If 2x6 pin is the same as 1x8 pin.......

[Smoblikat]

In terms of total wattage available (2x6 = 150w, and 1x8 = 150w) why do so many cards require 2 6 pin PCIe connectors, rather than just utilizing 1 8 pin PCIe connector? Is it just to split the load up between multiple cables? Ive always wondered why more companies didnt just use a single 8 pin header as opposed to 2 6 pin ones. Anyone know why?

 

[Flapdrol1337]

6 pin was around before 8 pin, so psu's are more likely to have 6.

On the newest cards you often see a single 8 pin though.

 

[Stuka87]

It has to do with the power supply itself. Many main stream PSU's that have two 6 pin connectors run them on different rails. Because its cheaper. A single 8pin needs to get its 150W from a single rail. So cheap supplies will not typically have an 8 pin.

 

[LTC8K6]

Ease of power distribution/routing on the card could be a factor as well.

 

[Yakk]

Some lower grade PSUs don't have 8pin connectors, and some lower grade PSUs can also have weak rails & thinner gage wiring. Generally higher tier more power hungry "enthusiast" level cards will tend to use more 8pin, especially once it goes over 150w. Lower tier cards which will tend be less power hungry and probably be paired with lower tier PSUs will tend to use more 6pin.

 

[Kenmitch]

Makes it visually more powerful. Thank Tim the toolman Taylor.

 

[Smoblikat]

That makes some sense, on a low tier multi rail PSU I would rather have 1 6pin per rail, than have a single 8 pin overloading it. Im assuming this isnt really an issue on high end single rail PSU's. I guess its more compatible to have 2X6 pin, thanks for the info guys.

 

[Guru]

Supply. There are more PSU's that utilize 2x6pins because more are the weaker kind PSU's since they are cheaper and cheaper PSU's are bought more overall, therefore cards up to the mid range will tend to use more 2x6pin, rather than 1.8pin.

These days its not really an issue though, as even the cheaper PSU's are better built and carry 6+2pins.