Packaging

At the front of the box is a photograph of the unit with the side and rear exposed. The model number is given in large white- and pale-blue font, and above it are several icons. These describe the seven year warranty, semi-passive operation, compatibility with Corsair Link, 80 Plus Platinum efficiency, and quiet overall operation. The word "Platinum" has been put into a silver-lined box in the top-right corner, an obvious reference to the unit's efficiency certification.


Only the model number is shown on this side.


On top, Corsair provides a list of all available connectors and cables, with their length—incredibly useful information not only for reviewers, but a lot of users.


Two graphs on the back of the box depict the unit's efficiency curve and the fan's noise output throughout the unit's entire operational range. A second graph below shows that the HX1000i operates passively at up to 400 W, with operational temperatures below 25°C. A paragraph in many languages also details the most crucial aspects of the Corsair Link software, and the power specifications table is in the in the bottom-right corner.

Contents

As we are used to in Corsair products, two thick pieces of packing foam protect the PSU inside the box well. It also comes inside a nice velvet bag, which is definitely a nice touch for a PSU of this price range.


The bundle includes a pouch for storing all modular cables, a set of zip ties, fixing bolts for mounting the PSU to the chassis, a case badge, and, for our sample, an AC power cord of the US-type.

Exterior

A label on the front informs us that the fan will not spin up with low loads. It is there for users who may think something is wrong with their PSU because of it.


The finish is nice, and the unit's overall design looks good. This unit's beefy on/off switch is right next the AC receptacle at the front.


Decals on the PSU's sides depict its model number, while the specifications label is on unit's bottom side.


As per usual, Corsair used hex screws to secure the top cover. On one of them is the void warranty label, so messing with the unit's internal components or the screw will also void the seven year warranty.


On the rear is the fully modular panel. The Ι2C port, a port with four pins, is for the Corsair Link Commander, an optional add-on, and the mini-USB port is for an available USB header on your mainboard. There is also a fan-test switch. It will prove useful should you want to check on whether the unit's fan is working as it should. As for the LED indicator—it will turn green once the USB cable has been connected and for as long as the PSU is functioning properly. The LED will also alternate between green and red while the HX1000i communicates with the Corsair Link software, and only once the LED turns a solid red is there reason to worry as the PSU will have lost connectivity.


This PSU's dimensions are normal for a 1 kW PSU, and looks are generally nice. The curved lines running along the enclosure's top in parallel while following the fan grill's lines are a Corsair trademark the company only implements in their high-end PSUs.


To hamper airflow inside your chassis by as little as possible, all cables are stealth and flat.


Cable quality is good enough, but some connectors attached to the PSU's modular panel were a little loose.


Corsair sells kits of individually sleeved cables if you want fancier ones. However, these kits aren't cheap.