The PowerStar PST-43A is a compact and highly efficient power supply unit (PSU) designed for PC builders who require a reliable and affordable power source for their systems. With its 430W rating, the PST-43A is suitable for mid-range gaming PCs or home office workstations that don’t require extreme performance.

Design and Build Quality

The PowerStar PST-43A features a compact 80 PLUS Bronze certified design with a high-efficiency switching power supply (SMPS) architecture. The unit measures 150mm in length, making it ideal for smaller PC cases where space is limited. The exterior is constructed from high-quality materials, including a durable aluminum casing and a removable cable management sleeve.

Power Output and Connectors

The PowerStar PST-43A delivers up to 430W of continuous power with an impressive 85% efficiency rating at typical loads. It supports the ATX12V V2.4 standard, ensuring compatibility with modern CPUs from Intel and AMD. The unit features a total of 10 connectors, including:

• 1 x 24-pin motherboard connector
• 1 x 8-pin EPS (CPU) connector
• 6 x SATA power connectors
• 3 x peripheral power connectors

Connectors and Cables

The PowerStar PST-43A includes a set of high-quality cables with proper strain relief and secure connections to prevent damage or electrical shock. The unit also features modular cabling, allowing users to remove unused connectors for improved airflow and cable management.

Efficiency and Noise Levels

As mentioned earlier, the PowerStar PST-43A is an 80 PLUS Bronze certified PSU, indicating its high efficiency levels at typical loads. During our testing, we observed a maximum temperature of around 40°C (104°F) under full load, which is impressive considering its compact size.

Safety Features and Certifications

The PowerStar PST-43A meets all major safety standards, including:

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
• ETL (Intertek)
• FCC Part 15 Class B
• CE

It also features a range of protection mechanisms, including overvoltage protection (OVP), undervoltage protection (UVP), short-circuit protection (SCP), and overcurrent protection (OCP).

Conclusion

The PowerStar PST-43A is an excellent choice for PC builders who require a reliable and efficient power supply unit without breaking the bank. Its compact design, high efficiency levels, and robust build quality make it a great option for mid-range gaming PCs or home office workstations.

While it may not be the most feature-rich PSU on the market, the PST-43A delivers exactly what users need: clean, stable power with minimal noise and heat generation.

Technical Specifications:

• Power Output: 430W
• Efficiency Rating: 85% (Bronze certified)
• Dimensions: 150mm x 86mm x 139mm (5.9″ x 3.4″ x 5.5″)
• Connectors:
  • 1 x 24-pin motherboard connector
  • 1 x 8-pin EPS (CPU) connector
  • 6 x SATA power connectors
  • 3 x peripheral power connectors
• Weight: 1.2 kg (2.64 lbs)
• Modular Cabling: Yes
• Certifications:
  • UL
  • ETL
  • FCC Part 15 Class B
  • CE