Introduction

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

In a recent review we tested the Enermax Platimax 1500W, which is sold only in the EU and provides decent overall performance since it manages to combine tremendous power levels with high efficiency. Unfortunately this model could only run at 240 V, so in today's review we will test the Enermax Platimax 1200W which can operateall over the world since it accepts a universal AC line-input voltage of 100 to 240VAC. Also this unit is officially 80 Plus Platinum certified unlike the Platimax 1500W.

With the wide Platimax lineup Enermax started a war on all fronts with the competitors that have Platinum units in their arsenal. Currently there are seven Platimax units with capacities ranging from 500W to 1500W. The two stronger members are based on a new platform, similar to the one used in MaxRevo units and utilize a fully modular cabling system while the other members are semi-modular. Other interesting features of the Platimax 1200W (or EPM1200EWT) include the HeatGuard system which keeps the PSU's fan running for about half a minute after shutdown to get rid of the remaining system heat, the twister bearings that grant the fan with prolonged lifespan and lower noise output, the exclusive use of Japan made capacitors, the specially designed main transformer, the copper-bridge array and the enhanced heatsinks which with their design increase airflow. All above sound highly interesting but let's move on to the main review and see how the EPM1200EWT copes with the tough competition.

Specifications

With this price tag the EPM1200EWT better performs really good to achieve a decent price/performance ratio. Currently it is one of the most expensive 1200W units and receives heavy competition from other Platinum PSUs. The warranty is long enough, however we have seen similar high-end units equipped with seven years.
The unit's dimensions are normal for a 1200W unit and this applies to its weight too. For those of you wondering about the strange fan diameter this is due to a patent for the use of 140mm fans in PSUs. Yes it sounds crazy but someone actually holds this patent!


The unit is equipped with six +12V rails which combined can deliver the PSU's total power, something very convenient since mainly the +12V rail is used in contemporary systems. The minor rails combined are restricted to 120W but you won't need more anyway. The 5VSB are kind of weak at 3A, for the category of the PSU. At least one more Ampere at this rail would be enough to make us stop complaining. Finally, the peak power of the unit is way too high at 1440W. Apparently the components used in the internals can easily handle the heat but pay attention, peak power should be applied only for short periods of time else you risk bricking your PSU. Especially at high operating temperatures.

Cables & Connectors, Power Distribution

The number of cables will cover every user/need. In total eight PCIe along with two EPS connectors can be used at the same time. Also 14 SATA along with ten peripheral connectors will power every drive and cooling fan you have installed in your system. All cables are fully sleeved of course but unfortunately they are very stiff, making cable management extra difficult. This stiffness is caused by the thicker 16AWG wires used in the 24pin ATX, PCIe and EPS connectors for decreased voltage drops. The remaining connectors use normal 18AWG wires. Regarding cable length, we have only one complaint, we would like additional 100mm at the PCIe cables in order to reach 600mm. All other cables have sufficient length and the distance among the connectors is ideal.

Since the PSU has many +12V rails we thought that it would be better if we used an illustration (courtesy of Enermax) to show you the power distribution on the modular panel.


Power distribution is exactly the same as the Platimax 1500W, so if you want to use the second EPS connector you should connect it to the sockets that are fed by 12V4 or 12V6. Otherwise you will mix the EPS connector with two PCIe ones and at full load situations OCP could be triggered causing an unwanted shutdown/restart.