Component Analysis

Before reading this page, look at this article, which will help you better understand the insides of a PSU.



The manufacturer of most GF3 models is Channel Well Technology. The platform, with code name CSZ, has a large PCB for this capacity, so it is not densely populated, leading to less restricted airflow. As typically, CWT uses small heatsinks on the primary side and no heatsinks on the secondary side. This means that the cooling fan will have to spin fast at high loads to cool down the FETs on the secondary side. The build quality is good overall, with Japanese electrolytic caps and an FDB fan by Hong Hua.


The input filter is fully equipped to suppress EMI noise.


There is an MOV for protection against power surges. An NTC thermistor handles inrush currents with a bypass relay supporting it.


The pair of bridge rectifiers can handle up to 16 Amperes. I expected to find stronger rectifiers.


The APFC converter uses two On Semiconductor FETs and a single boost diode from the same manufacturer. The bulk cap is by Nichicon, and the APFC controller is a Champion CM6500UNX, supported by a CM03X IC.


The main FETs are installed in a half-bridge topology. There is no need for a more expensive full-bridge topology below 1000 W capacities.


The transformer is close to the +12 V board for lower power losses.


Four FETs regulate the +12 V rail.


The VRMs handling the minor rails use four UBIQ FETs in total and a single PWM controller.


The electrolytic filtering caps are of high quality, by Japanese manufacturers. The polymer caps are a mix of Chinese, Taiwanese and Japanese brands.


The standby PWM controller is an On Bright OB2365T.


The primary supervisor IC is a Weltrend WT7502R. The fan's controller is a Microchip PIC16F1503, allowing for a straightforward tune-up of the fan speed profile, which can't be performed by users, but only at the factory.


The modular PCB uses a single large electrolytic cap and many polymer ones for ripple filtering purposes.


Soldering quality is good.


The cooling fan is by Hong Hua and uses a fluid dynamic bearing. This is a good and proven fan, which will outlive the extended warranty if you push it hard under high operating temperatures for prolonged periods.