Load testing the PSU

So here's where we start a selection of gaming tests well balanced for optimal CPU (multi-core) and GPU performance. We take a multi-meter and tap critical points at the PCB and motherboard during system load and when idle.

We then observe the voltage fluctuation. A lot of de/increases would indicate instability. Typically when you put the power supply under a lot of stress, the voltage would drop downwards. Here we have tapped the 5 volts peripheral line.

But obviously the graphics cards are consuming the most power and that's the optimal spot to check up on voltage fluctuations.

For our test we used several pieces of software including the Cryostasis PhysX Demo which allows us to go hard on the GTX 295 (Quad SLI) AND ALSO use PhysX. But also a looped 3DMark Vantage GPU test is something we use to stress the system with. During the test runs we simply monitor voltage fluctuations.

With the system we built and overclocked we would touch roughly ~700 Watts load. A perfect wattage level to test the PSU as it is close to it's theoretical limit. Anyway, during the stress test the system remained 100% stable. On the backside, where the airflow mesh is located the PSU got luke warm, just above body temperature. So under heavy load it will get slightly warm at best, remember this was with a 700 Watt power draw.

Some notes here. Powered down the PSU consumes very little current, we measured 4 Watts. Accumulated, though we had so much gear plugged into this system, the power consumption remained fairly low on average , making me believe that 80-85% power efficiency is very plausible.