AcBel 500-watt LCD Power Supply with Software Monitoring

Final Thoughts

For those in the market for a power supply, there are a huge number of choices available. After all, not all power supplies are designed for all uses. You have to figure out your power needs at the beginning of your buying process to help narrow down the sheer volume of possible models.

The AcBel model tested today is designed for those looking for a PSU in the mid-level power range - so, it's out if you're looking at upcoming Radeon X2900 or GeForce 8800 Ultra but fine for lower-end graphics cards. It will also appeal to those who are looking for something a bit out of the ordinary. The LCD display was an interesting touch and does indeed show useful information for those who want to know what is going on within the system (you know who you are).

Power levels were very good and steady as well, so as long as you're not going overboard (like I did with the dual Radeon X1900 series graphics cards), you will get very solid power to every component that needs it. Even under stress, this model was only dropping .02v on two of the power rails and none at all on the third.

With regards to price, the MSRP on this particular model is listed at $139 USD (or roughly $175 AUD), so when it becomes readily available, you can expect a lower price. This will put it in the upper tier of pricing for this rating of power supply, but I've yet to see another with a mounted LCD panel that gives you the information this one does as well as software monitoring in your OS. It is like having a power supply and a PSU tester in one.

Bottom line... When it is time to buy a new power supply, you need reliability and levels of power that meet your needs. Sure there are 1000+ watt beasts on the market, but at a cost of well over $300, we don't all need this kind of power. For those with a moderate system who desire steady and plentiful power with room to upgrade, the AcBel 500-watt LCD Power Supply should fit the bill nicely. Add in the LCD display that actually shows some useful information and you've got a pretty good product on your hands which we tend to like.

- Pros

Very steady power levels

Voltage above specifications on all rails

Dual PCI-E capabilities

LCD display shows useful data

- Cons

Price

Only 1 FDD connector

Rating - 8.5 out of 10 and TweakTown's "MUST HAVE" Best Features Award!