Power supply question

[slowpogo]

OK, so most of the mobos that I've looked at (generally newer 939 models) use a 24-pin power connection. In fact, almost any mobo that I've seen reviewed or recommended uses a 24-pin connection.

So why is it, on newegg or tigerdirect, that there are very few PSU's that offer a 24-pin connection, and tons that offer 20 or "20+4"? Will 20+4 work with a 24-pin power connector? I'm obviously missing something pretty obvious here...any help appreciated, be sarcastic if you must

 

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Originally posted by: slowpogo
OK, so most of the newer mobo's that I've looked at use a 24-pin power connection.

So why is it, on newegg or tigerdirect, that there are very few PSU's that offer a 24-pin connection, and tons that offer 20 or "20+4"? Will 20+4 work with a 24-pin power connector? I'm obviously missing something pretty obvious here...any help appreciated, be sarcastic if you must

Simply for compatibility. Despite the fact that the new mobos have it, it is a rather new concept in consumer level motherboards. Server mobos have had 24p connections for a lot longer. But doing the "20+4" bit, they can work on both.

EDIT: And yes, 20+4 will work in a 24p connection.

 

[PhoenixOrion]

Discussion

 

[JimPhelpsMI]

Hi, For compatibility. I am now seeing supplies that have 24 pin connectors, but the extra 4 pins can be easily detatched from the 20 to plug in someplace else or ignored altogether. Some MBs with 20 pins will accept the 24 pin conn with the extras hanging out in the breeze. Some older MBs with 24 pin connectors will run with a 20 pin PSU.
Hope this helps a bit, Jim