Mushkin HP-580AP PSU

The power supply unit is the single most important part of any computer. Regardless of the system there is a given rule: whether it be a simple workstation with integrated components or an advanced gaming system with every fresh 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. While every journalist has their own system for reviewing a power supply, my review will take a very detailed look at the Mushkin HP-580AP PSU at every angle and submit the unit to battery of torture tests in order to ensure it will provide any computer system with stable power.

This year alone the computer industry has made huge leaps in power supply technology. Single rail power supplies were dominantly standard heading into 2006. Now just one year later, we have seen a very sudden shift making dual-rail power supplies the most common configuration. As power supply technology continuously evolves, the number of power rails will keep getting higher in these newer PSU's. What used to be bleeding edge with five rails is getting closer to the average with each new release. Mushkin helps to drive power supply evolution forward and offers the HP-580AP with four power rails to enhance power stability under load; all at a reasonable price.

The next generation of power supplies has arrived with Mushkin's Enhanced series featuring RailFusion. The four 12V rails allow the PSU to distribute power more evenly, resulting in a more stable system. Available with 580 Watts, your power needs are met for even the most cutting edge components. Mushkins HP-580AP is designed to handle dual processors, dual graphics cards, and just about anything else you can throw at it - perfectly. Additionally, Mushkin's "Enhanced Thermal & Acoustic Design" will automatically vary the PSU fan speed depending on the system load and temperature, allowing for the most stable and quiet computing environment no matter what programs are running.

With a long week of testing behind me, the results will prove if Mushkin's HP-580AP PSU is more marketing hype to draw you in, or if it is in fact a product worth the bragging rights for that I can personally recommend buying. One thing is certain even before the testing begins: at a manufacturers suggested retail price of $139, the Mushkin HP580-AP already offers the latest quad-rail technology and modular cable management for less then the cost of nearly all of the other power supplies on the market in its range.

About the manufacturer: Mushkin

Founded in 1994, Mushkin is best known for producing “Enhanced” memory modules. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains in Denver, Colorado Mushkin provides performance enhanced computer products to users worldwide. Exceptional quality, enhanced performance and unparalleled customer support are what make Mushkin products the best in the industry.

Mushkin products include an enhanced power supply line and a complete selection of memory upgrades for desktops, servers and notebooks – we offer something for everyone from business user to gamer. Our enhanced memory products are available in several performance categories from standard to extreme, with our REDLINE series in a class of its own. Our Enhanced power supply line offers superb regulation and ripple characteristics, modularity and plenty of power to supply the most demanding systems.

With customers including everyone from Apple Computers and NASA to gamers and web browsers, Mushkin knows what is important to customers - enhanced performance with uncompromised quality. With Mushkin you Get More.

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