Antec HCG 520W: A Good PSU for Bargain Hunters

Interior

This is a different layout than that of the HCG-750. The PCB is much shorter and there is a lot of free space in the case (which makes the PCB spacer on the left useless). We can see two thin heatsinks for the transistors and diodes so the fan can easily direct airflow at all the components. The rectifier bridge has its own heatsink for cooling. The overall impression is good but the distances between some circuit parts could be larger--specifically the linear choke behind the phase and neutral conductor could be a source for magnetic coupling on the standby rail. Another point of criticism is the PFC choke that needs more glue to affix it. These are relatively minor concerns and tend to go with the target market; let's continue with some positive aspects.

The EMI filtering is equipped well including a MOV for overvoltage protection. The ferrite core on the conductors helps to reduce EMC troubles with high frequency current. The main cap is from SMQ with 85°C and 330 μF, and the Infineon ICE1CS02 controls the Power Factor Pre-regulator. We can find four identical transistors with common ratings: two for PFC and two for the "Two Transistor Forward" design. In the secondary circuit are 105°C caps from Nippon Chemi-Con as well as a PS223 for the safety functions. The PS223 provides all the earlier mentioned mechanisms like OCP for four rails and UVP.