A technician is installing a replacement power supply in an older desktop PC that has a 20-pin ATX main power connector. The new power supply includes a single 20+4-pin (24-pin) ATX connector. Which of the following is the BEST way to connect the new power supply to the motherboard?
Detach the additional 4-pin segment and plug only the 20-pin portion into the motherboard, leaving the 4-pin segment unplugged.
Cut off the extra four wires on the power-supply connector so it fits the 20-pin socket.
Use force to insert the entire 24-pin connector into the 20-pin socket so that all pins make contact.
Replace the motherboard, because a 24-pin connector cannot be used with a 20-pin socket.
Most modern power supplies provide a 20+4-pin main connector. The technician should separate the detachable 4-pin segment and plug only the 20-pin portion into the motherboard's 20-pin socket, leaving the extra 4-pin segment unused. This preserves proper keying and ensures the board receives the expected voltages. Forcing the entire 24-pin connector, cutting wires, or replacing the motherboard are unnecessary and could damage components or create instability.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What is the significance of the 20-pin and 24-pin connectors?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
How do power supplies convert 24-pin connectors for 20-pin motherboards?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What could happen if the connector isn't aligned correctly when connecting a power supply?