Performance

Before I get to performance, I'd like to show this unit in a MicroATX case so that you can see just how perfect the length of the cables are for this particular kind of build.

**click to enlarge**

In the GD02B, an upcoming review, you can see the the cables reach out to the other end of the chassis, providing just enough to support such a setup but short enough to help eliminate cable clutter.

Now, let's have a look at the voltage regulations and load load ranges of this unit.  These were taken directly from the manual.

**click to enlarge**

All voltage readings were primarily conducted with a quality True-RMS Digital Multimeter with data logging capabilities.

Note: When attempting to capture readings using such a device, I strongly recommend you capture all directly from the 20/24-pin PSU connector. Attempting to capture readings from leads may not provide the most accurate readings.  However, when using this method, please take all precautions and be extremely careful to avoid any disasters.

Now, let's have a look at specs of this brand new HTPC build...

The HD3850 was powered via one of the PCI-E connectors featured on this power supply. 

One additional area of testing I like to perform is to capture its voltage readings during the entire boot process.  Lower quality power supplies typically do not do well here and numbers tend to fluctuate quite bit.  Now, while the numbers above were almost all on the lower end of its rated tolerance levels, they were extremely stable throughout all areas of testing.  In fact, other than a mere .001 fluctuation on occasion, the numbers above were pretty much steady throughout.  Regardless of whether I was stress testing with Prime95, SANDRA, or watching a Blu-ray movie, I just couldn't get these numbers to budge.  Again, while on the lower end of the spectrum, these numbers were rock solid regardless of the tasks or operations during use.

Fan Noise

Finally, some comments regarding the large 120mm fan featured on this unit.  This PSU produces less wasted heat than your average PSU, resulting in a thermally controlled fan that operates at very low speeds.  Based on the actual specs, its dBA is rated between 20 ~ 29.   After running this system, I would definitely put it closer to 20.  Its minimal noise is not an issue at all.  When building an HTPC, it is important to choose your components wisely.  In this example, this PSU along with a HD3850 that sports an exclusive Zalman-designed fan runs very silent. 

Conclusions

Few manufacturers rarely venture out of the norm.  They tend to stick to what is standard and any deviation on their part only tends to bring a number of costly issues to consider.  If there is one company that isn't afraid of deviating from the norm, it is Silverstone.  On top of that, they continue to focus on main thing and that is quality. After not only having the pleasure to work with them for quite a while now, and purchasing a number of their products as an IT professional, they never seem to seriously disappoint.  Their ST50EF-PLUS (Short Cable Edition) is another in their growing line of quality and unique products.  The short cables are just the right length for such a setup and will make the whole hassle of getting by cable clutter much more pleasant.

In short, the ST50EF-PLUS SCE is an excellent choice for HTPC enthusiasts.  Don't let its 500W rating deter you.  This unit performed quite well in a brand new build that consisted of some of the latest components on the market.  While the numbers where on the lower end of the spectrum, they simply would not budge regardless of task performed.  The only gripe I have with it was the lack of SATA connectors.  While the box clearly states a total of six, this is not the case and you'll probably want to have a couple of adapter cables hanging around when you go to set this beast up.  If you are looking to build a new HTPC, this is one PSU that should be on the top of your list.  With that said, it earns our recommendation.

More information on the ST50EF-PLUS SC can be found on the Silverstone Website.

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