Scythe KAMARIKI II 550 Watts Extra Silent PSU Review

Cases & PSU/Power Supplies by SidneyWong @ 2006-05-02

Scythe has come a long way in the last three years in offering PC cooling the quiet way. I still remember the look of the web page first appeared in the summer of 2003. Today, we are taking a look at Scythe?s first power supply entering the U.S. market; KAMARIKI II 550 Watts Extra Silent.

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Conclusion

Conclusion:

What can I say about the Kamariki II, Scythe's first PSU entering the U.S. Market?

I like standard size PSU, the Kamariki II is only 10mm longer, more than that will present mounting issues for some. I have no idea behind using 92mm fan when 120mm is gaining popularity. While I won't complain about the noise level, I am sure some will just by looking at the 92mm fan. And, I can't wait to hear the comment regarding the use of sleeve bearing. Most PC components are sold for DIY who are casual weekend warriors and seldom computer technicians, perception and conformance (peers pressure is a bit too much to be the case) are keys to sell products. Having said that, I found Kamariki II to be a solid performer. If I must disapprove of something, it will be the single cable 4xSATA connector arrangement. Give me two cables with 2x SATA each, this will be better. Power factor falls short from being included in the 80 plus club.

Just as I was finishing up with the article, a forum member was citing issue using an Antec P180 case and an OCZ PSU with insufficient cable length. Using ATX case with power supply other than the "traditional" location will present a problem at times. It seems the Kamariki II provides sufficient cable length for his P180. So, do pay attention to cable length when you are shopping PSU for your out of "ordinary" case (enclosure).

Kamariki II provides the latest requirements in meeting both AMD and Intel specifications. Cables are very flexible for ease of installation and cable management together with individually shielded PCIe cables and connectors for the demanding gamers. At a price point of ~US$122, and demonstrated good customer support, Scythe is gaining another foothold among PC enthusiasts.

Pros:
  • The size (dimension) will fit all cases
  • Excellent cable length & flexibility
  • 9 4-pin Molex and 4 SATA plus 2x shielded PCIe
  • Solid Voltages
  • Meets latest AMD and Intel requirements
  • Reasonable price point

    Cons:
  • 92mm fan
  • Power Factor less than 80%

    Again, I like to thank Scythe US for the test sample and allowing us to share this experience with our readers.

    Questions/Comments: forum thread
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