Can I plug a PCI-E 6 pin into 8 pin?

Hello all,

This might be a silly question, but:

I have an older PSU, but it should be capable of running a HD 6950. My PSU features 2x6 pin PCI-E plugs, but the video card has a 8 pin and a 6 pin socket. Do I need to get a 6->8 pin adapter, or is it fine to use as is?

Thanks!

You'll need an adapter for the 8pin connection. I believe it's molex to 8pin or two 6pins to one 8pin.

Technically 6pin+2pin is made to work as an 8pin but there are different ways this is accomplished. Sometimes PSU manufacturers piggyback the connection off two pins to go to the two extra pins for the card. Rarely the 6pin +2pin has the 2 extra pins go all the way back to the power supply like a true 8pin connection. Theoretically the 6pin connection provides enough power (up to 150 watts) but the lack of the piggyback or a true 8pin should hinder the card from starting. Manufacturers started requiring the 8pin connection to reassure PSUs met the requirements for aux power instead of 'hoping' a 6pin would provide enough power.

http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0346565

the only reason you would need a "true" 8 pin is if they gauge of the cables were not enough.

just fyi, what is your video card?

More to the point, what is the power supply?

yeah, thats what i meant.

PSU: Silverstone Zeus ST65ZF:http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817163108 and manual: http://www.silverstonetek.com/downloads/Manual/EN-ST65ZF-Manual.pdf

Video card: HD6950

Rest of the system is in my signature.

That's plenty powerful enough, get an adapter and you'll be fine.