Power Supply Roundup: Part II

Hiper Type R MK II 680 Watt

Hiper sent us the MK2, the second generation of its Type R power supplies to take part in our test. Unlike the earlier models, the one is no longer fitted with modular connection cables; the attractive metal screw connectors are a thing of the past. But it is still sold in the traditional manner, in a practical plastic box. With its reflective surfaces and perforated sheets, the power supply makes a good visual impression.

A highlight here is the USB ports on the power supply. These effectively make the power supply a USB hub as well, so it is able to supply a full 500 mA of current to any USB port. For the USB ports on the motherboard, this power is limited to a single root hub. The USB data cables, on the other hand, are connected through to the motherboard. An additional USB port is available as a power supply-only (without the data function) and can supply up to 1 A current, making it ideal for charging a cell phone or connecting USB mug warmers or other passive "USB toys."

Image 1 of 2

Technically, the power supply is very impressive, with all voltages constantly within tolerances. Hiper has clearly learned from its past mistakes.