The power supply unit (PSU) is the behind-the-scenes player in a PC. It does not have the same prestige as a graphics card or CPU, and it does not directly improve frame rates. However, without the PSU, nothing would be possible. That will probably never change, but in an effort to "honor the PSU name," Cooler Master is finally releasing its first PSU designed in-house as part of the XG Plus series.

I say "finally" because Cooler Master has been talking about releasing its first in-house designed PSU since 2018. Cooler Master opened its own power supply development lab and devised the Thermal Enhanced Platform (TEP) to guide its efforts. They also unveiled several early prototypes at Computex that same year.

"The main focus of TEP's development was to improve efficiency. From day one, our engineers were tasked with developing a power platform that would achieve high efficiency while reducing the need for heat. To accomplish this, a number of innovations had to be implemented. For example, the DC-to-DC circuit layout was completely redesigned and a new internal layout for the transformers was created. These types of developments often seem small on their own, but when combined, they allow this new platform to operate at an optimal level," Cooler Master explained at the time.

I am not familiar with the intricacies of PSU design and manufacturing, but Cooler Master also talks about using hand-attached copper screws instead of traditional soldering to connect the backboard to the mainboard, and investing in machine soldering instead of manual work where necessary He also talks about. It's a good thing.

That said, everything in the gaming space always seems to boil down to RGB lighting, and yes, the XG Plus series will also have RGB lighting, albeit as part of a digital display on the side of the unit. This provides real-time monitoring of certain vitals, including temperature, fan speed, and power consumption.

Cooler Master also offers fully modular cables with inline capacitors, 80 Plus Platinum certification (second highest efficiency rating behind 80 Plus Titanium), and the use of all Japanese capacitors in both the platform and cables, The company touts a long-term 10-year warranty, etc.

The PS3 is also available with a 10-year warranty.

The PSU will initially be offered in 650W, 750W, and 850W variants and is expected to cost between $160 and $180; Cooler Master says it will ship towards summer.