PCI-e Hookup on motherboard?

[Baldrick]

It's been several years since I've built my own PC and I have a question.

I've got a Gigabyte P35-DS3P and am waiting for my 8800GT from Dell as well as a Antec NEO PS from Newegg. Do I plug power into the 4 pin PCI-e connector on the motherboard? I was under the impression that if the video card required more juice, it would have a connector on the card.

Also, if I do have to hook the power to the PCI-e connector on the MB, it's just the standard hard drive type connector correct, and it's the video card that uses the 6 pin PCI-e power?

Thanks all.

 

[weilin]

the board will probably take a 8 pin 12v (yellow and black) connection (maybe a 4 pin but new boards are now mostly 8 pin).

The video card will probably take a 6 pin 12v connection from the power supply. (it could also take a 8 pin but chances are, the 8800 only needs a 6pin one).

Keep in mind, all these cables are different, do not mix and match, if it doesn't fit.... chances are, it doesn't go there.

 

[aadamszc]

I just built my system with a 8800GT and it does take a 6 pin from the power supply.

On that note, if you forget to plug the 6 pin into the videocard...it will emit a horrible, high pitched screech.

 

[Baldrick]

Thanks, but what's the PCI-e connector on the MB for then?

WAIT... ok, closer reading in my MB manual says "The PCI-e power connector on the motherboard supplies extra power to the PCI Express slots. Connect the power supply to this connector when using two video cards."

I guess that answer that.

Thanks!