Packaging:

The packaging for the Ultra Products X3 1000 Watt PSU is definitely designed for a retail setting, and it is composed of a few layers.


The first layer is an outer slip cover with a flip-up top which is where you will find all the information on the power supply. Under this slip cover is a plain black box with gold lettering which provides the same information presented on the slip cover. Inside the black box is another box with the FlexForce cables and the power supply. The power supply is wrapped in plastic and surrounded by two plastic foam blocks for protection.


External Examination:

The below left image shows the side of the X3 1000 Watt unit that will normally face your motherboard. The X3 series uses a standard black 135mm 11-bladed fan (without LEDs) to handle the cooling needs. The unit's chassis has a high gloss mirror finish, so fingerprints will show up very easily.


In the above right image we have a look at the various modular connections. Many of these connections will be familiar to anybody that has built their own computer with this type of PSU, but there are two 5-pin connections on the far left which may be new to some. These are used for two of the SATA power cables, and will be discussed in greater detail later.

One of the side panels is plain, while the second panel presents the standard data label with the power ratings and reference to various quality control certifications. The data label does not tell you anything that we have not seen before, however this information is important for the enthusiast. Knowing exactly how much power each of the three main rails is capable of is important, as many devices require a certain amount of current on either the 3.3V, 5V, or 12V rail. The important rails are rated to put out enough power to provide adequate power to all modern components.


The exhaust side of the power supply does not have any unusual features. Ultra Products has opened up the back area using a honey-comb style mesh which will provide the maximum amount of exhaust airflow. The only other items in this area are the standard AC power plug connection and a large hard power switch. The top side, which you will most likely not see once installed (unless you have a clear case), is plain. Here we get a good look at the mirror finish which covers the entire power supply.