Question Molex to 6-Pin Connector

[Silmefaron]

Just realized the power supply (CX430) I have in a sort of pieced together extra build I have doesn’t have enough PCI-e connectors for my GTX 970 SSC I wanted to throw in it. I’d rather not spend the money on a new PSU, as the 430 should be enough for now until I can get a new one. I have a molex to 6-pin adapter lying around I can use to connect the spare molex power cables to the graphics card’s other 6 empty connectors. Will this work?

 

[Gam3r01]

Its generally a bad idea to use adapters like that, especially molex ones.
The only acceptable PCIe adapter is two 6 pins to one 8 pin. Nothing else.

 

[Silmefaron]

Its generally a bad idea to use adapters like that, especially molex ones.
The only acceptable PCIe adapter is two 6 pins to one 8 pin. Nothing else.

I know it's better for sure to use a dedicated 6-pin, but is it safe to at least test it with the card? The worst it can do is not supply enough power to the graphics card, so it won't display. I don't think its possible to damage it with too little power in this regard?

edit Is it at least safe as long as each molex line is connected to its own cord off the PSU so theres no overheating issues?

 

[clutchc]

If the PSU has a single +12V rail and it has the necessary capacity in watts for the card and the rest of the system, it should be OK. But I wouldn't OC anything using the system that way.

When the card is maxed out, grab the Molex's wires and see if they feel warm.

 

[Gam3r01]

The worst it can do is overload a cheaply made molex adapter and start a fire due to insufficient wire gauge, the issue isnt the PSU (in this case).
I would hazard to say that it would be fine to make sure the system runs, but nothing more.

 

[Silmefaron]

I'll boot it up and see how it does just idling after a few minutes. Worst case I go buy a cheap but at least somewhat better and decently rated Bronze power supply soon. Will keep you updated, thanks!

 

[clutchc]

If this is your PSU, it is actually undersized to run a GTX 970. Especially a factory OC'ed one that has two headers. I would not do any serious gaming or game for extended periods of time with that setup. General usage should be fine until you get a different PSU.

 

[R4DIO4CT1VE]

you CAN, doesn't mean you SHOULD.

Will it be fine, yeah probably, but could it blow up and kill the rest of your PC? yep.

If it does die and kill other parts you will feel silly for not spending the $50 and now having to spend hundreds on new parts.