Layout, design and features …
The ASRock Taichi TC-1300T is presented in the classic ATX format (PS/2) with dimensions of 150 x 86 x 180 mm and therefore fits easily into most standard and high-end cases. Except for the side with the fan, the case is kept in matt black and discreetly bears the “Taichi” lettering, which ensures unobtrusive but stylish integration into a wide variety of builds. The surfaces are cleanly finished and the power supply housing has a robust and high-quality appearance overall.
The underside with the ventilation grille is kept simple, but will generally not be visible when installed. The built-in 135 mm fan is positioned centrally and supports semi-passive operation.
This can be deactivated via a switch at the rear. A useful option to be able to choose between silent idle operation and permanent cooling, depending on the application. ASRock calls this feature iCool. Next to it is the connection for the so-called IEC 320 C19 cable.
The rear of the power supply unit serves as the central connection point for all modular cables.
All cables supplied are of a high quality and, depending on the function, are designed as round or ribbon cables and offer sufficient length even for larger housings and complex builds. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that two 12-pin high-power cables are included in the scope of delivery. This means that even several high-end graphics cards can be operated in the case. As previously mentioned, no standard power cable is used. This is mainly due to the fact that up to 1300 watts can be provided. However, the IEC 320 C19 cable used can still be purchased anywhere.
Last but not least, the TC-1300T also impresses with the large selection of modular cables supplied, which enable even complex systems to be connected.
The modern equipment in the area of high-power graphics card supply is particularly striking: The TC-1300T has two native 12V 2×6 connectors (16-pin, PCIe 5.1-compliant), each of which can supply up to 600 watts. These are therefore optimally designed for current and upcoming high-end GPUs.
The integrated temperature sensors on the 12V 2×6 connectors are a technical highlight. They measure the temperature near the 12-pin connectors and transmit the data to the power supply unit. If the temperature is too high, the TC-1300T can specifically switch off operation to prevent overheating at the sensitive contact points, a clear advantage in terms of safety for power-intensive systems.
The temperature sensors are connected via an extra connector next to the 12-pin connectors.
Another feature is the so-called 5V boost mode, which is intended to ensure a more stable 5-volt rail in certain system configurations. The power supply has active PFC (Power Factor Correction) and complies with the current ATX 3.1 specification, which ensures a high level of compatibility with modern systems.
Let’s take a look at the inside of the power supply unit.
The compact yet open design favors the airflow. Surprisingly, we do not see any excessively large heat sinks.
However, silicone was not spared. Plug connections and coils were glued to reduce both slipping out and the dreaded coil beeping.
The fan is a PLA13525S12M, a 135mm fan that provides sufficient cooling under load. It is branded with the ASRock logo.
The soldering work on the inside is clean and we can’t see any faulty areas.
The housing earthing is firmly screwed in and even secured with a dab of glue.
But what do our trained eyes see? These are not…?
Capacitors of the Rubycon brand have a reputation among experts for being particularly stable and durable. As an example of this, let’s take the Super Nintendo console, whose large capacitor is used to stabilize the input voltage and still works perfectly in many consoles even after more than 30 years. The use of high-quality capacitors shows that ASRock does not skimp on materials. Another indication of the quality orientation of the TC-1300T.
ASRock Taichi TC-1300T PSU Practical testing …