ATX-style connector

Updated: 04/26/2017 by Computer Hope
ATX-style power connector

An ATX-style connector is a replacement for the older P8 and P9 AT-style connector. It is one of the largest connectors inside a computer. It connects a power supply to an ATX-style motherboard. As shown in the picture, the 20-pin cable is a multi-color cable and may be labeled as P1.

Note

With the introduction of ATX-2, this cable is now a 24-pin cable and no longer a 20-pin cable.

In the pictures, the ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) cable connector has a small clip on the top, which snaps and holds the cable in place. This cable is also keyed, meaning it only connects in one direction.

ATX motherboard power cable

ATX 24-pin style connector

A power supply with a 24-pin connector can be used on a motherboard with a 20-pin connector by leaving the four additional pins disconnected. However, if you have a 24-pin connection on your motherboard all 24-pins need to be connected. If you are using a power supply without a 24-pin connector, you must purchase a new power supply.

Warning

When using a connector like that shown above, note the arrows pointing to each other. For the cable to be correctly inserted, the arrows must point to each other.

ATX, Motherboard terms, P4, Power supply, Power terms