Result Summary

The C1500 passed all of our tests with absolutely no issues, so we'll reflect on the results. In terms of the fan performance, the unit stayed passive until we hit 50 % of the PSU's rated capacity. Even when the fan started spinning, the ramp up was smooth and even at maximum loads the noise levels did not become disturbing, with the fan spinning much lower than its theoretical maximum of 2500 RPM.



The NZXT C1500 had no issues reaching efficiency levels required for the 80 Plus Platinum certification even in elevated temperatures. While we did not quite see Titanium level efficiency levels at 50 % load, the rapid increase in efficiency that we can see as early as the 10 % load test is extremely impressive. So is the steady efficiency dropoff as we approach the maximum load tests.

Voltage Regulation

In terms of regulation, the +12 V rail performance seems very solid. The performance of the minor rails could be better, but they are still well within the ATX specification.

Ripple

Ideally you want the DC voltage delivered by your power supply to be a completely flat line when looking through an oscilloscope. However, due to the switching nature of ATX power supplies and the less than ideal real world behavior of all the components involved, we get very small fluctuations in output voltage known as ripple and noise. The ATX spec allows for ripple of up to 120 mV for the +12 V rail and 50 mV for the minor rails.


Ripple is very well controlled on the C1500 with sub 30 mV amplitude even at overloads. The waveform of the 110% load test can be seen below.

Short Circuit Protection

Short circuit protection is one of the most fundamental and important protections for a power supply. If a short circuit is detected on any rails, the PSU should turn off to prevent damage to itself and other components.


SCP worked as expected with the unit.