may become unstable or shut down unexpectedly. You can estimate your needs using the OuterVision PSU calculator.



Example Build:





CPU: Intel Core i7-13700K



RAM: 16GB DDR4 × 2



GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti



Storage: M.2 SSD × 2



Usage:

Daily operation: 6 hours

High-load usage: 2 hours



OuterVision recommends a 660W PSU.To be safe, we suggest adding an extra 100–200W, making an 850W PSU a better choice.





Recommended PSU Wattage Based on GPU





Using integrated graphics or low-end GPU: 400–500W PSU



Mainstream gaming GPUs (e.g., RTX 4060, RTX 3060): 600–850W PSU (Bronze or Gold rated)



High-end flagship GPUs (e.g., RTX 5090, RTX 5080): 850W+ PSU (Gold or higher recommended)







By following these guidelines, you can find the ideal PSU for your system, ensuring both stability and efficiency.

A stable power supply is crucial for a smoothly running PC. In addition to ensuring compatibility with your case size, you should also pay close attention to certifications and power wattage.

How to Choose the Right Power Supply for Your PC

Cybenetics power supply efficiency certification is a performance rating standard introduced by Cybenetics Lab, an independent testing laboratory headquartered in Greece. This certification evaluates power supplies based on energy efficiency and noise levels. But how does it differ from the traditional 80 Plus certification?

| Efficiency Certification Levels (ETA) |

Cybenetics classifies efficiency into six levels, ranked from highest to lowest: Diamond, Titanium, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze.

The Cybenetics LAMBDA certification evaluates the noise levels of power supplies under different loads and categorizes them into A++, A+, A, A-, Standard++, Standard+, and Standard.

Cybenetics LAMBDA Noise Certification Ratings

One of the key differences between Cybenetics and 80 Plus certification is that Cybenetics includes noise testing. It categorizes power supplies based on noise levels at different loads, allowing consumers to choose a power supply with both high efficiency and low noise.

In contrast, 80 Plus certification only evaluates power conversion efficiency and does not measure noise levels.

 for Seasonic Vertex PX-1000 Power Supply

Another major advantage of Cybenetics certification is its transparent reporting. Cybenetics publishes detailed test reports, including efficiency performance, noise levels, and additional data.

In comparison, 80 Plus certification only provides efficiency ratings without detailed breakdowns.

This comprehensive analysis should help you better understand Cybenetics certification and how it compares to the traditional 80 Plus standard.





Cybenetics power supply efficiency certification is a performance rating standard introduced by Cybenetics Lab, an independent testing laboratory headquartered in Greece. This certification evaluates power supplies based on energy efficiency and noise levels. But how does it differ from the traditional 80 Plus certification?



| Efficiency Certification Levels (ETA) |

Cybenetics classifies efficiency into six levels, ranked from highest to lowest: Diamond, Titanium, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze.



Testing Conditions:





The test environment temperature is set at 30°C, which is closer to real-world PC operating temperatures.



Load testing covers 5% to 100% usage and considers different regional input voltages (115V & 230V), making it applicable to the global market.



Cybenetics ETA Efficiency Ratings





Diamond Certification: ≥ 93% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 95% total efficiency (230V)



Titanium Certification: ≥ 91% & < 93% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 93% & < 95% total efficiency (230V)



Platinum Certification: ≥ 89% & < 91% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 91% & < 93% total efficiency (230V)



Gold Certification: ≥ 87% & < 89% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 89% & < 91% total efficiency (230V)



Silver Certification: ≥ 85% & < 87% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 87% & < 89% total efficiency (230V)



Bronze Certification: ≥ 82% & < 85% total efficiency (115V) | ≥ 84% & < 87% total efficiency (230V)



| Noise Certification Levels (LAMBDA) |

The Cybenetics LAMBDA certification evaluates the noise levels of power supplies under different loads and categorizes them into A++, A+, A, A-, Standard++, Standard+, and Standard.



Testing Conditions:





Conducted in a specialized silent lab, maintaining ambient noise levels below 6 dB.



Temperature and humidity are kept at 25°C and 50%, respectively.



Cybenetics LAMBDA Noise Certification Ratings





A++ Certification: < 15 dB(A)



A+ Certification: ≥ 15 dB(A) & < 20 dB(A)



A Certification: ≥ 20 dB(A) & < 25 dB(A)



A- Certification: ≥ 25 dB(A) & < 30 dB(A)



Standard++ Certification: ≥ 30 dB(A) & < 35 dB(A)



Standard+ Certification: ≥ 35 dB(A) & < 40 dB(A)



Standard Certification: ≥ 40 dB(A) & < 45 dB(A)





| Cybenetics vs. 80 Plus Certification |

Noise Rating System

One of the key differences between Cybenetics and 80 Plus certification is that Cybenetics includes noise testing. It categorizes power supplies based on noise levels at different loads, allowing consumers to choose a power supply with both high efficiency and low noise.



In contrast, 80 Plus certification only evaluates power conversion efficiency and does not measure noise levels.





↑Example: Cybenetics Report for Seasonic Vertex PX-1000 Power Supply



Transparent Test Data

Another major advantage of Cybenetics certification is its transparent reporting. Cybenetics publishes detailed test reports, including efficiency performance, noise levels, and additional data.



In comparison, 80 Plus certification only provides efficiency ratings without detailed breakdowns.





↑Efficiency Conversion Chart





↑Noise Performance Chart



This comprehensive analysis should help you better understand Cybenetics certification and how it compares to the traditional 80 Plus standard.

This article provides an in-depth breakdown of the Cybenetics certification, covering efficiency ratings and noise testing, helping you understand this new power supply certification system!

Must-Read Before Buying a Power Supply! Complete Analysis of Cybenetics Certification

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.