Closer Look: TPQ-850 Exterior Details

In this section we take a closer look at the Antec TruePower Quattro 850W PSU TPQ-850. Beginning with the rear view of the unit, it is apparent that active power factor correction also translates into smaller cooling fans. TruePower Quattro PSU's feature an innovative design to help decrease noise during normal use, but still allow for superior cooling capabilities as loads increase. This new design has been named Quiet Computing, which controls the fan operation.

With high efficiency and low heat generation, the power supply utilizes a smaller 80mm cooling fan. Normally fans of this size give off a high-pitched whine at full speed. However, the exhaust fan on the TruePower Quatro series rotates slowly and quietly to blow hot air out of the power supply, speeding up as heat increases.

The Antec TruePower Quattro 850W PSU TPQ-850 features Universal Input, which allows you to connect the power supply to any AC power source between 100~240V without having to worry about setting a voltage switch. This has become the standard, or rather has been the standard, for almost two years now, but for some reason certain manufacturers are still producing products like the GlacialPower GP-PS550BP Real Power 550W ATX PSU which confused me when I had problems; only to discover it was on the 220V switch.

Simple is better, because the backend of the Antec TruePower Quattro TPQ-850 has kept to the basics. A small power switch is positioned above the power cord receptacle, and the 80mm cooling fan is uneventful and does not contain LED's.

This power supply also features Active PFC, which improves the power factor value of the TruePower Quattro by altering the input current wave shape and thus helps transmission across the power grid.

Antec was able to keep me excited about their product, even though it was nothing more than a semi-gloss black paint job with two yellow racing stripes. Well, the trick worked. It seems to me that sometimes all it takes is a special touch or unique idea to set the average product apart from the pack.

As we wrap-up our look at the exterior appearance and features, we begin our inspection of the cables and wiring used on the TPQ-850. Benchmark Reviews will also begin the AC current ripple tests, and record DC power regulation in the follow sections.

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