Since 1986, Antec has been producing high-performance componets for computers. Based in Freemont CA, Antec started out a small company and has since matured into one of the largest in the PC industry.  One product Antec is well known for producing is power supplies (PSU).  Antec makes some of the best PSU money can buy and many of their PSU have been recognized for excellence over the years.  Antec's newest addition in their PSU line is the Neo HE(High-Efficiency) series.  Neo HE is a new breed of PSU.  Incredibly high efficiency, Active PFC and modular cable design, make Neo HE a power-supply that is sure to lead the market.  Today HardwareLogic takes a look at the Neo HE 550.

"Neo HE combines the most desired features in PC power supplies with unprecedented efficiency in design. These new power supplies' energy-efficient operation reduces power consumption by up to 20% compared with traditional power supplies, saving users money. Also generating less heat, and enabling cooling with a smaller, slower, quieter fan. Active PFC circuitry further reduces impact on the power infrastructure. The result is cooler, quieter, and more environmentally friendly power." - Antec

I want to elaborate on the "550W continuous output at 50C ambient temperature".  This is an extremely bold feature that puts the Neo HE 550 on the level with an elite few.  Most PSU operating temperatures are in the area of 30C. This mean that when the unit is 30C it will output it's rated power, and when the temperature increases above 30C, it may not maintain it's 'rated' power ouput.  When a PSU is stressed and heating up, it's continuous output decreases because of the enourmous strain the heat causes.  The Neo HE 550 is guaranteed to provide 550 watts of power while under tremendous heat load of 50C. 

Features 

• Highly efficient (up to 85%), one super-silent 80mm fan keeps Neo HE cool; less than 18dBA noise level.
• Advanced Cable Management System improves internal airflow and reduces system clutter by allowing you to use only the cables you need.
• Universal Input with Active PFC: Use anywhere in the world without worrying about input voltages; Active PFC improves voltage stability and delivers environmentally-friendlier power.
• Dedicated Power Circuitry: Delivers safer, more reliable output to your system’s delicate components. Includes dedicated voltage outputs, triple +12V output circuits, voltage feedback circuitry, and tighter ±3% regulation for improved system stability.
• ATX12V v2.2 and EPS12V compliant; backward compatible with all ATX12V v2.01 systems. Special 4+4 pin connector allows multi standard compatibility
• Three +12V output circuits provide maximum stable power for the CPU independently of the other peripherals.
• Accurate power rating allows Neo HE to deliver its full rated power, 24 hours a day rated at 50Â�C.
• Low-speed 80mm fan delivers whisper-quiet cooling and ensures quiet operation by varying fan speed in response to load and conditions.
• SATA connectors for your Serial ATA drives.
• Industrial grade protection circuitry prevents damage resulting from short circuits (SCP), under voltage protection (UVP), power overloads (OPP), excessive current (OCP) and excessive voltages (OVP).
• Approvals: UL, CUL, CE, CB, FCC Class B, TÜV, CCC, C-tick.
• MTBF: 80,000 hours
• Size: 5.9” (W) x 3.4" (H) x 5.9” (W)