Introduction

We would like to thank Zalman for supplying the review sample.



It has been some time since we reviewed a Zalman PSU, so we responded immediately when they asked us to test some of their new models. The truth is that as the competition increases prices drop while quality improves, which benefits all of us consumers. Most companies might use the same platforms for their offerings since there are only a handful of good PSU manufacturers; however, that doesn't mean there won't be any differences between products, since each company decides their pricing strategy and has a say in the quality of parts used. Some vendors might, for example, use nothing but Japanese capacitors while others who want to lower production costs will only use Japanese caps in the APFC converter. Some larger companies (e.g. Corsair, EVGA, be quiet!) also have PSU engineers they can ask for modifications in the design on their payroll, which allows them to offer something different from those competitors that utilizes the same platform.



Zalman recently introduced a new line, the EBT series, which, so far, counts four members with capacities ranging from 650 W to 1000 W. The two lower capacity members are based on Sirfa's HPM platform and utilize a semi-modular cabling design, while the other two use the HPJ platform and are fully modular. In today's review, we will look at the ZM1000-EBT. It mostly addresses power users with strong multi-GPU systems. This PSU comes with six PCIe connectors for up to three high-end VGAs and is equipped with a great amount of peripheral and two EPS connectors. It also has a +12V rail only and Zalman states it to deliver its full power continuously at up to 50°C if need be. We are going to verify their claim during our hot-box tests and will push it even further by dialing in a load that exceeds its capacity by 10% (1100 W).

Specifications

This unit meets the requirements of the 80 PLUS Gold efficiency certification, and as has already mentioned, Zalman states it to be able to deliver its full power continuously at up to 50°C. Although the ATX spec recommends such a high temperature threshold for full power delivery, many PSUs don't meet it and are only able to deliver their full power continuously at up to 40°C or less, which is indicative of low-quality parts as those may fail prematurely at higher operating temperatures.

This unit is equipped with all the necessary protection features, including OTP (Over Temperature Protection), which is crucial. According to Zalman's official specifications, OCP (Over Current Protection) is also included; however, since this is a single +12V rail unit, they probably added the feature by mistake. An FDB fan, although its model number says it to be a sleeve-bearing fan, by Globe Fan cools this unit down. There is also no semi-passive mode for zero noise output at light loads, which would increase overall internal temperatures a bit. The PSU is compact enough for 1 kW unit, and at seven years, the warranty is long enough.

The +12V rail is strong enough to support three high-end Nvidia GPUs (or three AMD Radeon R9 Nanos). The minor rails are pretty strong as well, while the 5VSB rail has a maximum current output of 4 A max, which is easily enough. Most PSUs of a similar capacity come with weaker 5VSB rails that usually top our at 15 W, so it is nice to see a PSU in this category with a stronger 5VSB rail.

Cables & Connectors, Power Distribution

The PSU has enough connectors for its price range, including two EPS and six PCIe connectors, which is enough for a very strong system. Nowadays, most high-end 1 kW unit come with eight PCIe connectors; however, the ZM1000-EBT belongs to the budget category, so it doesn't compete with such units.

Cables are long enough, and the distance between connectors is enough as well, although some of you might want the SATA connectors to be closer to each other since such devices are often installed right next to each other. There are plenty of SATA and 4-pin molex connectors, which is no surprise for such a strong PSU, and the 24-pin ATX, EPS, and PCIe connectors use thicker 16AWG gauges for lower voltage drops where all other connectors use typical 18AWG wires.



Since this PSU features a single +12V rail, we have nothing to comment on when it comes to its power distribution.

Packaging

The box's graphics design looks interesting enough. The series description is prominently displayed in very large font, and right below it is the unit's model number. Several icons in the bottom-left corner describe the 80 PLUS Gold efficiency, ErP Lot 6 2013 compliance, single +12V rail, exclusive use of Japanese caps, five year warranty (which according to Zalman is now even longer at seven years), and Nvidia SLI certification.


One of two sides is covered in some interesting photos, most of which show the unit's internals. On the other is the power specifications table.


On the top and bottom of the box are the model and capacity descriptions. On the bottom, Zalman also provides some information on the PSU's AC power cord, which was an EU AC cord in our case.


You won't find any fancy graphics or charts on the rear, just a quite long multi-lingual features description.

Contents

The PSU is unfortunately not surrounded by packing foam. Only its lower part is protected by a piece of foam, while the top is protected by cardboard. Zalman should provide better packaging (According to Zalman this applies to the first batches only. All subsequent batches will feature top foam protection).


The bundle only includes several zip ties, the user's manual, and a power cord. Zalman wasn't very generous here.