9th Gen Intel 9900KS/Gigabyte Aorus Z390 Master issues with power supply.
9th Gen Intel 9900KS/Gigabyte Aorus Z390 Master issues with power supply.
Hello, I'm setting up a new rig and competing in a $25k Apex Legends tournament tomorrow. My old setup was average, so I was hoping to use the new one. I have some problems with these parts because I didn't verify if the PSU is compatible. I don't intend to overclock anything on this machine.
My current build includes:
- Intel i9 9900KS
- Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Master
- Corsair TX750M (8GB)
- Gainward Phoenix Trip fan
- RTX 2080
- Motherboard with 2x8-pin connectors
- PSU with 1 fixed 8-pin CPU connector and a modular port labeled "4+4 CPU"
I'm asking if I can run this stable using just an 8-pin cable. I've read conflicting advice online, so I'm not sure.
2. What's the difference between 8-pin and 4+4 CPU? According to Corsair's site, "Type 4 - 8-pin EPS12V" or "Type 3 - 8-pin EPS12V" aren't supported. If 4+4 is really an 8-pin setup, I might be able to find a better cable.
3. Would you recommend ordering a higher-quality PSU if this one isn't enough? Thanks for any help.
Yes, the second 1x8 pin is optional and often used for more aggressive overclocking. You probably won't encounter any problems, making it a safe bet to try it out.
Thanks a lot for the quick answers. It’s great to hear I’m doing well! I’ve upgraded to an i5 and now I’m putting together a new setup. If I could get some expert advice, that would be perfect.
You can still use either the left or right 8-pin connector; it doesn’t affect functionality. You were planning to use the left one, but you’re confirming that’s fine.
I think this should be the correct option, typically near the CPU. You'll quickly realize the rig won't start without power going to the main unit. If the left side doesn't boot, simply cut off the PSU, shift it to the right, and then reconnect it.
Just connect both power cables. Inserting the second CPU at +12V helps minimize sag on the monitored VR VIN line in HWINFO64 (as noted in the IR 35201 section). This won’t significantly help with general overclocking, but one person reported a 5mV reduction by using the second 8-pin on the Master. That change might just be due to measurement variance, though it did improve readings at full load. Many high-power PSUs have dual CPU 8-pin connectors—one with a standard 8-pin and another with a 4+4 combo for older or auxiliary power. I didn’t see any difference in the IR 35201 HWInfo when testing both ports on the motherboard, with only one port used at a time. Both ports showed similar sag (11.938v to 11.713v), and sometimes 11.813v when both were active.