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Is running 230v to power supply more efficient?

C

Compman55

Golden Member
Tow models I have:

Antec HCG-620m
Corsair CX430

Both of these can run 120 or 230, which would be more efficient? I am running a wire either way, so it makes no difference to me.
 
240V is more efficient. Not very much for non-PFC or passive PFC supplies, but it'll get you another 2-4% in an active PFC supply.
 
is 230 US the same as 240 foreign?
frequency aside (60hz vs 50hz)
isn't 230 two 115V lines out of phase?
And isn't 240V single phase?

maybe im over thinking this
 
240v is two hots together.

The transformer at the pole typically converts 7,200 volts to 240 volts but the secondary winding has a centre tap (the neutral), so from that tap to one of the two hots it's 120v. That tap is also the ground (but at the panel it's split off). Your panel is split in a way where every second breaker is one leg (one of the hots) and the others are the other leg, so for 240 you would use a double pole breaker vs 120 you pick a leg then go to neutral. Hope this makes sense.

One advantage of going 240 is there is less amperage to get the same wattage so in theory the wire from the panel to the equipment will get half as hot. Keep in mind this is a very minor amount of heat that you can't really feel.

One downside of going 240v is having to find a UPS that will work with that as consumer ones you will find in the store will be 120v in and out.
 
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How do I know if it is active or passive?

I am re-wiring from the old knob & tube, to new romex for saftey. I am not producing my own power, but will have a 2.5KW standby generator.
 
Compman55 said:
How do I know if it is active or passive?
Click to expand...

Check the specification sheet for your PSU.

As a good rule of thumb, if the PSU has manual voltage selection it is not active PFC. Auto voltage PSU are always active PFC. Single-voltage only PSU (rare) can be active or passive.
 
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