Introduction

We would like to thank Antec for supplying the review sample.



It has been a while since Antec's last mid-capacity PSU line, so we are happy to see them delve back into such a popular category. The EDGE family currently only consists of three members with capacities ranging from 550 W to 750 W, and while their maximum power output puts them into the mid-capacity category, their price tags are high enough to classify them as units of the higher end. These aren't budget units, and given their features, we didn't expect them to be. We will put the EDGE unit with 650 W to the test and expect it to perform well because it is based on a Seasonic platform we have come across before.

The EDG650, like all EDGE units, features a fully modular cabling design, Gold-certified efficiency, and a fancy LED fan. We aren't huge supporters of such marketing gimmicks as the LED fan, but also aren't in the representative majority which has some companies add these in order to make their PSU offering more appealing. And while Antec, oddly enough, doesn't mention it on their packaging, this is a Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) fan. The only downside its increased cost, its bearing is superior to sleeve- and ball-bearings in both noise output and lifetime expectancy. As the fan plays a key role in ensuring longevity and reliability, it is also the second most important component to a PSU with Japanese capacitors that last a long time.

Specifications

The EDG650 is Gold-certified, uses a fully modular design, can deliver its full power continuously at up to 50°C ambient, and is also backed by a full set of protections. The FDB fan ensures its reliability and there is no semi-passive mode, which is fine so long as the control circuit keeps fan speeds low at light loads. The dimensions of the unit are also a little larger than the norm, and the warranty period is long, though the unit is pretty expensive.

Antec is a firm believer in multi-rail PSUs, so this one features two +12V rails. Combined, they can deliver the unit's full power, which is the norm in modern PSUs. The minor rails can only deliver 100 W combined; however, almost no modern system will draw more from these rails, and the 5VSB rail has the minimum allowed amperage for a modern PSU.

Cables & Connectors, Power Distribution

There are many connectors; however, we would like to see an additional EPS connector, though most users with server mainboards in need of two will use a stronger PSU. Cable length is good overall, and our single complaint here is the small distance between peripheral connectors as there should at least be 15 cm in-between these. Nearly all connectors also utilize 18AWG gauges (only the sense wires are thinner).

As you can see, Antec tried to separate the PCIe connectors from the rest, and if you forgo connecting the EPS cable to the 16-pin socket, you won't be mixing EPS and PCIe connectors up, which is good as it could lead to OCP triggering and cause sudden PSU shut-downs, consequently affecting the system's proper operation.

Packaging

The medium-sized box features a nice graphics design, and at its front are a close-up of the unit with a focus on it transparent fan and anti-noise de-couplers, as Antec calls them. At the bottom of the front are the capacity description and several nice icons for the unit's efficiency, its quietly operating FDB fan (at least according to Antec), and fully modular design.


A features list in two languages, neither of which I speak, is given on this page.


The other side of the box includes two tables, one with the unit's power specifications and the other with all of its available connectors. Antec unfortunately didn't include any information on cable length.


On this side is another features list in two languages, along with a scheme of the unit's dimensions.


On the rear of the box are a multi-lingual features list and several icons for the 80 Plus Gold certification, Haswell and ErP Lot 6 compliance, and Nvidia's SLI certification.

Contents

Antec stuck to their ECO-friendly packing, so inside the box, the PSU comes surrounded by thick cardboard walls. However, Antec should have also used ECO-friendly wrapping instead of a plastic bag.


The bundle is rich enough and includes noise dampeners you can attach to the PSU, an AC power cord, a pouch for storing the modular cables, and a set of fixing bolts. Antec unfortunately forgot to include Velcro straps or zip ties to aid in cable management.


You will also get a warranty leaflet and a product overview manual.