Corsair HX1200 1200W Power Supply: features, specs and who it suits

The Corsair HX1200 (model CP-9020140-NA) is a 1200-watt, fully modular power supply for desktop PCs. It sits in the high-power end of the range, aimed at builds with demanding graphics cards, many drives or heavy overclocking. Here is what its main specifications mean and what to confirm before choosing a power supply.

What 80 Plus Platinum means

The 80 Plus programme rates how efficiently a power supply turns wall power into the DC power a PC uses. Platinum is one of the upper tiers, and certification typically requires roughly 90 percent efficiency or better at common loads, with the exact figure depending on the load and mains voltage. Corsair says this means the unit runs cooler and wastes less energy as heat than less efficient designs. A cooler unit also lets the fan work less.

Fully modular cabling

"Fully modular" means every cable, including the main motherboard cable, plugs into the unit rather than being permanently attached. You connect only what the build needs. In a case with a few components, that leaves fewer loose cables, cleaner routing and easier airflow. It also makes upgrades simpler, since you add a cable rather than hunting for a spare. The listing mentions eight PATA connectors in total, which is useful for older peripherals and some fan or lighting accessories.

Quiet operation: the fan and Zero RPM mode

The HX1200 uses a 135mm fan with a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB), a design generally chosen for low noise and a long service life. In Zero RPM mode, Corsair says the fan stays off at low loads, so the supply is virtually silent during light work such as browsing or office tasks. The fan starts as the load and temperature rise.

Voltage regulation and capacitors

Corsair describes "extremely tight voltages" and all-Japanese capacitors. Stable voltage matters because processors and graphics cards depend on steady rails. The brand backs the unit with a 10-year warranty.

The +12V rail switch

Modern PC components draw most of their power from the 12V rail. This unit has a switch that lets you choose a single 12V rail or multiple 12V rails. A single rail pools the capacity and is typically simplest for high-power graphics cards. Multiple rails split the capacity into separately limited groups, which some builders prefer for their over-current protection behaviour. The manual explains how to set it.

Size and input

The unit measures 5.9 x 7.9 x 3.4 inches (about 15 x 20 x 8.6 cm) and weighs 5.1 lb (about 2.3 kg). The listed input frequency is 47-63Hz. Check the manual for the supported mains voltage range for your region.

Who it suits

It suits enthusiast and workstation builds that need substantial headroom: high-end graphics cards, several storage drives or add-in cards. For a modest build, a lower-wattage unit is usually enough, and a power supply typically runs most efficiently when it isn't loaded near its limit.

What to check before you buy

• Total power needs: add up the maximum draw of your processor and graphics card, then check the card maker's recommended supply.
• Connectors: confirm the unit's cables match your graphics card's power connector.
• Case fit: check that your case takes a standard ATX supply of this size, with room for cables behind the motherboard tray.
• Mains supply: use a suitable outlet, follow local electrical codes and read the manual before installing.
• What's in the box: confirm which cables are included for your needs.

The short version

• A 1200W fully modular ATX power supply, model CP-9020140-NA.
• 80 Plus Platinum efficiency, with a 135mm FDB fan and Zero RPM mode.
• A switch for single or multiple +12V rails.
• Japanese capacitors, tight voltage regulation as Corsair describes it, and a 10-year warranty.
• About 5.1 lb; suited to high-power builds.

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