Vantec Thermal Technologies was established in 1994 and since then has manufactured a variety of products for both "mainstream and enthusiast users". Cooling solutions, peripherals, storage devices, power supplies, PC modifications, even Notebook accessories are some of the products from Vantec available on the market.

In this review, we will be taking a look at the 460 Watt Power Supply Unit from the Vantec ION2 series.

The ION2 series is known for its stability and low noise, and is offered as a solution to both regular and enthusiast users who are concerned about noise and stability, rather than fancy looks and power tweaking. The ION2 460W, utilizes a 12cm fan (120X120X15) that Vantec calls "Temperature Controlled Fan". By this, the manufacturer means that the fan will auto adjust itself (rotation speed) in order to keep the PSU cool and in optimal operation. When at normal temperature levels, the fan drops its rotation speed, offering a low noise environment. And this is not all. The Vantec ION2 460W, offers a wide range of features which we will list and discuss in detail below...

- Features

-EPS12V and ATX 12V compatible
-Electric-Shock-Free Protection
-Over Voltage Protection
-Over Current Protection
-Short Circuit Protection
-Temperature Controlled Fan
-Pre-Sleeved cables
-Serial ATA connectors
-Black EZ-Grip 4pin power connectors
-PCI Express Connector
-24pin to 20pin adaptor

The most important and innovative of these features are the following...

1. Temperature Controlled Fan

As already discussed in the introduction, the ION2 utilizes a 120mm fan that allows a low noise working environment when rotating at low speeds, while it increases speed to cool the PSU (offering stability and functionality) as the PSU's temperature rises. Due to the size of the PSU fan, even at high rotation speeds, the noise levels are acceptable.

2. Serial ATA Hard drive Power Connectors (x2)

For Serial ATA Hard drive users, Vantec includes 2 SATA hard drive power connectors which enable the user to supply their SATA drives without the need for extra adaptors.

3. Pre-Sleeved Cables

All the cables on the ION2 are pre-sleeved (black sleeve) for a clean look. Furthermore, this allows for better airflow inside the case, reducing any clutter so common when using traditional PSUs with standard cables.

4. Universal Connector

The ION2 offers two options for connecting the PSU to the motherboard. The ION supports both 20 and 24pin connectors. By default, the PSU offers the 24-pin connector and in order for the ION to be connected to a 20-pin enabled motherboard, the use of an extra adaptor between the 24-pin end and the motherboard is needed. The adaptor is included in the retail package.

5. EZ-Grip Molex Connectors

The traditional Molex connectors have been replaced by the EZ-Grip Molex, further improving the functionality of this PSU. The rounded grips make it easy to plug in and remove from the installed devices.

6. PCI Express Power Connector

One PCI Express 6-pin power connector is included on a separate line for the PCI-E card's supply needs.

- Specifications

Here are the specs as given by the manufacturer...

- Retail Box

The retail box for the Vantec ION 2 460N includes everything the end user will need to accomplish a successful installation and customization, including the 24-20 pin adaptor, power cable and manual.

Having listed the main features of the ION2 and its specifications, we move on to a closer look at the PSU.