PC Power and Cooling

PC Power and Cooling

Company type	Subsidiary
Industry	Computer hardware
Founded	1985
Founder	Doug Dodson
Headquarters	Carlsbad, California , United States
Area served	United States
Key people	Doug Dodson (founder)
Products	Computer power supplies
Number of employees	40 (2005)
Parent	FirePower Technology

PC Power and Cooling (also presented as PC Power & Cooling) operates as a subsidiary of FirePower Technology and is a U.S.-based producer of computer power supplies located in Carlsbad, California. The enterprise was established in 1985 by entrepreneur Doug Dodson. In 2007, it was purchased by OCZ Technology, and subsequently, in 2014, became part of FirePower Technology following their acquisition of OCZ's power supply segment.

Serving both consumer and business sectors, PC Power and Cooling manufactures tailored power supply solutions for American OEM customers from its Carlsbad headquarters. The firm is recognized for pioneering advancements in computer thermal management and emphasizes delivering products that combine superior performance with minimal noise levels.

History

In April 1985, Doug Dodson, who possessed expertise in electronics alongside a finance background, founded PC Power and Cooling after noticing deficiencies in the IBM PC XT power supply design. His initial efforts involved modifying existing power units to enhance cooling efficiency and reduce operational noise, leading to the company's inception in Bonsall, California. Dodson gathered a team of engineers dedicated to creating power supplies with enhanced thermal regulation and quieter functionality.

The company introduced the Silencer series in 1986, which incorporated large 120-mm fans, followed by the Turbo-Cool line—the first XT-compatible power supplies equipped with multiple fans. Early offerings ranged between 150 and 200 watts. By September 2005, PC Power and Cooling unveiled the industry's inaugural 1000-watt PC power supply, illustrating its dedication to delivering high-capacity products.

Around 1992, operations shifted to a 13,000-square-foot facility in Carlsbad. By 2005, the workforce numbered approximately 40 employees. In 2007, OCZ Technology acquired PC Power and Cooling for about $13 million. During OCZ’s stewardship, PC Power and Cooling concentrated on enthusiast and commercial markets, whereas OCZ-branded units targeted gaming and entry-level consumers. Both divisions collaborated closely on product innovation, with Dodson’s team providing consultancy for OCZ’s product lines.

In February 2014, FirePower Technology expanded its presence in the electronics sector by acquiring OCZ’s power supply division, including PC Power and Cooling.

Models

The Silencer series includes power supply units rated at 1050 watts and 1200 watts. Additionally, versions conforming to Dell’s proprietary form factor have been manufactured. The Turbo-Cool lineup represents a high-performance segment featuring an 860-watt model.

Multiple PC Power and Cooling products have earned 80 Plus certifications; notably, the Silencer 910W secured Silver Certification by achieving energy efficiency exceeding 88%, reflecting the company’s focus on both performance excellence and energy efficiency.