OCZ ModStream 520W Power Supply

A First Look at the Power Supply:

The retail box containing the ModStream PSU has a lot of the same information as on the previous page. OCZ is very proud of their 36 month (3 year) "PowerSwap" replacement program. Nobody wants their PSU to die prematurely, but if something does happen it's good to know you won't get the run-around trying to RMA it.

A very nice feature of the ModStream PSU is its Titanium EMI isolated casing, it looks great but also has a functional purpose. A stick on the top of the box states that the +12V peak output is 40A, however that spec is not printed anywhere else (i.e. the manual, PSU label, or website).

The OCZ ModStream power supply utilizes a modular cable management system for peripheral devices. Enthusiasts tend to like this feature because it allows for a cleaner look inside the case. An extra box is included containing all the cables. The cost of the extra box is probably next to nothing, however it is extremely practical in keeping all the unused cables together and in a box that is easily identifiable. Other manufacturers modular power supplies I have seen in the past they simply include the cables bundled together with a tie-wrap, not thinking about long-term storage.

The regular peripheral cables use 1x4 connectors, but the SATA & PCI Express cables utilize 2x3 connectors. The SATA & PCIe connectors are colored differently, and mate up with the same color connector on the PSU. While the 2x3 connectors are the same style, the pin-out voltage is not the same so pay attention when connecting these cables!

The main 24pin & 4pin +12V connectors are hard-wired to the power supply, all the peripheral connectors are modular. All connectors have gold-plated pins (less resistance than tin-plated). The shielding on the cables is also UV reactive and will glow a bright blue when illuminated with UV lighting accessories.

• One (1) 24pin Main Power (20+4 style)
• One (1) 4pin ATX +12V
• One (1) 6pin PCI Express
• Two (2) SATA
• Six (6) 4pin Peripheral
• One (1) 4pin Floppy

Lastly, a power cord (that matches the style of the other cables), cable wraps, and manual are also included.