Blog

Another 550 W power supply has entered. This time, Taiwanese producer Chieftec delivered their product, which is attempting to sell a new series of A80 power units. The later series is represented by three power supplies: 550, 650, and 750 W units, the middle of which, as previously said, also fell into our hands.

Chieftec was founded in Taiwan in 1990. After determining that the most appealing market is in Europe, the firm established its headquarters in Germany in 1994. Chieftec employs around 6000 people across three plants, two of which are in China and one in Taiwan. For a Lithuanian interested in computer components, it is no surprise that Chieftec’s major products are housings and power units. The server market is very important to the organization.

Choosing a power source for a personal computer has always been a challenge. Especially now, when the major component makers reveal new items virtually every month. To avoid extra “headache,” the user usually selects a power source model with a power reserve. Simultaneously, as always, a happy medium between cost and performance is sought. These are often middle-of-the-road items.

This market niche is, of course, a “tidbit” for each company. And the wide range of middle-tier power supply options available today should come as no surprise. It is clear that Chieftec Industrial did not want to be left out and has released a new series of power supplies CHIEFTEC A80.

Today we will put to the test the average model from this series, the Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply, which has a 550 watt capacity.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Packaging

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply we’re examining comes in a reasonably colorful package, APFC emblems, and mentions of the cables inserted and the quiet fan utilized on the front. The most significant information on the box is that this power unit may only be used in a 230 V network.

This suggests that Chieftec has applied just for the European market. The property of the detachable cables is listed on the opposite sides of the box, as is the number of connections available to the A80 series power units. In the bubble bag, we discover the power unit, various detachable cables, an AC power cable, a user handbook, and mounting screws.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Overview & General Information

The maximum wattage output of the Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply is 550W. This is a mid-range capacity that should be OK as long as it is part of a similarly mid-range system design. Always certain that the power supply you purchase is capable of powering your machine.

Remember that a larger PSU capacity does not always imply a higher power output and a higher electricity cost. In reality, a greater capacity PSU may perform more effectively than a smaller capacity PSU since it is dealing with a lesser percentage of its maximum load.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply has a standard 80 Plus rating. This signifies that the power supply has an average efficiency of at least 80% for loads of 100%, 50%, and 20%. Standard is the lowest 80 Plus certification possible, but with 80% load efficiency minimums, the Chieftec CTG-550C is still a dependable power supply. For loads of 100%, 50%, and 20%, the actual efficiencies of this PSU are 81.62%, 83.77%, and 82.04%, respectively.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply measures 14cm x 15cm x 8.6cm (LxWxH). If you intend to use it in a build, make careful to compare these dimensions to the case you want.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply is modular, which means that wires may be removed and reconnected as needed. This may greatly simplify cable management, resulting in a less chaotic setup and improved ventilation.

Because the Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply is not built for low levels, its persistent drone while your PC is on may be apparent and bothersome, however this may only be an issue for individuals who prefer silent situations.

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Specifications

Model	A80 550W
Article no.	CTG-550C
EAN code	4710713239364
Weight (without/with package)	2.08kg / 2.48kg
AC Input	230V / 6A
Frequency	50 Hz
+5V	22A
+3,3V	22A
+5V & +3,3V combined	120W
+12V1	22A
+12V2	22A
+12V1, +12V2 combined	495W
P.F.	>0,9
-12V	0,3A / 3,6W
+5VSB	2,5A / 12,5W
Maximum Power	550W

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Connectors

20+4 PIN ATX	1
8 PIN EPS(4+4)	1
8 PIN PCIe (6+2)	2
SATA	6
MOLEX/FLOPPY	4/2

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Cable Length (mm)

20+4 PIN ATX	450
8 PIN EPS(4+4)	550
8 PIN PCIe (6+2)	2×550
SATA	2x 450/150/150
MOLEX/FLOPPY	2x 450/150/150

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Features

ATX12V Version	ATX 12V 2.3
Efficiency	>85%
Dimension (DxWxH)	140 mm x 150 mm x 86 mm
PFC	Active PFC (0,9)
Fan	120mm silent fan
Security	AFC (Automatic Fan speed Control)OPP (Over Power Protection)OVP (Over Voltage Protection)SCP (Short Circuit Protection)SIP (Surge & Inrush Protection)UVP (Under Voltage Protection)
Warranty	24 Months

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply Conclusion

Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply, in particular, deserves praise for its excellent voltage management, quiet operation, and detachable cables. On the other hand, the not always proved effectiveness of 85+ or the enormous “spines” of pulsations standing out in the +12 V line should be reprimanded. and 550 W that offers all of this? So, in this situation, the tongue to chastise the Chieftec product just does not roll over, despite the fact that it is far from ideal.

Without a doubt, Chieftec CTG-550C A80 Power Supply is characterized by its incredible value and is the primary lucky one on the budget list, being able to provide the customer characteristics that are not at all affordable.

Benefits:

Astonishing price/quality ratio

All major lines are well regulated.

Disconnectable wires that are silent

Overall, good efficiency and noise cancellation on the line.

Average:

The +12 V line cannot supply the entire power of the PSU.

Large “spines” of noise can occasionally be seen in the +12 V line.

Shortoki cables, particularly ATX12V

Only a two-year warranty is provided.

Disadvantages:

At low loads, efficiency is extremely poor.