When it comes to power supplies, one of the key factors to consider is efficiency. This is where 80 Plus certification comes in, a standard that measures the efficiency of power supplies. The 80 Plus certification is a voluntary program that was introduced to promote energy efficiency in power supplies. It is based on the idea that a power supply should be able to achieve a certain level of efficiency at different loads, typically 20%, 50%, and 100% of its maximum capacity.
What is 80 Plus Certification?
80 Plus certification is a standard that measures the efficiency of power supplies by testing their ability to convert AC power from the mains to DC power for the computer's components. The certification is based on the power supply's efficiency at different loads, and it is awarded at different levels, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium. Each level represents a higher level of efficiency, with Bronze being the minimum and Titanium being the highest.
How is 80 Plus Certification Tested?
To achieve 80 Plus certification, power supplies must undergo a series of tests to measure their efficiency at different loads. The tests are typically conducted by a third-party testing organization, and they involve measuring the power supply's efficiency at 20%, 50%, and 100% of its maximum capacity. The power supply must meet the minimum efficiency requirements at each of these loads to achieve certification.
Benefits of 80 Plus Certification
There are several benefits to choosing a power supply with 80 Plus certification. One of the main benefits is energy efficiency, which can help to reduce energy costs and minimize the environmental impact of the power supply. Additionally, 80 Plus certified power supplies tend to generate less heat, which can help to improve the overall reliability and lifespan of the power supply. They also tend to have a lower noise level, which can be beneficial in quiet computing environments.
Levels of 80 Plus Certification
There are several levels of 80 Plus certification, each representing a higher level of efficiency. The levels are:
- Bronze: 82% efficiency at 20% load, 85% efficiency at 50% load, and 82% efficiency at 100% load
- Silver: 85% efficiency at 20% load, 88% efficiency at 50% load, and 85% efficiency at 100% load
- Gold: 90% efficiency at 20% load, 92% efficiency at 50% load, and 90% efficiency at 100% load
- Platinum: 92% efficiency at 20% load, 94% efficiency at 50% load, and 92% efficiency at 100% load
- Titanium: 94% efficiency at 20% load, 96% efficiency at 50% load, and 94% efficiency at 100% load
Conclusion
In conclusion, 80 Plus certification is an important standard for power supplies, as it promotes energy efficiency and helps to minimize the environmental impact of these devices. By choosing a power supply with 80 Plus certification, consumers can help to reduce their energy costs and improve the overall reliability and lifespan of their power supply. Whether you're building a new computer or upgrading an existing one, looking for a power supply with 80 Plus certification is a great way to ensure that you're getting a high-quality, energy-efficient power supply.
