14 DAY TRIAL // Even though technology has taken a more power efficiency-oriented approach over the past year, most computer upgrades still warrant the acquisition of a more capable power supply. Regardless of how efficient a video card is, high-end performance always needs a solid power flow, and many of today's high-end graphics cards even need more power than what is supplied through the PCI Express slot. Cooler Master is putting the final touches on a line of power supplies that will be able to handle such components, with a special focus on providing support for multi-GPU configurations.
All the models in the GX line are especially aimed at dual GPU system configurations. In fact, the 750W model, with its four PCI Express power connectors, even has SLI certification for high-end NVIDIA GTX graphics. The +12V rail itself is designed to deliver more than enough power to dual graphics setups, be they CrossFireX or SLI.
The Gamers Extreme (GX) series of power supplies is made up of models using a single +12V rail. They come in 550W, 650W and 750W and target both the mid-range and high-end gaming systems. Besides their stable and strong power flow, all of these products have an efficiency that reaches up to 85%, thus being 80-plus rated. This efficiency comes along with advanced features, such as the aforementioned single but powerful +12V rail, low-noise dual layer EMI filters that reduce the noise in the power lines and even large bulk capacitors with a hold-up time larger than 17ms. This hold-up time means that the PSU will be better at handling peak loads.
An extra feature of the GX series is the Active PFC/PWM controller. This controller is an efficient transformer that reduces 5Vsb power loss when the system is in standby. The PSUs also boast a variety of protection designs that shield the system in case of malfunction.
The power supplies will become available sometime next month for 64.90 Euro (GX-550W), 74.90 Euro (GX-650W) and 89.90 Euro (GX-750W). All will be backed by a five-year warranty.