Specifications and Packaging
The MasterWatt 550W Bronze power supply is rated for a combined, continuous output power of up to 550 watts at 40°C operating temperature. The PSU incorporates a single +12V rail that can deliver up to 45.8A (550W) on the single +12V output. The PSU includes universal AC line input (automatically adjusts to the AC line voltage between 100 and 240 VAC) and active PFC, which makes the unit more environmentally friendly to the local power grid.
Specifications (from the Cooler Master website):
Packaging and Parts
The MasterWatt 550W Bronze power supply arrived packed inside a standard retail box showcasing the unit’s features and specifications.
The power supply is protected by an air-filled plastic insert.
In addition to the power supply, the box contains a power cord, mounting screws, a User Manual, and a bundle of modular cables.
The MasterWatt 550W power supply comes with a standard assortment of cables. The 24-pin and 4+4 pin ATX cables are fixed while the remaining three peripheral cables are modular. (See table above for connector count and cable lengths.)
Surprisingly good for the
Surprisingly good for the price. Is there really any practical difference in functionality of any system components between this powersupply and, say, seasonic platinum 550 watt?
Good question. The practical
Good question. The practical functionality is similar (they both convert AC mains power to the DC voltages required for a PC to operate) but how they do it, how well they do it, and potentially for how long they keep doing may be quite different. The MasterWatt PSU is a mainstream PSU targeted towards the mass market/average user while the Seasonic Platinum PSU is targeted towards PC enthusiasts looking for a premium PSU.
Compared to the MasterWatt, a Seasonic Platinum PSU uses a more sophisticated design, more components, higher quality components, and includes a longer warranty. These differences result in higher efficiency, better voltage regulation, and reduced AC ripple and noise on the DC outputs, which can potentially make your system more stable and live longer.
Thanks for the detailed
Thanks for the detailed answer!
I would like to know the OEM
I would like to know the OEM for this supply. Coolermaster has a history of using seasonic as an oem which is a good thing.
No, the MasterWatt 550W is
No, the MasterWatt 550W is not made by Seasonic. Cooler Master appears to be using HEC (based in Taiwan) as the OEM for the MasterWatt series.
Could you test room
Could you test room temperatures at the different watt % usages ? I would like to know how much the room temp rises at each level of power usage.