FAQ
TL;DR: Budget PSUs like Akyga AK-B1-500/Logic can push +12V to 13V; "The quality of these power supplies is very low." Use only for parts or testing. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
Why it matters: This helps PC builders decide whether to trust, test, or replace budget PSUs to avoid hardware damage.
Quick Facts
- ATX +12V tolerance is 11.40–12.60 V (±5%); beyond this violates spec and risks components. [ATX12V Power Supply Design Guide]
- Reports show +12V overshoot above 13V on low‑tier units, indicating poor regulation under load. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
- Akyga AK-B1-500 is flagged on the community blacklist as one of the worst models. [Elektroda, Robert B, #17068754]
- Users reported storage damage from Akyga failure, including a “literally burned” hard drive. [Elektroda, Drodzia, post #17066536]
Is the Akyga AK-B1-500 a good power supply for a PC?
No. Forum experts class Akyga AK-B1-500 among blacklisted, bottom-tier units. It lacks reliable voltage regulation and protective robustness. Using it risks instability and component damage under load. "One of the worst shacks on the power supply blacklist." [Elektroda, Robert B, #17068754]
Is "Skayga" the same as Akyga AK-B1-500?
Yes. The AK-B1-500 designation belongs to Akyga. The spelling “Skayga” in posts is a mistake. Confirm the label on the nameplate before any testing or use. [Elektroda, Robert B, #17068754]
Can a cheap PSU like Akyga or Logic damage my components?
Yes. A user reported an Akyga burning a hard drive. Overvoltage and poor regulation can destroy storage and motherboards. Even short use can hide serious faults. Replace the unit promptly to protect data. [Elektroda, Drodzia, post #17066536]
Why are Logic and Akyga considered bottom tier?
Because of observed overvoltage, weak regulation, low efficiency, and cheap capacitors. "The quality of these power supplies is very low." These traits show poor design and inadequate safeguards. Replace such units rather than risk failure. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
Does running 24/7 for a week mean it’s safe?
No. Quiet operation does not prove compliance. Measurements showed +12V exceeding 13V on a Logic unit. That exceeds ATX limits and risks damage. Replace rather than trust short‑term uptime. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
How do I test a budget PSU safely with a multimeter and bulbs?
Follow this quick bench test at your own risk.
- Unplug the PSU and short the green ATX wire to ground.
- Load the +12V rail with halogen or car bulbs.
- Measure +12V; if needed, add loads on +3.3V and +5V to stabilize group‑regulated designs. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
My +12V reads 13.0V. Is that out of spec?
Yes. ATX12V allows ±5% on +12V, or 11.40–12.60V. A 13.0V reading is out of spec. Stop using that PSU and replace it. [ATX12V Power Supply Design Guide]
What is group regulation and why can it be risky in modern PCs?
Group‑regulated PSUs sense 3.3V and 5V for control. Modern PCs load mainly the 12V rail. The result is 12V can sag or overshoot under crossload. That behavior risks GPU and CPU stability. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
Should I keep using Logic 400ATX or Akyga until it dies?
Avoid that plan. You can run it, but failures may be destructive. "Things can happen during a breakdown." Back up data and schedule a replacement immediately. [Elektroda, sylweksylwina, post #17066528]
Is the AK-B1-500 good for parts or DIY projects?
Yes. Salvage high‑voltage transistors, diodes, coils, transformers, and ICs. These parts can build a simple linear bench power supply. The PSU itself should not power valuable PCs. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17068528]
What should I look for in a safe replacement PSU?
Choose a unit that meets the ATX12V design guide. Ensure +12V stays within 11.40–12.60V under realistic load. Verify regulation with a multimeter or trusted reviews. [ATX12V Power Supply Design Guide]
Do I need to load the 3.3V and 5V rails when testing?
Often, yes. Group‑regulated units stabilize by sensing +3.3V and +5V rails. Without load there, +12V can drift. Add modest loads on those rails during testing to observe real behavior. [Elektroda, pawelr98, post #17066567]
How can I check if Akyga AK-B1-500 is blacklisted?
Check the community blacklist thread referenced in the discussion. Experts point to blacklisted brands and models there. Use it to avoid risky PSUs. [Elektroda, sylweksylwina, post #17066566]
