Hiper HPU-4M630 & HPU-4M880

Next generation platforms and high performance graphics cards are essential to modern gamers and hardware enthusiasts, just as much as the new software designed to use them. Hiper has been providing performance systems with stable power for quite some time, and with a new focus on efficiency they can offer a penny-wise solution for everyone. Their latest Type M power supply series delivers 630W in the HPU-4M630 model and 880W in the HPU-4M880. The entire Type M series is built to provide excellent performance and efficient power to demanding GPU teams and quad-core systems while being stable and long-lasting to accommodate the needs of bleeding-edge technology for years to come.

Certainly by now we can all agree that the power supply unit is the single most important part of any computer. Regardless of the system or purpose there is a given rule: whether it is a simple workstation with integrated components or an advanced gaming system with newest technology available, everything requires power to operate. As anyone who has suffered the failure of a low-end power supply will tell you: not all power supply units (PSU's) are created equal, and looks really don't mean a thing.

While most of the mundane workstations found on top of office desks would do well with almost any PSU because of their minimal power consumption, anyone utilizing one of Intel or AMD's latest line of processors with a modern graphics card will have no choice but to upgrade. Although I believe only the most hardcore gamers would ever call 880W of power to feed their energy-thirsty team of video cards, that doesn't stop Hiper from giving others the opportunity for expansion if it were ever necessary. High Performance Group (Hiper) builds several power supply units, and today our mission here at Benchmark Reviews is to pick-apart their latest Type M series of PSU's. Available in both 630W (HPU-4M630) and 880W (HPU-4M880), we will do our best to offer perspective on the DC voltage regulation and AC current ripple.

Benchmark Reviews has seen some major changes within the power supply industry over the past year. Even in such a limited purpose industry, somehow fads manage to come into existence. At one point, the number of rails a PSU offered was key to media hype. At another point, you could see everyone pushing for the highest watts in their new product. I can't forget how modular power supplies, with the assortment of cables and interfaces, also shared some time in the limelight.

The latest trends include 80-PLUS efficiency ratings, but since most manufacturers submit their own stated specifications to Ecos for certification the lack of regulated official testing has caused the badge has lose meaning. Not that efficiency isn't still important, but manufacturers have tried to attract buyers with several features. Without any warning, it was as if every company manufacturing power supply units suddenly decided that they could win the battle for industry dominance by combining all of the above features, and add a nice paint job or mirror finish for good measure. The new generation of power supplies has begun to amp up the competition for placement in your computer case. Antec’s EarthWatts series was among the first to cause a stir in the PSU industry by emphasizing efficient power delivery over the multi-rail hype over two years ago. But now 80% or better efficiency is very common.

Somehow, the industry is shifting back to square one. The Hiper HPU-4M630 and HPU-4M880 models do not offer modular cable groups, and other manufacturers are following this model. The primary complaint is the failure rate of such modular connections and units, which has caused manufacturers to receive higher returns for non-faulty products due to cable and connection issues.

About the company: High Performance Group (Hiper)

High Performance Group was founded with the passion of providing the computer users & customers the best innovative products & services. The company's nontraditional approach from its patented design to its business conducts gains itself partnership with many respectable firms including AMD. Always committed to excellence, High Performance Group strives to be the best in every aspect.

Hiper Business Philosophy (V.I.P.)

VIGOROUS
People are the core of any business. Our name "High Performance Group" not only implies to its product, but also to its people. Our company is filled with vigorous officers & staff; "whatever it takes" is our spirit, our belief, as well as our habit.

INNOVATIVE
Hiper (trademarked) represents our corporate identity in the ultimate form. This symbol represents true innovation. Hiper product line is always imitated, but can never be duplicated. Our entire ID, mechanical, electrical, electronics, visual effect & web designer teams are truly elites in the industry because their passion of embracing technology & changes is noticeable with the first contact. It captures even the most ordinary person's attention with details everyone appreciates.

PROACTIVE
High Performance Group means proactive way of business. Our solid & honest policy in business put everyone at peace, and then we police and enforce it. We make sure that our business partners (you are included) are well protected. Many who joined us has become us, and we are sure that you'll become one of us once you join us.

Type M Features & Specifications

The Hiper HPU-4M630 and HPU-4M880 represent the new ultra-efficient (85%) power solutions of the Type M Series with the well-known HIPER Mesh-Design in an environmental-friendly packaging. Both models comply with latest ATX12V v2.2 & EPS12V v2.91 form factors.

Hiper Type M Features

• New PCI-E 8 pin available
• NVIDIA SLI^TM- Ready Certified up to Dual GeForce 8800 Ultra.
• 4 X independent 12V rails
• Complies with latest ATX12V v2.2/EPS12V v2.91 form factors
• Fully compatible with AMD 64 bit and Intel LGA processors
• Active PFC
• Extender^TM cable kit
• Gold plated connectors for minimum power loss and optimal conductivity
• PCI-E,SATA,Molex with EZ-Grip, floppy, P4 & P8 connectors
• 20 dB(A) under normal load

Type M HPU-4M630 Specifications

Type M HPU-4M880 Specifications

Closer Look: Exterior Design

The very first thing to catch your eye with the Type M series is not the product; it's the box the product comes in. Unlike other power supply manufacturers who have claimed a strong dedication to being "Green" and saving the planet, Hiper actually walks the walk and delivers what they promise. Efficiency is king with the new Type M line of power supplies, but not without the consideration of reusing material for their product packaging. Hiper has been shipping their product in recycled cardboard packaging for quite some time now; so just like Starbucks they can be an example for the rest of the industry.

The lack of a glossy finish on the retail package doesn't mean the contents inside will have any similarity, however. From the moment I first opened the box containing the Hiper HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 Type M PSU's, I knew my photographs would not do the product justice. The chassis on the Type M series is a constructed of a mesh design that is painted semi-gloss black.

Hiper has cleverly designed the finish of the HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 Type M PSU's to be both attractive and appealing, while at the same time being functionally effective and finger-print friendly. The patterned finish does an excellent job of making prints, smears, and smudges disappear; while at the same time offers a great looking alternative to a simple black paint job on a square steel chassis.

At the front of the Hiper Type M series there are large grommets protecting the large array of cables and wires. Hiper uses a very unique approach the the Type M series and separates the cable groups by utilizing a large grommet "plate".

From these image you can see that the Type M series has far more cooling vents than other power supply units. Even with an efficient 630W or 880W unit there is still room for improvement to the component cooling design.

At the rear of the Hiper HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 Type M PSU's you see just how effective a simple design can be. A single 135mm sleeve bearing fan draws air down onto the electronic components, and the intentional design patterns force the circulation to carry the heater air out through the rear vents.

Rounding out the back end is an standard-size master power switch. Active power factor correction replaces the antiquated 110/220 switch, and also adds a higher level of power efficiency to the product.

All sides of the chassis (except the bottom) have mesh vents which help keep components cool despite the fans power. I image that this is a glimpse of the future, because one day we will see power supplies so efficient that they require no active cooling. One day I predict personal computer power supplies will resemble the modular power adapters (power bricks) that we use for notebook computers. A consumer will merely take their cube shaped component and plug it into a PSU receptacle. If this idea ever comes true, make sure to quote Benchmark Reviews.

Closer Look: Cables and Wiring

By remaining non-modular with the cables and wiring, you might begin to think that the HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 native cable groups and wires could become a bit overwhelming once the unit is installed into the computer chassis. This is actually quite the opposite, thanks to the limited number of connections which make way for Hiper's Extender cable end kits. The images below give excellent examples of the many cables and connections available from the Type M series, and it also depicts how many cables you might have to find a home for.

Each cable group on the Hiper HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 Type M PSU's are fully sleeved and sealed, providing excellent durability for the wires. This design should provide years of worry-free service, and may also reduce mechanical breakdown.

The image below offers a chart depicting the various connectors available to both the Hiper HPU-4M880 & HPU-4M680 Type M PSU's. One of my favorite features is the "EZ-Grip" tabs on the Molex connections. I have no idea why more manufacturers aren't using them, because they should be standard equipment on every connector end.

In addition to the convenient EZ-Grip feature, other nice extra that I seem to only find in Hiper power supply units is the use of a pass-though Molex connector. In the image above the connections for the HPU-4M630 are listed, which has two 6-pin PCI-E connections and a single 8-pin. With the Hiper HPU-4M880 there are four 6-pin PCI-E connections and two 8-pin. Hiper could have copied the ePower Technology EP-1200P10 and use an 8-pin design with a detachable side reverting it to the (soon to be legacy) six pin connector. It would have removed one cable from the group, and made the wires more manageable.

Load Testing

I am well aware of what the more knowledgeable readers think about these power supply reviews: impractical and often useless. Benchmark Reviews is working hard to change that impression. Recording voltage with a digital multimeter alone offers no value to the test, since power fluctuates a great deal in the span of a single millisecond. Because of this, Benchmark Reviews has taken a corrected approach to testing PSU's and hopes to offer the best analysis possible.

Power supplies are not like most other computer components, where it is a simple matter of comparing the item to others in the same category. Power supply's are comprised of several different variables, such as maximum output, energy efficiency, voltage regulation, and current ripple. Each of these variables must be analyzed with unique tools, which makes it properly review a power supply unit without them.

Benchmark Reviews has researched the equipment necessary to complete the most thorough power supply unit review possible. We spent the time learning what it takes because the best possible PSU tests are what we want to give to our readers. But after discovering the prices on a programmable output DC power supply system, variable range load testing units, and a DC power analyzer (Oscilloscope), we felt that more than ten-thousand dollars worth of equipment would be far too cost prohibitive for testing power supply units worth $100-$300. So without compromising too much, we made a slightly less-expensive investment into a good quality Oscilloscope in order to test DC voltage regulation and AC power ripple. Additionally, the CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD 1500VA 900W LCD UPS reports the total power load drawn by the system. Used together, the Oscilloscope. LCD UPS, and digital multimeter will offer readers the best measurement of power stability any review site could reasonably offer.

Test System

• Motherboard: ASUS P5K3 Deluxe (Intel P35 chipset) with version 0810 BIOS
• Processor: Intel E6550 Core 2 Duo 2.33GHz operating at 3.3GHz
• System Memory: Corsair PC3-14400 DDR3 1800MHz 2GB RAM Kit @ 1889MHz
• Cooling: Xigmatek HDT-S1283 Exposed Copper Heatpipe CPU Cooler
• Video: FOXCONN GeForce 8800 GTS 640MB overclocked to 600MHz Core / 900MHz RAM
• Audio: HT Omega Claro Plus+ AD8620BR Op Amp HD Sound Card
• Hard Disk 1: Western Digital WD360GD 10,000 RPM SATA
• Optical Drive: Toshiba Samsung SH-S203 SATA 20x DVD R/W
• Enclosure: Lian Li PC-B25B Black Aluminum Mid-Tower ATX Case
• Operating System: Windows XP Professional SP-2 (optimized to 16 processes at idle)

A/C Power Draw Index

During testing, the test system described above consumed the following power statistics:

Hiper HPU-4M630 Type M Power Supply Unit

• 198W Idle (0% CPU utilization / 2D low power GPU)
• 306W Fully Loaded (100% CPU utilization / 3D high power GPU)

Hiper HPU-4M820 Type M Power Supply Unit

• 198W Idle (0% CPU utilization / 2D low power GPU)
• 306W Fully Loaded (100% CPU utilization / 3D high power GPU)

Test Equipment

• Velleman PCSU-1000 Oscilloscope
  • DC Voltage Regulation Settings: 2V DC Volt/Division, 60MHz 1x, 1ms
  • AC Power Ripple Settings: 50mV Volt/Division, 60MHz 1x, 1ms
• PC-Lab2000SE v3.05 Interface Software
• Extech 450 Auto ranging Digital Multimeter
• CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD 1500VA 900W LCD UPS
• ATITool v.26 Video Card Overclock Utility
• Folding@home v6.00 Beta 1 Console Client

Test Methodology

Our testing process is comprised of measuring the AC current ripple, and the DC voltage regulation. There are several key steps, all of which allow us to measure and record our readings using the identical methods for every test we perform. Over time, there have been many changes to the test environment in terms of system hardware and software versions. We understand that consistent in our testing methods is very important in order for the results obtained to be comparable.

At the start of every test, the Velleman PCSU-1000 Oscilloscope is calibrated with the PC-Lab2000SE software. After calibration is complete, the voltage on the 12V rails are measured and recorded with the Extech 450 digital multimeter to ensure comparable margin across all rails. Once the Velleman 60MHz probe has been grounded and attached to the 12V lead, our test system is powered on and left at the Windows logon screen for ten minutes.

Once this lightly-loaded idle warm up period is complete, the Velleman PCSU-1000 Oscilloscope was allowed to run for one minute measuring the AC power ripple. These readings are displayed several times per second, so a visual inspection of the most common (average) reading is recorded for our test results.

After the results have been recorded from the light idle load, our test system then receives heavy load by utilizing ATITool to scan for artifacts and two Folding@home console clients. ATITool forces the video card into high-power 3D mode, and the Folding@home clients cause 100% CPU utilization on each core. After many months of research, these two programs have proven to create more power draw than anything else available, including the combined EVEREST System Stability Test. After another minute of heavy load the power supply is again measured, and the AC power ripple and 12V DC voltage regulation results are recorded.

HPU-4M630 Test Results

In the test results below, it might be necessary to explain what you are viewing. In each image the AC power ripple is represented by the yellow trace line making up the waveform. While every personal computer power supply unit available to the retail market has some degree of measurable AC power ripple, it is most important that measurable AC ripple is very minor and does not create a large peak to peak voltage (Vpp) distortion. Stable, well-regulated power is critical to system stability and hardware longevity.

AC Ripple Waveform at Light Idle Load

The waveform image above shows the AC power ripple under light idle load, which is measured inside of a 1ms recording frame. Waveform data recorded during the light idle load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Light Idle Load

The waveform data above describes the actual measurements at light idle load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 39.0 mV under light idle load. Note that these results are less favorable than the average results we have collected under light idle load.

Here are the average AC RMS ripple measurements under light idle load for power supplies we have recently tested:

The waveform image below shows the AC power ripple under heavy load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 36.2 mV under heavy load. Note that these results fall within the average of test results we have collected under heavy load.

AC Ripple Waveform at Heavy Load

Under heavy load, the Hiper HPU-4M630 630W Power Supply Unit measured an average AC RMS ripple just slightly lower than the ripple at light idle load, which is very good despite the readings. The waveform data recorded during the heavy load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Heavy Load

Because the Hiper HPU-4M630 PSU offered above-average results in the idle readings, I didn't really expect them to get any better; but this PSU recorded better results into the heavy load tests. Here are the average AC RMS ripple measurements under heavy load for other power supplies we have recently tested:

DC Voltage Regulation Waveform Data at Light Idle and Heavy Load

At a glance, the Hiper HPU-4M630 really left me unimpressed with the above-average AC ripple fluctuations and high deviation in DC peak-to-peak voltage regulation. These readings were taken with a 50% load on the 630W rated power supply output.

Many of the power supplies we test here at Benchmark Reviews have DC voltage regulation measuring above the 12V baseline more often than below. For obvious reasons, the diversion from the 12V baseline with increased voltage is more preferred than below it since dropping too far under 12V will cause a system to power off or recycle. Plainly put, no power supply is ever perfectly centered at 12V DC; instead they most often maintain a DC mean voltage higher than they are regulated at.

HPU-4M880 Test Results

In the test results below, it might be necessary to explain what you are viewing. In each image the AC power ripple is represented by the yellow trace line making up the waveform. While every personal computer power supply unit available to the retail market has some degree of measurable AC power ripple, it is most important that measurable AC ripple is very minor and does not create a large peak to peak voltage (Vpp) distortion. Stable, well-regulated power is critical to system stability and hardware longevity.

AC Ripple Waveform at Light Idle Load

The waveform image above shows the AC power ripple under light idle load, which is measured inside of a 1ms recording frame. Waveform data recorded during the light idle load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Light Idle Load

The waveform data above describes the actual measurements at light idle load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 24.2 mV under light idle load. Note that these results are slightly better than the average results we have collected under light idle load.

Here are the average AC RMS ripple measurements under light idle load for power supplies we have recently tested:

The waveform image below shows the AC power ripple under heavy load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 36.9 mV under heavy load. Note that these results fall within the average of test results we have collected under heavy load.

AC Ripple Waveform at Heavy Load

Under heavy load, the Hiper HPU-4M880 880W Power Supply Unit measured an average AC RMS ripple just a little higher than the ripple at light idle load, which is very good. The waveform data recorded during the heavy load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Heavy Load

Because the Hiper HPU-4M880 PSU offered above-average results in the idle readings, I didn't really expect them to get any better; but this PSU recorded good results into the heavy load tests. Here are the average AC RMS ripple measurements under heavy load for other power supplies we have recently tested:

DC Voltage Regulation Waveform Data at Light Idle and Heavy Load

At a glance, the acceptable Hiper HPU-4M880 AC ripple measurements gave me the impression that 880W was a good power solution for my test system hardware. However, the above-average DC deviation in peak-to-peak voltage regulation left me unimpressed. These readings were taken with a 35% load on the 880W rated power supply output.

Many of the power supplies we test here at Benchmark Reviews have DC voltage regulation measuring above the 12V baseline more often than below. For obvious reasons, the diversion from the 12V baseline with increased voltage is more preferred than below it since dropping too far under 12V will cause a system to power off or recycle. Plainly put, no power supply is ever perfectly centered at 12V DC; instead they most often maintain a DC mean voltage higher than they are regulated at.

Final Thoughts

When Intel Corporation drafted the ATX12V Power Supply Design Guide v2.2 back in March of 2005, they probably didn't expect fuel and utility prices to grow over 300%. Take into account the growing power consumption needs of modern consumer electronics and personal computers, and the need for highly-efficient components becomes critical. This is why 80 PLUS seems to be the buzz word of choice for most power supply manufacturers.

The ATX12V Design Guide v2.2 states in section 1.2.2 that power supplies must measure a minimum 70% efficiency under typical load, with 80% efficiency as the recommended guidance. As it stands now, all High Performance Group power supplies have followed the ATX12V 2.2. specification guidance for quite some time now, and with an 85% efficiency (as tested by Chroma) the new Type M series is ultra-efficient.

Hiper Type M Conclusion

In addition to power efficiency, Hiper packages their Type M series in a truly green approach: recycled post-consumer cardboard. The retail packaging contains plenty of important product features and specifications, while helping to preserve resources.

The Hiper HPU-4M630 and HPU-4M880 Type M Power Supply Units offer a unique open-grill style chassis. A semi-gloss black painted finish helps hide fingerprints and maintains an elegant and appealing overall appearance.

Power supply units are one of the few computer components which historically have been built solid. Hiper has kept with tradition and offers a rugged product within the Type M, something only a non-modular product could assure.

Both the HPU-4M630 630W and HPU-4M880 880W PSU's measured some average AC ripple and DC voltage regulation readings. While there aren't any major items on my list of recommended improvements, I would still like to see some refinement in the performance category as the AC ripple and DC voltage regulation are not what I consider to be a fine example of power supply technology as we approach 2008. Otherwise, this unit survives my inspection with no real flaws to be found.

At the moment, both the Hiper HPU-4M630 and HPU-4M880 880W Type M Power Supply Units are just arriving to market. Presently, the HPU-4M630 is available for $99.50, which is exactly average of the price range for 630W PSU's. The Hiper HPU-4M880 Type M PSU currently sells for $189.99 at NewEgg.com, which also places it at the center of pricing for 880W power supplies.

Hiper offers a little of everything with the Type M series. In most cases, when I review a power supply unit there are are only a few key factors for me to consider. First and foremost is performance, followed by functionality, appearance, and then value. Hiper has always managed to come out ahead regardless of the product; sometimes the performance is exceptional and the looks are average, and other times appearance and functionality are phenomenal (such as in the Hiper HPU-4K530-MS Type R PSU) and the performance is average. In regards to the Type M series, I have found both the Hiper HPU-4M630 and HPU-4M880 880W PSU's to offer performance, functionality, appearance, and value all at a notch just above average. Perhaps I'm a bit critical, but then again I see more power supplies for review than almost every other website out there and Hiper has always left me impressed with in at least one particular category. It seems that the Type M series is made for the every-man; and not one particular group.

Pros:

+ 85% Power efficiency
+ Four 12V+ power rails
+ Variable length cable groups
+ Convenient Molex pass-through connectors
+ Plenty of native connections
+ High-quality construction
+ Great component cooling
+ Attractive black finish

Cons:

- Below average (but within spec) AC ripple (HPU-4M630)
- No rubber safety caps for unused connections

Ratings:

• Presentation: 8.50
• Appearance: 8.50
• Construction: 9.0
• Functionality: 8.75
• Value: 8.25

Final Score: 8.6 out of 10.

Questions? Comments? Benchmark Reviews really wants your feedback. We invite you to leave your remarks in our Discussion Forum.

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