Another confusing issue about CPU power usage.
Another confusing issue about CPU power usage.
Setting up a new system with the GIGABYTE X570 AORUS ELITE WIFI card. It supports 8+4 connections for the CPU, which is the first such setup I've had beyond an 8-pin socket. I've noticed many YouTube tutorials suggesting you don't need the extra 4 pins unless doing major overclocking. Is that correct? Regarding your PSU, it only has one labeled CPU connection. If the 4-pin is required, it should connect somewhere on the PSU—possibly a PCIe slot. The included cables with CPU labels indicate where to plug it in.
No, please avoid that. Your PSU should support 8-pin and 4-pin (or two 8-pin connectors) for the CPU. If not, using just an 8-pin is acceptable.
Thank you both. I need to mention the CPU is a Ryzen 5 5600x.
The CPU uses between 100 to 120 watts. In theory, it could operate perfectly with just a single 4-pin connector and cable, while an 8-pin setup would be ideal. The extra 4-pin cable adds little value. A single 4-wire cable delivers roughly 200 watts, and the 8-wire cable is rated for about 330 to 350 watts—slightly lower than the 4-wire version for safety, even though the physical components match. Therefore, the 8-wire cable is at least three times more efficient than what the CPU requires, meaning additional wires won’t improve performance.
Thanks for your support. I realized the board only has an 8-pin connector, not an 8+4 one as I thought. I'm thankful I learned this. Probably because I've been overwhelmed by all the hardware details. The board won't be in my hands until tomorrow.