Introduction and Features

Two PSUs in one chassis provide redundancy.

Introduction



In this review we are going to take a detailed look at FSP Technology Inc.’s new Twins 500W redundant power supply. It’s been quite a while since we reviewed a redundant power supply in the ATX form factor. This should be interesting! (Actually, it turned out to be very interesting, along with a few surprises we didn’t expect).

The FSP Twins 500W redundant power supply is targeted towards use in home and small businesses for mail or web server systems that require maximum up time. The Twins 500W PSU incorporates two 520W modular power supplies inside one standard ATX housing. Under normal operation the two power supplies operate in parallel, sharing the load. If one of the power supply modules should fail, the other one automatically takes over with no down time. And since the power supply modules are hot-swappable, a faulty unit can be replaced without having to turn off the system.

FSP claims the Twins 500W is a server-grade power supply designed to deliver stable power and is certified 80 Plus Gold for high efficiency. The ATX chassis measures 190mm (7.4”) deep and is fitted with fixed, ribbon-style cables. Each modular power supply uses a 40mm fan for cooling and the Twins 500W comes backed by a 5-year warranty. Users can also download and install FSP’s Guardian software to monitor power input, power output, and efficiency, along with other parameters in real time if desired.

FSP Twins 500W Redundant PSU Key Features:

• ATX PS2 redundant size ideal for mail, web and home server

• Server-grade design provides stable power

• Hot-swappable modules design

• 80 Plus 230V Internal Gold certification

• Digital-controlled power supply supports FSP Guardian monitoring software

• Smart power supply supports Alarm Guard and status LED indicators

• Flat ribbon-style cables with two 4+4 pin CPU connectors

• Complies with ATX 12V and EPS 12V standards

• Protections: OCP, OVP, SCP, FFP (Fan Failure Protection)

• 5-Year Manufacturer’s warranty

• MSRP: $399.00 USD

FSP Technology Inc. has been designing and building PC power supplies under their own brand since 2003. Not only do they market power supplies under their own FSP name but they are the OEM for many other brands. FSP also manufactures a full line of server-style power supplies so it is logical they would use modular power supplies in the design of the Twins Series.

Here is what FSP has to say about the new Twins Series power supply: “The Twins Series is an ATX size redundant power supply, without front bracket, it is compatible for most PS2 chassis. It is an ideal power supply unit solution for startups, small and medium-sized businesses web or mail server systems, semi-industrial application. It is also the best power supply unit for intelligent home computer station.

Different from the general power supply units, Twins series is a redundant power supply with two power modules. In normal situation, these two power modules will automatically share the load for optimum efficiency; while one fails, the other module will immediately take over the whole load. Twins can guarantee your PC system under a stable power supply situation.”