Intelligent Protection: Cooler Master iGreen Power 500W Review- Page 6/6
May 3, 2006
By
Thomas Soderstrom
Conclusion
The Cooler Master iGreen Power 500W impresses with similar performance to a previously reviewed 600W unit and high advertised efficiency. It also produced similar noise levels to our Thermaltake PurePower 600W, and even comes in a similar color. What buyers gain in the iGreen is improved efficiency and greater value pricing.
We're a little disappointed in Cooler Master's bold claim of 17dB fan noise when our testing revealed noise levels in the mid-20dB range for systems in its target market. Yes, most other companies use similar marketing tactics, but previous experience with Cooler Master had lead us not to expect this sort of playing fast-and-loose with noise numbers.
A suggested price of $120 makes the iGreen Power 500W a reasonable value, but discount vender prices should fall quickly as availability increases. Further consideration for its high efficiency increases its value indirectly, by way of reduced electric bills.
Pros:
High efficiency of 81-85 percent
High stability, less than 2 percent fluctuation at full rated capacity
Peak capacity exceeds nominal rating by 100W
Added cooling for case and CPU via 120mm fan
Low-noise through smart fan controls
SLI/Crossfire compatible with separate PCI Express power leads
Full Fault Protection for voltage, current, and heat
Compliant with latest ATX12v v2.2 and EPS12V v2.9 specifications
Significant 400,000 hour estimated MTBF
Three-year warranty
Cons:
Estimated noise numbers slightly misleading
Up-front cost a little high
The Verdict: The Cooler Master iGreen Power 500W offers exceptional stability, capacity, and efficiency, priced similarly to less efficient top-brand competitors.
SysOpt Product Info
Product: iGreen Power 500W, Model RS-500-ASAA
Category: Power Supplies
Avg. Price: $120
Manufacturer: Cooler Master Co. Ltd. U.S. Headquarters
1951 S Parco Av. Unit A.
Ontario, Calif. 91761
(909) 673-9880
Availability: Now
Ratings: (Best of four stars)
Features:
Performance:
Value:
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