I recently got a Ryzen 9850X3D for a new server build, and the motherboard I'm using has an 8+8 CPU power connector. However, my server's power supply unit only has 8+4 CPU connectors available. Should I just plug in the single 8-pin connector, or should I try to use the 8+4? I'm also thinking about enabling Precision Boost Overdrive since the server is water-cooled.
3 Answers
Yeah, it's perfectly fine to use the single 8-pin. If you want, you can connect the 4-pin to one side of the dual connector for added stability, especially if you're planning to enable PBO.
Most users really only need to connect one 8-pin. It seems like mobo makers include the extra just for aesthetics or to cater to extreme setups, which can cause more questions than necessary.
You can definitely use just the single 8-pin connector. It's usually fine to do that. Just make sure to check your motherboard manual for any specific details regarding power connections.
Thanks for the heads up! I’ll look into the manual.

So it's more for overclockers then? Just trying to understand why there's a second connector.