OCZ ModStream 520W Power Supply

Load Test Results:

Loads are reported at 4 different levels (Low, Typical, Heavy, and Max), the numbers will vary slightly between power supplies because voltage levels have a direct effect on current going though the resistors. Ambient temperature (outside the case) would vary between 23.8-26.7°C (75-80°F), which was somewhat proportional to the load level being tested, however the main concern was keeping the internal temp below 50°C. All PC power supplies are "switching power supplies", so please keep in mind that voltage levels will always vary between PCs because loads are always different (and quite dynamic).

• Things to consider:
  1. Voltage Regulation (% above/below nominal)
  2. Efficiency (particularly under a "typical" & "heavy" loads)
  3. Safety (Does it shutdown under unsafe conditions?)
  4. Maximum Real Power Output (does it meet rated output?)
  • Two potential reason a power supply did not meet its rated maximum power output:
    1. Voltage exceeded maximum tolerances
    2. PSU shutdown (overheat or overload condition)

Note: Maximum tested load (red background) may not always be the maximum PSU output rating (mentioned as reason #4 above). We try to get as close as possible to the maximum rated output, but the design of the load testing device only works in incremental numbers so it may be slightly higher or lower.

To see how these power supplies compare against other PSUs, please visit our compiled results page that includes all previous PSU testing results.

Comments:

• Good efficiency, ~82% under typical load
• 120mm fan was very quiet during operation (as most are)
• Properly shutdown from over-current & over-temp conditions
• Tested +12V up to 35A peak load (max test rig can do)
• +12V needs good/balanced +5V load to keep from sagging too much
• Didn't test PSU higher than 502W because it would make a weird noise (usually a sign of imminent shutdown)