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Introduction
We've seen many power supply units (PSU) here at NextGen Electronics over the years, and previously reviewed the PowerStream PSU which received tops marks. Now, we take a look at OCZ Technology's latest offer for PSUs - the ModStream 520W power supply unit which features the very popular
cable management system allows you to customize you power system to utilize only the UV cables you require, resulting in optimal airflow and the coolest possible environment within your case. Also included with the PSU are a 120mm fan, glowing blue lights, and an amazing chrome finish.
Specs & Info
Here's a nice long list of specs to check out ...
- Total Output Power:
520 W
- 160x150x86 mm
- 520W: +3.3V(28A), +5V(52A), +12V(28A)
- Over-voltage/Short-Circuit protection
- OCZ PowerWhisper Technology with 120mm fan
- OCZ PowerShield PCI-Express lead
- OCZ EZMod advanced cable management system
- Supports ATX/BTX/PCI Express/SATA
- 3 Year warranty backed by OCZ's exclusive PowerSwap replacement program.
So we see here the important things are that the PSU (Power
Supply Unit) handles a max load of 520W and boasts a real nice 120mm fan to keep this cool and quiet. In addition,
there's a real nice 3 year warranty in case something happens to go wrong.
installation
Installing the ModStream PSU took this seasoned veteran exactly 9 minutes to do. For newbies, it's really a lot easier than it looks - and the advanced cable system makes it MUCH easier to do. Included were the
necessary cables for installation along with some nifty tie-downs to keep your case organized. All you have to do is simply remove
the connections from your old power supply, unscrew it from your case,
and slide in the new one. Then simply install as many power cables as you need (save the ones you don't use) and you're ready to go. Once you are ready you simply flip the switch.
Performance
Wow - this is one pretty PSU. The immediate differences came in two forms over the older non-brand name PSU (pictured below). First, the OCZ ModStream was much quieter. Secondly, the lights and UV cables brought the case out so much more than before. So from a looks perspective, the ModStream PSU is a brilliant design that definitely brings out your case in vibrancy while reducing noise. For those of you that don't enjoy a clear side window on your case ... well ... join the 21st century along with the rest of us.
Included are the cables:
2 peripheral 4pin connectors , 1 peripheral 4 Pin and 1 FDD 4Pin connector, 1 peripheral 4Pin connector, 1 PCI Express 6Pin connector, and 2 SATA connectors
There's enough to plug in basically anything you need to plug in. It's doubtful you'll need to invest in power splitters, but keep in mind how many power plugs you get with this PSU.
When dissecting the ModStream unit, we saw that OCZ put an emphasis on quality components by using larger sized capacitors for stable power and quality finned aluminum heatsinks with high surface area for better heat dissipation.
With various load amounts for the PC when tested, we never saw any instability. All in all, this is a solid, well manufactured power supply that is a wise investment for PC enthusiasts.
Overall Impressions
 Here's a head scratching question for you - why do many PC people spend $450 on a video card, $250 on a motherboard, and $24.99 on a Power Supply unit that controls the fate of both? I've never understood people that skimp on this absolutely crucial piece of PC equipment. Get the wrong PSU and your video card or motherboard could be destroyed in seconds ... get the right one and your components are safe for years on end.
With that said, PC owners are highly encouraged to invest in the right power supply. At this time, NextGen Electronics recommends not going below 420W of power, and the OCZ ModStream PSU comes in with a very nice rating of 520W. Internally there are some impressive parts that bring together a very nice solution as far as power distribution and heat dissipation goes, in addition to an absolutely gorgeous design for the PSU and the accompanying cables.
The OCZ Technology ModStream PSU is one of the better power supply units we've taken a look at here at NGE. It's a beautifully designed piece of equipment that comes highly recommended to bring up the looks of your case in addition to boasting the popular advanced cable management system. Let's not forget the solid warrantee to go with quality manufactured parts to add up to a very impressive product.
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10 / 10 |
OVERALL SCORE
96%
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9 / 10 |
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9 / 10 |
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10 / 10 |
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10 / 10 |
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9.6 /
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