While some of its cases may be a bit garish, NZXT has built up a reputation for making well-built, affordable chassis that really try to meet the needs of the enthusiast. Now the company is making its first foray into the power-supply market with the HALE90 series, and enthusiast quality and features again seem to be the top priorities.
A range of PSUs is being launched that should cover most users' needs, with 550, 650, 750, 850 and 1000W versions on offer. All of the models feature a modular design and extra-long cables, which should help when building a clutter-free system. Keeping everything cool is a twin ball-bearing 140mm fan which the manufacturer claims will keep noise levels below 20db for the 550-750W models and below 30db for the higher-capacity versions.
On the inside, the new PSUs make use of a single 12V-rail which can deliver more than 98 per cent of the total wattage. All capacitors are of the Japanese variety, which should ensure reliable performance and a long lifetime for the circuitry. Regardless, each PSU comes with a five-year warranty should anything go wrong.
The big selling point, though, is the 80 PLUS Gold certification. The standard means that the PSUs will be at least 88 per cent efficient at 20 and 100 per cent loads (when connected to a 230V mains supply), and more than 92 per cent efficient at half-load. Not only will this mean lower electricity bills but the HALE90s should generate less heat. This helps to keep the whole system cool and will hopefully extend the life of the components.
The full range of PSUs should be available straight away starting at $119.99 (around £93 including VAT) for the 550W model and increasing to $209.99 (around £164 including VAT). To be frank, these prices are on the higher-end of the spectrum, even for 80 PLUS Gold-rated products. However, if these PSUs are as well-built and efficient as they are claimed to be, the premium might well be worth it.
