Introduction

We would like to thank Thermaltake for supplying the review sample.


The Toughpower PF1 ARGB line consists of three members with capacities ranging from 850 W to 1200 W. All three have high efficiency ratings; 80 PLUS Platinum for all three and also ETA-A for the 1200 W model, which is certified by Cybenetics. They also utilize a fully modular cable design. The most interesting feature for users with windowed cases is the 18-LED RGB fan with lighting that can be controlled either manually or through a compatible mainboard.


Although Thermaltake lists it as an analogue power supply, I found two MCUs inside. This is in fact a semi-digital platform by CWT.


Not only highly efficient, the Toughpower PF1 ARGB 1200 W (the model number of my sample is TPD-1200F3FAPU-1) also comes with a long warranty. The platform is similar to the one used in the Thermaltake Toughpower iRGB Plus 1200, which had some reliability issues—my sample died after a while, and I got other reports that samples of that model died suddenly after a while. According to my sources, CWT fixed it. The main difference between the iRGB Plus and PF1 ARGB units is that the latter doesn't have a USB interface.


The box offers good protection, and in the bundle, you will find a pouch to store any unused modular cables.

Specifications

The 140 mm fan features RGB lighting and won't spin at light loads if the semi-passive operation is enabled.

Cables and Connectors

There are plenty of connectors and cables, including two EPS, eight PCIe, twelve SATA, and eight 4-pin Molex connectors. A significant advantage is that none of these come with inline caps, which makes cable routing easier.


All cables are long, and the distance between connectors is adequate at 150 mm. The connectors that will handle the highest loads are equipped with thicker 16AWG gauges for lower voltage drops.

Component Analysis

This is a semi-digital platform by CWT with code name "CST". Two MCUs control the APFC converter, along with the main and +12V switching FETs, while analog ICs control the minor rails and 5VSB. To keep cost low, a USB interface for control and monitoring capabilities is absent, which most users won't mind as they don't also want to have to deal with the power supply's extra features.


The transient filter is complete and does a good job.


There is an MOV and an NTC thermistor, which is supported by a bypass relay.


The two bridge rectifiers.


I had to remove the chokes of the PFC to clear the view.


The APFC converter has two bulk caps with enough capacity for a hold-up time of over 17 ms.


The APFC converter is controlled by an MCU.


The main switching FETs are controlled by the second Texas Instruments MCU. On the same board are the driver ICs used to control the main FETs.


The +12V FETs are installed close to the main transformer for lower energy losses. The electrolytic filtering caps are of good quality, and many polymers are used for the same reason. To find Elite caps in such an expensive PSU looks strange, but given these are polymers, I won't complain.


The VRMs that handle the minor rails.


The board hosting the 5VSB regulator. Right in front of it is the 5VSB transformer.


Lots of polymer caps are installed on the PCB that hosts the modular sockets.


Soldering quality is pretty good.


Closer shots of the main PCB.


The cooling fan uses an HDB bearing.