Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
ThePCIExpressauxiliarypowerconnectorsare6-pin(2×3)or8-pin(2×4)MolexMini-
Fit Jr. connector housings with female terminals that provide power directly to a video
card. For reference, the connector is similar to Molex part number 39-01-2060 (6-pin)
or 39-01-2080 (8-pin), but with different keying to prevent interchanging them with the
+12V motherboard power connectors. A diagram of the 6-pin connector is shown in
Fig-
ure 18.33
,
and the pinout in
Table 18.22
. Note the Sense signal at pin 5, which allows a
graphics card to detect whether a 6-pin power connector has been attached. Without the
proper power connections being detected, the card may shut down or operate in a reduced
functionality mode. Also note that pin 2 is technically listed as “no connection” in the of-
ficial specification, but most power supplies do seem to include +12V there.
Figure 18.33
PCI Express 6-pin (2×3) auxiliary 75W power supply connector.
Table 18.22 PCI Express 6-Pin (2×3) Auxiliary 75W Power Connector Pinout (Graphics Card Sock-
et)
A diagram of the 8-pin connector is shown in
Figure 18.34
,
and the pinout in
Table 18.23
.
Note the additional +12V power at pin 2 and the two Sense signals at pins 4 and 6, which
