{"id":32283,"date":"2012-10-28T22:52:21","date_gmt":"2012-10-28T22:52:21","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=32283"},"modified":"2012-11-19T23:51:00","modified_gmt":"2012-11-19T23:51:00","slug":"cooler-masters-1000w-psu-can-handle-overclocked-bulldozer-hd-6870-x4-quadfire-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/cooler-masters-1000w-psu-can-handle-overclocked-bulldozer-hd-6870-x4-quadfire-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Cooler Master&#8217;s 1000W PSU can handle overclocked FX-8150 &#038; HD 6970-X4 QuadFire!"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\">\/\/ <![CDATA[\n                                  google_ad_client = \"pub-7021221536180758\"; \/* 468x60, created 11\/11\/09 *\/ google_ad_slot = \"1949837292\"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60;\n\/\/ ]]><\/script><script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"http:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/show_ads.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<p>The choice of a <em>p<\/em>ower <em>s<\/em>upply <em>u<\/em>nit (PSU) is critical to any PC build. Too much depends on\u00a0sufficient stable power\u00a0to buy a bargain bin or a generic PSU.\u00a0 At the time of writing, the Cooler Master Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU is a new arrival <a href=\"http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817171074\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.newegg.com\/Product\/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817171074', 'at Newegg for $229.99 after a $20 mail-in-rebate']);\" >at Newegg for $229.99 after a $20 mail-in-rebate<\/a>. We have been running it in our most\u00a0power-hungry\u00a0system for over a month and\u00a0here is our report.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/IMAGE-LINK-22.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32282\" title=\"IMAGE-LINK-2\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/IMAGE-LINK-22.jpg?resize=450%2C338\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/IMAGE-LINK-22.jpg?resize=450%2C338 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/IMAGE-LINK-22-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>At 1000 Watts, Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum is overkill for most PC systems. It is built specifically for enthusiasts with multiple video cards and it is specifically set up to power up to\u00a0four GPUs with Quad-Fire or Quad-SLI on one massive 12V rail. So we tested it with AMD&#8217;s power-hungry FX-8150 overclocked to 4.4GHz and HD 6970-X4 QuadFire!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFire.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32304\" title=\"QuadFire\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFire.jpg?resize=480%2C555\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFire.jpg?resize=480%2C555 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFire-259x300.jpg 259w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>We are not out of order by insisting on Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU since ABT tests extreme systems. The Silent Pro Platinum PSUs are 80-PLUS Platinum certified with peak efficiency up to 94%. It features modular cable design integrated with dual 7V fan ports and a 135mm ultra silent hydraulic bearing fan.\u00a0 A single +12V rail outputs efficiency that can reach up to 984W output at 82A.\u00a0This is plenty of power for\u00a0most high end VGAs and CPUs while still\u00a0remaining stable and\u00a0quiet.<\/p>\n<p>In considering that choosing your PSU is like buying insurance for your expensive hardware, you also need to remember that a quality PSU will likely last through several builds if you plan ahead. Cooler Master offers a 5 year limited warranty.\u00a0 Another thing to consider is \u201cnoise\u201d \u2013 ideally you do not want your power supply\u2019s cooling fan adding <em>any<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>We are helping to get the word out that generic and cheap power supplies actually waste a lot of electricity and thus your money. They also hurt your wallet by producing excess heat which will cost you more in electricity usage in cooling your room. Even worse, a cheap PSU may not provide stable power for your PC components and will perhaps even shorten their lives.\u00a0 A cheap or generic PSU will certainly limit your overclocking potential.<\/p>\n<p>We are using our\u00a0Thermaltake Chaser MK-I\u00a0case (<a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=28241\">which we reviewed here<\/a>) with an additional 240mmm side panel fan installed (powered\u00a0conveniently from one of the Cooler Master PSU&#8217;s two 7V fan posts), to house our\u00a0FX-8150 overclocked to\u00a04.40GHz (plus) and three graphics cards housing four power-hungry GPUs in CrossFire-X4, including the overclocked dual-GPU HD 6990 at HD 6970 speeds. So, we require absolute stability from our power supply unit.<\/p>\n<p>We have been living with this PSU for the past month and have used it\u00a0to power\u00a0one other build &#8211;\u00a0using our\u00a0overclocked Core i7-3770K at 4.8GHz\u00a0and our GTX 690 together with a GTX 670 dedicated to SLI.\u00a0 The Ivy Bridge\/Kepler system is far too power efficient to put any kind of power\u00a0strain on\u00a0our\u00a0regular 775W PSU, never mind\u00a0this 1000W unit.<\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s unbox and check out the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU&#8217;s\u00a0features and specifications\u00a0on the next page:<\/p>\n<p><!--pagetitle: Introduction--><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>Specifications, Features and Packaging<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Our Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU arrived in this long and heavy box. You will find tough reusable canvas bags for your cables inside which also protect the PSU components during shipping. <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32323\" title=\"box\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box1.jpg?resize=480%2C270\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box1.jpg?resize=480%2C270 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box1-300x168.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Turning the box over we see the features of this PSU in several languages.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32324\" title=\"box-obv\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box-obv1.jpg?resize=480%2C250\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box-obv1.jpg?resize=480%2C250 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/box-obv1-300x156.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>\u00a0We open the box and see the well-packed contents inside in a box-within-box method. The packaging is minimal so there is not too much to recycle.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/innerbox.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32374\" title=\"innerbox\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/innerbox.jpg?resize=480%2C247\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/innerbox.jpg?resize=480%2C247 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/innerbox-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Opening the box further, we see it is well-packed to protect the precious contents from any transportation damage and the bags are reusable.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32329\" title=\"packed\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/packed1.jpg?resize=480%2C358\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/packed1.jpg?resize=480%2C358 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/packed1-300x223.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">We see instructions printed in several languages to accompany the cables, screws and the PSU itself; the warranty is 5 years warranty which is excellent for a PSU. The accessories come in a canvas bag.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32328\" title=\"OutofBox\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/OutofBox1.jpg?resize=480%2C458\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/OutofBox1.jpg?resize=480%2C458 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/OutofBox1-300x285.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum features and specifications are detailed right on the box.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32336\" title=\"specs\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs3.jpg?resize=480%2C602\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs3.jpg?resize=480%2C602 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs3-239x300.jpg 239w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Here are the specifications also in an easy-to-read chart:<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-32318\" title=\"specs\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs2.jpg?resize=500%2C590\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs2.jpg?resize=500%2C590 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/specs2-254x300.jpg 254w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU is a handsome, compact, solid and rather heavy unit that appears well put together. The specifications are also right on the unit as shown:<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32335\" title=\"PSU-rails\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-rails1.jpg?resize=480%2C510\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-rails1.jpg?resize=480%2C510 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-rails1-282x300.jpg 282w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-rails1-963x1024.jpg 963w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Here is what is included to make connections with your PC right out of the box (below). The cables are of a flat design which have become popular as they restrict less airflow if laid out properly inside the case. Since the PSU design is mostly\u00a0modular, you only use the cables that you need. And everything you need is supplied right with the PSU as shown below.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32322\" title=\"accessories\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/accessories1.jpg?resize=480%2C410\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/accessories1.jpg?resize=480%2C410 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/accessories1-300x255.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Two cables are permanently attached to the power supply. The rest of it is modular\u00a0and has\u00a0the connectors as shown in Cooler Master&#8217;s chart below.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32306\" title=\"connectors\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connectors1.jpg?resize=450%2C286\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connectors1.jpg?resize=450%2C286 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connectors1-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The cables are 18 AWG wires which\u00a0are ideal.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32326\" title=\"CM-1000W-PSU-cables\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CM-1000W-PSU-cables3.jpg?resize=384%2C364\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CM-1000W-PSU-cables3.jpg?resize=384%2C364 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/CM-1000W-PSU-cables3-300x284.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The cables attached to the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Main motherboard cable with a 24-pin connector.<\/li>\n<li>CPU cable with two 4+4 pin connectors.<\/li>\n<li>One long PCIe cable with six\u00a06+2 connectors<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32325\" title=\"cables\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/cables1.jpg?resize=480%2C306\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/cables1.jpg?resize=480%2C306 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/cables1-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The modular cables included with the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum are<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Two\u00a0PCIe power cables with one six-pin connector each.<\/li>\n<li>Two video card power cables with one six- plus one two-pin connector (which can form an 8-pin connector) each.<\/li>\n<li>Five peripherial\u00a0cables with four SATA power connectors each; one floppy cable connector and standard Molex.<\/li>\n<li>Two 7V fan connectors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32327\" title=\"connector\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connector1.jpg?resize=468%2C486\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connector1.jpg?resize=468%2C486 780w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/connector1-288x300.jpg 288w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>The Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum PSU&#8217;s PCIe cabling allows for the most modern 6-pin plus 2-pin connectors for three power-hungry videocards.\u00a0 In our case, we used a dual-GPU HD 6990 and two HD 6970s all working together in CrossFire-X4.<\/p>\n<p>Since our ASUS AM3+ motherboard uses a Molex connector to supply power directly to the motherboard, we had no issues.\u00a0 However, if we used our EVGA Z77 FTW motherboard, it requires one or two PCIe connectors to be plugged directly into the motherboard when using more than one video card.\u00a0 One PCIe connector is located at the very bottom of the motherboard while the\u00a0one is placed near the top PCIe slot as pictured below.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/08\/Pcieconn-2.jpg?resize=480%2C332\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>One could use Molex to PCIe adapters in this case where the other PCIe connections are taken up by 3 video cards.\u00a0 Cooler Master assured us that it is acceptible to use the Molex connectors since\u00a0it is\u00a0pulling from the 3.3\/5v connections.\u00a0 As long as the board and\u00a0the drives\/accessories don\u2019t pull more than 150w\u00a0it should\u00a0be fine.<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively one could perhaps use the Molex to PCIe connectors to power one of the video card&#8217;s PCIe connectors while the PCIe cable can plug into the motherboard.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32333\" title=\"PSU-4\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-41.jpg?resize=480%2C626\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-41.jpg?resize=480%2C626 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-41-229x300.jpg 229w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-41-784x1024.jpg 784w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>There are\u00a0no doubts about what connects where.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32308\" title=\"exterior-connect\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/exterior-connect1.jpg?resize=500%2C318\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/exterior-connect1.jpg?resize=500%2C318 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/exterior-connect1-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>As you can see, the modular design allows you to use only what you need.\u00a0 Here are all of the included cables before they are neatly installed and many of them\u00a0will be\u00a0be routed behind the motherboard:<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32317\" title=\"QuadFireConnect\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFireConnect1.jpg?resize=480%2C392\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFireConnect1.jpg?resize=480%2C392 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/QuadFireConnect1-300x245.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The large 135mm\u00a0fan spins slowly under most circumstances and even when the PSU is outputting near its maximum, it never gets noisy nor is it ever heard over even one quiet video card.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum features 25 amps each on the 3.3 volt and 5 volt rail as well as 984W at\u00a082 amps on the single 12 volt rail. It is rated for a total of\u00a01000W watts at 92% (plus) percent efficiency. It is rated &#8220;Platimum&#8221; by a company,\u201c<a href=\"http:\/\/www.80plus.org\/\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.80plus.org\/', '80 Plus']);\" >80 Plus<\/a>\u201d. 80 Plus tests (for a fee) power supplies from many vendors to certify that the submitted PSUs are actually over 80% efficient at 20%, 50% and 100% loads as claimed. 80 Plus has expanded their testing to include bronze (82%), silver (85%), gold (87%) and Platinum (92%) certifications for power supplies.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32307\" title=\"efficiency-curve\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/efficiency-curve1.jpg?resize=450%2C286\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/efficiency-curve1.jpg?resize=450%2C286 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/efficiency-curve1-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Efficiency is the ratio between the useful output of a PSU and the input. For example, if your computer actually uses 600W but draws 800W from the outlet, then its PSU\u2019s efficiency is 600W\/800W, or 75%. It also means in this example, that 200W of AC power is not converted into DC and is wasted. Older or generic computer PSUs are typically 75% or less efficient. The more efficient your power supply is, the less your computer will waste power. Since any AC power that isn\u2019t converted into DC is exhausted as heat into your room, a more efficient power supply unit will run cooler and your room&#8217;s air conditioner will also not have have to work as hard.<\/p>\n<p>Take a look at the 135mm fan used to cool the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum. Because of the excellent efficiency of the PSU, it allows\u00a0Cooler Master\u00a0to use a slower and quieter fan to cool it. One thing for sure, if you have a normal PC setup, your Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum fan will never be heard over your videocard, CPU cooling, or case fans. It is extraordinarily silent.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32330\" title=\"PSU-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-11.jpg?resize=480%2C356\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-11.jpg?resize=480%2C356 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-11-300x222.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Everything looks great so let&#8217;s head for the installation of Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum PSU.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>Options for installing the power supply and cables<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum is an extraordinarily quiet PSU with an almost silent 140 mm automatically variable speed fan. It also features a short delay where the fan keeps spinning for about thirty seconds after the PSU is powered down, thus keeping its internal components cooler and likely lasting longer.<\/p>\n<p>We note that Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum PSU can be installed so that the intake fan can be up or down. There are advantages and disadvantages either way although the modern\/common usage is to have the fan installed so it brings air from under the case as most modern cases are set up this way, often including dust filters to protect your PSU and hardware.\u00a0 We have dropped screws inside the PSU when the fan faced up.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/feet-a.jpg?resize=288%2C399\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If the fan is facing down, it draws air in from below the bottom of the case and exhausts it out the back of the PSU \u2013 outside of the case airflow completely. If the fan is facing up, it draws warm air from inside your PC and exhausts it out through the PSU back grille. We used the\u00a0Chaser MK-I&#8217;s\u00a0built-in dust filter with the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum W fan facing downward as our normal installation.<\/p>\n<p>Facing downward with the fan drawing air in,\u00a0the built-in dust screen does not allow the PSU to become clogged with dust; however to keep the PS cool and with good air flow, the dust filter itself may need to be cleaned \u2013 especially if you are in a dusty environment. If the dust filter starts to clog with dust, simply tip your PC on its side and vacuum the dust away. You can also use a brush to loosen the dust, if necessary.<\/p>\n<p>Note the back of the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum grill (image below) which allows a free flow of air to cool your power supply unit\u2019s internal components.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32331\" title=\"PSU-2\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-21.jpg?resize=480%2C470\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-21.jpg?resize=480%2C470 1000w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/PSU-21-300x293.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Do you ever wonder what is inside a quality PSU that differentiates it from other power supplies? Take a look:<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32313\" title=\"interior-1\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-11.jpg?resize=450%2C286\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-11.jpg?resize=450%2C286 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-11-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: small;\">Inside Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum<\/span> <strong><\/strong><span style=\"font-size: small;\">PSU <\/span><strong><\/strong><span style=\"font-size: small;\">we see\u00a0a\u00a0 high-quality Japanese capacitor. It features a single 82 amp 12 volt rail to handle most multi-videocard SLI and CrossFire configurations and it features all of the necessary components to support the complete stability of their unit.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32314\" title=\"interior-2\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-21.jpg?resize=450%2C286\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-21.jpg?resize=450%2C286 500w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/interior-21-300x190.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The Cooler Master Silent Pro Platinum PSU looks awesome and the specs are right on. So let\u2019s test it under\u00a0regular situations with gaming under extreme situations. Our overclocked FX-8150 and HD\u00a06970-X4 QuadFire sounds about right for a showdown with this PSU.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: The Testing--><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>The PSU Test<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Test Configuration \u2013 Hardware<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>AMD FX-8150 (reference 3.6 GHz; overclocked to 4.4 GHz), supplied by AMD<\/li>\n<li>ASUS CrossHair V RoG AM3+\u00a0 (latest BIOS, PCIe 3.0 specification; CrossFire\/SLI 16x+16x; onboard audio), supplied by AMD\/ASUS.<\/li>\n<li>Kingston HyperX 4 GB DDR3-PC1800 RAM (2\u00d72 GB), supplied by Kingston<\/li>\n<li>AMD HD 6990 (2 GB, overclocked to 880\/1330MHz), supplied by AMD<\/li>\n<li>AMD HD 6970 (2 GB, reference clocked at 880\/1330MHz), supplied by AMD<\/li>\n<li>AMD HD 6950 (2 GB, flashed to HD 6970 clocked at 880\/1330MHz), supplied by AMD<\/li>\n<li>AMD Liquid Cooling CPU cooler built by Asetek, supplied by AMD<\/li>\n<li>500 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.12 hard drive<\/li>\n<li>Philips DVD writer<\/li>\n<li>Cooler Master Silent Pro Platinum 1000W PSU, supplied by Cooler Master<\/li>\n<li>Thermaltake Chaser MK-I (Supplied by Thermaltake)<\/li>\n<li>Thermaltake Dr Power II, Supplied by Thermaltake<\/li>\n<li>Radio Shack Digital Multi-meter<\/li>\n<li>Kill-A-Watt meter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ffff00;\">Test Configuration \u2013 Software<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">ATi Catalyst 12-8; highest quality; all optimizations\u00a0off\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">Windows 7 64-bit; very latest updates<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">Latest DirectX <\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">All games are patched to their latest versions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">Highest quality sound (stereo) used in all games.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-size: small;\">Windows 7 64, all DX10 titles were run under DX10 render paths; DX11 under DX11 paths.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>The Test<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Our Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum can easily handle HD 6970-X3 Tri-Fire! Under extreme load, the system pulled\u00a0over 850W\u00a0from the wall\u00a0and our Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum PSU did not shut down or become unstable \u2013 our FX-8150 overclocked to 4.40GHz remained 100% stable.\u00a0\u00a0 Notice the PSU connects directly to the side panel fan using one of its 7V connectors for real convenience!<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32377\" title=\"TriFire\" src=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/TriFire.jpg?resize=384%2C407\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i0.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/TriFire.jpg?resize=384%2C407 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/TriFire-283x300.jpg 283w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>Best of all, the voltages measured at all three rails by our digital multi-meter\u00a0were incredibly solid &#8211; with almost no variance from start up through extreme load and to shutdown. Your precious hardware components will love Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum stability.<\/p>\n<p>Considering that the temperature in our test room was a constant 78-80F during the testing and the Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum is also rated for 92% efficiency at\u00a01000 watts at a correspondingly realistic temp; and the PSU did not shut down or become unstable. One would conclude that it definitely acts like a solid\u00a01000 watt PSU.\u00a0Cooler Master\u00a0is evidently very conservative in its ratings.<\/p>\n<p>Here are the standards:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>3.3V<\/strong> &#8211; 3.125 to 3.465<\/li>\n<li><strong>5V<\/strong> &#8211; 4.75 to 5.25<\/li>\n<li><strong>12V<\/strong> &#8211; 11.4 to 12.6<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We then installed our fourth GPU and our third HD 6970 for QuadFire-X4\u00a0and repeated all of our testing.\u00a0 We monitored all of our rails individually from Post to the highest voltage used by the PSU when running most of our demanding games from our gaming suite. The 3.3v rail was dead on most of the time. We noted +.1V and no other variance at any wattage that we could give it. Everything else was within + or &#8211; .02 volts and probably our digital multimeter was incapable of being any more accurate. Whenever you use a digital multimeter make very sure that it is calibrated properly.<\/p>\n<p>Below we are testing with Thermaltake&#8217;s Dr. Power II Universal Power Supply tester.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32320\" title=\"Tttester\" src=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tttester1.jpg?resize=288%2C216\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i2.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tttester1.jpg?resize=288%2C216 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tttester1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 288px) 100vw, 288px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Everything is good to go!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter  wp-image-32319\" title=\"Tester\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tester1.jpg?resize=384%2C353\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tester1.jpg?resize=384%2C353 800w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/Tester1-300x275.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>.<\/p>\n<p>CrossFire-X4 or QuadFire wasn&#8217;t much more demanding power-wise than CrossFire-X3, TriFire.\u00a0 Evidently our FX-8150 is too limited of a processor even at 4.4GHz to really use the fourth GPU.<\/p>\n<p>However, every test that we threw at this power supply &#8211;\u00a0all\u00a0the demanding\u00a0games in our benchmark suite\u00a0&#8211; Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum took in stride.\u00a0\u00a0 We\u00a0saw well over 900W being pulled from the wall outlet by our PC system at peak during gaming (<em>Battlefield 3<\/em>, 3D Mark 11 and Vantage) and were able to capture this image.\u00a0 There is plenty of power for our overclocked and extreme 3-video card\/4-GPU PC system!<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-32321\" title=\"900W\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/900W1.jpg?resize=300%2C253\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/900W1.jpg?resize=300%2C253 300w, http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/900W1.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>Very impressive! This is a great power supply! Let&#8217;s wrap up this review and sum everything\u00a0up in\u00a0our conclusion.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><!--pagetitle: Conclusion--><span style=\"font-size: medium;\"><strong>The Conclusion<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>We are very impressed with Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum. It does\u00a0everything that it is advertised to do and we have been testing it under the most severe gaming conditions for well over a month with two different builds that require absolute stability.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A conservative-looking, very silent and stable PSU<\/li>\n<li>mnimal\u00a0packaging, useful\u00a0resuable bags\u00a0and sufficient accessories<\/li>\n<li>92% (plus) efficiency results in a PSU that can be cooled quietly by a 135mm nearly silent fan even at extreme load.<\/li>\n<li>Flat cabling allows for better airflow; modular design allows you to use only the cables you need<\/li>\n<li>Well-built PSU insures stable power to power the most demanding Quad-Fire and Quad-SLI systems<\/li>\n<li>Convience with dual 7V fan connectors built right into the PSU &#8211; ideal for a side case fan.<\/li>\n<li>5-year warranty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>The Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>We would have have liked to see two more PCIe connectors for motherboards that require extra\u00a0power to the PCIe slots.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We feel a big thumbs-up is in order for Cooler Master&#8217;s Silent Pro Platinum! It is well deserving of our\u00a0&#8220;Recommended&#8221; award.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/i1.wp.com\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Recommended.png?resize=150%2C251\" alt=\"\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/>Stay tuned.\u00a0 There is a &#8220;mystery&#8221; article due Monday morning, a Kingston SSD evaluation due next week\u00a0and there are some great discussions going on right now at ABT forum.<\/p>\n<p>Happy Gaming!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Please join us in our <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/abt\/index.php\" target=\"_blank\">Forums<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Become a Fan on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/pages\/AlienBabelTech\/123268467142', 'Facebook']);\" target=\"_blank\">Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Follow us on <a href=\"http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/twitter.com\/alienbabeltech', 'Twitter']);\" target=\"_blank\">Twitter<\/a><\/p>\n<p>For the latest updates from ABT, please <a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?feed=rss2\" target=\"_blank\">join our RSS News Feed<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Join our Distributed Computing teams<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Folding@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 164304<\/li>\n<li>SETI@Home &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech &#8211; 138705<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1\" onclick=\"_gaq.push(['_trackEvent', 'outbound-article', 'http:\/\/www.worldcommunitygrid.org\/reg\/viewRegister.do?teamID=3P39R3SRV1', 'World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech']);\" target=\"_blank\">World Community Grid &#8211; Team AlienBabelTech<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/?p=32283\"><img decoding=\"async\" align=top title=\"Author: Mark Poppin\" src=\"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/10\/cmPSU-IMAGElink.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":32606,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2533,7814],"tags":[23,5870,5869,117,4914,5871,5868],"class_list":["post-32283","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-abt-news","category-articles","tag-cooler-master","tag-hd-6970-x4","tag-power-supply-unit","tag-psu","tag-quad-fire","tag-quad-sli","tag-silent-pro-platinum1000w"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32283","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32283"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32283\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32606"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32283"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32283"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/alienbabeltech.com\/main\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32283"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}