How many PCi Express Cables Should I use?

Snorbitzz · 22 Nov 2016 at 06:31

Just purchased a new Corsair AX860. I was wondering if it makes any difference on this PSU regarding the PCI graphic card cables. I have an AMD R9-390 GPU which has an 8 + 6 pin sockets.

Can I use just one cable from the PSU that has both the 8+6 to the GPU or should I use two separate cables from the PSU, thereby using two PCI slots on the PSU?

Hotwired · 22 Nov 2016 at 07:11

If it has one each whole 6 and 8 plugs then use one cable.

pastymuncher · 22 Nov 2016 at 10:58

Just use a single cable. It helps with cable management and will have no negative impact.

Snorbitzz · 22 Nov 2016 at 14:26

The reason I ask is because it seems some people use two separate PCI cables from the PSU if their GPU (Like mine), has two power connectors. In my case, an 8 pin and a six pin. Some people use a single splitter cable from the PSU and some would rather use two separate cables. I agree about cable management but does using two cables help distribute the load? My R9-390 as a TDP of 275W. Maybe more than one cable is preferred on multi-rail PSUs?

Hotwired · 22 Nov 2016 at 14:42

I'd use the cable as its intended and save the mess.

Its on them to supply accessories and a psu that works. If a double plugged cable for a gpu is included it makes sense to use it.

pastymuncher · 22 Nov 2016 at 19:06

I suppose it could help to balance a load on a multi rail psu but as yours has a single 12v rail it makes no difference. If it wasn't designed to be able to power a gpu using a single power lead then the cables would only have a single plug on them. What about people with multiple cards that need to use every cable to power the gpu's? Stop worrying and enjoy your pc.

Snorbitzz · 23 Nov 2016 at 22:38

pastymuncher said:
Stop worrying and enjoy your pc.

Not worried about it. Just making an enquiry. Truth is, it would seem there is no real definitive answer that you can find on the Internet.

pastymuncher · 24 Nov 2016 at 10:12

If you want a definitive answer email Corsair. They will tell you the same thing we have though. You have a high quality, single 12v rail psu and there will be no downsides to using a single cable to power the gpu. There are no advantages to using a pair of cables but you get the disadvantage of having more cables to sort out.