Test Setup and Methodology

Gamer's Test Setup
CPU	AMD Athlon FX-57
Mainboard	EPox 9NPA+ SLI
Memory	2x1Gb PC3200 GSkill
Video Cards	2* Aopen 7800GTX 256Mb
Case and Cooling	Lian-Li V2000 120mm front/120mm back
Other	Maxtor 200Gb Maxtor 120Gb Sony DRU-710A

The PSU was used for several weeks in this SLI system, many sessions of Battle Field 2 later I’m convinced that this unit can deliver the power needed for a demanding game-rig.



Using a multi-meter I measured the different rails while 3DMark2006 was looped for several hours then the test was repeated during DVD burning.

Results



The Real Power 550W SLI holds all the lines well within the safe margins


From Planet3dnow ©


Conclusive Thoughts

Coolermaster first Real Power unit introduced almost 2 years ago at Cebit has offered many enthusiasts a good value for money PSU, their latest unit is again priced very competitively around the $/€100 mark (EU/US) and offers solid performance for those with power hungry dual video card systems. Their tried and cooling design using a 120mm fan keeps noise levels down and this will surely be appreciated during those none-gaming sessions.

For the extreme enthusiast this unit lacks the adjustable rails and maybe that extra oomph for over-volting and overclocking your hardware but at the end of the day you have to realize that only a small percentage of the potential buyers out there are into this.

If you bought yourself a high end system and want a decent PSU then the Real Power 550W will deliver.

PRO
SLI certified PSU
Stable voltages on all rails within specifications
Competitively priced (~$/€100)
Attention to detail, good finish
Silent operation

CON
No adjustable voltage rails

I thank Joost from Coolermaster for setting us up with the test unit.

Question/Comments: forum thread