(and I am talking about PCs not other things that have nothing to do with this forum).
First, for some reason for which I cannot fathom, so many advanced users and even many self taught computer experts whom I consider my colleagues and forum peers just don't seem to understand that computers are "electronic" devices. And in spite of what these folks truly believe in their hearts, as electronics devices, electrons flow through their circuits just the same as they flow through TVs, microwave ovens, radio receivers, cell phones, coffee pots, etc. And therefore, the electrons flow through these devices in compliance with the Laws of Physics, just like electrons flow in computers, and computer power supplies. This is something anyone with any formal training in basic electronics understands - but so many computer users who don't come from that background seem not to get.
That is just an observation, not a criticism. I don't expect my fellow experts to be certified master electronics technicians and have a thorough understanding of the Laws of Physics as they apply to electronics, or be experts at electron flow (or is it hole flow?
). But I do expect them to accept that computers are electronics too.
So my point is, a power supply is a power supply. Just because a switched-mode AC power supply is used to supply DC voltages in a PC, that does not mean the same supply will behave differently than a switched-mode AC power supply that supplies DC voltages in other devices.
Yes, Seasonic has "earned" a reputation for making quality PC PSUs. But that does not mean all Seasonics meet the same very high standards, nor does it mean there are not other brands that produce equally high quality PSUs - perhaps at a less painful price for the one a tight budget seeking our advice.
The above are just the simple facts. But my personal "opinion" (for whatever that's worth) as a helper on forums like this, is to ensure users get a "quality 80-PLUS Certified" PSU without busting the budget and
technically speaking, it really does not matter who the maker is. I like Seasonics, Antecs and Corsairs, but I am not going to push someone away from the
Rosewill Fortress 450W (assuming 450 meets their need) just because it comes from Rosewill and not one of my preferred brands - even though Rosewill has a "past" reputation for producing lousy supplies.
Why? Because as I noted before (and you can verify yourself through the 80 PLUS link I provided - and not take my word on it), to achieve a "flat" efficiency curve across the full range of expected loads, and to the "EARN" an 80 PLUS certification, the PSU MUST have a quality design using quality parts and quality assembly techniques - then pass very stringent testing. Brand is NOT a factor!
And that takes me to your second point,
second yes there is a standard but nothing that anyone has to adhere to.
NOT TRUE!!!
Curious? Did you read my last post? As I tried to point out in my last post, with a link to the official source, that is NOT true! The ATX Form Factor PSU Design Guide establishes
MANDETORY standards for
ALL ATX compliant power supplies that makers MUST adhere to if they want their PSUs designated as ATX PSUs. The ATX Form Factor Standard ensures "any" ATX compliant PSU will support "any" ATX compliant motherboard, and will mount in "any" ATX compliant case. The standard also establishes voltages and
tolerances for those voltages, to include minimum efficiency and ripple values. And the mandatory standard even establishes which connectors are used on power supplies, motherboards, and peripheral devices like drives.
To be sure, manufactures MUST adhere to those standards!
So I am sorry! But you are wrong to say there is "
nothing that anyone has to adhere to".
80 PLUS Certification is not mandatory. So this is where users and advisors need to do their homework, and advisors need to ensure they guide users towards 80 PLUS Certified PSUs, so they avoid mediocre designs.
greenbrucelee said:
And third I can't be arsed talking to someone who thinks he knows everything and basically trolls the forums once in a while.
I feel the same way about someone who stoops to personal attacks when they are unable or unwilling to support their position with facts, or who refuse to accept they posted inaccurate information.
I research to make sure I am right before posting. I reference sources so readers can see for themselves and don't have to believe me. Why? Because someone will surely point out if post something wrong and I get mad at myself and embarrassed if I give inaccurate advice. But I don't intentionally insult the poster or call them names when I get it wrong and they point it out! I take it as an learning opportunity because contrary to your denigrating accusations, I know there will always be much more to learn in this ever evolving universe of consumer electronics.
If you want to discuss facts, I am here. If you want to toss personal insults, I am not going there and you won't hear from me again.
@bearsus - once again I apologize for these unnecessary, distractions.