Ultra X-Connect 500W Modular PSU - Tests and Conclusion

Test Setup

• Abit IS7-E
• Intel PIV 2.4B oc'ed to 3.06GHz, 1.525V
• 2x512 Kingston HyperX PC3200 RAM @ 2.8V
• GeForce 6800 oc'ed to 350/800
• 2x WD 40GB 7200rpm in RAID 0
• Seagate 80GB 7200rpm Barracuda
• Koolance Exos-Al
• Samsung 52X CD-ROM
• Verbatim 40/12/48X CD-RW
• Turtle Beach Santa Cruz
• 4x80mm case fans
• 12" black light
• 2 blue bezel LEDs

I tested the Ultra X-Connect 500W power supply by checking voltages along the 3.3v, 5v, and 12v rails with a digital multimeter. I first booted the computer and let it sit idle for 5 minutes and took readings. Then I stressed the system by running Prime 95, Rthdribl (3D demo), playing a music file, and performing a computer-wide search for *.mp3 (to get the hard drives active) while taking multimeter readings at the same time.

At idle the X-Connect is performing just fine. The voltage on all rails is slightly higher than spec which is good and expected from a quality power supply. Keep in mind that the computer being powered is overclocked and that there are many components running simultaneously like hard drives, optical drives, lights, fans, and even a whole water cooling system!

Under load, voltage drops 0.18v on the 12v rail and 0.02v on the 3.3v rail. The latter is insignificant but the former shows that load is drawing more power. While more power is drawn, the X-Connect holds up extremely well, staying above 12v on the 12v rail. A bad power supply usually has sagging 12v rails, but the X-Connect does not have this problem.

In terms of noise, the X-Connect PSU is fair. The dual fans are certainly not silent, but in the test setup the X-Connect could not be heard significantly over the other several components running. Compared to an Enermax 350W PSU, the X-Connect is just as loud (or quiet depending on how you want to view it), but is higher pitched. This is because the X-Connect has dual 80mm fans while the Enermax has one 80mm fan and one 120mm fan.

Conclusion

Overall the Ultra X-Connect power supply has an even number of ups and downs. At just $99.99, the 500W power rating is plenty for any computer, the voltage rails are strong and stable, the PSU looks incredible with a dual-fan 80mm cooling system, and it features modular X-Connect cables. Rarely do you find such a quality power supply with a 500w rating under $100. But on the down side, the cables are bulky and difficult to bend, the power supply does not fit properly in cases with PSU cages like CoolerMaster cases, there are not enough 4-pin Molex connectors for people with more components that what was used in the test setup, and the fans are not exactly silent. Noise wise I would rank the X-Connect agreeable, as I have worked with other dual-fan PSUs that are quieter.

Case compatibility is something Ultra needs to look into, but in the end, regardless of the X-Connect's downfalls, Ultra Products brings to the table a very attractive power supply for enthusiasts looking for strong and steady power, modular cables, UV reactive cables with good looking connectors, and an overall quality feel and finish.

Dev Hardware would like to thank you for joining us here today for the review of the Ultra X-Connect 500W modular power supply. If you're interested in buying one of these power supplies, make your way over to Ultra's website to find a retailer near you. Shoot me an email if you have any questions, otherwise head back to the front-page for some other news and reviews or checkout the forums!

Comments On: Ultra X-Connect 500W Modular PSU

· I have to disagree with your statements on mounting this PSU inside a coolermaster...    · Well then that means some people can fit it and others cannot - which is probably...    · I also have a Cooler Master case. I did the same thing by attaching the ATX cable...    · I wish it had a 90 degree backshell.   >>> Post your comment now!

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