20 & 24 pin PSU

[DrewSG3]

If you have a motherboard that needs a 24 pin power supply, can you just find an adapter to convert a 20 pin to a 24 pin to make it work? If you're plugging in the 4 pin P4, do you need the full 24 pins?

I'm sorry. I know the question is confusing, but I try explaining the best way I know how.

 

[RallyMaster]

There are indeed 20 to 24 pin connectors. Yes, they do work. However, if you need the 4-pin P4, do not split off the +4 pin on some 24-pin mobo connectors because it provides a different voltage from the direct P4 connector. Some motherboards will not start up this way. Other motherboards will start up but something tells me damage could occur....

 

[mpilchfamily]

Yes a 20 to 24 pin adapter can be used. The P4 connector needs to be plugged in no matter what. It is what provides the power to the CPU. You just need to make sure the PSU has enough power to run your system. Often times these older PSUs have most of there power focused on the 5v and 3.3v rails. Systems now get most of there power from the 12v rail(s).

This link will help you figure out your systems power needs and weather or not your current PSU will work for you.

PSU Guide/Review 101-102

Hope that helps.

 

[Aluvus]

You don't need an adapter, you should be able to plug in the 20-pin ATX connectr and the 4-pin P4 connector and be fine. The above caveat about weak 12 V rails on older supplies is important to consider.

 

[poohbear]

hello, im using a 4 yr old enermax "Whisper Quiet" 460wt psu, ATX ver 1.2, w/ a 20pin -24pin adapter on my DFI ultra D and it works great w/ the system in my sig. mind u, it has 33a on the +12v rail, so pretty strong psu.