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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFor most desktop PCs, connect the PSU’s 24-pin ATX cable to the motherboard’s main power socket and its CPU/EPS cable—usually an 8-pin or 4+4-pin plug—to the CPU power socket. The exact connector locations and any additional CPU power requirements depend on your motherboard model, so check its manual before routing cables. If the PSU is modular, use only cables supplied for that exact PSU.
Identify the motherboard power connections
24-pin ATX main power
The wide 24-pin ATX lead supplies power to the motherboard. Find the board’s main power socket in its layout diagram and connector list; its position can vary by model. Some PSU-side or board-side arrangements may use a separable 20+4 connector, so confirm the intended configuration in the hardware manuals. MSI describes the 24-pin connector as the motherboard power connection in its power-supply specification guide.
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CPU/EPS power
The separate CPU/EPS lead connects to the motherboard’s processor power input. It is commonly an 8-pin plug or a 4+4-pin plug that joins to make eight pins. Match the cable and socket labels and shapes to the motherboard and PSU manuals. Do not substitute a PCIe/GPU power lead: CPU/EPS and PCIe cables serve different connections, as explained in Corsair’s PSU cable guide.
Additional CPU power sockets
Some motherboards have more than one CPU power socket. Whether additional sockets must be connected depends on the exact board and intended configuration; do not assume every extra socket is either mandatory or optional. For example, the Supermicro X14SRA-T/X14SRA-F manual specifies a 24-pin input and two 8-pin processor inputs for those particular boards. Follow your own board manual rather than applying that example universally.
#1 Best Overall
- AC POWER CORD: This 10ft (3m) 18AWG flexible computer power cable with NEMA 5-15P and IEC 60320 C13 connectors is suitable for workstation/home office use | Rated to carry 125V at 10A
- PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY: UL listed (UL62 & UL817) | Fully molded strain relief connectors for durability | 3 Conductor Power Cable made from 100% Copper Wire | Fire Rating: VW-1
- SPECS: 10ft (3m) Power Cable | NEMA 5-15P to IEC 60320 C13 | 18AWG | 125V 10A (Max) | Jacket Rating: SVT | Jacket Material: PVC | Color: Black | Temperature Range: 37°F to 140°F (3℃ to 60℃) | Cable Outer Diameter: 0.25in (6.3mm)
- COMPATIBILITY: NEMA 5-15P works with North American electrical outlets | IEC C13 connector works with most desktop computers, and many monitors, scanners, printers, and more | Replacement PC power supply cable/cord
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Install and connect the PSU
- Power down and prepare. Shut down the computer and disconnect it from mains power before opening the case. Follow the safety instructions in the PSU, case and system manuals. Never open the PSU enclosure.
- Check the motherboard manual. Identify the exact board model, then consult its layout diagram and power-connector section. ASUS’s modular-cable connection guide also directs users to the motherboard manual to locate connectors.
- Mount the PSU as instructed. Secure it in the case according to the case and PSU instructions. Mounting method and orientation vary by hardware, so there is no universal position to prescribe.
- Choose the correct cables. For a modular PSU, use only the cables supplied for that PSU model. Similar-looking plugs are not proof of compatible wiring: pinouts can differ between brands and models. Corsair’s Power Supply Manual says, “If this power supply uses modular cables, use only manufacturer supplied cables.” ASUS gives the same compatibility warning in its modular-cable guide.
- Connect the 24-pin lead. Route the ATX main lead to the motherboard’s main power socket. Align the plug with the socket and the connector’s keying; do not force it. If the plug does not align, stop and check the labels and manuals.
- Connect the CPU/EPS lead. Route the CPU/EPS 8-pin or 4+4-pin cable to the board’s CPU power socket, then check the manual for any other CPU power sockets and their requirements. Make sure you are not using a PCIe/GPU lead.
- Connect other required power leads. The motherboard’s ATX and CPU/EPS connections do not power every component in a complete PC. Connect any other leads required by your build according to each component’s and the PSU’s instructions.
- Check before switching on. Confirm that the intended connectors are seated as the manuals specify and that cables do not obstruct fans. If anything appears misaligned or uncertain, do not power on until you have checked the hardware documentation.
Check compatibility before choosing or replacing a PSU
For a particular build, verify compatibility against the manuals and specifications for the PSU, motherboard, case and other components. Check the motherboard’s required ATX and CPU/EPS connectors, whether additional CPU inputs are specified, the PSU form factor supported by the case, the components’ stated power-capacity requirements, and which modular cables are included and compatible. The available connector guidance does not establish a universal wattage recommendation; capacity must be determined for the actual components.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 24 Pin motherboard power extension cable features one male and one female 24 Pin ATX connector, extending the length of your ATX power supply connection
- This 24-pin CPU extension cable extends the power connector from a ATX power supply to a motherboard power connection to provide strain relief on the connections of your computer case components
- It is 12.6 inch (32cm) in length, giving you enough space within the computer case
- Motherboard extension cable has removable cable ties for dressing the cable and a clip and latch for a secure connection to prevent accidental disconnections
- ATX 24 Pin Motherboard Power Extension Cable, 12.6 Inches / 32cm, Internal PC PSU ATX 24 Pin Male to 24 Pin Female Extension Power Cable
Rank #4
- Our J&D 24 Pin Motherboard Power Extension Cable features one male and one female 24 Pin ATX connector, extending the length of your ATX power supply connection
- This durable extension cable is 12 inch (30cm) in length, giving you enough space within the computer case
- Designed with PVC flexible jacket, 18 AWG oxygen free copper prolongs the life span of this cable as well as ensures a safe connection
- Lock connector design is adopted to prevent accidental disconnections
- Warranty: J&D 1-Year Limited Warranty
Rank #3
- Compatible: work with motherboard with ATX 4 pin, 8 pin or 8+4 pin ports
- Connector A: EPS 12V 8 Pin CPU Female Connector. Connector B: ATX 12V 8 Pin (4+4 Detachable) Male Connector. Connector C: ATX 12V 4 Pin Male Connector
- Length: 10.6inch/27cm, 1007 18AWG, 34*0.178TS Tinned Copper Wire, Higher Quality than Regular Cable
- Solution: The CPU 8 Pin Female to CPU 8 Pin (4+4) +4 Pin Male Cables provide a good solution for the motherboard required 8+4 pin ATX ports,Compatibility: Compatible with all PSUs - ATX, SFX, Fanless PSU.Compatible with motherboard that has 8-pin +12V socket, 4-pin +12V socket or 8-pin +12V socket and 4-pin +12V socket.
- This cable only works with motherboard, not PCI-Express video cards. Serious damage can be caused if your use it in place of PCI-Express video cards.
Rank #2
- Extend the length of an ATX power supply connection by up to 8in
- Extends the length of ATX 2.01 motherboard power supply cable
- Ideal for tower cases
- Designed for all ATX 2.01 style motherboards
- Lifetime Warranty
If a cable does not fit
- The plug will not align with the socket: Stop; confirm the connector label, shape and motherboard layout. Do not force it.
- You are unsure whether a lead is CPU/EPS or PCIe: Check the PSU cable labels and cable guide, then match the lead to the board’s CPU power socket. They are not interchangeable just because they look similar.
- A modular cable came from another PSU: Do not use it unless the PSU manufacturer explicitly confirms compatibility with your exact model. Similar fit does not establish matching pinouts.
- The board has an extra CPU power socket: Check the board manual for the requirement for your exact model and configuration; do not infer it from another motherboard.
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