Auxiliary Power Connector Question

[guptasa1]

Hey all,

Had a question (actually two) about the Auxiliary Power Connector on my Asus P4T-E motherboard.

First of all, what does it do? I just hooked up a new power supply (Antec TrueBlue 480W) - first time I've done this. I understand the main feed to the motherboard an the secondary near the processor (I'm not real clear on the difference here either if anybody wants to clear that up), but I was wondering what the Auxiliary's for. Is it necessary, or like backup power?

Also, my PSU had a connector of course, but I noticed it didn't snap in place like other connectors (and it looks like maybe it should). Is this normal? It fits semi-snugly, but a tug will take it off. (Shouldn't be a problem...I hope - lol).

Thanks all!

 

[Fuhglee]

Originally posted by: guptasa1
Hey all,

Had a question (actually two) about the Auxiliary Power Connector on my Asus P4T-E motherboard.

First of all, what does it do? I just hooked up a new power supply (Antec TrueBlue 480W) - first time I've done this. I understand the main feed to the motherboard an the secondary near the processor (I'm not real clear on the difference here either if anybody wants to clear that up), but I was wondering what the Auxiliary's for. Is it necessary, or like backup power?

Modern CPUs consume more power than the people who designed the ATX power connector ever anticipated. The pins in the connector simply can't pass all the current that high-wattage CPUs need. The auxiliary connector may or not be technically required, depending on the load your actual CPU is placing on the ATX connector. However, you should think of it as being required anyway; you'll be happier in the long run if your system runs stably through demanding tasks.

Also, my PSU had a connector of course, but I noticed it didn't snap in place like other connectors (and it looks like maybe it should). Is this normal? It fits semi-snugly, but a tug will take it off. (Shouldn't be a problem...I hope - lol).

Thanks all!

Normal? I don't know, it might depend on the motherboard. Is the mobo socket missing the tab, or is the power cable missing the hook?

 

[guptasa1]

Power cable has the hook. Motherboard doesn't appear to (and I don't think anything broke). Must be the mobo. I did of course plug it in. I was just curious. Thanks much for the answer and information! =o) Makes sense!