Is it safe to use pigtail PCIe cables with a 5080 graphics card?
Asked by
TechieTribe25
I'm anxiously waiting for my 5080 to arrive, but I've come across the warnings about melting cables related to the new connector design. My power supply, an HX1000i, has a specific 12VHPWR slot, but I plan to use the PCIe adapter instead. My concern is that all the PCIe cables from my PSU are pigtails, and I read mixed opinions about using them. Would it be okay to plug three of these pigtail cables into the adapter while leaving the other ends unconnected? Aesthetics aren't a concern for me, and I've included a drawing to illustrate my setup.
Answers
You’re good to go! That’s actually how you're supposed to set it up. I ran dual 4090s with a HX1500i, using one with the 12VHPWR and the other with pigtails, just like you drew it, and I didn't have any issues at all. The HX series is pretty reliable.
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You could just use the 12V cable directly though. I switched from pigtails to a 12V with my new PSU after running a 4090, and honestly, it’s worth it!
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The melting issue is usually at the connector to the card, so it really doesn’t matter if you use the 12VHPWR directly or the adapter with pigtails. The key factor is the current and connection quality. Just make sure everything is properly connected and you should be fine.
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But why not use the 12VHPWR slot? It’s designed for that.
TechieTribe25: Honestly, I'm just being cautious. This graphics card is probably the most expensive item I've bought for myself, and after seeing reports about the connector design, I'd rather play it safe.
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Yes, just keep the pigtails unconnected as shown in your picture. That's perfectly fine!
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TechieTribe25: Thanks, that’s a relief! And wow, dual 4090s! That's some serious power!