Introduction

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

Enermax, although not one of the biggest PSU OEMs (e.g. like Delta), still manages to offer products of very high quality and performance. Their own creations are unfortunately more expensive than those of the competition because a medium-volume production line doesn't allow for reduced production costs, which seriously influences retail prices. This is most likely the main reason behind their mainstream and mid-range units by other OEMs, since doing so allows them to offer really affordable PSUs that easily meet the tough competition in this hotly competed for category. You see, high-end units may be a manufacturer's pride, but they don't sell en masse. They definitely don't pay the bills.

The previous NAXN units were mostly made by Channel Well Technology (CWT)—the two stronger models were made by Sirtec. Enermax was, as it seems, left quite satisfied by CWT since this OEM has also manufactured the new NAXN ADV line. The aforementioned line includes three members with capacities ranging from 450 W to 650 W, and all of them feature a non-modular cabling design.

In this review, we will take a good look at the strongest of the NAXN ADV units. This NAXN ADV has a capacity of 650 W, and its model number is ETL650AWT. This unit has a non-modular cabling design, is 80 Plus Bronze certified, has a single +12V rail, is ErP Lot 6 2013 ready, and has a compact footprint.

Specifications

Efficiency is Bronze and the maximum operating temperature at which the PSU can deliver its full power is restricted to 40°C. Definitely not the best combination, but this is a mainstream unit so our expectations have to be low. That said, we will still test the unit at up to 45°C to see if it can handle heat. Protections only include the basic ones. OCP (Over Current Protection) hasn't been included since it useless to a PSU with a single rail, but nor has OTP (Over Temperature Protection). The unit's fan is thankfully equipped with ball-bearings for an increased lifespan, and the dimensions of the unit are compact—fully compatible with the recommendations of the ATX spec. Finally, the provided warranty is long enough for this category, but its MSRP price is definitely stiff.


There is only one +12V rail. It is strong enough with 50 A max-current-output. The minor rails also have sufficient power with 120 W maximum combined power output, and the 5VSB rail puts out 2.5 A, which is typical for a contemporary mainstream PSU.

Cables & Connectors, Power Distribution

The number of connectors is satisfactory for the capacity of the PSU, but one more EPS connector would be welcome. Regarding cable lengths: Its main ATX connector should be closer to 60 cm long, and its EPS connector should be installed on a 65 cm long cable. However, current cable lengths will not be a problem in a medium-sized chassis. The distance amongst connectors is also adequate. Finally, all connectors use 18AWG wires, which is in accordance with the ATX spec.

Since this PSU features a single +12V rail, we do not have anything to comment on about its power distribution.

Packaging

The small packaging is nice with its white background and blue touch ups. The series description in a silver font can be found near the middle of the front. The Bronze efficiency badge is in the bottom-right corner, right next to the capacity description. Enermax's logo resides in the top-left corner.


The table on this side has the power specifications of all three MAXM ADV series members.


This side includes a table of all the connectors that equip the NAXN ADV units. All share the same number of peripheral connectors, but the strongest member has two additional PCIe connectors.


The back has a description of all available features along with references to the flat stealth cables and Japanese hold-up cap. We also found an illustration depicting the unit's ErP Lot 6 2013 compatibility. Near the bottom-right corner, Enermax informs us that this is a power supply and asks us to visit their webpage for more information. Well, that is good to know!