HD7970, using a 6+8pin power configuration on an 8+8pin card.

xBlueXFoxx

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Feb 5, 2011
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I just received an HD7970 today, but it takes to 8 pin connectors, my power supply only supports 1 8pin and 1 6pin connection. It's a sapphire vaporx model and is likely overclocked out of the box. By default for reference the HD7970 uses a 6+8pin configuration, would I be able to use this with a 6+8pin plugged in until I get an adapter for it and just lack some of the OC performance?

I wouldn't think this would damage the card at all while I use it like this, the 8pin was probably only soldered in for some OC headroom.

I'm reading that the reference model of this GPU tops out at around 200watts, a single 6pin can forward 75w while an 8 pin can push 150w, which totals 225w. The 8pin if I'm correct (which I'm probably not) supports additional ground which would be my concern in terms of actually damaging the card by not using the additional 2 pins. Would I be safe if I were to downclock it a bit or not overclock it (that is, if it powers on in this scenario.)
 
Solution


it is required to use both 2x 6+2 pci power connectors. the safe scenario is that you buy a new psu for your pc. what are your full specs?
 


CPU: AMD FX 6300 OC @4.1ghz,
RAM: 6GB Corsair XMS3 DDR3 1600
HDD: x2 1TB WD Black 7200RPM drives
SSD: x1 60GB Corsair force 3 SSD
MOBO: MSI 970-G43
Optical: Some type of frisby-donut eating thing that gathers dust

PSU: Rosewill 530w Green Series 80+ certified
It's handled an HD4850, HD4890, GTX 560, GTX 750ti so far without a single issue, it's a bit concerning the idea of running an HD7970, but at the same time, I don't have any money to run out an grab a decent 600-700w.

CoolerMaster's PSU calculator recommends a power supply minimum of 439w for my build.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817182199

 
A quality 550W will be fine for a HD 7970. If your power supply doesn't have the required PCIE connectors by itself, you should consider getting a new psu.
Your power supply has 41 amps which equates to 493 Watts on the 12V rails. In theory it should be fine but i recommend a new psu.
 


for a system with an ordinary 7970 a 30A capable on the 12v rail psu is recommended.(all previously mentioned gpu required less power.) since the gpu has 2x8pin requirement expect a bit more. since you arleady have an overclocked cpu and a gpu that craves for overclocking even if it had 2x6+2pin pcie power cables with 41A on the 12v rail you would be running it close to the edge.i wouldnt recommend using adapters really.
 


If I run the 6pin + 6+2pin (given it powers on) would the GPU be bottle necked by power restrictions, or could this potentially damage the card/PSU?

 


wont even turn on.
 


just dont...not that one.there are prone to failure. this one itwill save you from a lot of trouble later on. you wont regret it.

Power Supply: XFX 650W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($59.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $59.99
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-06-13 14:58 EDT-0400

 


NCIX is not an option for me since I'm a shoprunner user and could use this thing in 2 days.

The corsair ones have good reviews, I'd personally prefer silverstone but they're a bit pricey.

Here's one from EVGA, it should do nicely.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817438014
 


the evga 600b is a decent unit and better than the cx. it will suffice.
 
Solution


Consider it ordered, thanks for your time.

 

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