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Hiper HPU-5K880 and HPU-5B680 Type R Mk II PSU's
Reviews - Featured Reviews: Power
Written by Olin Coles   
Wednesday, 16 January 2008

HPU-5K880 & HPU-5B680

Fresh from our review of the HPU-4M880/HPU-4M630 Type M Series, Hiper returns with an all new concept for power supply units. By combining the passive cooling of an open-grill chassis design with a set of integrated High-Speed USB ports, Hiper introduces their Type R Mk-II power supplies in 680W and 880W versions. Benchmark Reviews reveals the innovative HPU-5K880 & HPU-5B680 PSU's with our set of power regulation tests.

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. The newly revised Type R Mk-II power supply series delivers 660W in the HPU-5B680 model and 880W in the HPU-5K880. The entire Type R Mk-II 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.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU's

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. With this in mind, we should all be able to agree that the power supply unit is the single most important part of any computer. 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 newly revamped Type R series of PSU's. Available in both 680W (HPU-5B680) and 880W (HPU-5K880), we will do our best to offer perspective on the DC voltage regulation and AC current ripple.

Hiper HPU-5K880 & HPU-5B680 Type R-II PSU's

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.

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.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

Somehow, the industry is shifting back to square one. Both Hiper products we are reviewing (HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W) 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 in Milton Keynes/UK in 2001. Based on high-end marketing and technology expertise the company is now among the leading manufacturers of PC Components in the world with 6 offices and 3 warehouses. The brand name HIPER represents the cutting edge technology, quality, passion and entrepreneurial spirit of more than 250 employees throughout Europe, Asia and North America put in every single product that is shipped from our own manufacturing facilities.

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 R-II Features & Specifications

The Hiper HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W PSU's represent the new ultra-efficient (85%) power solutions of the Type R Mk-II 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.

Type_R_Mk_II.png

Hiper Type R-II Features

  • 8x USB port (NEC chipset) + 1x portable device charger port.
  • Ultra-efficiency at ≈ 85%.
  • New PCI-E 8 pin x 2.
  • NVIDIA SLI - Ready Certified up to Dual GeForce 8800 Ultra.
  • Cable Extender System
  • 4x independent 12V rails.
  • Mesh body construction allows immediate heat dissipation and extends the life of the unit.
  • Complies with latest ATX12V v2.2 / EPS12V v2.91 form factors.
  • Fully compatible with AMD 64 bit and Intel LGA processors.
  • Active PFC.
  • Gold plated connectors for minimum power loss and optimal conductivity.
  • PCI-E 6 pin, PCI-E 8 pin, SATA, Molex with EZ-Grip, floppy, P8 & P4 connectors .
  • Modular power cord (European model only).
  • 20 dB(A) under normal load.
  • Free travel PAK.

HPU-5B680 Specifications

Wattage Rated Wattage 680 Watts
Peak Load 890 Watts
Switch Type Manual Rocker
Auto Standby ATX Logic
Fan(Intake) 135 x 1 35 x25 ~ R.P.M. 1000 ~ 1800 R.P.M
Bearing Type Sleeve Bearing
Input Parameter Voltage Range 100 - 240 V
Current 12 ~ 5 A
Frequency Range 47 ~ 63 Hz
Form Factor ATX12V 2.2
EPS12V 2.91
Efficiency 85%
Output Parameter +5V (± 5%) 2 ~ 28 A
+12V 1 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
+12V 2 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
+12V 3 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
+12V 4 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
-12V (± 10%) 0 ~ 0.8 A
+5VSB (± 5%) 0 ~ 3 A
+3.3V (± 5%) 0.5 ~ 30 A
Output Load Regulation 12V1 & 12V2&12V3 &12V4 < 624 W (52A)
+3.3V & +5V < 180 W
+3.3V&+5V & +12V < 660 W
Output Voltage Protection +3.3V < 4.5V
+5V < 7V
+12V < 15.6V
Power Good Signal Rise Time < 20 ms
Signal On 100 - 500 ms
Signal Off 1 ms min.
Power Hold 14 ms min.
PFC Power Factor Correction Active
Chassis Thickness 1 mm
Unit Size Dimension 180 x 150 x 86 mm
7.1" x 5.9" x 3.4"
Weight Net Weight 2.4 Kg

HPU-5K880 Specifications

Wattage Rated Wattage 880 Watts
Peak Load 1040 Watts
Switch Type Manual Rocker
Auto Standby ATX Logic
Fan(Intake) 135 x 1 35 x25 ~ R.P.M. 1000 ~ 1800 R.P.M
Bearing Type Sleeve Bearing
Input Parameter Voltage Range 100 - 240 V
Current 12 ~ 6 A
Frequency Range 47 ~ 63 Hz
Form Factor ATX12V 2.2
EPS12V 2.91
Efficiency 85%
Output Parameter +5V (± 5%) 2 ~ 30 A
+12V 1 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
+12V 2 (± 5%) 1 ~ 18 A
+12V 3 (± 5%) 1 ~ 30 A
+12V 4 (± 5%) 1 ~ 30 A
-12V (± 10%) 0 ~ 0.8 A
+5VSB (± 5%) 0 ~ 3 A
+3.3V (± 5%) 0.5 ~ 30 A
Output Load Regulation 12V1 & 12V2&12V3 &12V4 < 768 W (64A)
+3.3V & +5V < 180 W
+3.3V&+5V & +12V < 860 W
Output Voltage Protection +3.3V < 4.5V
+5V < 7V
+12V < 15.6V
Power Good Signal Rise Time < 20 ms
Signal On 100 - 500 ms
Signal Off 1 ms min.
Power Hold 14 ms min.
PFC Power Factor Correction Active
Chassis Thickness 1 mm
Unit Size Dimension 180 x 150 x 86 mm
7.1" x 5.9" x 3.4"
Weight Net Weight 2.6 Kg

Type R Mk-II HPU-5B680 Exterior

Ever since I first saw the original Hiper HPU-4K530-MS Type R with the nice reusable plastic tub I knew that this was not your ordinary power supply. Practically every single power supply I have ever seen, whether it was for an article on Benchmark Reviews or for sale by Performance Computer Inc, it has always come in a cardboard box.

This unique packaging is the very first thing to catch your eye. The glossy finish on the retail package is your first clue that the contents inside may have be that much better than the rest. Opening the tub, which really resembles the small fishing tackle box I had as a child, there is a tray with several different compartments built into it. Ideally, screws and connectors can fit into these compartments, and the tub may double as a nice safe spot for extra components as you transport your system or simply for storage.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

Once the Type R Mk II was removed from the tub, I knew my photographs would not do the product justice. The chassis on the Type R (II) is exactly like the Type M series we just reviewed, and is a constructed of a mesh design which is anodized either reflective black or blue.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

Hiper has cleverly designed the finish on the HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II 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.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

At the rear of the Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II PSU (pictured above) 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 intentionally open-air design pattern forces the circulation to carry the heater air out through the rear vents.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

From these images you can see how Hiper has elevated the Type R Mk II (and Type M) series with far more cooling vents than other power supply unit. Even when you build an efficient 680W or 880W unit, Hiper proves that there is always room for improvement to the component cooling design.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

At the front of the Hiper Type R Mk II series there is are large grommet wrapped around the chassis opening which protects the large array of native cables and wires. Hiper uses a very unique approach the the Type R Mk II series and separates the cable groups by utilizing a large grommet "plate".

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

Hiper might be the first manufacturer I am aware of to add an entire USB hub to their power supply product. Based on the NEC chipset, this USB hub offers eight High-Speed USB 2.0 ports, with an additional 1.0 ampere USB port specifically designed to fast-charge connectible devices.

Type R Mk-II HPU-5K880 Exterior

The Hiper HPU-5K880 880W power supply unit is identical to the HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II PSU is every way except power output. Both are available in black or blue reflective finishes, and both offer native cable connections.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R-II PSU's

Also identical among the entire Type R Mk II series is the reusable tub which contains the PSU. Once you install the PSU, the tub works well to hold any additional wire or devices that you carry with you.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R-II PSU's

Although the black on black appearance may do well to hide fingerprints and dust, I think that it would have been great to have the USB cables be equally as conspicuous. Since they connect directly into the motherboard USB output, there isn't much chance of hiding them. Hopefully Hiper can match them to the rest of the cables in future production runs.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R-II PSU's

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.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R-II PSU's

By maintaining a clean array of native cables, Hiper offers a very easy approach to cable management inside the computer case. The entire Type R Mk-II series of PSU's has a clear advantage over other power supplies that simply bundle all of the cables together into one major group.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R-II PSU's

All sides of the chassis (except the bottom) have mesh vents which help keep components cool despite the fans active cooling. I imagine that this is a glimpse of the future, because one day we will see power supplies so efficient that they require no active cooling.

Type R Mk-II Cables and Wiring

By remaining non-modular with the cables and wiring, you might begin to think that the HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II 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.

HPU-5B680 Configuration

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.

HPU-5B680_Connectors.jpg
HPU-5B680_Cables.png

Each cable group within the Hiper HPU-5K880 880W and HPU-5B680 680W power supplies 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.

HPU-5K880 Configuration

On the upside of things, every cable group is fully sleeved with nylon weave. This in becoming a standard across the industry, with only a few holdouts. Thankfully, Hiper has been at the forefront of progressive change, and so sleeves are nothing new. 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.

HPU-5K880_Connectors.jpg
HPU-5K880_Cables.png

For the serious power supply enthusiast, we have included this handy reference chart above for pin-out wiring. Some of you might think that this chart is a waste, but you would be surprised by how many hardware enthusiasts modify their power supply wiring or create custom connections.

Connector_Pin_Assignment.png

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. Conversely, 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.

PSU 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.

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU

Test System

A/C Power Draw Index

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

Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II Power Supply Unit

  • 207W Idle (0% CPU utilization / 2D low power GPU)
  • 315W Fully Loaded (100% CPU utilization / 3D high power GPU)

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R Mk-II 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
  • 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.

Hiper HPU-5B680 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

HPU-5B680_idle_ac_waveform.png

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

HPU-5B680_Idle_AC_Data.png

The waveform data above describes the actual measurements at light idle load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 24.5 mV under light idle load. Note that this result is slightly less favorable than the average readings 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:

AC Power Ripple at Idle Load

The waveform image below shows the AC power ripple under heavy load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 32.16 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

HPU-5B680_load_ac_waveform.png

Under heavy load, the Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Power Supply Unit measured an average AC RMS ripple just slightly higher than the ripple at light idle load, which measures slightly better than the average results we have recorded. The waveform data recorded during the heavy load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Heavy Load

HPU-5B680_Load_AC_Data.png

Because the Hiper HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II PSU offered less than average results in the idle readings, I didn't really expect them to get much better; but depite the increase is RMS ripple this PSU recoorded 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:

AC Power Ripple at Heavy Load

The power dropped down to no less than 11.94 V, which means that even under heavy load there is no chance that system stability will be affected. Under light idle load conditions the DC regulation averaged 0.25 Vpp, and only slightly increased under heavy load to a measured 0.31 Vpp; both power regulation results are well above average. The DC regulation data recorded at light and heavy load is displayed in the chart below:

DC Voltage Regulation Waveform Data at Light Idle and Heavy Load

HPU-5B680_Idle_DC_Data.png HPU-5B680_Load_DC_Data.png

At a glance, the Hiper HPU-5B680 offered near-average AC ripple fluctuation with very little deviation in DC peak-to-peak voltage regulation. These idle readings were taken with a 31% load of 207W and the stress readings were taken with a 46% load of 315W on the 680W 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.

Hiper HPU-5K880 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

HPU-5K880_idle_ac_waveform.png

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

HPU-5K880_Idle_AC_Data.png

The waveform data above describes the actual measurements at light idle load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 32.3 mV under light idle load. Note that this result is among the less favorable readings 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:

AC Power Ripple at Idle Load

The waveform image below shows the AC power ripple under heavy load. The maximum AC RMS ripple was 37.7 mV under heavy load. Note that this result falls within the average of test results we have collected under heavy load.

AC Ripple Waveform at Heavy Load

HPU-5K880_load_ac_waveform.png

Under heavy load, the Hiper HPU-5K880 880W Type R Mk-II Power Supply Unit measured an average AC RMS ripple just slightly higher then the ripple at light idle load, which is considerably good. The waveform data recorded during the heavy load measurement is represented in the chart below:

AC Ripple Waveform Data at Heavy Load

HPU-5K880_Load_AC_Data.png

Because the Hiper HPU-5K880 PSU offered higher than average AC ripple results in the idle readings, I didn't really expect them to get any better; but then this 880W 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:

AC Power Ripple at Heavy Load

The power dropped down to no less than 11.81 V, which means that even under heavy load there is almost no chance that system stability will be affected. Under light idle load conditions the DC regulation averaged 0.63 Vpp, and improved only slightly under heavy load to a measured 0.56 Vpp; both results are less favorable than the average. The DC regulation data recorded at light and heavy load is displayed in the chart below:

DC Voltage Regulation Waveform Data at Light Idle and Heavy Load

HPU-5K880_Idle_DC_Data.png HPU-5K880_Load_DC_Data.png

At a glance, the Hiper HPU-5K880 offered near-average AC ripple fluctuation with less favorable deviation in DC peak-to-peak voltage regulation. These idle readings were taken with a 23% load of 198W and the stress readings were taken with a 35% load of 306W 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

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, and with an 85% efficiency (as tested by Chroma) the new Type R Mk-II series is ultra-efficient.

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. Unfortunatly, most consumers buy into the hype, and don't realize that the 80-PLUS certification is little more than a paid stamp of approval. If enthusiast are to take the 80-PLUS certification seriously, they will need to publish independent test results; something that is impossible to provide since the organization does not conduct any product testing.

Hiper HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W Type R-II PSU Review

It is unfortunate then that so many review sites tout the "certification", because most of these site don't take into consideration how misleading their articles can be. Of the many different power supply companies I test, it is usually the more commercial names that use the 80-PLUS logo as a marketing tool. In all actuality, power supplies can cheat the efficiency rating system by several different tactics: use high amperage 3V and 5V rails, which then compensates for 12V inefficiency. Now if someone dropped the nearly worthless 3V rail and could still remain 80% efficient, that would be impressive.

Hiper Type R Mk-II Conclusion

Sometimes performance must be sacrificed for looks, but Hiper packages their Type R Mk II series in one of the best looking retail "boxes" I have ever seen and yet still perform as well as any. The reusable tub contains plenty of important product features and specifications, while avoiding the waste bin by having an some usefulness afterward.

When Hiper introduced their 5th generation of products, the HPU-5K880 and HPU-5B680 both received a unique open-grill style chassis. A reflective finish helps hides fingerprints in most areas thanks to the grill-covered chassis design, while the blue or black anodized finish 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 R Mk II, something only a non-modular product could assure. Although the finish is susceptible to scratches by sharp objects, the Type R Mk 2 chassis is otherwise heavy-duty.

The 680W HPU-5B680 Type R Mk-II PSU offered average AC ripple with above-average DC regulation, while the HPU-5K880 880W unit measured off-average AC ripple and less than favorable 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 for a 5th generation product. Otherwise, this unit survives my inspection with no real flaws to be found.

At the time of this writing, both the Hiper HPU-5K880 880W & HPU-5B680 680W Type R Mk-II Power Supply Units are just arriving to market. Presently, the 680W HPU-5B680 is available for $129.99 at NewEgg, while the 880W HPU-5K880 sells for $204.99. During the 2008 CES I was able to meet with the Hiper team, and learned that these larger online stores nearly double the price of the product over the manufacturers cost. This explains why you see so many rebates on these sites; and why there are usually better deals if you search for them.

Hiper offers all the great design features we first discovered in the Type M Series, and then adds in a High-Speed USB 2.0 hub and reflective finish to create the Type R Mk II 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 R Mk II series, I have found both the HPU-5K880 880W and HPU-5B680 680W PSU's to offer performance, functionality, and appearance, all above average. Perhaps I'm a bit critical, but I think that the AC ripple and DC regulation tests could have been better for a refined 5th generation product. Nevertheless, the Type R Mk II series is going to fare well for enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Pros:Benchmark Reviews Silver Tachometer Award for Quality Recognition

+ 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 reflective finish
+ Three-Year RTB warranty

Cons:

- Below average (but well within spec) AC ripple (HPU-5K880)
- No rubber safety caps for unused connections

Ratings:

• Presentation: 10.0
• Appearance: 9.25
• Construction: 9.00
• Functionality: 9.25
• Value: 7.25

Final Score: 8.95 out of 10.

Quality Recognition: Benchmark Reviews Silver Tachometer Award

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Comments 

 
# Voltage Monitoring via SoftwareRobertC 2010-05-18 22:26
Great work adding the electrical measurements to your PS reviews. I am curious about your opinions on and experiences with software power monitoring tools that are installed and run on a PC. Intel has in its Desktop Utilities tool a Hardware Monitor section which among other things, displays voltage readings of the +12, +5, and +3.3 DC rails, as well as the MCH and Processor voltages (labeled Vcc.) The seemingly real time digital display has a resolution of three decimal places (1/1000 volt.) Alarms can be set to warn of over or under voltage situations. In general, how do these programs work and how accurate can they be? Are any of them worthy of an enthusiasts attention? Thank you.
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# RE: Voltage Monitoring via SoftwareOlin Coles 2010-05-19 06:45
While the accuracty may not be to electrical engineer level, I would contend that some form of monitoring is better than none at all. So long as the software doesn't cause any problems, I'd say it's worth installing.
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