PC Power & Cooling, a part of the OCZ Technology Group, sent us two PSUs from their Silencer series. The 760W as well as the 910W version bet on strong 80mm fans which is unusual for modern products. Most Companies are interested in using larger fans since they can reach higher CFM per RPM. They try to reduce noise while increasing fan efficiency. But is that right?

First a larger fan can reach more components but therefore the airflow has an angle. From the fan to the PCB and from the PCB to the ventilation holes all PSUs with a vertical cooling have an angle of 90 degrees. Second a large fan is able to provide good cooling at his edges while the center gets problems. That's one reason why manufacturers make a lot of temperature tests for the transformer in the middle of a PSU. So finally the airflow is more direct with an 80mm fan but they can't cool the hole space on a large PCB. Sounds like a draw. In our opinion both solution have a right to exist. A lot depends on the internal design (heatsinks, arrangement of the components) and the position in your computer case.

It is no secret that Seasonic builds some of the Silencer products for PC Power & Cooling. We expect to see two robust PSUs with low ripple & noise results and a high efficiency. Since these Silencer are based on the S12D design (with an 80mm fan modification) both have an 80Plus Silver certification. With an SLI-Ready award and 7 years warranty OCZ wants to catch some enthusiasts. We will see if they can uphold one's reputation as a leading Company for professional products.

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