Introduction

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


XPG is going strong in the PSU segment because of their great Core Reactor PSUs, two of which (850 W and 750 W) I have reviewed. XPG now also has a more affordable line for those seeking less expensive but still reliable power supplies. The Pylon series consists of four models with capacities ranging from 450 W to 750 W. In this review, I will take a look at the strongest of these, the XPG Pylon 750 W.

It uses a CWT platform (CSB-A), which offers good performance for the price. With the part upgrades XPG had the OEM implement, the platform has also improved in performance and reliability. I will go through these part upgrades in the components section of this review. To keep cost low, the modular cables were the first to go since they would have notably increased the price. So if you don't like native cables, this PSU is not for you.

With the 80 PLUS Bronze and Cybenetics Silver efficiency certifications, platform efficiency is sufficient for those on tight budgets. Because of the current situation, shipping cost has skyrocketed as well, and while stock isn't high, prices are. $100–$110 would have gotten you a Gold 750 W PSU before. As such, many buyers are turning to 80 PLUS Bronze/Cybernetics Silver certified PSUs instead. Hopefully, the situation will normalize soon.

Specifications

Photos

The Pylon 750 comes in a red box with a photo of the PSU with its fan grille on top. Around the back, you will find a scheme of the PSU's dimensions and information on the cable configuration, as well as the power specifications.


XPG used eco-friendly packaging protection, which is a nice move. The bundle includes a quick-start guide, some stickers, and screws for mounting the PSU onto the chassis. You will also get a power cord with a grounding wire.


As per usual, you will find the power switch and AC receptacle at the front.


The power specifications label is on the bottom. The stickers on the sides don't look nice at all.


This is a non-modular PSU, but all the cables are sleeved black; it would have been nice if they were flat, too.


Measuring 140 mm deep, this is a compact PSU.


Some more photos of the product.

Cables and Connectors

While there are many cables, there is a problem with these EPS connectors as both are installed on the same cable, which can be dangerous if the motherboard pushes both hard. The good thing about there being no modular connections is that it would impact cable resistance, subsequently increasing operating temperatures. That said, the EPS cable should still at least be 16AWG for more headroom.


All cables are long enough, and the distance between peripheral connectors is adequate at 150 mm. Finally, there is no need for a berg adapter. XPG could install an additional 4-pin Molex connector in its place.

Component Analysis

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



This is CWT's CSB-A platform; it uses a double forward topology on the primary side. On the secondary side, we find FETs and SBRs, which regulate the +12 V rail, and a pair of VRMs for the generation of the minor rails. This is a budget platform with small heatsinks and a clean design for increased airflow.


The transient filter has all the necessary components to effectively filter conducted EMI emissions.


An MOV handles voltage surges, while an NTC thermistor keeps inrush currents under control. There is no bypass relay for the thermistor because it would affect the price.


The single bridge rectifier is bolted to a heatsink, which allows it to handle more amperes.


The APFC converter uses two Great Power FETs and a single boost diode, which can handle 6 A. The bulk cap is by Chemi-Con and has the maximum capacity this platform can support (a higher capacity bulk cap wouldn't fit inside this platform without a re-design).


The combo APFC/PWM controller is a Champion CM6800, and the CM03X by the same manufacturer is also used to restrict vampire power.


The main FETs are two Great Power GP23S60HXs arranged into a half-bridge topology.


The main transformer of the PSU.


A combination of FETs and SBRs are used to regulate the +12 V rail.


XPG managed to find Elite caps for its Pylon units, which are the best alternative to Japanese caps.


Two DC-DC converters generate the minor rails. The joint PWM controller is an ANPEC APW7159C.


The standby circuit uses a Power Integrations TNY287PG PWM controller.


The supervisor IC is an IN1S429I - DCG, for which there is no data available on the internet.


Soldering quality is good.


The cooling fan is provided by Hong Hua and uses a fluid dynamic bearing. It is nice to see an FDB fan used in this category.