Sky Hawk Power One 620W PSU Review

Cases & PSU/Power Supplies by KeithSuppe @ 2005-04-24

We take a closer look at SkyHawks 620W PSU; available for less then $100 is it any good? Let us find out.

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SkyHawk Computer Group/Specs

Sky Hawk Computer Group is an accomplished company with 13 years of experience in the manufacture of chassis, PSU's and other peripherals for PC. Today we'll be examining one of their more innovative power supplies of which they offer a wide variety. The Power One series include models: GM420SC/520SC/620SC we shall be testing the most powerful model in the lineup, GM620SC. Whether you’re an experienced overclocker or budding enthusiast you probably know the PSU is essentially the heart of your system. Without a source of clean, uninterrupted, steadfast current, you’re left with an exorbitantly expensive aluminum "sand box" (silicon in a chassis). The Power One arrived in great condition, and the SkyHawk Power One box clearly details the product's features.

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The finish is quite appealing and craftsmanship looks to be externally top-notch. What was most interesting to me was the size to weight ratio of the unit which was quite compact yet hefty. For example Thermaltake's Pure Silent Power 680W PSU dimensions = 15cmx16.5cmx8.6cm @ 2.7Kg, whereas the SkyHawk GM620SC dimensions = 15cmx14cmx8.6cm @ 2.2Kg. In fact this is the most diminutive PSU I've evaluated to date.

While weight isn't the defining attribute for quality, one would do well to remember quality parts such as transformers, capacitors, large heat sinks, and quality copper wiring all add up to some weight. Of course one could just as easily fill their chassis with rocks, but there's always cost considerations for shipping. Don't think for a moment all these details aren't carefully considered during product development when you hope to ship >50,000 units.

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The brushed finish is preferable to the recent outbreak of mirrored finishes which advertise dust, scratches, and smudges all too easily, although the mirrored finish's propensity for fingerprint retention does make an excellent CSI home test bed. The unit has clean lines and would be ideal for a windowed case.

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After accommodating the PCIe and SATA connectors the final number of modular outlets is just three, however; with multiple Molex per, this should be sufficient.

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The internal's are well organized, and the company has packed a lot of components into this smallish enclosure. Unfortunately there are bno potentiometers to adjust voltage rails, and I would really like to see more PSU maker's include this feature.

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GM620SC Specifications


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Audio Standby and Thermal Fan Control --->
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