Does the +4 pin EPS CPU power remain needed even with the 8-pin (4+4) configuration that isn't overclocking?
Does the +4 pin EPS CPU power remain needed even with the 8-pin (4+4) configuration that isn't overclocking?
I'm making the upgrade to a Ryzen 3700X and an MSI B450 PRO CARB board. My PSU is Antec vp550 v2. Should I connect the extra 4-pin connector after the existing 8-pin one? My PSU doesn't have that connector, but I think it's okay since the 8-pin port handles over 200 watts for the CPU. I doubt the Ryzen won't draw much power under normal use, and I'm not planning any overclocking. Does this extra connector really add stability at different loads?
It should work without issues. For added confidence, try running the system under heavy stress to confirm stability, as this extra connector is mainly useful for pushing top-end components to their limits.
The additional eight pins offer no real benefit beyond extreme LN2 overclocking and top-tier HEDT CPUs. A single four-pin configuration already provides 384 watts, well above its minimum requirements. Using more pins would likely damage the CPU and VRM before reaching those power levels. This extra pin is mainly a marketing feature.
I believe you were referring to the additional 4-pin connector... the 8-pin (combining 4 and 4) setup is typical. Based on my research, in about 99.9% of cases it serves as a placeholder. The 8-pin configuration can supply over 300 watts to the CPU. Confirmed for you.
You receive additional 4+4 pins on premium boards. Any extra 4-pin connector (4+4 or just 4) is fully unnecessary if you have a single 4+4 pin. As I mentioned: What is the lowest required specification for the connector? There’s a higher-end version that supports more than 450W, but it’s only there for marketing purposes—it does nothing useful.