Hello, i5 3570k Power question

[idata]

I have a MSI Z77A-G45 motherboard.

This board has an 8-pin CPU power connector.

My PSU does not have this cable (it's "old")

Do I need to plug this cable? Do I have to find an adapter cable (or buy a new PSU) ?

Thanks

[Silvia_L_Intel1 · Accepted solution]

Hello,

The extra 4-pin or 8-pin connector is to provide a dedicated 12V supply to the processor. For high-end motherboards and processors, more power is required, therefore, it is necessary to have a power supply with this connector, without it, your processor is not going to work.

regards,

[idata]

Hello!! Thanks for the reply.

So, another question.

The PSU does not have a 8 pin connector but it has a 4 pin connector.

Is it OK if I connect the 4 pin cable in the 8 pin slot (only fits in the left side of the slot)?

Thanks in advance.

[ETuun]

Yep, it should be enough unless you're into heavy overclocking. Main purpose of higher pin count is to provide capability for higher current.

Motherboard's manual might have some mention of that and in some motherboards I've seen half of 8-pin connector being covered.

Connector is designed so that you can't fit it wrong except by excessive use of force.

Though if PSU is old and cheap its condition is entirely other question.

[idata]

Thanks a lot for the answer.

I've ended up buying a new PSU with 550W and the 8-pin connector.

The old one is going to another PC with the old motherboard.

Have a great weekend.