Desktop build with GaN PSU

Framework Desktop
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New desktop user here; joined batch 16 for a motherboard on the 16th of november and was pleasantly surprised it started shipping on the 25th. Living in the Netherlands means the order arrives only 2 days later :slight_smile:.

Because of the PSU noise posts I decided to only order the mainboard and buy a separate case and PSU. I couldn’t really find a nice case with a volume similar to the framework case, so I decided to order the framework case, side panel and the 250w GaN psu from HDPlex, plus the black version of the noctua fan.

It takes some planning to layout the cabling so that everything fits:

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With the fan mounted there’s not much wiggle room left and the PSU is held in place pretty tight already. I still need to design and print a bracket of some sort to securely attach it, but since it’s sitting on a desk there’s no risk anyway.

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Since there’s no flex-atx casing to fill the gap at the back I printed an adapter plate from thingyverse: Flex ATX PSU to C14 adapter by Qetesh - Thingiverse

I should have mirrored the print first so that the plate side (which looks better) is on the outside of the case. But it works for now.

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I haven’t seen the power draw go over 150W so the 250W PSU seems fine. Looking at the power supply compatibility advice it seems to fall within limits Parts Compatibility for building a PC with a Framework Desktop Mainboard (AMD Ryzen™ AI Max 300 Series) .

Will post some thermal images of the PSU in the coming days.

2 Likes
For MB purchasers: what case are you getting?
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This PSU is completely fanless, correct?
I envy your build.

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Really nice to see this build. There was a lot of discussion about this PSU leading up to and through the early days of the Desktop shipping. So it’s great to be able to extend the conversation from idea to tangible outcome.

Have you connected the front USB / expansion card cables or has the HDPlex consumed that space?

Just for reference, I built with the 500W HDplex and a Dell brick and am enjoying the serenity of fanless, too.

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The USB expansion cables are functional. They help keep the psu in place. At first I thought I had to sacrifice one or get a less rigid alternative cable but like i said, with a bit of planning everything fits.

1 Like
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Nice one!

I love a fanless system. I’ve used NanoPSU in the past and deliberately chose builds that would sit inside the 150W/180W/192W envelope (until they don’t) but chaining 250+250+… is a neat trick.

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Thank you for link this, from other topic on motherboard builds.

I do remember this psu being discussed, I do wonder about load over 2 hours & piek power use on boot. I also life in the Netherlands, but case and most of the part are not in stock at the moment. Plus last time I build a PC was back in 2011, but it’s a option I can think about.