Bitcoin Forum

Folks, soon I will possess an S5. I am now looking to buy a PSU.

At some point in the future, it may be anywhere from 2-10 months, I will probably get another miner such as S7 etc.

Couple of questions -
1) Should I get a PSU that will support future miners? Ie. get something like a 1300-1500W PSU?
2) If yes, surely this will be overkill for a single S5 and will end up costing me more in electricity bills?
3) Should I instead get something like a 750W PSU and then later in the year buy another PSU if/when I need one?

Appreciate any thoughts.

I personally would say get a quality PSU and save yourself some trouble.  It does not have to be some huge massive psu, but one from a good brand.  I personally like to get a PSU that would power 2X of the item.  In your case S5's, that way if I want I can order a second one and easily put it in.   

A quality PSU can last longer then one generation of miner's even.   So it can be considered a longterm investment.

That being said there is a recent change of a lot going with server PSU's.  With these you can get a quality PSU (in a lot of cases) cheaper then a ATX power option.  If you have a 220/240 I would seriously look into this option.

Personally I think "overkill" is moderately appropriate when choosing a PSU for the long term. My understanding is that most current high quality supplies have a fairly wide efficiency band. There is absolutely no reason to load a PSU to 90% in order to make it efficient rather than say 60%. It will only draw what's required. Most high quality ATX supplies will run quieter when not fully loaded. There are tangible benefits:

- A higher quality supply will usually have better, possibly 16AWG cables to connect to the miner. Lower cost PSU may have lower quality (i.e. 18-20 AWG wire) cables.

- Generally they are more durable, and withstand unexpected demands better (temperature, etc).

- Should have better resale value later.

I expect that used Server supplies are very available, and can work well, though they tend to be noisy.

I believe the domestic supply in my location is 220/50hz so I will look in to these server psu's you mention.

When you say they only draw what's required, does that mean an electricity bill for an S5 would be the same across both a 750W and a 1500W PSU? Ie. does a larger PSU increase electricity costs?

The rating on the PSU is what it can safely supply, not what it's always pushing. An S5 will draw around 600W, meaning that any PSU over 600W rated should, in theory, work (though running a PSU, especially a cheap one, at or near rated load for extended periods is almost guaranteed to burn it out). The particulars of how much it actually costs to run (power bills) are based on PSU efficiency, which is usually a fairly flat curve peaking in the middle of rated load and drooping maybe 3-5% at the upper and lower ends. So to get the best possible, you'd probably want to find a Platinum-rated (peak efficiency about 93-94%) PSU rated for 1200W, so your 600W S5 will sit right in the highest efficiency. Where I live, the difference between about 85% and 90% efficient for an S5 adds something like $30 a year to the power bill.

I also recommend taking a look at server PSUs. If noise isn't a problem (which I hope it isn't since the S5 is probably louder already than most server supplies) there are some really good efficient supplies to be found in the 750-1200W range from sellers here on the forum and they love running on 220V power.

I can recommend Corsair PSU's for running mining hardware if you're looking for ATX type. Most recently I've used CX500, CX600, CX750 (go for the M or modular because it saves on bundles of wires everywhere), RM1000's and AX1200's most of which I picked up on ebay for a good price, used for a few months then re sold them on ebay for the same money.

Branded PSU's are one of the few items associated with mining that doesn't depreciate in value that much as they will always have a good second hand resale value.

Also as already advised go for one that too big rather than too small, its better to have one with power in reserve than one running at its limits for 24/7 because it wont last very long.

Another thing worth considering is their efficiency rating. You can obviously get bronze, silver, gold and platinum rated PSU's with bronze being the cheapest to buy but least efficient and the platinums the opposite. Bronze are absolutely fine though for running mining hardware.

I say evga 1300 g2 or server psu's.

I think you are not in the USA so pricing and other rules vary.

The evga 1300 g2 can run 2 s-5's and has a 10 year warranty in the usa.

mine have run s-1's s-3's and s-5's

server psu's are cheaper and run loud, but s-5's are nut job crazy loud . think shop vac loud.

that's my 2 cents.

oh but the server and the evga will do 240 volt

So really it comes down to what type of electricity you have 110/120 or 220/240.    And also if you plan on expanding it appears from conversation.

If you plan on stopping at 1 S5 a lot of these are overkill.  But if you think chance of adding more getting a bigger PSU makes sense.   And no matter what get a decent brand or server psu.  It will make your life much easier.

Sorry it took a while to respond to this guys.

Couldn't have asked for better responses!

My S5 is being shipped as we speak, and right now I'm looking to get something similar to the Corsiar CX750.

Now on to my next decision, quiet fans :-)

2x Noctua NF-P12 or 2x Scythe Ulta Kaze
or
use both w/ push/pull....

Don't buy M (modular) version for mining

Really? I thought I saw others recommending to get the M model...it helps with cabling or something..?

What do you think of this one? http://uae.souq.com/ae-en/thermaltake-black-smart-pc-power-supply-sps-630mpcbeu-7844753/i/

hi , got some seasonics 1000w platinum ( several units ) and other models too..

just Pm me in case of interest  8)

Cheers !

why please ? .. what is the issue with modulars psu's in mining case ?

CX750M only have 2 pci-e power cables and they are 18AWG and it is only bronze efficiency definitely not suitable for mining

and this PSU only rated for 30C intake temp for full power output - http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story4&reid=416

Actually, most server supplies are just fine for GPU rigs also, provided you have an external-on signal line which can kick on the supply along with your ATX. My breakout boards and I believe pmorici's do this. Heck, I got into server supplies by refitting them for automatic extra rails in GPU rigs.

Also, if he's looking for quiet fans for the S5 a server supply could easily be too loud. Something to consider.

Hi, take a look at Dogies PSU guide with specs: https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=486121.0 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=486121.0)

I mentioned the Corsair modular PSU's which I have used to power S1's & S3's and they worked fine. I haven't had an S5 though.

I think you'd probably need the RM1000 from Corsair to power an S5 adequately and safely because they require 4 x pci-e connectors ( 2 for each board ).

Alternatively look at the other brands or server PSU's that people have mentioned.

See sig for quality 1100w platinum PSUs that will run on 120V.  When they're not loaded near max they're actually fairly quiet.  The S5 itself will definitely be louder.

As far as PSU's you cant go wrong with RM1000's, EVGA Supernova 1300, even have one Rosewill Lightning 1300W.   None of these have ever given me a problem.  I have quite a few of the RM1000's at this point.

Keep in mind I use these as I had them here.   If your buying PSU's the current trend is to go for server grade ones over standard ATX.   If you have 220/240 this new wave will be especially beneficial to you.  

Thanks very much for your input guys, appreciate it!

I have narrowed my search down to the following 2 PSU's -

Corsair CX750 (~$116)
Cougar GX1050 (used) (~$136) link - http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817553008

Bear in mind these items are expensive where I'm located, hence above prices are a bit higher than you'd expect...

The Corsair is recommended by a lot on this forum, but the Cougar has some good reviews and is also Gold-rated

If you're determined to go with ATX over a server supply, I'd go with the Cougar over the Corsair.  The CX series is only bronze rated and as you pointed out, the Cougar is Gold which will save you in the long term on power usage as well as put out a little bit less heat at a given output.  I had that exact PSU a while back running an 850ish watt load 24/7 and it was a tank up until I sold it.  The extra maximum wattage will also give you more headroom for another miner or for overclocking later, which might be pushing the 750 a bit.

I'm already pushing it a bit getting the S5, in relation to noise levels, so I really can't deal with adding more noise with a server supply.
I have also bought a couple of Corsair SP120's so hopefully they will make the noise somewhat bearable...

I'm also leaning towards the Cougar so it's good to hear your feedback about it! Thanks

Ah! Well good news for you there then, the server supplies that I have will be actually quieter than the S5 at that load level(when you get close to max load they'll probably be about as loud as the S5, however).  And cheaper than the Cougar.  And have higher peak power and will also be Platinum rated instead of Gold.  Downside is, it's a miner supply only, just PCIe output and nothing else.

But if you do still want the Cougar I'm sure it will serve you well.  Can't really speak to volume level though, I never paid attention as it was in the rack the whole time, not in the house.

Try not to get no-name PSU's, as they can fry basically anything.

I totally agree, but does Cougar really classify as a no-name? That's the question...
Also it is Gold certified so that helps.

Also remember that the Corsair CX750 only has 2 x pci-e plugs and the S5 needs 4. You could probably use molex to pci-e converters but I'd be wary putting that wattage / amps through them because they can get hot and even melt which is obviously a fire risk.

In all honesty you're better off going for a branded psu with minimum 4 pci-e connections or a server supply with the same. Please take a look at Dogies psu guide if you need any help with an atx unit: https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=486121.0 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=486121.0).

If you're thinking about getting another S5 in the future then the EVGA Supernova 1300 or 1600 look just about perfect for the job as philipma1957 mentioned a few posts back as they both have 8 pci-e connectors.

Don't even attempt molex to pci-e.   On wattage like this it's not if there is a problem but when.    Converting to pci-e cables normally are also not very good gauge cable, add that to mix as well.

Avoid this just like no name low quality PSU's.

+1 :).

I've seen other people mention this here that the CX750 only has 2 pci-e plugs, this is wrong. As per Corsair's site it has 4 plugs - http://www.corsair.com/en/cx-series-cx750m-modular-atx-power-supply-750-watt-80-plus-bronze-certified-modular-psu

I also don't like using Dogie's guide. Reason being he gives his rating but doesn't state why for example EVGA Supernova 1300W gets 93.0 rating, while the exact same model in 1100W version gets 78.0 or something similar  ??? ???.....No explanation and it doesn't make sense. Also, he states the CX750 has 2 connectors, which is probably why people don't realise it has 4.

One last comment, what constitutes a no-name PSU? Corsair/Thermaltake/Cougar/CoolerMaster/EVGA/Gigabyte , is it safe to say these aren't no-names?

I can't tell for sure but the CX750M almost looks like it has 2 pci-e cables with 2 pci-e plugs on each which would be listed as 4.   But since if it is really just using 2 cables it's not the same as having 4 different pci-e cables.

I would try to find someone on here who has that model to see if it's really 2 cords or 4 cords.

I've had this one as well, and you're correct.  It's two cables with two PCIe connections per cable.

Yes that's correct sorry its been a while since I owned one, they do indeed have 2 cables with 2 plugs on each.

Ok, I presume given that it'll be powering a miner 24/7 it would be advised to have dedicated cables for each PCIe connection...

And my seach continues  :D

It would likely work, but there are better PSUs out there for what you're doing.  Such as the ones in my signature lol :P

Thinking back, for a while I actually had 3 x CX750's running 6 x Antminer S1's ( 2 x S1's per CX750 ). The S1's were pulling 360w / 30 amps each so 2 x S1's = 720w / 60 amps. Which is more than the S5 which pulls 600w / 50 amps. The 2 pci-e cables split into 4 pci-e connectors, 1 cable with 2 connectors powered each S1. The CX750s peak power is 825 w / 62 amps.

Sorry, my memory isn't what it used to be.....

I would consider one of yours if it wasn't for the fact that you're on the complete opposite side of the world to me  :P

1. it wont be i would but i also have tons of PSU .
2. it will only use what the miner uses not what its rating at or does
3. if you do get a 750 make sure it is at least a gold standard with 4 stand alone PCIE plugs try not to share a plug you will need four PCIE PLUGS PLUGGED IN to it to run it right .

A few i use, I got deals when i bought them i was there at the right time and place .


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004ETEFTK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0090I9W66?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00


http://www.amazon.com/EVGA-SuperNOVA-1300G2-ATX12V-120-G2-1300-XR/dp/B00COIZTZM/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1434572869&sr=1-1&keywords=super+nova+psu

http://www.amazon.com/Thermaltake-Toughpower-ATX12V-EPS12V-PS-TPG-0750DPCGUS-1/dp/B00F0B7KZC/ref=sr_1_15?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1434572906&sr=1-15&keywords=psu+750


I know they cost more then a server PSU but I don't care much for the wiring part and broke out boards, wires can tend to come lose etc . i have one server PSU I use form time to time but I'm more the plug and play type guy.


Tip: check out any ware house deals you see on Amazon they claim there is no warr but i have had a few things replaced by the brand under warr buying that way not because it went up, i tested it to see or wanted to make sure it doesn't etc .

Ah, yeah that does make a difference.

I'd go with the Cougar if those two are your only options, then.

Ok, say I ended up getting a CSM750, not the CX750.
It's an improved semi-modular, Gold-rated version of the CX750 - http://www.corsair.com/en/cs-series-modular-cs750m-750-watt-80-plus-gold-certified-psu

I thought it would have 4 separate PCIe cables but there are in fact only 2 cables, with 2 PCIe plugs on both.... >:(

Should I 100% get a refund and buy something else, or will the above be ok?
I'm at the stage now where I just want to get it powered and running.

No you will want to go trade it in for one with 4 pcie cables. You seem to be sticking with Corsair brand.  If you are really wanting that brand I suggest the RM1000.  You will have zero issues using it.

When your looking at pci-e cables they most likely will list each plug.   So if you sort by ones with 4, you are going to get a lot of PSU's with 4 plugs but being powered by 2 cables.

I returned the PSU and got the GX1050 instead, for the same price. The Cougar has 4 separate cables and the S5 is whizzing away as I type this  ;D

It's running at 49 degress on stock, but I'm going to change it and add 2 Corsair SP120's I also bought...Will be interesting to see how much quieter it is, but also how much hotter it will be without stock.

Now I just need to figure out what all those numbers mean on the S5 dashboard!

Edit - I noticed for the past 5 or so minutes it's actually been mining at around 1300 GH/S. Thought it was odd considering it's running stock..

I can tell you for sure this one has SIX separate PCIe two built in with plugs attacked if you don't mind that and 4 separate PCIe you can plugs four more PCI plugs into. it comes with all the plugs you need.



http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0090I9W66?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00


but it cost a ton now i see i have two i got a deal on  back 7 month ago for 90 each brand new. :) .


 wow  399 $ for a new one and 105 $ for used  .There are nice I can say that, but 399 $ for a new one .I guess i was just lucky.

Check out http://www.gigampz.com (http://www.gigampz.com)  They make a PSU specifically for BTC mining based off and Intel Platinum efficiency sever PSU they have the on sale right now for $113 (http://www.gigampz.com/store/p21/Gigampz_80Plus_Platinum_Efficiency%2C_1200_Watt_Kit.html) It is a phenomenal deal you won't find a higher quality more efficient PSU for that price.