When it comes to building a small form factor (SFF) computer, one of the most critical components to consider is the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU is responsible for providing power to all the components in the system, and its form factor plays a significant role in determining the overall size and layout of the build. Among the various power supply form factors available, the SFX power supply form factor has gained popularity in recent years due to its compact size and high power output. In this article, we will delve into the details of the SFX power supply form factor, its features, benefits, and ideal applications.
Introduction to SFX Power Supply Form Factor
The SFX power supply form factor was introduced by Intel in 1995, with the primary goal of providing a smaller and more efficient power supply solution for small form factor systems. The SFX form factor is designed to be compact, measuring 125mm in length, 63.5mm in width, and 100mm in height. This compact size makes it an ideal choice for small form factor builds, such as mini-towers, home theater PCs, and other space-constrained systems. Despite its small size, the SFX power supply form factor is capable of delivering high power output, ranging from 300W to 650W, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from basic office systems to high-performance gaming rigs.
Key Features of SFX Power Supply Form Factor
The SFX power supply form factor has several key features that make it an attractive choice for small form factor builds. Some of the notable features include:
- Compact size: The SFX form factor is significantly smaller than the standard ATX form factor, making it ideal for small form factor systems.
- High power output: Despite its small size, the SFX power supply form factor is capable of delivering high power output, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- High efficiency: SFX power supplies are designed to be highly efficient, with many models achieving 80 PLUS Gold or higher certification.
- Low noise: SFX power supplies are designed to be quiet, with many models featuring fanless or low-noise fan designs.
- Modular cabling: Many SFX power supplies feature modular cabling, which allows users to customize their cable configuration and reduce clutter.
Benefits of SFX Power Supply Form Factor
The SFX power supply form factor offers several benefits that make it an ideal choice for small form factor builds. Some of the notable benefits include:
- Space savings: The compact size of the SFX power supply form factor makes it ideal for small form factor systems, where space is limited.
- Increased flexibility: The SFX power supply form factor provides increased flexibility in terms of system design, allowing users to create more compact and efficient systems.
- Improved airflow: The compact size of the SFX power supply form factor can improve airflow in small form factor systems, which can help to reduce temperatures and improve overall system performance.
- Reduced noise: The low-noise design of many SFX power supplies makes them ideal for applications where noise is a concern, such as home theater PCs or audio workstations.
Ideal Applications for SFX Power Supply Form Factor
The SFX power supply form factor is ideal for a wide range of applications, including:
- Small form factor gaming rigs: The SFX power supply form factor is capable of delivering high power output, making it suitable for small form factor gaming rigs.
- Home theater PCs: The compact size and low-noise design of the SFX power supply form factor make it ideal for home theater PCs.
- Audio workstations: The low-noise design of many SFX power supplies makes them ideal for audio workstations, where noise can be a concern.
- Mini-towers: The SFX power supply form factor is ideal for mini-towers, where space is limited and a compact power supply is required.
Technical Considerations
When selecting an SFX power supply, there are several technical considerations to keep in mind. Some of the key factors to consider include:
- Power output: The power output of the SFX power supply should be sufficient to meet the needs of the system.
- Efficiency: The efficiency of the SFX power supply should be high, with a minimum of 80 PLUS Bronze certification.
- Modular cabling: Modular cabling can help to reduce clutter and improve airflow in the system.
- Connectors: The SFX power supply should have the necessary connectors to support the system, including SATA, Molex, and PCIe power connectors.
- Form factor compatibility: The SFX power supply form factor should be compatible with the system's motherboard and chassis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SFX power supply form factor is an ideal choice for small form factor builds, offering a compact size, high power output, and high efficiency. Its benefits, including space savings, increased flexibility, and improved airflow, make it an attractive choice for a wide range of applications, from small form factor gaming rigs to home theater PCs and audio workstations. When selecting an SFX power supply, it is essential to consider technical factors, such as power output, efficiency, and modular cabling, to ensure that the power supply meets the needs of the system. With its compact size and high performance, the SFX power supply form factor is an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a small form factor system.
