20-pin PSU to 24-pin Motherboard?

OCNewbie

Diamond Member
Jul 18, 2000
7,596
24
81
I have a never-used 400 watt FSP (Fortron) PSU that I picked up on clearance a year or two ago. I just tried connecting it to a DFI NF4 Ultra-D motherboard, and realized it is a 20-pin PSU, but the motherboard is 24-pin. I do have the extra little 4-pin power plug from the PSU plugged into the motherboard right next to the 24-pin ATX connector. Will this work safely, is the only way to get this to work is to use one of the 20-pin to 24-pin adapters (which I don't currently have)?
 

cubby1223

Lifer
May 24, 2004
13,518
42
86
Most likely it will work. Don't use an adapter. The purpose of the extra 4 pins is something an adapter cannot correct, so it is best that the motherboard know your PSU does not have them. For best stability use a video card with lower power requirements. If you choose to use a higher end video card, get a new power supply, not an adapter.
 

RoyG

Member
Jan 28, 2010
38
2
71
Most probably, the 24pin connector splits to 20+4 pin connectors. Check your menu.
 

Gillbot

Lifer
Jan 11, 2001
28,830
17
81
Most likely, you'll be fine. I've built many machines using a 20 pin PSU on a 24 pin motherboard. If it is that much of a concern, go buy a new PSU with the proper 24 pin, don't use an adapter.
 

OCNewbie

Diamond Member
Jul 18, 2000
7,596
24
81
I actually have an Antec 500w that my friend is borrowing, but I'm at my apartment now, and only have this older (albeit never-used) 20-pin one that I wanted to use just to install windows, etc.