Here's a question: Can I split a 12v power rail at the PSU and still have 12v going to both sides? I ask because I have a 6800 Ultra that needs 2 12v rails, which I have, but my video card is at the pseudo-bottom of the case, and the rest of my items that need molex are at the top. I have an all acrylic case, so I am trying to clean up the wires as much as possible. Thanks in advance, Clanure
Yes you can. You are wiring all your PC componets in parallel (all the +'s together and all the -'s together) so each one gets the same voltage, and ther current is split up amongst them. Another common misconception about current, it is not supplied, it is taken as needed. Just because the PSU says it can put out 15A on the 12v line, it is only putting out that much if you need it.
technically, yes. You will get 12v through both wires. What kind of PSU do you have? I think nvidia recommends using two seperate 12v rails to power the 6800, but I could be wrong. The reason would be that you don't want to exceed the current limit of the rail, which you might do with the setup you're suggesting. Check the power requirements of the 6800, then check the specs on your psu and post those numbers here... edit: And like you said, It's important to run a seperate wire all the way from the psu. Apparently the 6800 draws more current than one wire is rated for. That's something to think about...
The PSU is a 550w (linkage) and yes the 6800 Ultra (linkage) does require 2 separate power rails. My plan is to split one molex from each of the power rails and run down to the vid card while the rest of the molex stay up top. Am I making sense? Here's a quick drawing of what I'm talking about (sorry, only have paint on school comp): Thanks, Clanure
yes that will work, as long as you solder at the split, and use the same gauge wire all the way down. but why you would do that i dont know, if you connecto other stuff up top it will decrease the power going to the 6800.
