SAMA P1000 ATX 3.1 PSU Review – 1kW platinum power at a competitive price

1 - Introduction and technical data 2 - Unboxing, asccessory and cables 3 - Teardown, components, fan and protection circuits 4 - Cybenetics methods and equipment 5 - Performance and test results 6 - Operating noise 7 - Efficiency and power consumption 8 - Summary and conclusion

Unboxing and accessories

The unboxing of the SAMA P1000 gives a businesslike, functional impression that fits well with the price positioning of the power supply unit. The outer packaging consists of a sturdy cardboard box without an elaborate high-gloss design, which clearly focuses on the contents and at the same time avoids unnecessary costs. The box is neatly printed, but deliberately restrained, so that the product communicates more via technical data and less via visual presentation. Opening the box reveals a neat structure in which both the power supply unit itself and the accessories are stowed separately and securely. The padding is sufficiently thick to reliably protect the device during transportation, and the black fabric bags also ensure that the power supply unit and accessories do not knock against each other or get scratched.

The accessories section is housed in its own Velcro-fastened bag, which keeps all modular cables organized. This bag is made of a coarsely woven, robust material, which is common in this segment and proves to be practical in everyday use. Especially in larger enclosures or with frequent conversions, such a storage option is a noticeable advantage because it prevents unused cables from disappearing loose in the box or in drawers. In addition to the bag, several Velcro straps are included, which are inconspicuous in color and are well suited for cable routing in the housing. These Velcro straps make clean cable routing much easier, which in turn improves air circulation in the system and supports the overall impression of a neat assembly.

The scope of delivery also includes an IEC cable of sufficient length and solid material quality. The plugs fit securely and the cable itself is flexible enough not to exert unnecessary pressure on the socket in tight housing situations. The accessories are complemented by a set of four black mounting screws, which match the color of the power supply unit and ensure a clean appearance during final assembly.

The scope of delivery is rounded off by a manual, which is kept in a simple color design and covers the models of the entire P series. The content is clearly structured and provides basic technical data, installation instructions and safety-related information. For users installing a fully modular power supply unit for the first time, the presentation is sufficient, even if the depth of information is somewhat less than that of premium manufacturers. Overall, the result is a functional, well-designed scope of delivery that includes all the necessary components without offering unnecessary or expensive extras.

The cable equipment

The cable equipment of the SAMA P1000 is extensive for a power supply unit in this performance class and covers all practical application scenarios of modern systems. Thanks to the fully modular design, only the required cables can be installed, which improves the air flow in the housing and simplifies installation. The conductors used are made of tinned copper and use different AWG thicknesses depending on the load requirements, which represents a technically clean and cost-efficient implementation.

The ATX main strand is solidly dimensioned with 16-22 AWG and, with a length of 600 mm, easily reaches all current housing formats. Two separate 4 4-pin cables, each 700 mm long, are available for the CPU supply, made of 18 AWG throughout, which is also sufficiently dimensioned for power-hungry processors. The classic PCIe supply is provided via three individual 6 2-pin cables, also in 18 AWG and each 600 mm long. This is supplemented by a modern 12V 2×6 cable for up to 600 W, which uses 16 AWG for the high-load contacts and a thinner 24 AWG for the signal wires. This combination is common in the industry and reflects the requirements of the ATX 3.1 standard.

Two SATA strands with a total of eight connectors are available for drives and peripherals, as well as a Molex strand with four connectors. Both use 18 AWG and offer practical flexibility in cable management thanks to the spacing of 150 mm each. The cable configuration is rounded off by a 17 AWG power cable, which is sufficiently long at 1.38 m and also leaves enough leeway for power supply units mounted close to the floor.

Compared to more expensive competitors from the premium segment such as Corsair, Seasonic or ASUS, there are both similarities and differences. The basic number of CPU and PCIe cables largely meets the expectations of a 1000 W power supply unit and easily covers typical high-end systems. However, premium providers often rely on thicker cable cross-sections such as 16 AWG for all PCIe cables or offer a larger selection of cable harnesses, such as additional PCIe cables or a second 12V 2×6 cable set. Individually sleeved cables or particularly flexible cable materials are also predominantly found in higher price ranges.

Nevertheless, a conclusive picture emerges for practical use. The SAMA P1000 offers a complete and functionally balanced cable set that meets the requirements of its target group. The selection of AWG sizes is clearly based on the technical load requirements and therefore remains efficient and cost-conscious. For users who are looking for a clean middle ground between modern equipment, modularity and appropriate dimensioning without paying the extra price for luxurious cable sets from premium suppliers, the equipment supplied is more than adequate.