The XPG Core Reactor II VE 850W PSU Review: Our First ATX 3.1 Power Supply

Hot Test Results (~45°C Ambient Temperature)

During its hot testing phase, the XPG Core Reactor II VE 850W PSU exhibits a marked decrease in efficiency under heavy loads, with figures dropping to 88.9% under a 115 VAC input and 89.7% with a 230 VAC source, compared to 90.9% and 91.7%, respectively, during cold testing. This significant decline is accentuated at higher load levels and is accompanied by signs of significant thermal stress. Although this PSU is rated for operation at an ambient temperature of up to 40°C, the effect that higher ambient temperatures had on its performance are rather severe.

In hot testing conditions, the fan of the XPG Core Reactor II VE 850W PSU operates continuously, at higher speeds than with a low ambient temperature and further increasing its speed as the load surpasses 400 Watts. It also nears its maximum speed as it approaches 80% capacity. This operational characteristic keeps the PSU relatively tolerable up to 60-65% load. However, beyond that point, the noise level rises significantly, making the unit audibly noticeable.

With its 120 mm fan, the XPG Core Reactor II VE 850W PSU effectively handles cooling, but temperatures do become uncomfortably high when the load exceeds 75%. Despite this increase, the temperatures remain below the threshold necessary to trigger the over-temperature protection (OTP). The designer seems to have made a major effort in balancing acoustics and thermal performance/reliability.